My 2013 blogging year in review

My 2013 blogging year in review

In 2013, I decided to start a travel blog where I would combine two of my passions, traveling and writing . I had been traveling since I was little, but it was now time to start writing abut my travels too.

My decision was spurred by 2 factors. Firstly, I was inspired by an interview I watched on television with another travel blogger. Secondly, All4Women.co.za was looking for travel bloggers. I applied and was accepted. Both these factors made me decide to start travel blogging seriously.

Coming up with an appropriate name was a bit of a struggle, and I changed my blog's name a few times. My husband created a website for me and I now write about travel destinations, hotel reviews, travel tips, events and experiences.

My Travels in 2013

Internationally, I went to Malaysia and Singapore with my husband and kids in January. We visited Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Melaka and Legoland in Johor Bahru.

in June / July. I used my SAA Voyager Companion ticket to book a flight to Hong Kong with my husband. From there, we went to China, where we visited Beijing, Shanghai and Xian in a week.

Locally I visited Irene Country Lodge , Gold Reef City HotelRadisson Blu Sandton , Bon Hotel Riviera on Vaal, Mount Amanzi, and Thaba Ya Batswana Eco Hotel and Spa.

I began writing for All4Women , was published in the Sunday Times newspaper, got to attend the O You! Event where Oprah Winfrey and other inspiring women gave us lessons on leadership and took my children to Sci-Bono.

In December, we sadly lost Madiba and we bid farewell to him at the Nelson Mandela memorial service.

Then we had some bush time at Jaci's Safari Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve. We also managed to pop over to Botswana for 2 nights.

All in all, it was a rewarding and fulfilling year, and I have no regrets about starting my travel blog. In fact, I wish that I had done it sooner.

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Here are 10 other good reasons to start a travel blog:

  1. To share your experiences with the world. A travel blog allows you to document and share your unique travel experiences, insights, and perspectives with a global audience.
  2. To create a personal travel journal. Your blog serves as a digital record of your adventures that you can look back on for years to come, preserving memories and details you may otherwise forget.
  3. To connect with other travelers. Blogging allows you to engage with like-minded travelers, share tips, and build relationships with people from around the world who share your passion for travel.
  4. To develop your writing and photography skills. Regularly creating content for your blog helps you improve your writing, storytelling, and photography abilities over time.
  5. To establish yourself as a travel expert. As you share your knowledge and experiences, you can build authority and credibility in the travel niche.
  6. To inspire others to travel. Your stories and recommendations can motivate and encourage others to explore new destinations and cultures.
  7. The potential for income and free travel. While it takes time and effort, successful travel blogs can generate income through advertising, sponsorships, and partnerships, potentially leading to free or discounted travel opportunities.
  8. A creative outlet and personal growth. Blogging provides a platform for self-expression and creativity, while also pushing you out of your comfort zone and fostering personal development.
  9. To learn more about destinations. The research and writing process for your blog will deepen your knowledge about the places you visit, enhancing your own travel experiences.
  10. To help others plan their trips. Your firsthand experiences and practical tips can assist fellow travelers in planning their own journeys, making their trips smoother and more enjoyable.

2013 Blogging year in review

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