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'The Native,' a paddlewheeler travelling the Fraser River, offers a variety of cruises departing from the New Westminster Quay. Voyages include three hour luncheons, day long journeys, and evening dinner cruises. Throughout the year, theme cruises are offered including several murder mystery evenings.
After hooking the editor's attention, describe what your article will cover. I mention New Westminster's proximity to the border because the magazine is only sold in the US. By describing specific restaurants, B&Bs and 'The Native,' I let the editor know I have already done some research for my article. Would you be interested in a profile of historic New Westminster as a weekend getaway for Northwest Travel? I will review the restaurants and B&B's suggested, with a special emphasis on their history. Information on cruises aboard 'The Native' could be included in a sidebar. Photographs, either black and white or color slide, will illustrate the beauty of the heritage homes and area. Call for action! Once you pitch your idea, offer the article to the editor. I knew the magazine had a section for weekend getaways, so I position my article to be considered for that slot. This shows familiarity with the magazine and editors love that!
Offer photographs. Especially in travel writing, you need to provide visuals. Read the magazine's writer's guidelines to determine what photographic format is required. Northwest Travel only uses slides so I don't know why I offered black and white photos! I have lived in New Westminster for eight years and am knowledgeable about the local architecture. I will also interview two experts on New Westminster's history. I have recently had a piece published in The Urban Gardener (a Vancouver gardening magazine). Tell a little about yourself and why you are qualified to write the article. I didn't have any writing credentials so I concentrate on my knowledge of the subject area. If you do have some publishing history, you would include your credits here and send along tear sheets. I think Northwest Travel readers will find New Westminster, BC a great getaway. I hope you think so, too. I look forward to hearing from you and have included a SASE for your reply. Sincerely, |
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