Place and Travel Speakers

A place and travel speaker is someone who specializes in sharing insights, stories, and strategies related to travel, destinations, and cultural experiences through public speaking. They might speak at conferences, corporate retreats, podcasts, or virtual summits, and their expertise often intersects with tourism, lifestyle design, and global mobility.

Unlike general travel bloggers or influencers, place and travel speakers are focused on delivering value through spoken content. They might explore topics like sustainable tourism, digital nomadism, cultural immersion, or even geopolitical travel trends. Their talks are typically structured, researched, and tailored to specific audiences.

There are different types of place and travel speakers:
- Inspirational speakers who share personal journeys of transformation through travel.
- Educational speakers who provide practical tips on navigating global work, travel safety, or cultural etiquette.
- Industry experts who analyze travel trends, tourism economics, or destination marketing.

These speakers often collaborate with event organizers, travel brands, or media platforms to engage audiences with compelling narratives and actionable insights. Whether they're on a TEDx stage or a niche podcast, their goal is to inform, inspire, and ignite curiosity about the world.

In short, a place and travel speaker is a communicator who uses the lens of travel to explore broader human experiences-mobility, connection, and discovery.

When you're organizing an event or podcast that touches on global topics, lifestyle design, or cultural awareness, a place and travel speaker can be the bridge between ideas and lived experience. They bring context to the conversation, turning abstract trends into relatable stories and actionable insights.

Cultural Relevance
Place and travel speakers help audiences understand the world beyond their borders. Whether it's explaining the impact of tourism on local economies or highlighting indigenous travel experiences, they foster empathy and global awareness.

Audience Engagement
People love stories. Especially ones that take them somewhere new. A skilled speaker can captivate an audience with tales of navigating Tokyo's subway system or living out of a backpack in Patagonia. This kind of engagement boosts retention and emotional connection.

Business and Strategy Value
For corporate audiences, place and travel speakers can offer insights into international markets, remote work trends, or global team dynamics. Think of someone like Chris Ducker speaking on location independence or Nomadic Matt discussing budget travel strategies.

Diverse Perspectives
These speakers often bring voices from underrepresented regions or communities. That diversity enriches your event and broadens your audience's worldview.

So whether your audience is planning their next vacation or rethinking their work-life balance, a place and travel speaker can offer the kind of perspective that sticks long after the applause fades.

Place and travel speakers do more than just talk about destinations-they educate, inspire, and challenge audiences to think differently about how we move through the world.

They Share Stories That Resonate
Whether it's a keynote about traveling solo across Southeast Asia or a podcast episode on the rise of eco-tourism, these speakers use personal and researched narratives to connect with listeners. Their stories often highlight cultural insights, logistical tips, and emotional takeaways.

They Provide Practical Guidance
Many place and travel speakers offer actionable advice. This could include:
- How to find remote work-friendly cities
- Navigating visa processes
- Planning sustainable travel itineraries
- Understanding local customs and etiquette

They Influence Industry Trends
By speaking at conferences or collaborating with tourism boards, they help shape how destinations are perceived. Their insights can influence:
- Destination marketing strategies
- Travel tech innovations
- Policy discussions on overtourism or digital nomad visas

They Educate and Advocate
Some speakers focus on educating audiences about ethical travel, indigenous rights, or climate impact. They might work with NGOs, universities, or global forums to raise awareness and drive change.

In essence, place and travel speakers are communicators who use the power of voice to make travel more meaningful, informed, and inclusive.

Becoming a place and travel speaker isn't just about loving travel or being good with words. It's about building a brand, sharing meaningful stories, and connecting with the right audiences. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Define your niche and message
- Are you an expert in sustainable tourism, luxury travel, or off-the-grid adventures? Pick a lane.
- Your message should reflect your unique perspective. For example, if you're passionate about cultural immersion, focus on how travel can bridge global understanding.

2. Build your credibility
- Start by writing articles, launching a blog, or creating a YouTube channel.
- Speak at local events or online summits. Platforms like Talks.co make it easy to connect with event hosts looking for fresh voices.

3. Create a speaker page
- This is your digital resume. Include a bio, topics you speak on, testimonials, and a professional headshot.
- Talks.co offers tools to build and showcase your speaker profile, making it easier for hosts to find and book you.

4. Network with event organizers and other speakers
- Join online communities, attend virtual summits, and reach out to podcast hosts.
- Use LinkedIn to connect with conference planners and travel influencers.

5. Pitch yourself strategically
- Craft personalized pitches that highlight your unique angle and how it fits the event's audience.
- Include a link to your Talks.co speaker page, a short video clip, and suggested talk titles.

6. Refine your delivery
- Practice storytelling, timing, and audience engagement.
- Watch top travel speakers and analyze their style. Consider joining a speaker coaching group or Toastmasters.

7. Leverage each opportunity
- After each talk, collect testimonials, ask for referrals, and share clips on social media.
- Keep your Talks.co profile updated with your latest appearances and topics.

Consistency and clarity are key. The more you speak, the more you'll be invited to speak. Start small, stay focused, and scale up.

To be a place and travel speaker, you need more than a passport and a good story. It's about combining expertise, communication skills, and a platform that connects you with the right audience. Let's break it down:

1. Subject Matter Expertise
You don't need to be a travel historian, but you should have deep knowledge or unique experiences in your niche. Whether it's backpacking through Southeast Asia, luxury train journeys in Europe, or exploring indigenous cultures in South America, your insights should be authentic and valuable.

2. Strong Communication Skills
Public speaking is a craft. You'll need to master storytelling, pacing, and audience engagement. The best place and travel speakers make listeners feel like they're right there with them, walking the streets of Marrakech or hiking the Andes.

3. A Personal Brand
Your online presence matters. A clear brand helps event organizers understand who you are and what you offer. This includes:
- A professional speaker page (Talks.co is a great platform for this)
- Social media profiles that reflect your travel expertise
- A consistent tone and message across platforms

4. A Network of Hosts and Collaborators
You'll need to connect with podcast hosts, summit organizers, and event planners. Talks.co helps by matching speakers with relevant events, but you should also be proactive in reaching out and building relationships.

5. A Portfolio of Talks or Content
Start with blog posts, YouTube videos, or guest podcast appearances. These serve as proof of your speaking ability and help you refine your message. Over time, build a reel or highlight video to showcase your style.

In short, being a place and travel speaker is about combining passion with professionalism. With the right tools and mindset, you can turn your travel stories into impactful talks that inspire and inform.

Yes, many place and travel speakers do get paid, but the amount and consistency vary widely depending on their experience, niche, and audience reach. Let's unpack the dynamics:

Paid vs. Unpaid Gigs
- Emerging Speakers: Often start with unpaid or low-paid opportunities to build credibility and a portfolio.
- Mid-Level Speakers: May earn modest honorariums ($200-$1,000 per event) and often combine speaking with other revenue streams.
- Top-Tier Speakers: Can command $5,000 to $25,000+ per keynote, especially if they have a strong personal brand or media presence.

Factors That Influence Payment
- Event Type: Corporate conferences tend to pay more than nonprofit or educational events.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences usually mean higher fees.
- Geographic Region: Speakers in North America and Western Europe often see higher rates than those in emerging markets.

Alternative Compensation
- Free travel and accommodation.
- Access to high-value networking.
- Opportunities to sell books, courses, or services.

According to a 2023 survey by SpeakerFlow, 70% of professional speakers earn at least part of their income from speaking engagements. However, only about 20% rely on speaking as their sole income source.

In short, yes, place and travel speakers can get paid, but it often starts with strategic positioning and grows with reputation and reach.

Place and travel speakers earn income through a mix of direct and indirect revenue streams. Let's break down the most common ways they monetize their expertise:

1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious one. Speakers charge for keynotes, panels, and workshops. Rates vary based on experience, audience size, and event type. Corporate events and tourism expos tend to pay more than local meetups or educational panels.

2. Sponsored Talks and Brand Partnerships
Travel brands, tourism boards, and gear companies often sponsor speakers to promote destinations or products. For example, a speaker might partner with Visit Iceland to deliver a talk about sustainable travel in Nordic countries.

3. Digital Products and Courses
Many speakers create online courses, travel guides, or ebooks. These can be promoted during or after talks. For instance, a speaker who specializes in solo female travel might sell a course on planning safe, budget-friendly trips.

4. Affiliate Marketing
By recommending travel gear, booking platforms, or insurance providers, speakers can earn commissions. This works well when paired with blog content or social media.

5. Consulting and Coaching
Some place and travel speakers offer 1-on-1 coaching for aspiring travelers, tourism startups, or even other speakers.

6. Virtual Summits and Webinars
Hosting or participating in virtual events can generate income through ticket sales, sponsorships, or upsells. Platforms like Talks.co make it easier to find and join these opportunities.

7. Book Sales
Publishing a book (traditionally or self-published) can open doors to more speaking gigs and generate passive income.

In reality, most successful speakers diversify their income. Speaking is the anchor, but the ecosystem around it is where the real financial sustainability often lies.

The income of place and travel speakers varies widely, influenced by experience, niche, audience size, and business model. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages:

Speaker Level	Typical Fee per Talk	Annual Income Range
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $10,000
Intermediate	$500 - $2,500	$10,000 - $50,000
Established	$2,500 - $10,000	$50,000 - $150,000
Celebrity/Expert	$10,000 - $50,000+	$150,000 - $500,000+

Key Factors That Influence Earnings
- Niche Demand: Speakers focused on sustainable tourism or digital nomadism may earn more due to current trends.
- Geographic Reach: Those who speak at international events or in high-paying markets like the US or UK tend to earn more.
- Revenue Streams: As mentioned in 'How do place and travel speakers make money', combining speaking with courses, books, or consulting significantly boosts income.
Example: A mid-level speaker doing 2 paid talks per month at $1,500 each, plus earning $2,000/month from digital products, could make around $50,000 annually.
While some speakers earn six figures, most build gradually over time. The key is to treat speaking as part of a broader business strategy, not just a standalone gig.

Hiring a place and travel speaker can cost anywhere from zero to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the speaker's experience, the event type, and the value they bring. Here's a breakdown:

Typical Cost Ranges
- New/Emerging Speakers: $0 - $500. Often speak for exposure, testimonials, or travel reimbursement.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $500 - $5,000. These speakers have a solid portfolio and may offer workshops or panels in addition to keynotes.
- Top-Tier Speakers: $5,000 - $25,000+. These include bestselling authors, media personalities, or those with a large following.

Additional Costs to Consider
- Travel and Accommodation: Unless the event is virtual, organizers usually cover flights, hotels, and per diem.
- Tech Requirements: For virtual events, some speakers charge extra for high-quality video production or exclusive content.
- Custom Content: If a speaker tailors a talk specifically for your audience, expect to pay more.

Cost-Saving Tips
- Use platforms like Talks.co to find emerging talent with competitive rates.
- Consider virtual appearances to save on logistics.
- Offer value beyond cash: media exposure, networking, or future bookings.

Ultimately, the cost reflects not just the speaker's time, but their ability to deliver value to your audience. A great speaker can elevate your event, inspire attendees, and create lasting impact.

Rick Steves: Known for his PBS series and guidebooks, Rick brings a thoughtful, culturally sensitive approach to travel, emphasizing connection over consumption.

Anthony Bourdain: While not a traditional speaker, his storytelling style and global perspective influenced countless travel professionals and audiences.

Pico Iyer: A celebrated travel essayist and speaker, Iyer blends philosophy, spirituality, and place in talks that challenge how we think about movement and stillness.

Samantha Brown: With decades of travel hosting under her belt, Brown's speaking engagements are packed with practical insights and heartfelt stories.

Paul Theroux: Author of 'The Great Railway Bazaar', Theroux's talks are rich in literary depth and global insight.

Elizabeth Gilbert: While best known for 'Eat, Pray, Love', Gilbert's TED Talks and keynotes often explore the transformative power of travel and self-discovery.

Simon Reeve: A BBC presenter and adventurer, Reeve combines investigative journalism with travel storytelling that captivates and educates.

Tony Wheeler: Co-founder of Lonely Planet, Wheeler's talks often explore the evolution of travel and its impact on cultures and economies.

Andrew Zimmern: Known for 'Bizarre Foods', Zimmern speaks on culinary travel, cultural respect, and global food systems.

Nomadic Matt (Matt Kepnes): A digital-era speaker, Matt shares budget travel strategies and the business of travel blogging.

Jessica Nabongo: The first Black woman to visit every country in the world, Jessica speaks on representation, cultural immersion, and global citizenship.

Leon Logothetis: Host of 'The Kindness Diaries', Leon delivers talks on human connection through travel and the power of giving.


Eva zu Beck: A modern explorer and YouTuber, Eva speaks on solo travel, adventure, and redefining comfort zones.


Dame Jane Goodall: While known for her work in primatology, Goodall's talks often touch on conservation travel and ethical tourism.


Gunnar Garfors: A Norwegian media executive who visited every country while holding a full-time job, Gunnar speaks on efficient travel and global curiosity.


Lois Pryce: A British travel writer and speaker known for her solo motorcycle journeys through Africa and the Americas.


Tayo Rockson: A cross-cultural strategist, Tayo speaks on travel as a tool for diversity, inclusion, and global leadership.


Kellee Edwards: Pilot, scuba diver, and travel host, Kellee speaks on adventure travel and breaking barriers in the industry.


Reinhold Messner: Legendary mountaineer and explorer, Messner speaks on extreme travel, resilience, and nature.


Brook Silva-Braga: Emmy-winning filmmaker of 'A Map for Saturday', Brook speaks on long-term travel and digital nomadism.

Myth 1: 'Place and travel speakers just talk about vacation spots.'
This one's way off. While destinations are a key part of their content, place and travel speakers often dive deep into cultural insights, sustainable tourism, geopolitical issues, and even economic development. Think of someone like Rick Steves. Sure, he showcases beautiful places, but he also educates audiences on local customs, historical context, and responsible travel. It's not just about beaches and landmarks - it's about understanding the world.

Myth 2: 'You need to be constantly traveling to be a credible place and travel speaker.'
Not true. Many successful speakers build their authority through research, interviews, and storytelling, even if they're not on the road 24/7. Some leverage past experiences, while others collaborate with locals or use virtual tools like Google Earth, virtual tours, and local guides to enrich their presentations. The key is authenticity and insight, not passport stamps.

Myth 3: 'There's no money in being a place and travel speaker.'
Actually, the monetization routes are diverse. From keynote speaking at tourism boards and international expos to hosting webinars, selling digital products, or partnering with travel brands, there are plenty of ways to build a profitable model. Some even turn their talks into books, courses, or consulting gigs. The trick is to position yourself as a thought leader, not just a storyteller.

Myth 4: 'Only influencers or travel bloggers can become place and travel speakers.'
This myth limits the field unnecessarily. Yes, some speakers come from influencer backgrounds, but others are educators, historians, journalists, or even urban planners. What matters is your perspective and how you communicate it. If you can connect dots between place, people, and purpose, you've got something valuable to say.

Myth 5: 'Place and travel speaking is only relevant in Western markets.'
Far from it. In fact, audiences across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East are increasingly interested in regional storytelling, heritage tourism, and local development. Speakers who can tailor their message to different cultural contexts are in high demand globally. Localization is a strength, not a limitation.

When Lola Akinmade Åkerström stepped onto the stage at a global travel summit, she didn't just talk about destinations. She told stories of identity, belonging, and cultural nuance. As a Nigerian-born, Sweden-based photographer and travel writer, her talks blend personal narrative with global insight. Her success as a place and travel speaker comes from her ability to challenge stereotypes and offer layered perspectives, not just pretty pictures.

Then there's Doug Lansky. Known for his sharp humor and deep knowledge of tourism trends, Doug has spoken at TEDx, UNWTO events, and travel conferences worldwide. What sets him apart? He uses data and storytelling to critique the travel industry itself - from over-tourism to branding failures. His talks are part entertainment, part wake-up call, and that combo resonates with both public and private sector audiences.

In Southeast Asia, Deborah Chan, co-founder of Wanderlust + Co, transitioned from fashion entrepreneur to place and travel speaker by focusing on sustainable tourism in Malaysia and Indonesia. Her talks often highlight how local communities can benefit from ethical travel practices. She's been invited to speak at regional entrepreneurship forums and tourism boards because she connects business with place in a way that's both practical and inspiring.

And let's not forget Bruce Poon Tip, founder of G Adventures. While he's primarily known as a travel entrepreneur, his keynote speeches have made waves at global events. He speaks about travel as a force for good, weaving in stories of community-based tourism and social impact. His talks often lead to partnerships and policy shifts in how tourism is approached.

These speakers didn't follow a single path. Some came from journalism, others from business or activism. What they share is a deep connection to place, a clear message, and the ability to engage diverse audiences. Whether speaking to governments, students, or travelers, they make people care about the world beyond their borders.

The landscape for place and travel speakers is shifting in ways that open up new opportunities - and new challenges. One major trend is the rise of hyper-local storytelling. Audiences are craving more than just global overviews. They want the untold stories of small towns, indigenous communities, and lesser-known regions. Speakers who can bring these narratives to life with depth and respect will stand out.

Another shift: virtual and hybrid speaking formats are here to stay. Even as in-person events return, many conferences are keeping digital components. This means speakers need to be just as compelling on camera as they are on stage. Tools like interactive maps, 360-degree video, and live Q&A can enhance virtual talks and keep audiences engaged.

Sustainability is also becoming non-negotiable. It's no longer enough to inspire wanderlust. Speakers are expected to address the impact of travel - from carbon footprints to cultural preservation. Those who can speak credibly on regenerative tourism, ethical travel, and climate-conscious exploration will be in high demand.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Decolonizing travel narratives. More platforms are seeking speakers who challenge traditional Eurocentric views of travel and highlight diverse voices.
- Data-driven storytelling. Using stats and research to back up personal stories is gaining traction, especially with corporate or policy-focused audiences.
- Cross-industry collaboration. Speakers are teaming up with tech companies, NGOs, and government agencies to create more holistic presentations.
- Language localization. Multilingual speakers or those who can adapt content for regional audiences are being booked more often.

The takeaway? Place and travel speakers who evolve with these trends, while staying grounded in authentic storytelling, will thrive in the years ahead.

Talks.co. This podcast guest matching tool is a goldmine for new speakers. It helps you get booked on relevant shows, build credibility, and practice your message in front of niche audiences. Tip: Start with smaller podcasts focused on travel, culture, or geography to build momentum.

TravMedia. A global PR network for the travel industry. Use it to connect with journalists, tourism boards, and event organizers. Great for getting your name out there and finding speaking opportunities at travel expos or summits.

Slidebean. If design isn't your thing, this tool helps you create professional-looking presentations fast. Perfect for virtual talks or when pitching to event organizers. Bonus: it has templates tailored for storytelling and data visualization.

Nomad List. While not a speaking tool per se, it's a great resource for understanding digital nomad trends and popular remote work hubs. If your talks touch on location independence, this data can add weight to your message.

Eventbrite. Search for travel-related events, webinars, and conferences where you can pitch yourself as a speaker. You can also host your own virtual events here to test your content and grow your audience.

The Professional Speaking Association (PSA UK). Offers training, networking, and certification for speakers. Even if you're outside the UK, their webinars and resources are globally relevant.

Canva. Ideal for creating branded visuals, social media posts, and speaker one-sheets. Use it to build a consistent visual identity that matches your message and audience.

Airbnb Experiences. Not a traditional speaking platform, but a creative way to test your storytelling chops. Host a virtual experience tied to a place you know well - it can double as a portfolio piece and a revenue stream.