During 40 years of travel and living abroad I have been lucky enough to visit over 120 countries, some 220 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more than 100 of the World Heritage Cities. Travelling with a 35mm camera and notebook, I also managed to get published in travel magazines, guide books and syndicated around the world through established picture agencies; before everything went digital and instant. In 1997, I entered the Internet age and founded the https://TravelNotes.org/ Online Guide to Travel to help other travellers and virtual tourists discover more about the world we live in. Today it seems that everyone is, or wants to be, a travel blogger or Influencer on Social Media. Alas, I now tend to snap pictures with my phone and make life easier on my back.

https://www.travelmediaawards.com/travelmediaawards2026/en/page/categories

How to Verify AI Output (and Avoid Hallucinations)

In the UAE, posting certain images or videos, especially those related to sensitive topics like missile strikes or satirical content about locals, can lead to arrest. Just recently, a British tourist was Detained in Dubai for filming Iranian missile strikes. It is unclear if the footage was shared on social media, but UAE authorities have warned that posting material about the conflict could result in imprisonment. Influencers have also been arrested for posting satirical videos that are deemed offensive or inconsistent with local media content standards. One influencer was arrested for a TikTok video satirising wealthy Emiratis, and another UAE resident was charged for posting a video that insulted Emirati society. The UAE government explicitly warns that free speech protections from other countries do not apply there. Sharing international news coverage or conflict-related posts on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp can lead to detention or fines. Deleting posts does not necessarily remove liability. Remember, when we travel 'abroad' we have to respect the local laws or face the consequences. Photo: US Navy off Pattaya - Michel Guntern

Check it out to learn about how National Geographic Traveller attracts sponsors, and companies for advertising. As a travel journalist you can also use a media kit to get sponsors or companies advertising on your Travel YouTube Channel, Instagram, travel blog, TikTok, PR-articles or email newsletters.