Don't Miss Your Shot: Timing Your Seasonal Pitches for Maximum Impact!
I am decompressing, but looking for urgent pitches for when I am back...
Happy Juneteenth and Hello from Haida Gwaii! For the past few days I have been sailing on Maple Leaf Adventure’s Cascadia, a 140-feet catamaran, with 20 other passengers. We spent a night at a beautiful lodge in Masset, about halfway between Alaska and Canada, before sailing south along the Gwaii Hanas National Park and Reserve, passing through spectacular scenery, and even gusty weather. This is one of the rainiest places in the world, allowing for all shades of green in the vegetation.
While I have been trying to disconnect from work and focus on where I am, forest bathing and breathing the purest air in the world. I am listening to stories of the Haida people, and how they prioritized environment over economy, working with the Canadian government to help preserve their land. I am waking up early to see the misty fog over the North Pacific Ocean, rays of sunlight trying to peak through the dense clouds, and letting the boat rock me to sleep whenever my body desires. Oh and while I am being present in the now, I am also thinking about all the assignments I have due this month.
So a quick note asking for some really good, interesting and concise pitches, as some of my editors are assigning stories soon.
Check out my Instagram for updates from Haida Gwaii.
How Long Should You Wait to Pitch?
If you are a journalist or editor, you may have noticed your inbox getting flooded with email pitches about an upcoming holiday, just days before it is about to take place.
“Today is Juneteenth and here are some restaurants serving inspired menus..” What? Today!
“Tomorrow is national martini day and our hotel is showcasing blah blah” Do you want me to do a write up or stop by for a drink?
“Are you working on any last minute July 4th getaway stories?” No!
Such email pitches do not help anyone in getting coverage. As a PR professional, if you are looking for some instant social media promotion about the latest menu offering or deals, it is ok to send the pitch a few days before, as long as you are also inviting the journalist to come experience it. Your expectation, in this case, should only be a social media post.
But if you are looking for coverage in print or online publications, then plan ahead, way ahead.
Most of the publications I write for are now assigning Fall stories. Some are even planning for 2026 calendars.
So, it is too late to pitch summer travel story ideas, unless there is an emerging breaking news-pegged story that readers have to know about. For example: Here’s where to experience Chef Burrell’s favorite culinary spots.
Otherwise, plan for 4-6 months ahead! Now is the time to pitch stories about Diwali, Christmas, winter breaks, ski season, etc. Send some fresh ideas, new perspectives, and why now pegs.
No package deals please. Just good stories!
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Recently Published:
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Call for Pitches
If there is not a deadline mentioned, that means I am taking pitches ongoing. Do not email me to ask if I am still accepting (you will see the call outs here on Substack). Do not follow up on pitches either.
If you want to get your pitch considered, please take a moment to read my Substack on pitching tips before sending me your email.
Please always make sure that the publication has not already covered this story/ destination before.
Best Places To Go in 2026
CN Traveler is looking for pitches for their Best Places to Go in 2026 list. Can be any place size, from a neighborhood to a country, international or domestic.
Pitch should include the place name and 2 to 3 bullet points that include specific 2026 news pegs (openings, new flight routes, pop culture moments, visa changes, anniversaries, places disappearing/changing, an overwhelming sense of buzz, etc.). News pegs are essential. Should not be previously covered. Deadline June 27
Fodor's Go and No Lists 2026
This can be a town, park, site, lands, city, region, state or country. Why should this place be nominated? Must have a why now urgent or topical for 2025-2026. Deadline June 27
AAA Extra Mile
Broad range of travel inspiration, road trips, money saving travel tips and destinations.
Indian culinary products
The stories about founders of chai, spices and kulfi products have fared well in my monthly print dining column in Khabar Magazine. I am always looking for more stories of chefs, cookbook authors, product entrepreneurs in the South Asian (Indian) demography but only US based. No “authentic, elevated, inspired by grandma” cooking please!
New York/ New Jersey Events/ Openings
Not a call for pitch. I have a summer marketing and communications intern who would like to attend media events, create influencer campaigns, and learn more about the travel media industry. If you have any opportunities for budding writers, please let me know.
Buy a Book From an Author You Know!
I started writing ‘Beato Goes To’ children’s books to share stories about the kids I met in different countries who led unique lives. As seen through the eyes of my curious cat Beato these colorful picture books inspire kids to be curious, open minded and dream of traveling. They make great gifts at baby showers, birthdays and summer reading programs.
