lastminute lovely Nicole caught up with travel journalist extraordinaire Michelle Karaman-Jones from www.travelwith.com.au to get the inside goss on whether her job is as glamorous as it seems.
Tell us how you got into travel writing?Exactly 20 years ago, I decided to go for a career change from banking to media and after joining my local newspaper in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, I saw an opportunity to assist in the travel section and my career grew as a travel journalist and editor for many publications. I am still in the travel industry, working online for myself, with a great team of travel writers.
Is being a travel writer as glamorous as it looks?
It is exciting AND glamorous. Travel writing is about reporting on the destination. It’s not all about what you liked and disliked, nor whether it was a good service or a bad service. The concept is telling readers what it’s about and let them decide.
What are the pros?
Meeting many interesting people, experiencing different foods and enjoying cultures from around the world.
What are the con’s?
Living out of a suitcase and not being able to predict when I will be away, including missing birthdays and special occasions. Fortunately, I have an understanding family who will always forgive me if I am not around on their birthdays!
What are your favourite overseas destinations?
Those balmy islands in the South Pacific … always.
And what about your favourite Australian destinations?
I have NO favourites, I love everything about Australia; the Whitsundays will always charm me.
You’re based in Sydney. What are your top insider tips for visitors to the city?
Seeing our beautiful Sydney Harbour is a must and Sydney Harbour Cruises is a great way of doing just that.
What are your must-have items for any overseas trip?
A camera (I will never travel without my camera) and Skype (if you can call that an item).
Any tips for managing jetlag?
Drinks lots of water and do not drink any alcohol during flights.
Tell us about your favourite ever holiday?
Fiji where I met my (captain) husband on a cruise.
Michelle in action in Fiji
Packing: do you roll, fold or shove it all in there?
I will always roll; keeps my clothes wrinkle-free and my luggage tidy.
Where is next on your travel wish list?
I have so many destinations on my wish list but Switzerland and Oman would be the first two choices.