Skift Take
For being one of the most important business, political, and tourism stories, a lot of Africa coverage tends to only hit a few notes. Here are some ideas on how travel reporting can evolve, and incorporate more voices and add deeper perspectives.
Africa is one of the most important stories in business, politics, and tourism. But you wouldn’t know it when reading most of the way the travel media covers the continent. Instead of nuance, you’re getting the same formulaic, cookie-cutter types of stories pegged to the same news hooks, written by the same voices, month in and month out. There’s a closed aperture that needs to change.
As Africa grows as a recurring, dynamic destination, and not just somewhere people visit once in their lives for a splurge safari on their honeymoon, there’s a need for the travel journalism ecosystem to be smarter. Travel is the first window into the nuances of the global economy, and an important proxy into all aspects of business. So there’s an opportunity for everyone to evolve their coverage, especially publications that command a disproportionate share of eyeballs.
Some problems and opportunities:
An Emphasis on Glitz, Without Underlying Substance
If you pick up most glossy travel magazines, you’ll find that a majority of news pegs in terms of Africa coverage are tied to new lodge openings, replete with glossy photos and breathless coverage. This continues to play into the idea that travelers are going to
