Big news, huge NEWS!
From 644 entries in 22 categories, I’m one of three finalists in the Australian Society of Travel Writers 2024 Awards for Excellence for the major award, Travel Writer of the Year.
I’m beyond thrilled and I feel really humbled. It’s an honour to be named alongside the two other finalists, incredible writers Steve Madgwick and Dan Salter.
To be considered for Travel Writer of the Year, three stories have to be entered.
All of my stories were based on Italy, but featured lesser-known destinations and experiences.
Did you know you could learn the ancient art of Venetian rowing on the back canals of Venice while helping fund women’s rowing? Or that Italy’s most loved and world famous dessert, tiramisù, only rose to fame in the 1980s? Have you heard of Poretta Terme, Italy’s forgotten spa town?
Here are my stories if you’re interested in reading them:
- History of tiramisu: Tracing the origins of Italy’s famed dessert for Gourmet Traveller
- How to avoid the crowds in Venice: A simple trick that no one knows about for New Zealand Herald
- Family-free holidays in Italy: Solo travel without the kids for New Zealand Herald
It’s the first time I’ve been a finalist in any writing award, ever. The ASTW award winners will be announced at the ASTW Gala Dinner on 31 October 2024. The prize is $4000 worth of Virgin Australia flights – wish me luck!