Frequently Asked Questions

How does the New York Travel Writers Association differ from other organizations for travel journalists?
NYTWA's bylaws cap the membership at 80 working journalists, so this is an elite group whose geographically concentrated roster enables members to meet with each other regularly. Monthly meetings are in New York City; NYTWA does not sponsor meetings in far-off places. (If an NYTWA member needs to research a story in India or Indiana, he or she is generally able to find a way to get there without the Association.) In operation since 1946, NYTWA is a society for journalists only, rather than a mix of journalists and marketing or public relations professionals.

But aren't there some public relations professionals in NYTWA?
Yes, a few, but they were full-time editors and writers when they joined the Association.

How does NYTWA serve its members?
This not-for-profit organization facilitates networking within and beyond its membership. NYTWA holds regular meetings that help members stay up to date with news, people, and events in travel and journalism. Its website gives them a means to market themselves on the Internet. NYTWA also hosts the best annual Christmas party in the city of New York.

As an editor who does not belong to NYTWA, how can I make use of this website?
Once you've logged in as a Travel Professional, you may search for journalists with very specific areas of expertise—for example, individuals who cover business travel and resort travel in Mexico, or historical preservation efforts in the United States. Your search results will yield detailed profiles, links to the journalists' work, and contact information. Visitors may also access NYTWA's calendar, which includes events sponsored by NYTWA and by other entities.

If NYTWA's calendar features a meeting I'd like to attend, how can I request an invitation?
Send an email to a member of your acquaintance or an officer.

How can I join NYTWA?
You must be a travel journalist, whether in print or in the electronic media, consumer or trade, and be invited by two members. Your sponsors will request an application from the Membership Committee and then submit it for their consideration.

What are the annual dues?
$50 (there is no initiation fee for new members).

How can a public relations or marketing professional make use of this website?
If you log in as a Travel Professional, you may search for experienced journalists with specific qualifications, such as individuals who cover business travel and resort travel in Mexico, or historical preservation in the United States. Your search results will yield detailed profiles, links t o the journalists' work, and contact information. Similarly, journalists can view your profile. Marketing professionals may also view our calendar and submit events for possible inclusion by contacting an officer or editor.

Can marketing professionals host NYTWA meetings?
Yes. If the client(s) has something to say or show that's of interest to the members, contact Clint Brownfield at , Marian Betancourt, , or Louise Weiss at

©2012 New York Travel Writers Association