Conference connects travel writers with tourism organizations, publishers and sustainability experts to explore new freelance market opportunities.

February 5, 2011 (Portland) - Travel & Words, the premier travel writers' event in the Pacific Northwest, is using its spring conference to educate and inspire writers for a new era in travel writing. The theme for the two-day event, Sustainable + Green + Responsible Travel and Tourism, offers an opportunity for freelance writers and journalists to explore these key trends in travel in the Northwest and throughout the world. Travel + Words will be held May 1-2, 2011, at Willows Lodge, a sustainable boutique hotel located near Seattle in Woodinville, Washington.

“Travel & Words is unique in that it connects travel writers directly with destination specialists," said Myrna Oakley, conference chair and veteran travel writer. "From our previous conferences, we've found this to be a successful method for writers to build relationships in the travel industry, and for tourism organizations to be able to tell their stories to a room full of motivated freelance writers."

Visitor bureaus and destination marketing organizations from throughout the Pacific Northwest are confirmed as exhibitors. These include (to date): San Juan Islands Visitor Bureau, Bellingham Whatcom County Tourism, Long Beach Peninsula Visitor Bureau, Olympic Peninsula Tourism Commission, Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism (Island County), Kitsap Peninsula Convention and Visitor Bureau, and Visit Mt. Rainier from Washington State. Travel Yamhill Valley and Travel Lane County Cascades to Coast from Oregon will also exhibit.

Featured speakers will include published writers, sustainability experts and panels of freelance writers, travel bloggers, and magazine and book editors. The conference also will follow green meeting practices by reducing paper use and encouraging attendees to arrive by train, shuttle or car-share.

Early bird registration of $99 is available until March 1. This includes conference materials, access to presenters and exhibitors, refreshments and meals. Willows Lodge is offering a special room rate to attendees. For more information, visit: http://www.travelwritersconference.com/.

About Pacific NW Travel Writers Conference: Travel & Words conferences are presented by Pacific NW Travel Writers Conference, an all-volunteer organization dedicated to providing a forum for freelance writers, staff writers and journalists who want to explore and expand their markets in new ways in a changing world.

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Media Contact:
Myrna Oakley
Telephone: 503.661.6473
Email: myrnalo6@gmail.com