Travel writer Sherry Spitsnaugle first expressed her urge to explore at age four when she packed up her little red wagon and took off for an adventure—around the block. Today, she continues to fulfill her wanderlust, exploring the world and writing about her experiences.
Sherry has won numerous awards for her travel writing and photography, including the prestigious 2022-2023 Bill Muster Photo Awards for her portfolio of photos of San Miguel de Allende. Sherry is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers, International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, and North American Travel Journalists Association. Her work appears in the Chicago Tribune, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Wander with Wonder, RealFoodTraveler, GoWorldTravel, LuxeBeat, Pulse News Mexico, and more.
1. What got you into travel writing?
I signed up for a travel writing class in the 1990s taught by Doris Kennedy, a successful, Denver-based freelance writer. Doris and her photographer husband, Gary Kennedy, published a dozen or so guidebooks and hundreds of articles. They hosted monthly writers’ and photographers’ groups, where several of us critiqued one another’s work in a friendly setting. Doris and Gary provided mentoring, tips, and support. I remain friends with many group members who became successful travel writers, and my wonderful friendship with Doris and Gary has lasted for years. I still turn to them for advice on writing/photography.
2. What’s the most challenging part of being a travel journalist for you?
I have the greatest job in the world, but it’s tough to leave my husband and our 11-year-old shih-tzu when I travel. Our dog, Alfie, goes on a hunger strike when I leave… thankfully just for a day!
3. What is one thing [equipment or personal item] you can’t go without on the road?
Pepto-Bismol chewables
4. What’s your most unusual and/or memorable travel experience?
A year ago, I traveled to Kazakhstan with seven other US writers. Our hosts served horsemeat (a common part of the culture in Kazakhstan), and we stayed in a rural guesthouse, where our hostess gave a cooking demonstration in a yurt. Experiencing unfamiliar traditions and customs is all part of travel.
5. How did you learn about NATJA and why did you join?
Travel pros like Rich Grant, Denver, always speak highly of NATJA, and it was Rich who encouraged me to join. It’s so important to connect with other writers.
Not long after I joined, a writer/editor who had just moved to Denver contacted me through NATJA; we met for coffee and hit it off. Even though she no longer lives in Denver, we remain close friends and catch up over Zoom when we can. That friendship alone is worth my membership!
6. What is the best piece of advice you could give to a rookie travel journalist?
As cliché as it sounds, my best advice to someone starting is to network with anyone in the biz.
