Existing Member?

Travel Scholarships - Travel. Experience. Contribute.

2010 World Nomads Travel Writing Scholarship NOW CLOSED

WORLDWIDE | Thursday, 5 November 2009 | Views [135183] | Comments [103]

Do you want to be a published travel writer?

Go on assignment to Tokyo with Rough Guides!

 

 

Kick start your travel writing career by going on assignment to Tokyo, Japan. After touching base with your travel writing mentor, Simon Richmond, you will hit the road for 7 days reviewing and writing for  'The Rough Guide to Japan' travel guide and staying with Hotels.com. Then you will get a chance to relax and enjoy a 4 day  "Flavours of Tokyo"  independent tour with Intrepid Travel offering a foody-focused insight into the Japanese culture.

Your assignment brief

* We'll fly you to Tokyo from your country of residence. You need to be available between February 15th - Friday 26th 2010 to participate in 'The Rough Guide to Japan' writing assignment and "Flavours of Tokyo" independent tour with Intrepid Travel.

* After spending two days learning the ropes with mentor Simon Richmond, you will research, review and update essential travel info for the Tokyo section of 'The Rough Guide to Japan', including accommodation, bars & restaurants, entertainment, shopping, tours, activities and transport, as well as searching out those local secrets that travellers want to read about.

* Your mentor will be at hand to offer guidance, but essentially this is your assignment; you will travel on your own for this part of the journey so you must be comfortable travelling solo. Simon will assign you a specific area based on your travel experience.

* Your work will feature in the new edition of 'The Rough Guide to Japan', placing your foot firmly in the door of the elusive travel writing industry!


Mentor, Simon Richmond

Important Dates

2009
Dec 21 - Competition closes (11.59pm, Australian Eastern Standard Time)
Dec 28 - Shortlist will be announced

2010
Jan 8 Winner is announced on the World Nomads web site
and an email will be sent to all applicants with the results.

Feb 15 - Feb 16 Meet with Simon and shadow for two days
Feb 17 - Feb 19 Go on assignment
Feb 20 - 21 Meet up again with Simon and receive feedback on work
Feb 22 – 25 Flavours of Tokyo Tour
March 26 - Content deadline - deliver to Simon Richmond by email.

Flavours of Tokyo Tour

 

* Take Japanese cuisine and add Tokyo, one of the most amazing cities in Asia, to create a true taste-and-see sensation. You will discover the famous aspects of Japanese food - sushi, sashimi and hand-made noodles - and be surprised by some of the less well known but equally interesting meals on offer. You will be staying  in a traditional ryokan in the heart of Tokyo's old downtown area and experience Japan one mouthful at a time.

* Highlights of the trip include: visiting the world's largest fish market, participating in a traditional cooking class making noodles from scratch, savouring a seven-course Japanese dinner, staying in a traditional Japanese inn.

Assignment location

 

Photos courtesy of www.intrepidtravel.com.au

One of the world's most exciting cities, TOKYO (東京) is a fuel-injected adrenaline rush into a neon-bright future. But for all its cutting edge modernity, this ceaseless metropolis remains fiercely proud of its ancient heritage. Lively neighbourhood festivals are held virtually every day of the year, people regularly visit their local shrine or temple and scrupulously observe the passing seasons in lovingly tended gardens. And at this hyperactive city's centre lies the serene and mysterious Imperial Palace – the inviolate home of the emperor and a tangible link to the past.

Text Courtesy of http://www.roughguides.co.uk/

Who can apply

* The scholarship is open to students, emerging and non-professional writers and lovers of travel looking for a career change.

* You must have a high degree of proficiency in written English.

* The opportunity is designed to give you a taste of what it's like to be a travel writer on the road, so you must be comfortable doing some travel on your own.

* Minimum age 18 with a current passport.

* You should be an excellent writer with a lust for adventure travel and a burning desire to be a travel writer!

What constitutes a professional travel writer?

Essentially this is a 'learning opportunity' for someone who is looking for an introduction into the travel writing industry and importantly to be mentored.

As a guide, for the purposes of the opportunity, we would consider you to be professional travel writer if you have been published regularly in newspapers, travel magazines or travel journals. We would also consider you to be a professional travel writer if you derive more than 25% of your income from travel writing.

If you have had a few stories published, or keep a regular travel blog etc then we would not consider this professional.

We would also like to further clarify that a professional writer of any sort (travel writer or otherwise) is not eligible to apply if they derive more than 25% of their income from writing.

Please consider the spirit of the program which is intended to help those with a burning desire to be a travel writer and need some help getting started.

Apply now

If you want it, you've got to show it. To apply you need to:

1. Write. Craft a 500 word (or less) travel focused essay based on a personal experience around one of the following themes;

a. 'A Journey that Changed Lives'

b. 'Responsible Travel'

c. 'Adventure in an Unknown Culture'

d. 'A Memorable Experience Involving Food in a Foreign Country'

It's up to you to convince our judging panel through your writing that you have the spirit of adventure and passion for travel writing to be chosen for this scholarship. We will be looking for:

- great descriptive ability
- strong eye for detail
- ability to uncover and tell a compelling story
- excellent spelling and grammar and a knack for avoiding clichés

2. Complete an entry form
which includes contact details and a 200 word (or less) essay on why you should be chosen and what the opportunity will mean for you. Your answer will provide considerable weight in the judging process.

3. One entry per person.

4. The entry must be submitted in English.

The recipient of the Scholarship, along with the best entries will be published on the WorldNomads.com website on January 8th, 2010.

Read the winning and best entries from our 2009 Travel Writing Scholarship
Applications closed midnight December 21, 2009.(AEST)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 


CONDITIONS OF ENTRY

1. Information on the scholarship prize and how to enter forms part of these conditions of entry. By applying for this scholarship you agree to be bound by these conditions of entry and all decisions of the scholarship promoter (World Nomads) which are final in all matters relating to the promotion. The scholarship and these conditions of entry are void where prohibited by law. Any changes to these conditions of entry will be published on the World Nomads website at www.worldnomads.com.

2. The promoter is World Nomads Pty Limited of Level 5, 24 York St, Sydney, NSW 2000.

3. Employees of World Nomads, Rough Guides, Rough Guide Books, Intrepid Travel, Expedia.com and their subsidiaries and affiliated companies, and members of their immediate families or households, are ineligible to apply for this scholarship.

4. Entry is free. No purchase necessary. You must be older than 18 to enter and hold a valid passport. To enter,submit a 500 word(or less)travel focused essay in English based on a personal experience around one of the following themes; 'A Journey that changed Lives', 'Responsible Travel' 'Adventure in an Unknown Culture' or 'A Memorable Experience Involving Food in a Foreign Country'. You are also required to complete an entry form which includes contact details and a 200 word (or less) essay on why you should be chosen and what the opportunity means to you.

5. The scholarship entries can be submitted from 9.00am AEST on November 6, 2009 and entries close at 11.59pm AEST on December 21, 2009. Entries are deemed to be received at the time of receipt by World Nomads and World Nomads records are conclusive as to the time of receipt. All dates are subject to change if necessary in World Nomads discretion.

6. The Scholarship recipient will be selected by a panel of judges including one independent judge (Simon Richmond) who will select the best overall entry from a review of all eligible entries. The best overall entry will best interpret both the writing task AND best articulate why the author of the entry should be awarded the 2009 World Nomads Travel Writing Scholarship. The selection will be conducted at World Nomads Pty Limited of Level 5, 24 York St, Sydney, NSW 2000 between December 22nd 2009 and January 8th 2010. The judges' decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into, including in the event of a dispute. Chance plays no part in determining the successful scholarship recipient.

7. The successful applicant will receive the following;

    - 7 day assignment in Tokyo, Japan, reviewing and updating for The Rough Guide   to Japan, including a stipend of AU $100 a day to cover meals and local travel costs.
    - 4 day "Flavours of Tokyo" independent tour with Intrepid Travel including accommodation, activities and some meals.
    - return economy airfares from nearest international airport to Narita Airport, Tokyo, Japan.
    - 7 days accommodation with Hotels.com for the duration of the assignment
    - mentorship with travel writer Simon Richmond of Rough Guides.

    - cost of any relevant visas.
   

8. The scholarship recipient must work with the mentor Simon Richmond, and under his direction, review and update local travel information in Tokyo such as accommodation, transport, bars & restaurants, entertainment, shopping, tours & activities. All relevant writing must be submitted to Simon Richmond for review and possible editing no later than March 26, 2010. Some or all parts of the work submitted may be published in the 2010 "The Rough Guide to Japan" where the Scholarship recipient will be duely credited.

The scholarship recipient must also keep a daily travel diary and upload diary entries (no less than 200 words per daily entry) to the World Nomads website, via an online travel journal, no later than 2 weeks after returning from the trip.

9. The Scholarship recipient will be notified by email and the recipient's name will be published on the World Nomads websites within 14 days after selection.

10. If the Scholarship recipient is not immediately identifiable or contactable World Nomads will make reasonable efforts to identify and/or contact the Scholarship recipient. If the Scholarship recipient has not accepted the prize within 7 days, the next best entry will be selected as scholarship recipient.

11. No responsibility is accepted for late, lost or misdirected mail or any errors or failures in internet or other communications. World Nomads reserves the right to cancel or modify the scholarship promotion if, in its sole discretion, the administration of the scholarship promotion is impaired for technical or other reasons beyond its reasonable control and, in such an event, may select the Scholarship recipient from all valid entries received prior to the impairment.

12. Scholarship prize consists of:

        - 1x return economy flight to trip destination Narita Tokyo departing from  the nearest international airport to the scholarship recipient's home  (approximate value AU $3000)
    - 7 day assignment in Tokyo, Japan, reviewing and updating for The Rough Guide to Japan, including a stipend of AU$100 a day to cover meals and local transport. (value AU $1100)
    - 7 day 3-4 star accommodation in Tokyo, Japan with Hotels.com (value AU $3200)
    - 4 day "Flavours of Tokyo" independent tour with Intrepid Travel including accommodation, activities and some meals (approximate value AU $1,460).
    
  Total prize value of scholarship is approximately AUD$7,760


The value of the prize is accurate at the date of commencement of the scholarship promotion. World Nomads accepts no responsibility for any variation in the value of the prize after that date. The prize cannot be refunded, transferred, substituted or redeemed for cash. World Nomads reserves the right in its sole discretion to substitute the prize with cash or a prize of comparable value if the prize cannot be awarded as described for any reason.

13. The scholarship recipient will be responsible for all personal expenses and any other expenses, fees and costs connected with the prize that are not included in the prize description. The scholarship recipient is also responsible for all transportation to the point of departure, including accommodation costs prior to and following the travel dates in order to meet flight connections.

14. The scholarship recipient must hold a valid passport.

15. The scholarship recipient agrees that acceptance of the prize by the scholarship recipient is conditional upon compliance with all relevant laws, rules and regulations and upon the scholarship recipient releasing World Nomads, Rough Guides, Intrepid Travel, Hotels.com and their affiliates, subsidiaries, directors, officers, employees and agents, from any and all liability, claims, demands and causes of action for any personal injury or other loss or damage (including but not limited to indirect or consequential loss) suffered in connection with the acceptance or use of the prize, except for any liability which cannot be excluded by law. World Nomads reserves the right to disqualify the scholarship recipient at its absolute discretion in the event of non-compliance or the failure to provide such releases.

16. As the author of your entry, you warrant that your entry is original and your own work.


 

Comments

1

I am an avid traveller and love blogging but
I am a vegetarian and was wondering whether a vegetarian would be a right choice for the sponsored prize. Could someone clarify?

  Someone Nov 11, 2009 4:05 PM

2

yes, you most certainly should. A good percentage of travellers are vegetarian. With global warming and awareness of healthy choices a larger percentage of people is turning vegetarian. Currently the vegetarian traveller does suffer, there is a lack of avalability and lack of choice. If locals start catering to the vegetarian tourists- you will only see an increase in inbound tourists. All the best to you, do your bit for tourism.

  madhu desh Nov 12, 2009 1:36 AM

3

on the one hand the rules say anyone may apply, but on the other it signifies non professional writers in bold.
would you clarify? thanks

  kerry dexter Nov 12, 2009 2:00 AM

4

Hi Guys,

Thanks for your questions. I will respond to them all under one comment here.

Being a vegetarian will not make any difference as there certainly are plenty of vegetarian options in Japanese cuisine.

Kerry, you are quite right. To make the message 100%clear I have now changed the wording for you.
Professional writers are not allowed to apply.

All the best.

Looking forward to seeing your stories!

Regards,

Tara Parsons
World Nomads Programs Manager


  scholarships Nov 13, 2009 1:01 PM

5

i am FATA student and now reading GOVT. SUPERIOR SCIENCE COLLEGE PESHAWAR. what is SCHOLERSHIP for me?

  ROOH ULLAH Nov 14, 2009 12:08 AM

6

Good Morning: I have had a number of my international travel articles published in local magazines and online, but I am not a professional travel writer (would love to be ... my passion).
As an independent traveler, I have traveled to over 30 countries.
I am in the process of launching a website with my articles and photos (non-commercial).
Does this disqualify me from entering?

  Paula Cullison Nov 14, 2009 2:10 AM

7

I'm 17 years old but have been travelling alone.
I'm very passionate about writing too, winning several international competitions

Please may I know if I can apply?
Looking forward to your favourable reply.

  JJ Nov 14, 2009 2:40 AM

8

sirIwant scholarship

  mohomed ibrahim sacid Nov 14, 2009 6:52 AM

9

Hi sorry if this is a stupid question, but is the competition only for Australians? It doesnt say that in the terms but all the sums and times are in australian time and money? I'm british and hope to enter!

  joe. w Nov 15, 2009 8:31 PM

10

Hello, I'm very interested, but wondering what it takes to be an "unprofessional" writer, is it about having not any contract?

Thank you!

  Paula Nov 17, 2009 4:13 PM

11

hi, im 17 and still in school. i have already traveled to europe alone and have great writing capabilities. would i be considered? thanks

  ash Nov 17, 2009 5:45 PM

12

Hello, I share the same situation with Paula [comment #6]. Some of my articles have been published before, with a by-line, but I'm not connected with any organization. Does "non-professional" mean unpublished?

  Felice Nov 17, 2009 8:35 PM

13

Hi there,

Just checking - I'm a reporter for a suburban newspaper. Would love to enter as this is a completely different style of writing than I'm used to. Would my application be considered?

Thanks
Michelle

  Michelle Nov 17, 2009 10:48 PM

14

I'm another one hoping for clarification on "professional writer." I've earned about $500 US this year with a few articles, and about $100 US last year.

Am I disqualified?

Thank you!

  Annelise Kelly Nov 18, 2009 6:00 AM

15

Re: The Required theme to write in.

All the options are so subjective and vague. Does the theme really matter at all? I still can't discern the chosen theme from last years winning entry, it just seems to me she submitted a great piece and the overall theme was overlooked.

  Rob Nov 18, 2009 3:11 PM

16

Hi Everyone - Thanks for your questions.

5. World Nomads runs scholarship programs for students and enthusiasts of Travel Writing, Travel Photography and Travel Documentary Making. If you are interested in signing up to our mailing list to find out about our latest scholarship news then please join here
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=18873565876%22<

6. Hi Paula. This is a very good question. What constitutes a professional travel writer?

Essentially this is a 'learning opportunity' for someone who is looking for an introduction into the travel writing industry and importantly to be mentored.

As a guide, for the purposes of the opportunity, we would consider you to be professional travel writer if you have been published regularly in newspapers, travel magazines or travel journals. We would also consider you to be a professional travel writer if you derive more than 25% of your income from travel writing.

If you have had a few stories published, or keep a regular travel blog etc then we would not consider this professional.

We would also like to further clarify that a professional writer of any sort (travel writer or otherwise) is not eligible to apply if they derive more than 25% of their income from writing.

Please consider the spirit of the program which is intended to help those with a burning desire to be a travel writer and need some help getting started.

7. JJ, Unfortunately you need to be over 18 to apply for this scholarship. You of course will be welcome to try again next year. Sign up to our mailing list so that we can keep you up-to-date :
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=18873565876%22<


9. This scholarship is open to anyone around the world. It just so happens that we are based in Sydney, Australia.

11. Hi Ash, you need to be 18 years old to apply for this scholarship, but please try again next year.


Thanks again.
Tara Parsons, World Nomads

  scholarships Nov 18, 2009 3:39 PM

17

Thanks very much for the clarification, Tara!
That gives me the thumbs up then!
~cheers

  Felice Nov 18, 2009 5:31 PM

18

Hello, would I still be a valid applicant if I am right out of high school?
Thanks!

  Chris Nov 19, 2009 8:34 AM

19

well, im from argentina, and because of our culture im kinda in the oppositte way of a vegetarian... i mostly eat meat, and have some medical issues with onions :S

anyways, love fish and rice! would it be a problem to apply?

thanks!!

  Javier Corigliano Nov 19, 2009 11:35 AM

20

I notice there is a minimum age requirement. What about a maximum age, is there also a limit?

Thank you

  Jill Nov 19, 2009 9:02 PM

21

Hi,

I am a reporter in IT field and have never tried travel writing. I want to be a part of this. Am I still eligible for this competition. I have travelled to number of places in India and South Asia.

  Amrita Nov 20, 2009 10:57 PM

22

hello,
i am really interested.i am a Cameroonian 21, male. can i be eligible to participate in the competition
thanks

  eric Mbotiji Nov 21, 2009 2:25 AM

23

Hello,
I am a really interested. I am a teacher. I am 46 years old. Can I elligible to participate in the compitition.I look forwars to hearing from you shortly and thank you in advance.

  Md.Mozaharul Haque Nov 21, 2009 3:43 AM

24

I am aWRITTER and have never tried travel writing. I want to be a part of this. Am I still eligible for this competition. I have travelled to number of places in India and South Asia.

  MOHAMED MOEEN Nov 24, 2009 2:09 AM

25

Hi everyone, Thank you everyone who has already applied and thank you for your questions. To avoid unecessary repetition, please make sure you read this journal page and all questions and responses before you post your questions. Hopefully this will answer all the above questions 18. As long as you are 18 Chris, you can apply. 19. Javier, Meat-eaters and vegetarians, all welcome. 20. Jill, there is no maximum age as long as you are fit to travel. 24. Amrita and Mohamed, please read my response on post 16. Unfortunately you are not eligible. 22. This scholarship is open to the world. As long as you are able to arrange a visa in time to participate, you would be eligible. You can find more information on visas here visas.worldnomads.com Please remember that applications need to be in by December 21st 2009 Australian Time (only a month away) so dont miss out! All the best. Tara

  scholarships Nov 24, 2009 4:20 PM

26

Hi i m currently 17 but will turn 18 before the travelling will take place. Am i eligible. Great opportunity you guys have given us.
Thanks

  Fatima Naqvi Nov 24, 2009 6:31 PM

27

Tara, just pointing out you wrote "applications need to be in by December 21st 2010" - make that 2009? Otherwise, good job!

Thanks.

  Dominique Nov 25, 2009 12:19 AM

28

I'm a casual reporter and I derive more than 25% of my income from my writing. But I am yet to be published in anything travel-related. Can I apply?

Cheers
Jimy

  James Nov 25, 2009 1:21 AM

29

hi,
iam a african a ghanain to be pricise. i have a daughter aged who is in grade 2 in a secondary school. She loves writing a lot
she will attain 18 by december 31 2009.
is she qualifed ?.
Also who pays for her expenses?
George

  George Adjarko Nov 26, 2009 2:50 AM

30

i am from india and cant wait to apply!

  how can i apply for this??? Nov 26, 2009 5:31 PM

31

Hello,

For a year, I was a reporter for an environment publication (stress on "was" and on "reporter (as opposed to a writer)"). I am not trained in journalism, nor in writing.

Would I be eligible?
Thanks

  tiger Nov 27, 2009 4:07 AM

32

Hi guys!

Answering your questions in the usual fashion:

26/ Fatima, you need to be 18 at the time you submit your application.

27/Thanks Dominique, have changed that date now!

28/Sorry Jimy you are not allowed to apply. Please read response on comment #16

29/George, your daughter needs to be 18 by December 21 Australian time. She is welcome to apply next year.

31/ Tiger, this is a tricky one but since you have been working in the world of journalism where you have been required to write professionally, then I am afraid you are not eligible. The emphasis and spirit of this scholarship is to give someone a start in a new career.

Cheers,

Tara

  scholarships Nov 27, 2009 10:27 AM

33

I am really glad to read everything in detail. And I am interested to join the competition. I trust that the programme will be able to enhance the scope of writing on the said subject by encouraging the potential writers around the world.
I wish best success of this progremme.
Besh wishes to the authority and to all the writers.
E mail: jheemkamal@yahoo.com or
ahmmkbd@gmail.com
Abu hena mohammad mostofa kamal Dhaka Bangladesh

  Abu hena mohammad mostofa kamal Nov 27, 2009 4:03 PM

34

I'm aware the instructions explicitly say only one topic may be chosen, but I'm of a mind (and have the experience to back it) that a memorable experience involving food can dovetail with an adventure in an unknown culture, indeed adds to the flavor (har har) of said adventure.

Would an entry be disqualified for attempting to embed one theme within another? Would it be looked down upon?

Thanks!

  Hadi Nov 27, 2009 8:13 PM

35

And as a corollary inquiry regarding the themes of the entry, does "adventure in a foreign culture" mean a narrative involving interaction with a cultural element of the country described? Apologies. That may come off obtuse and nit-picky altogether. Let me clarify. I have an adventure travel story, but it does not deal with the
visited culture so much as it meditates upon geography, adventure, and the self. My main concern is whether this kind of story would be instantly disqualified despite it being otherwise well written and engaging.

Thanks again! Hopefully this is the last post I'll put up seeking clarification. :)

  hadi Nov 27, 2009 11:27 PM

36

Hi there!

I've just been crafting my entry and realised just how easy it is to get carried away. I understand to be a professional writer you are probably set strict word limts all the time but the 500 limit on this essay - does it allow for say an extra 15 words?!

Thank you...although I think I already know the answer :)

  Rhiannon Nov 28, 2009 8:25 AM

37

Hi Tara

Yes, that makes sense. Thanks for the quick response and hope you have a great competition here. I will fwd this to people I think might be interested.

Cheers

  tiger Nov 28, 2009 10:18 AM

38

Hello travellers

I am an Italian who has been living in the UK for 4 years. Italy being the food heaven we all know, it offers plenty of memorable experiences involving food. One such experience I would like to share with you for this competition. Since I am Italian - but not a resident in the country - I was wondering if my entry would be accepted, given that the wording for your proposed theme is 'a memorable experience involving food in a foreign country'.

I was also wondering if you accept previously published texts.

Thank you,

Lorena

  Lorena Nov 28, 2009 10:35 PM

39

I have an interest in this tour and meet all the criterias except that i have not travelled widely before except to new york and have not published any work in the form of publishing materials. Will i still qualify. I really wanted to go and have the dream of becoming a anthropologist

  Renee Nov 29, 2009 6:28 AM

40

I'm not a writer but a copy-editor at a news publication. Can I still participate?

  Marisha Nov 30, 2009 2:09 AM

41

Thank You for your reply ... and thank you for sponsoring this contest for new writers. It is wonderful to read of such interest and to know that others share my passion for international travel and travel writing. ALL the very BEST!

  Paula Cullison Nov 30, 2009 7:53 AM

42

Are people in continental usa and canada allowed to apply.

  koala Dec 1, 2009 2:38 AM

43

42. Hi Koala, yes you are allowed to apply. The scholarship is open to the world i.e. citizens of any country around the world.

Cheers,

Tara

  scholarships Dec 1, 2009 10:52 AM

44

I am Myanmar.I want scholarship for a M.Sc course.But I didn't see MM in the box for country of residence.

  SAN WIN Dec 1, 2009 6:37 PM

45

Hi, I have a wedding on the 13th Feb in Johannesburg. Would I still fit in to the 15th Feb timeframe?

  Kate Dec 1, 2009 11:18 PM

46

Hi!
My names Jay Jay and I have travelled with friends family and on my own. Like the other JJ I am 17 but I turn 18 on the 22nd Feb- that’s the day the tour starts. Am I eligible?

JJ

  Jay Jay Spargo Dec 3, 2009 10:03 AM

47

I want to be a published travel writer for your great Tokyo.
Thanks
Aung

  Aung Khin Dec 3, 2009 5:48 PM

48

well now i m pretty sad because i had already done writing my travelling experience...but as u said i m not eligible...it is though unfair...anywho good luck to all who are eligible...Fatima Naqvi

  Fatima Naqvi Dec 3, 2009 11:55 PM

49

44/ We do not offer scholarships for M.Sc.course. The scholarships we offer are for Travel Writing, Travel Photography and Travel Documentary Making.

45/You will need to be available in Tokyo from 9am on Feb15th. Please check with your travel agent to see if this is possible.

46/ As mentioned JJ, you need to be 18 on the date you apply so unfortunately you are not able to apply this year.

All the best,

Tara

  scholarships Dec 4, 2009 1:00 PM

50

IT'S GOOD THING TO ENCOURAGE YOUNG WRITERS

  DAKEDO Dec 5, 2009 8:50 PM

51

People around the world would be offerred a great chance to show their writing capacity as to win the scholarship. Thanks for this!

  Chan soma Dec 6, 2009 5:49 PM

52

Hi,
I was a political reporter in the past (until about 4 years ago)and derived about 50 % of my income from that.
I don't do any jobs as of now, but take some freelance assignments on training.
I understand the spirit of this programme is to give opportunity for someone to start a career in travel writing.
That way, I think I would be eligible to apply because. However, this is not the first time I am into writing (although I am not doing it now). I am confused. Pls help.

  Thakur Dec 6, 2009 8:44 PM

53

Dear World Nomads, i am very interested to join.

I am available at those dates.

However, currently i have not had passport yet.
Am i allowed to apply?
If yes, if i pass, i can go to immigration office as soon as possible and make passport.

I look forward for your explanation to my email address or to here.

Thanks.

Regard,
Rommy Kharisma Karindon
Indonesia

  Rommy Kharisma Karindon Dec 7, 2009 12:56 PM

54

hi ! i really want to join with this program..should the participant already 18 years old on the December 21st ??? because i'll get my 18 on january 31st..do i allowed to participate ??

  rizka Dec 8, 2009 8:08 PM

55

Dear World Nomads, i am so eager to join. I have a valid passport. I love to eat plus I love Japanese food and the art they apply to eating. Expect me to pass an application. Hope to see you, Simon. Sushi Fiesta here I come....


  Rommel Dec 8, 2009 8:33 PM

56

hi i really want to join .i have a valid passport and i am from Ethiopia with different culture.i am 24 and female..i hope to see you.

  meaza gebreslasie negash Dec 11, 2009 5:00 AM

57

Hello there,

Greetings!

1) Do you accept applicants from first-time would be travelers outside the country?

2) Is your scholarship offering full-time employment if ever they win the ultimate prize? Or this is just a one-time contest?

Thanks very much

  Yesha Dec 11, 2009 1:28 PM

58

Hi Tara,
I looked, but couldn't see if you'd answered Rhiannon's question above. Is the 500 words flexible to around 10% over?
Thanks very much,
Tessa

  Tessa Dec 11, 2009 1:53 PM

59

Hi Nomads,
Is there any chance for someone who doesn't have any background from journalistic, like me. But i have a big interest in writings especially about cultures. I thinks it's better for me joining with your program.
thanks

Regards,
Ira
Indonesia

  Ira Dec 11, 2009 3:07 PM

60

Hello,

Just wondering: in regards to the essay, should we mention which essay topic it is? I notice there isn't anywhere on the entry form to list which topic we've chosen for our essays.

Thank you.
Yvonne

  Yvonne Dec 12, 2009 6:40 PM

61

Hello,

just want to know if I can have a passport valid from February 1st 2010 (yes,I do not have it yet) ???

thanks

  Bohus Dec 13, 2009 3:26 AM

62

ahmed from egypt.i love travelling to new sites having more experince meeting new faces knowing new traditions
thank you

  ahemd Dec 13, 2009 9:40 AM

63

hi,
complement of the season .i will bo very glad if i am given the chance to join you.

THANKS...........

  chukwuma okorie Dec 14, 2009 3:08 AM

64

Hi,
Is everyone eligible?I am Lejla from Bosnia and I would like to apply for this scholarship,so I was wondering am I eligible? Thanks...

  Lejla Dec 15, 2009 7:37 AM

65

All but one of last year's featured stories are written in the present tense. Is that the style that's preferred?

  Camille Dec 15, 2009 10:30 AM

66

Hi Everyone, I hope you are enjoying the holiday season. In answer to your questions 52/ Thakur, I appreciate your enthusiasm for the program but unfortunately the fact that you have experience as a professional writer in the past means you cannot apply. 53/ Rommy, unless you can be guaranteed to receive a passport by Jan 15th I would not recommend applying to this scholarship. In the event that you won the scholarship and were unable to travel we would need to pass the scholarship assignment on to the person in second place. 54/ As mentioned you need to be 18 on the date you apply so unfortunately you are not able to apply this year. 57/ Yesha 1) We will accept applications but if you have never travelled before, it is unlikely your entry will be considered highly. In the case of Japan, for example, the language barrier will be a major culture shock for some. 2) This scholarship is the one time assignement writing experience. We are not offering full-time employment 58 & 60/Really good question that everyone should take note:Please DO NOT GO OVER THE 500 WORD LIMIT. We will NOT be flexible on this. Please include your title in the same area as your essay. We will not counting words in the title as part of your 500 word submission.There are two essays that will be assessed. The 500 word essay and the 200 word essay. Please do not exceed the limits in either of your essays. 59 & 64/ Ira, please read the "Who Can apply" section above. 65/ Camille. I do not believe there is an actual preference on which tense that is used. I will ask Simon Richmond and will get back to you soon. Thanks for your questions everyone. Less than one week to go and the applications are pouring in. And if you haven't already started then get writingAll the best of luck, Tara

  scholarships Dec 15, 2009 11:26 AM

67

Hi Tara,

I have travelled a fair bit, so have a few choices of places/situations I can write about. If I write about a travel experience I've had in Japan, is it possible this could go against me in the judging, given that I've already travelled to Japan? Would it be better to write about travelling in a different country?

  Jac Dec 15, 2009 5:43 PM

68

hello! everyone!
this is eshetu(ethiopian cultural name..means Fruit)
i want to write something,the chance is here!!!thanks.

  eshetu Dec 15, 2009 10:23 PM

69

hi Tara, I was so excited about this opportunity, it felt like, this was it! Until I read the posts and it felt, maybe not. I worked as a print journalist for a local newspaper for a year! That was three years ago. Please tell me local newspapers are an exemption from disqualifying an applicant.
I am 26 and from Bhutan. I have not travelled to many places except India,South Korea and Thailand. If I am eligible, could I write about a trip I made to a remote place in Bhutan? I really hope this works out for me. Thank you.

an anxious Yachna

  yachna Dec 15, 2009 10:30 PM

70

Ugh, this hurts so much. I'm going to still be 17 when this trip happens but I turn 18 on the 1st of March. Literally the week after. For university next year my majors are going to be philosophy, journalism and Japanese. This hurts that I can't apply. It really hurts.
WHY couldn't I have been born one week earlier?

  Jessica Dec 16, 2009 1:08 AM

71

hey. My name is Mark Rosenberg. I would really appreciate a confirmation that you received my entry.Thanks in advance.

  Mark ROsenberg Dec 16, 2009 1:21 AM

72

Hi. I just submitted my entry twice because the first time, I had not included my essay. Will you look at both submissions? How does it work? I am worried because it happened in a matter of two seconds, I sent it, then, I went back, and sent another one with the essay (A journey that changed lives). Please, let me know. Thanks.

  Meti Birabiro Dec 16, 2009 3:48 PM

73

Hi Tara,

I took a several professional photos during the experience I'm writing about - shall I submit them as well for a visual reference?

Thank you,
Loryne

  Loryne Atoui Dec 16, 2009 9:39 PM

74

Hi Tara,

I took a several professional photos during the experience I'm writing about - shall I submit them as well for a visual reference?

Thank you,
Loryne

  Loryne Atoui Dec 17, 2009 12:53 AM

75

Hi Tara,

I took a several professional photos during the experience I'm writing about - shall I submit them as well for a visual reference?

Thank you,
Loryne

  Loryne Atoui Dec 17, 2009 12:53 AM

76

I'M IN SOUTH AFRICA AND DON'T HAVE A PASSPORT NOW BUT CAN MAKE ONE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE, MUST I FILL IN THE ENTRY FORM?

  NOKWANDA MLONDO Dec 17, 2009 5:31 AM

77

Hi,

I have not worked as a professional writer, but have had journalism internships and freelanced a few articles. I have never been hired as a print or broadcast journalist. I currently work at a news program, but only do web work, not any original writing aside from 2 stories I was able to freelance. I do not derive more than 25% of my income from writing. I have had a few articles published (nothing on travel writing) via freelancing while in school, but never worked for a newspaper. I'm sort of confused as to whether or not I can apply? I hope so. I've worked diligently on my story.

Thank you so much for your help.

  DJ Dec 17, 2009 12:39 PM

78

Could you please clarify that copyright any entries submitted remain with the author.
Thank you

  nisha Dec 19, 2009 12:14 AM

79

If I am already in Japan, can I still apply for the scholarship?

Thank you!

  Michael Dec 19, 2009 3:55 AM

80

I am a Solomon Islander, Hobby to travel and visit other parts of the world and gain new experience hence can be able to share to others especially to the people of my own country, Solomon Islands.

  Grace Tebaubau Dec 19, 2009 6:59 PM

81

I think I made an error in submitting my entry!
I accidently misread the entry form and submitted it without my 500 word essay :( is there any way I can find out if it submitted ok?

  Emma Griffiths Dec 19, 2009 10:48 PM

82

Hi Tara,

I'm an MA English student and write freelance part-time (about 10 hours a week) to help pay my expenses. Since I only work that much, 100% of my current pithy income is from freelance writing, although I've spent the last three years working as a teacher. I have not been published as a travel writer and I'm looking to break into travel writing. Would I be eligible? I don't really consider myself a "professional" since my writing is far from a full-time job and I spend most of my time on my studies.

Heather

  Michelle Dec 20, 2009 2:48 AM

83

I entered the competition. I put down that I wrote several travel acrticles for a local newspaper. That was completely voluntary and I accepted no income from those articles. I was merely writing as a travel agent submitting my experiences and adventures while traveling to certain areas. I believe I only wrote 4 articles. I do not considered my professional and have never been paid to write. I am only paid to sing!

  Diane Beebe Dec 20, 2009 7:02 AM

84

Hello -

Still wondering if we are to mention to you somewhere on the application form what category our essay is? There doesn't appear to be a space for it.

Thank you
Yvonne

  Yvonne Dec 20, 2009 8:40 PM

85

HI im david from county kenya in Africa and iwould like TO WIN that traveling in kenya ihave ayouth group by name steadfast youth group our aim is to help streetboysa and girl alive to be someone and to fight againest HIVAIDS incommunitty.
Thank you God bless you
ASANTE SANA.

  David Raymond OMONDI Dec 20, 2009 10:02 PM

86

i did not understand the 15. condition of entry. what is it about?

  B Dec 21, 2009 8:25 AM

87

is there supposed to be a confirmation email, once you've entered ?

  kira Dec 21, 2009 1:08 PM

88

Hi, I'd like to join the writing competition.
I've written a story. it's more than 500 words, is it okay?
I know I only need to write 500, but I couldn't make it shorter..
any suggestion for me?

  Alfia SR Dec 21, 2009 2:47 PM

89

In noticed someone else had the same concern...I didn't see where the 500-word essay went so I submitted it twice and the second time I put my essay in the category section...help! Will it be received??

  BeckyMF Dec 21, 2009 6:56 PM

90

Hi Everyone,

67/ Jac,it doesnt matter which country you write about Japan or otherwise. You will be judged on your writing skills and not the destination you choose.

69/ Yachna,please read Comment 16. point 6. which explains this.

70/ Try next year Jessica!

71/ Yes Mark. We received your submission. We do not send confirmation emails but when you complete your submission you will be presented with a screen which says your submission was successful.

72/ Meti we will look at the submission with the essay attached. Dont worry!

73/ No need to send photos Loryn thank you.

76/ Comment 66 answers this question

77/ DJ If you have never derived more than 25% of your income from writing then you would be eligible to apply.

78/ Nisha, copyright of all entries will remain with the author. In the case of the scholarship winner, some or all parts of the work submitted after the assignment may be published in the 2010 "The Rough Guide to Japan" where the Scholarship recipient will be duely credited.

79/ Yes you are welcome to apply if you are living in Japan.

81/ Emma, please submit it again with the essay and we will just mark the complete version.

82 and 83/ comment number 16 answers your questions.

84/ Yvonne, please write in the body of your essay the question you are responding to. The title does not get counted as part of your 500 words.

87/ Kira, there is no confirmation email after receiving but you should be notified on the screen once your application is submitted that it was successful.

88/ Alfia please keep to the 500 word limit.


89/ We will only use the complete submission so not to worry Becky.

  scholarships Dec 21, 2009 8:34 PM

91

Hi...

I tried resending my entry but it seems there was some error and the page refreshed itself. Can there be some clarity on this please? Can you please confirm if you have got my application?

Many thanks,
Ragini Puri

  Ragini Dec 21, 2009 11:06 PM

92

Hi,

Would it be possible to know how many entries you received?

Thanks.

  Ericka Dec 22, 2009 5:45 AM

93

what an amazing response to this scholarship competition! good luck to everyone who entered :)

  Janet Dec 22, 2009 3:05 PM

94

Just want to say thanks for this opportunity. Would be great to read them all.

  BritLee Dec 22, 2009 6:31 PM

95

I wrote my essay to just under 500 words and submitted it, after which word retabulated the Word count to 501. The word count is still 498 in Wordpress and other word processing services... will there be a little room granted for error here?

  JT Dec 27, 2009 4:28 PM

96

Do we hear the shortlist tomorrow? This is all so exciting!

  Lucy Dec 27, 2009 8:53 PM

97

Does anyone know where the shortlist is posted? Or are the people who made the shortlist simply notified via email?
Thanks!

  Jill Dec 28, 2009 11:19 AM

98

the suspense is killing me!!!

  lolastone Dec 28, 2009 1:21 PM

99

Hi Guys,

The shortlist has been posted.

Click below to find out if you made it through!

http://journals.worldnomads.com/scholarships/post/52951.aspx

All the best,

Tara Parsons

  scholarships Dec 28, 2009 4:47 PM

100

I'm really, really, really sad :-(
I really felt I had a good chance on this, so I'm totally gutted I'm not on the shortlist.
*sigh*

  Jac Dec 28, 2009 6:12 PM

101

Hi there, I have always wanted 2 b a travel writer because I have a deep passion 4 travelling, reading, writing and meeting people!! :) But it's just that I haven't worked as a travel journalist b4.. How could I b a travel writer? ^^

  Krisa Goh Feb 24, 2010 6:17 PM

102

Hey !

I am from India, with a masters degree in journalism. Passionate about travel writing ! what are the next application dates for the scholarship ?

  Nidhi Adlakha Apr 10, 2010 5:39 PM

103

Hi! I´ve just seen the website, an I want to say that I´ll love to do the trip, but I realize that It´s too late for that. Are you opening a trip for next year? please, let me know.
Cheers!

  Ana Cecilia Aug 16, 2010 4:52 AM

About scholarships


Where I've been

Photo Galleries

Highlights

Near Misses

My trip journals



 

 

Travel Answers about Worldwide

Do you have a travel question? Ask other World Nomads.