First Time Travel Speakers

A first time travel speaker is someone who is stepping onto a stage, podcast, or virtual summit platform for the first time to share their personal travel experiences and the insights they've gained from them. They're not necessarily professional speakers or influencers. In fact, many are everyday individuals with extraordinary stories that haven't yet been told.

Unlike seasoned travel speakers who may have a polished keynote and a speaking agent, first time travel speakers are often fresh voices with raw, authentic perspectives. They might be a solo backpacker who navigated a foreign country without speaking the language, a student who studied abroad and returned with a new worldview, or a retiree who took their first international trip and discovered a second act in life.

What sets them apart isn't just the 'first time' label-it's the freshness of their message. They bring unfiltered stories, real-time reflections, and a sense of discovery that can be incredibly compelling for audiences. Their talks often focus on transformation, cultural encounters, personal growth, and the unexpected lessons that come from stepping outside your comfort zone.

In many cases, these speakers are invited to share their story because it aligns with a specific theme-like remote work, global citizenship, or overcoming fear. They might speak at virtual events, podcasts, webinars, or niche summits where their unique journey adds a new dimension to the conversation.

So, if you're looking to diversify your speaker lineup or spotlight untold stories, a first time travel speaker might be exactly what your platform needs.

When someone shares their travel story for the first time, they're not just recounting a trip-they're offering a fresh lens on the world that hasn't been filtered through years of speaking circuits or content strategy. That's what makes a first time travel speaker so valuable.

These speakers bring authenticity. They haven't rehearsed their story a hundred times, so what you get is often raw, emotional, and deeply human. This kind of vulnerability resonates with audiences who are tired of overly polished narratives. Think of the difference between a travel documentary and a friend's voice note from a hostel in Peru-one might be cinematic, but the other feels real.

They also help democratize the speaking space. By giving first-timers a platform, you open the door to more diverse voices-across age, culture, language, and socioeconomic background. This is especially important in global events or summits that aim to reflect a wide range of perspectives.

From a content standpoint, first time travel speakers often bring fresh angles. They might talk about the anxiety of navigating immigration for the first time, or the joy of discovering shared humanity in a remote village. These aren't recycled TED-style messages-they're new, specific, and often surprising.

Finally, they inspire others to step forward. When someone sees a peer-someone who isn't a polished pro-sharing their story, it gives them permission to do the same. That ripple effect can grow your community, deepen engagement, and create a more inclusive event culture.

First time travel speakers share personal stories from their travels to educate, inspire, and connect with audiences-often for the first time in a public setting. Their role is to translate lived experiences into meaningful takeaways that resonate beyond the destination.

They typically speak at virtual summits, podcasts, webinars, or niche events where their unique perspective adds value. For example, a first time travel speaker might describe how navigating public transit in Istanbul taught them patience and adaptability, or how volunteering in Guatemala reshaped their understanding of privilege and service.

Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Share Authentic Stories. They recount specific moments from their travels-both the highs and the challenges-with honesty and emotion.
- Deliver Insights. They connect their experiences to broader themes like personal growth, cultural awareness, or career shifts.
- Engage Audiences. Even if they're new to speaking, they often bring a conversational tone that feels relatable and fresh.
- Represent New Voices. Many first time travel speakers come from underrepresented backgrounds or regions, offering perspectives that are often missing from mainstream stages.
- Inspire Action. Whether it's encouraging someone to take their first solo trip or rethink how they engage with other cultures, their stories often spark change.

In short, first time travel speakers do more than talk about travel-they use their journey as a bridge to deeper conversations. And because they're new to the speaking world, their message often feels less scripted and more real, which is exactly what many audiences are craving.

Ready to step into the spotlight as a first time travel speaker? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you launch your speaking journey with confidence and clarity:

1. Define Your Unique Travel Story or Expertise.
- Are you a digital nomad who built a business from Bali? A solo traveler who explored 50 countries before 30? Pinpoint what makes your travel experience valuable and relatable.
- Tip: Focus on transformation. What did you learn that others can apply?

2. Choose Your Ideal Audience.
- Are you speaking to students, remote workers, tourism boards, or corporate teams interested in work-life balance? Your audience shapes your message.
- Example: A speaker who backpacked through South America might resonate with gap-year students or adventure travel brands.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Use platforms like Talks.co to create a professional speaker profile. Include a compelling bio, talk topics, testimonials (even from informal events), and a high-quality headshot.
- Tip: Add a short video introducing yourself and your signature talk. Authenticity wins.

4. Start Small and Local.
- Offer free talks at coworking spaces, travel meetups, or local events. Record these sessions to build your speaker reel.
- Bonus: Reach out to podcast hosts or YouTube travel channels to get your voice out there.

5. Connect with Hosts and Event Organizers.
- Use Talks.co to find virtual summits and in-person events looking for fresh voices. Reach out with a short, personalized pitch.
- Pro Tip: Highlight how your talk aligns with the event's theme or audience goals.

6. Refine Your Talk and Delivery.
- Practice with friends or in front of small groups. Ask for feedback on clarity, engagement, and timing.
- Consider joining a speaker coaching group or Toastmasters to sharpen your skills.

7. Collect Reviews and Keep Iterating.
- After every talk, ask for a testimonial and reflect on what worked. Update your speaker page regularly with new topics and media.

Becoming a first time travel speaker is about showing up, sharing your story, and staying open to growth. The more you speak, the more opportunities will come your way.

Being a first time travel speaker isn't just about having a passport full of stamps. It's about translating your travel experiences into meaningful insights that resonate with an audience. Let's break down what you actually need to get started:

1. A Clear Message or Storyline
Audiences connect with stories, not itineraries. You need a core message that ties your travel experiences to a broader theme: resilience, cultural empathy, remote work, sustainability, or personal growth. Think of your talk as a journey with a beginning, middle, and takeaway.

2. Presentation Skills
You don't need to be a TED-level speaker from day one, but you do need to be comfortable speaking clearly, engaging your audience, and using visuals or anecdotes effectively. Practicing in front of small groups or recording yourself can help build confidence.

3. A Speaker Profile
Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to create a professional speaker page. This acts as your digital resume. Include your bio, talk topics, speaking clips (even if they're from small events), and testimonials. It's your credibility builder.

4. Basic Tech Setup
If you're speaking virtually, you'll need a good microphone, webcam, and lighting. For in-person events, be ready with a slide deck, clicker, and backup USB. Always be prepared for tech hiccups.

5. Networking and Outreach Skills
You'll need to reach out to event organizers, summit hosts, or podcast producers. Crafting a short, compelling pitch that highlights your value to their audience is key. Talks.co helps by connecting speakers and hosts directly, saving you time.

6. A Willingness to Learn and Adapt
Your first few talks might not be perfect. That's okay. Gather feedback, tweak your content, and keep showing up. Growth is part of the journey.

In short, being a first time travel speaker is about combining your personal travel insights with communication skills and a bit of hustle. With the right tools and mindset, you can go from unknown to unforgettable.

The short answer: sometimes. Whether first time travel speakers get paid depends on a mix of factors like the event type, audience size, your niche, and your perceived value.

Let's break it down:

- Free Gigs (Common for Beginners):
Many first-time speakers start by offering free talks to build credibility, gather testimonials, and create a speaker reel. Think local meetups, coworking spaces, or virtual summits.

- Low-Paid Opportunities ($50 - $300):
Smaller events or niche conferences may offer modest honorariums or cover travel expenses. These gigs are great for exposure and networking.

- Paid Speaking Engagements ($500 - $2,500+):
Once you've built a solid speaker page (like on Talks.co), have a few testimonials, and can show real value to an audience, you can start charging. Events that sell tickets or have sponsors are more likely to pay.

Pros of Paid Gigs:
- Validates your expertise.
- Helps cover travel or tech costs.
- Motivates you to level up your content.

Cons:
- Competitive space, especially for first-timers.
- Payment timelines can vary (some pay after the event).
- Some events offer exposure instead of cash.

Tip: Hybrid deals are common. You might speak for free but get access to the event's email list or sell your own products/services.

So yes, first time travel speakers can get paid, but it often starts with unpaid or low-paid gigs that build toward higher-value opportunities. Think of it as a ladder, not a leap.

First time travel speakers usually start with modest income streams, but with the right strategy, they can turn speaking into a solid revenue generator. Here's how they typically make money:
1. Paid Speaking Engagements
This is the most direct route. Events, conferences, and summits (especially in the travel, digital nomad, or remote work spaces) may pay speakers a fee ranging from $100 to $2,500 depending on experience and audience size.
2. Product or Service Promotion
Speakers often use their talk as a platform to promote:
- Online courses (e.g., 'How to Travel Full-Time on a Budget')
- Coaching or consulting (e.g., remote work coaching)
- Travel gear or affiliate products
3. Sponsorships and Brand Collaborations
If you have a strong niche or following, travel brands may pay you to speak and represent them. For example, a sustainable travel speaker might partner with eco-friendly luggage brands.
4. Virtual Summits and Webinars
Hosting your own virtual event or joining one can lead to revenue through ticket sales, upsells, or affiliate commissions.
5. Content Licensing or Repurposing
Some speakers repurpose their talks into:
- eBooks
- YouTube videos (with ad revenue)
- Paid newsletter content
6. Consulting or Freelance Work
Speaking can lead to side gigs. For instance, after a talk on travel safety, a speaker might be hired by a travel startup as a consultant.
Summary Table:

Revenue Stream	Typical Range
Paid Talks	$100 - $2,500
Product Sales	Varies (up to $10K/month)
Sponsorships	$500 - $5,000+ per deal
Virtual Event Revenue	$0 - $20,000+
Consulting/Freelance	$50 - $200/hr

The key is to diversify. Speaking is often the door opener, but the real income comes from what you do after the talk.

The income of first time travel speakers varies widely, depending on their niche, experience, and monetization strategy. Let's look at the numbers and what influences them.
1. Starting Rates
Most first time speakers earn between $0 and $500 per talk. Many begin by speaking for free to build their portfolio, especially at local events or virtual summits.
2. Mid-Level Range
Once you have a few gigs under your belt and a solid speaker page (like on Talks.co), you can charge $500 to $1,500 per talk. This is common for speakers in high-demand niches like remote work, sustainable travel, or digital nomadism.
3. High-End Potential
With a strong personal brand, media exposure, or a bestselling book, even first-time speakers can command $2,000 to $5,000 per keynote. This is rare but possible, especially in corporate or government-sponsored events.
Factors That Affect Income:
- Audience Size: Larger events with 500+ attendees tend to pay more.
- Event Type: Corporate events pay better than community meetups.
- Topic Relevance: Talks on trending topics (e.g., AI in travel, climate-conscious tourism) can fetch higher fees.
- Geography: Speakers in North America, Europe, and Australia often earn more than those in emerging markets.
Sample Income Scenarios:

Speaker Type	Avg. Fee per Talk
Local Meetup Speaker	$0 - $100
Virtual Summit Contributor	$100 - $500
Corporate Workshop Facilitator	$1,000 - $3,000
Sponsored Brand Speaker	$500 - $2,000

While the average first time travel speaker might make under $1,000 per talk initially, the long-term earning potential grows significantly with experience and strategic positioning.

If you're an event organizer or summit host wondering how much first time travel speakers cost, the answer depends on several variables. Let's break it down analytically.
1. Free to Low-Cost Speakers ($0 - $500)
Many first time travel speakers are willing to speak for free, especially if:
- The event offers exposure or networking.
- They're building their portfolio.
- They can promote their own products or services.
2. Mid-Tier Speakers ($500 - $1,500)
Speakers with a few events under their belt and a polished speaker page (like on Talks.co) may charge a modest fee. These speakers typically:
- Have a niche (e.g., slow travel, travel safety, digital nomadism).
- Offer a well-structured talk with clear takeaways.
- Provide marketing support (e.g., sharing with their audience).
3. Additional Costs to Consider:
- Travel and Accommodation: If the event is in-person, you may need to cover flights and lodging.
- Tech Requirements: Some speakers request AV support or specific equipment.
- Licensing Fees: If you want to record and distribute the talk, there may be additional fees.
Cost Comparison Table:

Speaker Type	Fee Range	Notes
Beginner (Local/Virtual)	$0 - $300	Often unpaid or low-cost
Emerging Speaker	$300 - $1,000	May include travel reimbursement
Niche Expert	$1,000 - $2,500	Includes prep and customization

Tip for Hosts: Use Talks.co to find first time travel speakers who match your budget and audience. Many are open to hybrid deals (e.g., lower fee in exchange for promotion or lead access).
In summary, while first time travel speakers are often budget-friendly, their cost can vary based on experience, location, and event type.

- Rick Steves: Known for his PBS travel series and guidebooks, Rick's early talks focused on cultural immersion and responsible travel. His ability to connect with audiences through storytelling made him a standout even in his early days.

- Cheryl Strayed: Before becoming a bestselling author, Cheryl spoke about her solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Her raw, honest reflections on travel as healing resonated deeply with first-time audiences.

- Nomadic Matt (Matt Kepnes): One of the original travel bloggers turned speakers. His first talks were at budget travel meetups and blogging conferences, where he broke down practical travel strategies.

- Jessica Nabongo: The first Black woman to travel to every country in the world. Her initial speaking engagements focused on representation in travel and inspired a new generation of explorers.

- Leon Logothetis: Known for 'The Kindness Diaries', his early talks revolved around human connection through travel. He combined adventure with emotional storytelling.

- Eva zu Beck: A solo female traveler who gained traction through YouTube. Her first speaking gigs were at digital nomad events, where she discussed cultural sensitivity and solo travel.

- Rolf Potts: Author of 'Vagabonding', Rolf's early talks were at universities and literary festivals. He emphasized long-term travel as a lifestyle, not a vacation.

- Kiersten Rich (The Blonde Abroad): Started speaking at women's travel events. Her early presentations focused on empowering solo female travelers.

- Johnny Ward: From broke backpacker to millionaire traveler, Johnny's first talks were about overcoming adversity through global exploration.

- Brooke Saward: Founder of World of Wanderlust, Brooke's early talks were at tourism expos and focused on building a travel brand from scratch.

- Jessica Nabongo (USA/Uganda): A global voice for inclusive travel. Her talks blend personal narrative with cultural commentary. She's spoken at TEDx and travel summits worldwide.

- Leon Logothetis (UK): With a background in media and a global kindness mission, Leon's talks are emotionally powerful and globally relevant.

- Evita Robinson (USA): Founder of Nomadness Travel Tribe, Evita's early talks centered on community building and diversity in travel. She's now a sought-after speaker at global tourism conferences.

- Girish Bhardwaj (India): Known as the 'Bridge Man of India', his travel stories are tied to rural development. His first talks were in regional forums and have since reached international platforms.

- Lois Pryce (UK): A solo motorcycle traveler who started speaking at adventure travel festivals. Her talks are rich with humor and cultural insight.

- Zaynah Din (Pakistan/UK): A rising voice in Muslim female travel. Her early talks at cultural expos and youth events have made her a role model in conservative regions.

- Mike Corey (Canada): A filmmaker and speaker who started with talks on overcoming fear through travel. Now featured at global events like World Nomad Games.

- Gloria Atanmo (USA): A dynamic speaker on travel and identity. Her first talks were at blogging conferences, and she now keynotes at international diversity and travel events.

- Ankita Kumar (India): Known for her vibrant storytelling and focus on offbeat travel. Her talks are popular in Asia's digital nomad communities.

- Cory Lee (USA): A wheelchair traveler advocating for accessibility. His talks have reshaped how travel brands think about inclusivity.

Myth 1: You need to be a seasoned traveler to speak on travel.
Not true. Many first time travel speakers bring fresh perspectives precisely because they're new to the experience. Audiences often resonate more with relatable, real-time stories than polished, rehearsed tales from someone who's been to 80 countries. For example, a first-time speaker who documented their first solo trip to Vietnam on TikTok ended up with a speaking gig at a digital nomad conference in Lisbon. It's not about how many stamps are in your passport - it's about your story and how you tell it.

Myth 2: You must have a huge social media following.
Sure, having followers helps, but it's not a requirement. Event organizers are looking for authenticity, relevance, and connection. A teacher from Nairobi who spoke about her first trip abroad at a local education summit got invited to speak at a regional UNESCO event. She had under 500 Instagram followers. What mattered was her message, not her metrics.

Myth 3: Only influencers or travel bloggers get invited to speak.
That's a narrow view. First time travel speakers come from all walks of life: students, retirees, entrepreneurs, even people who just took a sabbatical. A nurse from Toronto who shared her experience volunteering in rural Peru was invited to speak at a healthcare innovation summit. Her story wasn't about tourism - it was about purpose-driven travel.

Myth 4: You need to be an extrovert to succeed.
Public speaking isn't about being loud or charismatic. It's about clarity, confidence, and connection. Many introverts thrive on stage because they prepare deeply and speak with intention. If you're thoughtful and passionate, you can absolutely thrive as a first time travel speaker.

Myth 5: You have to travel internationally to be taken seriously.
Domestic travel stories can be just as compelling. A speaker from rural Australia shared her first trip to Sydney and how it changed her view on urban culture. That talk went viral in local education circles. It's not about distance - it's about discovery.

When Carlos Mendoza stepped on stage at a sustainability summit in Bogotá, he wasn't a travel veteran. He was a first-time traveler who had just returned from a volunteer trip to the Amazon. His talk wasn't polished. But it was raw, honest, and deeply human. He spoke about the fear of leaving home for the first time, the culture shock, and the unexpected friendships. That vulnerability struck a chord. Within months, he was invited to speak at three more regional events.

Then there's Aisha Khan, a university student from Manchester. She documented her first trip abroad - a cultural exchange in Morocco - through a series of short YouTube videos. A local TEDx organizer stumbled upon her content and reached out. Her talk, 'What I Learned from Getting Lost in Fez,' became one of the most viewed talks from that event. She's now a regular guest on global youth leadership panels.

In the corporate world, James Liu, a software engineer from Singapore, gave a presentation at his company's internal conference about his first solo trip to Iceland. He focused on how navigating unfamiliar terrain helped him develop better problem-solving skills. That talk led to an invitation to speak at a regional tech conference. His story wasn't about glaciers - it was about growth.

And let's not forget Maya Rodriguez, a community organizer from Mexico City. She spoke at a civic engagement forum about her first trip to a rural village in Chiapas. Her talk highlighted the contrast between urban and rural activism and how travel reshaped her approach to community work. That single talk led to collaborations with NGOs across Latin America.

These stories show that first time travel speakers don't need decades of experience or global fame. What they need is a story that matters, a message that resonates, and the courage to share it. The rest follows.

The landscape for first time travel speakers is shifting in some exciting directions. As more people embrace remote work and digital nomadism, the appetite for authentic, grounded travel stories is growing. Event organizers are no longer just looking for polished pros - they want real voices with fresh perspectives.

One trend gaining traction is the rise of hyper-local storytelling. Rather than focusing on exotic destinations, speakers are sharing what it means to explore their own countries or regions for the first time. This resonates especially well with audiences in emerging markets or post-pandemic contexts where international travel may still be limited.

Another shift: hybrid and virtual speaking opportunities. Platforms like Hopin and Airmeet have made it easier for first time travel speakers to present from anywhere. This levels the playing field for speakers in rural areas or underrepresented regions. You don't need a visa or a big budget to get on stage anymore.

We're also seeing more niche events pop up - think climate-conscious travel, accessible tourism, or solo female travel in specific regions. These micro-niches are perfect entry points for first timers who have a unique angle. If you're the only person talking about traveling as a wheelchair user in Southeast Asia, you're not just relevant - you're essential.

Key trends to watch:
- More demand for first-person, unfiltered travel narratives.
- Growth in regional and language-specific speaking events.
- Increased use of AI tools for pitch creation and talk rehearsal.
- Event organizers prioritizing diversity and inclusion in speaker lineups.
- Expansion of speaker marketplaces like Talks.co to connect new voices with event hosts.

Bottom line: the door is wide open. If you've got a story and a unique lens on travel, now's the time to step up.

Talks.co. A smart platform that matches speakers with podcast hosts and event organizers. Great for first timers looking to build credibility and get booked without a massive network.

SpeakerHub. A global directory where you can create a speaker profile, list your topics, and apply to open calls for speakers. Tip: Use keywords like 'first-time traveler' or 'solo travel' to stand out in niche searches.

Canva. Perfect for designing your speaker one-sheet, slide decks, or social media promos. Use their presentation templates to create a clean, professional look even if you're not a designer.

Otter.ai. Use this tool to transcribe your practice talks and refine your messaging. It's also helpful for turning your travel stories into blog posts or pitch summaries.

Airmeet. A virtual event platform where many travel and lifestyle summits are hosted. Attend events to observe speaker styles or pitch yourself as a panelist.

LinkedIn Events. A goldmine for discovering niche webinars and virtual conferences. Engage with organizers and attendees to build relationships before pitching yourself.

Toastmasters International. If you're nervous about public speaking, this is a great place to build confidence in a supportive environment. Many clubs now meet online, making it accessible globally.

Google Trends. Use it to research what travel-related topics are gaining traction. This helps you tailor your talk titles and abstracts to what audiences are actually searching for.