What does it take to leave a stable career in Corporate America and become a globetrotting travel writer? This question sets the stage for an engaging podcast episode featuring Amy Piper, a seasoned travel writer, blogger, photographer, and author. Amy's transition from corporate life to a full-time travel writer is nothing short of inspiring. Her adventures span from a thrilling photo safari in Tanzania to a culinary expedition in Italy, making this episode a must-listen for both travel enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Amy's journey began in Corporate America as an IT program project manager, a role that took her to diverse destinations like Seoul, Argentina, and Madrid. It was during these travels that she discovered her passion for experiencing different cultures and cuisines. In 2016, she decided to turn her passion into a profession by becoming a travel writer. She took a travel writing class, and within a month, she got her first article published. Amy never looked back, and today she has authored three best-selling travel books on Amazon.
One of the highlights of Amy's travels is her focus on culinary experiences. From unusual foods like guatita and locro de sangre in Ecuador to pasta-making classes in Italy, Amy's adventures are as much about food as they are about travel. She shares valuable tips on how to find the best local eateries during road trips in the U.S., such as observing where public utility workers dine and asking transportation workers for their recommendations. These tips are priceless for anyone looking to discover hidden culinary gems.
Amy's expertise isn't limited to international travel; she has also explored many unique attractions in the U.S. In the episode, she discusses her recent book, "Secret Michigan: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure." This book explores lesser-known attractions in Michigan, like the Anatomy of Death Museum in Mount Clemens. Amy recounts her adventures across Michigan, including a recent trip to Sault Ste. Marie and an amusing mishap at the border.
For aspiring travel writers, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Amy shares her experiences and tips on writing about both Midwest and international destinations. She discusses her book "A Hundred Things to Do in Lansing, Michigan Before You Die," which covers a wide range of activities, from food and drink to music and entertainment. Amy also talks about her contributions to "Midwest Road Trip Adventures," a collaborative book that features scenic road trips in Michigan.
The episode also delves into essential resources for aspiring travel writers. Amy recommends starting with Travel Writers University and Nomadic Matt's blogging course. She emphasizes the importance of investing in learning and honing your craft. Amy's story is a testament to the fact that with passion and dedication, you can turn your dreams into reality.
In addition to her books, Amy runs a blog where she shares detailed stories, photos, and videos of her travels. The blog is a great resource for anyone looking to learn more about travel writing or find inspiration for their next adventure. Amy encourages listeners to check out her blog and connect with her for more travel stories and updates.
Amy's adventures are not just about exploring new places but also about sharing her experiences with others. She talks about her multi-generational travel experiences, where she travels with her husband, daughter, and granddaughters. This type of travel, she explains, allows for deeper connections and shared memories. Amy also mentions skip-gen travel, where grandparents travel with their grandchildren, skipping the parents. This unique form of travel can be a wonderful way to bond with grandchildren and introduce them to the joys of exploring new places.
As the episode concludes, Amy shares her plans for future travels. She has an upcoming trip to Italy focused on culinary delights and another photo safari in Africa. Amy's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue your passions and explore the world. Whether you're an aspiring travel writer or simply someone who loves to travel, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical tips.
If you've ever dreamt of becoming a travel writer, take a leaf out of Amy Piper's book and start your journey today. With the right resources and a passion for travel, the world is your oyster.
Follow the story of Jim and Rita, who sold their home to travel for the next few years here in this blog, and on the podcast "Travels With Jim and Rita", available on all major podcast platforms.
