Matador Bounty Board

12 Of The Biggest Beach Parties in the World

The Matador Team — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 13:12:13 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorNights.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Sand, surf, bikinis, abs, and alcohol - what more could you ask for? Even the strongest of us has fallen to the sweet siren song of a really kickin' beach party.

Matador is looking for a writer to tell us about 12 of the biggest beach parties in the world. From bonfire to beer, we're interested in hearing just how much and what type of prepwork goes into putting on an epic beach party in addition to what it's like when it all goes down.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

7 Of The World's Most Scenic Archipelagos

The Matador Team — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 13:01:27 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorTrips.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Matador is looking for a writer to create a piece highlighting 7 of the world's most scenic archipelagos.

From the popular to the unknown, your sole criteria for judging should be beauty. Around the world, where are the 7 most stunning archipelagos? Share with us the spots that are guaranteed to take our breath away.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

5 Techniques to Improve Inner Travel

The Matador Team — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 12:56:31 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: BraveNewTraveler.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Most people have learned some secret skills that help them get the most out of their journeys. What are some techniques that build more powerful experiences? What can travelers do to make sure they are maximizing their travel experience?

Matador is looking for a seasoned and reflective traveler to share with us his or her insights or attitudes that can help travelers become as aware of their travel experience as possible.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: ian[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

What Human Touchstones Can You Rely on when You Travel?

The Matador Team — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 12:50:20 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: BraveNewTraveler.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

When interacting with new cultures, people believe certain things - "human touchstones" - about people and cultures that help them communicate and build relationships.

In your experience, what have you assumed about people that's brought you success in your interactions? What logical projections helped you get what you need, even when it seemed totally illogical at the time?

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Quotes from various people would add an interesting dimension to this piece. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: ian[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Participate in the Correspondents Program, National Geographic Glimpse

The Matador Team — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 23:45:47 -0500

Bounty: $600

Publication: National Geographic Glimpse

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

The Glimpse Correspondents Program is an exciting opportunity for travelers to hone their skills, jump-start a career in international journalism, and be published with National Geographic Glimpse!

National Geographic Glimpse is now beginning to search for the best and brightest storytellers who will be living abroad in Spring 2009 to form the next team of Glimpse Correspondents.

Interested parties should visit: glimpse.org/correspondents

The application deadline is November 2, 2008. Apply today!

More Information:

What is Glimpse?
Glimpse is a new nonprofit National Geographic platform (print magazine and website) about the experiences of young Americans abroad. We provide professional editorial support to help aspiring travel writers learn the craft of storytelling, with the larger goal of using stories to inspire others to care about the world. Glimpse has offered travelers a platform for their stories for the past six years. Now with National Geographic, we are hoping to take our work to the next level. To read past stories, visit glimpse.org. (The new and improved website will be up soon!)

What is The Correspondents Program?
The Correspondents Program is for especially talented travelers specializing in writing, photography or video. We will select 10 correspondents and each will receive a $600 stipend, a professional editor, and guaranteed publication in Glimpse. The demands of the program are not extreme, but we do expect our correspondents to commit to a professional editorial process.

How can I get involved?
Interested parties should visit glimpse.org/correspondents and register their email address to receive a link to the application.

Are there other ways to get involved with National Geographic Glimpse?
Yes! Anyone who has lived or is living abroad is eligible to contribute. Guidelines are posted at: glimpse.org/guidelines.php. Those who apply to the program and are not selected as Correspondents will still be encouraged to share their stories while abroad and will be notified of any new contribution opportunities.

--
Kerala Taylor, Editor in Chief
National Geographic Glimpse
www.glimpse.org

1.800.549.4802 ext. 703

The 10 Most Influential Spiritual Books Of The Past 50 Years

The Matador Team — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:40:52 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: BraveNewTraveler.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

The self-help industry is massive, with numerous authors and publishers cashing in the on the craze. But how do you tell the authentic spiritual books from the vapid, the authentic from the false? We need a list of the 10 most influential spiritual books of the past 50 years - the books that had the most impact from spiritual seekers of all traditions.

So who will it be? The Way of Zen from Alan Watts? Be Here Now from Ram Dass? Or perhaps Eckhart Tolle's A New Earth?

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: ian[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Ten Free TV Tapings [And How To Get Tickets]

The Matador Team — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 14:08:22 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorNights.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Curious to see what Ellen looks like in person? How about Vanna White? Most TV shows that require a live audience offer seats free to the public. All you have to do is show up, clap and laugh as told, and hang out until the end of the taping. From game shows to talk shows, TV tapings offer an interesting "other side" experience for attendees.

Matador is looking for a writer who has attended a TV taping before to compose an article listing ten free TV tapings around the U.S. Please include contact information for each show as well as any other pertinent information for readers who are interested in attending.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Travel in the Future: What Will Travel Be in 2058?

The Matador Team — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:51:13 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: BraveNewTraveler.com

Status: This assignment is being edited

As the Chinese say, we're living in "interesting times." What do you see for the future of travel? Will we become more of a global village, or ideologically isolated? Do you believe we can find a sustainable technology for sustainable travel? Will the nature of travel itself be the same as it is today?

Matador is seeking a writer to create a piece describing the future of travel. Please include your reasoning in addition to descriptive writing. This piece will be fascinating and we are eager to hear your ideas!

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: ian[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

15 Essential Items for a Trip Around The World

The Matador Team — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:47:23 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorGoods.com

Status: A writer is working on this assignment

So you wanna circumscribe the globe huh? You've turned in your two weeks notice, told all your friends and family, put your stuff in storage. Now you're set. But, what to bring?

Matador is searching for a writer to compose an article listing the 15 essential items a traveler would need for a trip around the world. Why are they necessary? What functions do they serve? Also please include information on where these items may be purchased as well as purchase price.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: lola[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

MASSIVE: The Biggest Rock Concerts Ever Held

The Matador Team — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 11:37:45 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorNights.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

All around the world, people appreciate a killer guitar riff. At an ear-shattering concert, the office monkey becomes a mosher. The suit becomes a stage diver. All are identified for by their need to rock.

Matador is looking for a concert enthusiast who can document, from the mosh pit to the dirty bathrooms, the biggest rock concerts ever held. Describe the crowd, the music, the scene. You can't imagine how stoked we are to hear from you.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

CONTRIBUTE TO AN INDIE TRAVEL GUIDE

The Matador Team — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 12:13:52 -0500

Bounty: $15

Publication: "Traveling Europe"

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Craig Martin from the Indie Travel Podcast (http://indietravelpodcast.com) is looking for several people to collaborate in his new book, "Traveling Europe". This is the first in a planned series of publications. There are several sections which he cannot write from experience and, although he could write from a research-based perspective, he is looking for first-hand experience.

Each article should be 800 words or longer and full of practical advice about independent travel in Europe. We'll be choosing one author for each piece.

Topics are: solo male travel; solo female travel; disabled travel; family travel (both with kids and with older family members); and older people's travel.

In return, we'll give you US$15 via paypal; a short bio with picture and links to your site (in the book and in marketing material); and instant access to the top tier of our affiliate programme. Plus you'll get the joy of being published!

This will begin as an ebook and quickly be published as an audiobook. If there is sufficient demand it will be updated and turned into a print publication.

If you're interested in this please send a detailed email with your pitch or article (on spec) to or using the contact form at indietravelpodcast.com/contact.

Make sure you include your perspective, experience and an article outline.

12 Gadgets That Harness The Power Of the Sun

The Matador Team — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:21:50 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorGoods.com

Status: A writer is working on this assignment

Sustainability is the future and Matador is all about alternative sources of energy. You are too and that's why we make a good pair!

Matador is looking for a writer to introduce our readers to 12 gadgets that harness the power of the sun. No wires, no sockets, no electricity necessary. We want objects that can function solely on solar power.

Please include sites or stores where interested parties may purchase these items as well as a brief description of each. Personal experience with any items is helpful but not absolutely necessary.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: lola[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

How to Deal with Medical Emergencies While Traveling

The Matador Team — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:09:02 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: TBA

Status: A writer is working on this assignment

A medical emergency is the last thing we want to happen when we're out and about discovering new countries and learning new languages. Nevertheless, it's imperative to be prepared should something less fortunate happen.

Matador is looking for a writer to compose an informative piece dealing with medical emergencies while traveling. The writer will interview a couple of Matador members who have experienced medical emergencies abroad and develop tips for handling medical problems while on the road for a long period of time.

This article will be not only practical, but also incredibly helpful for travelers. We appreciate your contribution to the site and are eager to see the finished work!

Your piece should be between 800 - 1000 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: julie[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Burn It Down: 9 Countries Where Pot Is Legal

The Matador Team — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 22:16:40 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorNights.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Ah the sweet smell of ganja. Are you a fan? You must be if you're checking this bounty.

So tell us, dear friend, where can we wind down with our best girl Mary Jane without getting into any legal trouble?

Matador is looking for a writer to develop an article specifying the 9 countries where pot is legal. Include brief background information on the legal history of hash in that country as well as the current situation today. Are there only certain areas where it is okay to buy or smoke? Is pot legal in all forms or just a few?

A sense of humor is a must. Clever wording is also highly encouraged. We are not above puns.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Travel and Adventure Jobs: Yoga Instructor

The Matador Team — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 13:47:00 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: TheTravelersNotebook.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

With an estimated 30 million Americans practicing yoga today, it's no surprise that yoga instructors are in high demand not only in the States, but also all over the world. From eco-resorts to cruise ships, yoga instructors can pretty much land jobs anywhere.

Matador is looking for a yoga instructor who can impart some inside knowledge on what it takes to go international with it. Be sure to cover necessary qualifications, where and how to get trained, salary range, countries in which instructors are higher in demand, and any other information you deem important.

Think of your audience as a mix of curious readers and people serious about a career change. Specific information, with a few interesting personal tidbits thrown in, will really make this article pop.

We're eager to hear from you!

Your piece should be between 800 - 900 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

War Torn: 8 Countries That Have Seen More War Than Peace

The Matador Team — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:57:18 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: BraveNewTraveler.com

Status: A writer is working on this assignment

With global confrontations and international relations one of the leading issues in the world today, it is necessary for us to take a step back and evaluate our human history. Have our actions shown us to be wise and compassionate? Or have we only proven ourselves to be self-interested and retaliatory?

Matador is looking for a writer to pick 8 countries whose histories are riddled with more violence and conflict than peace and understanding. Specify historical events, dates, and figures to support your article. Included in the list should be the U.S.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: ian[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Top 15-30 Medical Tourism Destinations

The Matador Team — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:19:09 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: TheTravelersNotebook.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Medical Tourism is quickly gaining popularity for many U.S. citizens as hospital, procedural, and prescription costs abroad are significantly cheaper than costs at home.

Matador is looking for a writer who is not only well-informed about the topic but also willing to do the research necessary to write a thorough article. For each destination, please identify and explain the medical procedures in which that place specializes.

We want this to be more than a simple list. Dig up some folks who've actually been to these places, had a procedure done, and who could comment about it. Well-researched, this article will make a fascinating read.

Your piece should be between 800 - 900 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: julie[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

Fully Immersed: Studying and teaching with indigenous people

The Matador Team — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 13:56:41 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorAbroad.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

We all know studying and teaching abroad can be a life-changing experience. Between the culture shock of a new country and the trials of starting a new life somewhere, being abroad can prove to be quite the challenge.

Now add to the mix the fact that you've chosen a more remote location. Somewhere untouched by globalization and so unique that it has made your living abroad experience differ from others. That's what we want to hear about.

Matador is looking for a writer who can craft a great story about studying and teaching with indigenous people. Detail the difficulties and struggles you have encountered while also illustrating the rewards and lessons learned.

We can't wait to read your work!

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

My Hometown in 500 Words: Narrative essays on where you're from

The Matador Team — Tue, 9 Sep 2008 14:00:04 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorTrips.com and / or MatadorTravel.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Matador is seeking a new series of articles on your hometowns, places nobody knows better than you.

The challenge is to give the reader a sense of that unique place, whether it's your neighborhood in Chicago or a fishing village on the coast of Oregon, in 500 words or less, and making sure the following are observed:

1. A tangible chronology / forward movement to the narrative, in other words, a story with a beginning, middle and an end, not just an abstraction.

2. A strong sense of detail, things only a native would know

3. Attention paid to the local and natural history, weather, terrain, architecture, etc.

4. The presence of other characters--not just the narrator's ruminations.

*Please note that each of these pieces will be received on-spec, in other words, there's no guarantee of publication. There's no need to query first, simply turn in your submission to david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thanks everyone! We look forward to reading your work.

Inside the Mega-Solar Plants In Nevada

The Matador Team — Fri, 5 Sep 2008 16:09:43 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorChange.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

It's not common knowledge that Nevada is home to the largest solar power plant in North America, but it's the stuff your brain thrives on. You know all kinds of details, facts, and figures and aren't afraid to research for more. You are exactly the kind of writer we need.

Matador is looking for someone who is not only passionate about the environment and sustainability but also knowledgeable about the Nevada's huge solar plants. How much energy do they produce? How does this help Mother Earth? Throw us some specs, go into detail, we're hungry for the information.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

10 Places Where You Can Tag Legally

The Matador Team — Fri, 5 Sep 2008 11:47:25 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: TBA

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Matador is looking for a writer who is familiar with graffiti culture and can produce a solid piece in his or her own unique voice. Details are a must! Tell us why these places make the list as well as what aspects make them so tag-happy.

Maybe you have friends who tag, or maybe you tag yourself - either way, you are in the know and can provide an insider's perspective on a world about which we've got a lot of fascination and only a bit of information.

Your piece should be between 800 - 900 words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: julie[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

The Top 10 European Cities for Earning Euros While You Travel

The Matador Team — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:04:33 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorTrips.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Not all of us are blessed with a bottomless bank account or hold the limitless Amex black card. Some of us have to make sure our income can cover our expenses. And with the exchange rate working against us, that can prove more difficult than expected.

So we need you, Euro income expert, to help us out. Tell us which are the top ten European cities where we can earn that ca-a-ash in the midst of traveling. Is it easier to land a temporary job there? Do employers offer a higher pay per hour? Do they pay under the table (read: tax free!)?

Use concrete examples and be as specific and detailed as you can. Personal anecdotes would be a nice touch as well.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 - words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

The Emptiest Wilderness Areas in America

The Matador Team — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:42:57 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorTrips.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

The American writer Thoreau had it too easy: his journey toward serenity and quietude ended in his backyard. Even in the relatively bustling New England metropolis that was 19th-century Boston, most of the city's action was concentrated into a few square miles, making it easy to sneak away to the area's many Walden Ponds.

Today, it's far more difficult to find a place without light pollution, ringing cell phones, or the steady hum of traffic even on the most "desolate" highway. Most campgrounds have been stabbed with garish signage and Porta-potties every few miles.

We want to know: Where in America do you go when you really want to get away? What about a wilderness area within another wilderness area? Say, an undiscovered backcountry nook in Yosemite?

At 700-1000 words, your piece cover between 10-20 key areas, explaining where they are, what access is like, best times of year to go, and any special tips.

Photographs are helpful -- your own, or others' used with permission (Creative Commons works, too).

Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to:

david[at]matadornetwork[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

10 Secrets For Having Fun in NYC for Free

The Matador Team — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 10:20:45 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorTrips.com

Status: A writer is working on this assignment

We're confident that not all of New York City's 30 million annual visitors come to the City with money clips in their luggage. Can you tour the Big Apple without emptying your bank account? Share with Matador your 10 best secrets to having fun gratis in New York City and earn $25.

Maybe you're Robert John Burck -- better known as the Naked Cowboy -- and you've been entertaining yourself in Times Square since '98 with nothing more than an old guitar and a clean pair of underwear. One-man dance party: $0.

Not bold enough to shed your shirt for free kicks? Perhaps you prefer the southwest corner of Washington Square Park, where you can sit down to challenge some of the park's famous chess enthusiasts. Tabletop checkerboard rental: $0/hr.

Whether you're a native New Yorker or an annual visitor, we know you have tons of ideas for FREE means of entertainment in the City. From duck-watching to bar-hopping, we want to know your original ideas for having a good time without spending a dime.

Your piece should be between 500 - 800 - words. Please send story ideas and links to published work in an email to: writingjulie[at]gmail[dot]com

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

10 Coolest Trips That Are “Too Dangerous” To Be Popular with Most Travelers

The Matador Team — Mon, 9 Jun 2008 02:25:47 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorTrips.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Some of the very best trips of my life have been to places that others warned me were far too dangerous. People fear places they’re not familiar with and both Hollywood depictions and isolated world events can make a place like Colombia seem like a war zone, when in fact, it’s safer than parts of the US.

Matador seeks a comprehensive list of destinations from all over the world, that most people have written off as “too dangerous”, but that boast amazing adventure and don’t come with hordes of tourists.

This article should be in between 450 and 800 words in length, (aim for 650). It should have a brief intro/conclusion and the body should be in list format like the other pieces we publish, each with a title, location and description telling our readers why it made the list. Links and practical info are obviously important.

Photos are a plus, but not a deal-breaker if you don't have any.

Please contact me if you're interested in this piece. Priority will be given to writers who include a rough list of the destinations they're going to pick, and a sentence or two telling why.

ross [at] matadornetwork [dot] com.

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador!

The World's Wildest Native Tribes

The Matador Team — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:23:36 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorChange.com

Status: A writer is working on this assignment

As our world gets increasingly complex and things as we see them are driven more and more everyday by technological advancement, we might have a lot to learn from people who live off the land and progress through generations without much changing with regard to their way of life.

This is just as much of a research piece as it is a cultural writing and observations assignment.

We are looking for the world's most isolated, independent, resilient and wild people. Like many Matador pieces, this one will be in list format. It's not a countdown to the wildest people on Earth; it doesn't have to be "10", but we'd like an intro, a list (each with some interesting and educational details about the people and their way of life), and a very short conclusion.

This article should be in between 450 and 800 words in length, (aim for 500). Photos are a plus, but not a deal-breaker if you don't have any.

Please contact me if you're interested in this piece. ross [at] matadornetwork [dot] com.

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador.

Mega-parties done right: San Fermin, Pamplona

The Matador Team — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 17:47:25 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorNights.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Every year tens of thousands descend on the small mountain town of Pamplona for the San Fermin feria and the running of the bulls. Matador seeks a seasoned veteran who can share insight on how to get the most out of this chaotic mega-party. Our readers are interested in finding an affordable place to crash, having a couple go-to plazas and/or bars in mind once they arrive, and running (with the bulls).

Being someone who went without a solid game plan, tried to sleep in the park, ended up not sleeping at all, running in the morning and getting the hell out of there--I am interested to see what you come up with.

I know being 'comfortable' during this week is a tricky proposition, but finding the balance between partying, rest and safety--and putting it into an article that is both descriptive and informative, is the assignment here.

This article should have a healthy dose of practical information, links, street addresses and general advice for a first-timer. I would prefer choosing an author that has run since there is a lot of valuable advice to be had on that subject. Arm your readers with knowledge they can use the second they arrive.

This article should be in between 450 and 800 words in length, (aim for 500). Photos are a plus, but not a deal-breaker if you don't have any.

Please contact me if you're interested in this piece. ross [at] matadornetwork [dot] com.

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador.

Mega-parties done right: Oktoberfest, Munich

The Matador Team — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 15:53:45 -0500

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorNights.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Every year hundreds of thousands flock to Munich for the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the world. Matador seeks a seasoned veteran who can share insight on how to get the most out of this chaotic mega-party. Our readers are interested in meeting the most people, going to the craziest bars, staying at the coolest places--all while spending the least money. I know this is tricky proposition, but finding the balance and putting it into an article that is both descriptive and informative, is the assignment here.

This article should have a healthy dose of practical information, links, street addresses and general advice for a first-timer. Arm your readers with knowledge they can use the second they arrive.

Knowing what you know, what are the things you wish someone had told you before you went to Oktoberfest for the first time?

This article should be in between 450 and 800 words in length, (aim for 500). Photos are a plus, but not a deal-breaker if you don't have any.

Please contact me if you're interested in this piece. ross [at] matadornetwork [dot] com.

Thank you for your interest in writing for Matador.

Profile one of the very best NGOs on the Matador Organization Network.

The Matador Team — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 02:48:58 -0600

Bounty: $25

Publication: MatadorChange.com

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

NOTE: This BB post will not go yellow or red. This assignment is 50 pieces in one.

I want to highlight 50 or so of the best organizations that have found Matador and opened a profile.

The piece should be approached with a critical eye. I'm not looking for someone to go do a report on the information you see on the org's profile page. I want to learn things about this organization that aren't discussed on their Matador page. Quotes from the people behind the organization are crucial. It would be great to also seek out people (whether on Matador or not), who have volunteered or worked for the org.

Another crucial aspect is a healthy practical info section. What is the process if I want to volunteer? What do they offer? What is the cost, if any? What can I expect to do day-to-day? What skills do I need to have? Why will it be an enriching experience for me as the traveler? What can I hope to accomplish in the couple weeks/months I'm there working?

I'd like to focus on real grassroots NGOs--meaning more non-profit, less corporate. More concerned with making a positive impact on a specific community, than sales numbers for new volunteers next quarter. "Voluntourism" is becoming a huge business and while most of the orgs on Matador are not concerned with profits, I'd like to seek out the ones that are squarely focused on a specific problem and addressing it with an organized workforce of volunteers. Someone who is passionate about the people or animals they are aiming to help; someone who has lived in that community for a number of years.

I can think of 15 off the top of my head, that would make perfect highlight organizations. Dive in. Ask tough questions. Uncover the passion, stories and people behind these projects. Where would you volunteer?

500 words or less. Photos from the org that aren't on their profile page, are a plus.

Please contact me if you're interested in this piece. ross [at] matadornetwork [dot] com.

Thank you.

Transitions Abroad seeking articles: "Travel for Pleasure"

The Matador Team — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:57:14 -0500

Bounty: $50-$150

Publication: Transitions Abroad

Status: No writer is on this assignment yet

Maximum length: 3,000 words. Average length: 800 to 1,500 words. Content must be information-based and not merely a travelogue or personal narrative description, though we will be happy to link to the author's blog or website from the article if so desired.

Articles submitted for the Travel for Pleasure section may cover the following topics:

* Adventure and Sports Travel

* Art Travel

* Festival Travel

* Spa/Relaxation/Meditation Travel

* Slow Touring

* Travel to Cook

* Travel to Drink Wine

* Travel to Eat

* Travel to Shop (for local produce and products)

* Vacation Homes Abroad

TransitionsAbroad.com has long been an advocate for independent travel and tours where money spent remains within the local community, and preference is given to submissions which demonstrate respect for the people whose homes, lands, and cultures are being visited.

Well-researched supporting material and annotated web links in sidebars greatly increase the likelihood of publication.

Article Submission Guidelines

Maximum length: 3,000 words.

Average length: 800 to 1,500 words (including sidebars).

* Content must be information-based and not merely a travelogue or highly personal narrative description.

* Send all submissions via email to to be considered for publication on TransitionsAbroad.com.

* Attach only Microsoft Word documents. If you use another format, please cut and paste your article into the text portion of your email message.

* Include your name, address, telephone numbers (day and evening), and email address on at least the first page of your manuscript to insure that we can contact you.

* Include a short biographical note at the end of each submission, including links to your personal website or blog if you wish.

* Initial response time for all submissions ranges from one day to two weeks should we be interested. We cannot provide status reports by phone.

Photos: We recommend that you let us know whether photos are available with your article, as they may increase the prospect of publication. High resolution photographs sent in jpeg or tiff format via email are preferred.

Other submissions considerations: All material is submitted on speculation. We purchase one-time rights only; rights revert to writers upon publication on the TransitionsAbroad.com website. Since ours is not the usual travel website, writers may want to browse our large article archive. If interested, we will contact you within two weeks of your inquiry.

Send submissions to: .
Corporate address: Transitions Abroad Publishing, Inc., 18 Hulst Road , Amherst, Massachusetts 01002

Payment by TransitionsAbroad.com

Payment is on acceptance, ranging from $50 to $150. Payment is via check or Paypal.

Many of our contributors are not professional travel writers but people with information and ideas to share; we are much more interested in usable first-hand information than in polished prose. Of course, a well-written piece is always appreciated. Historically, we have found TransitionsAbroad.com to be an excellent place for freelance travel writers to increase exposure. In addition, we are always looking for experienced professional writers to become regular contributors to the website and can arrange custom payments on mutual agreement for an ongoing relationship.

Payment rate:

* $150 for 1500-3000 words of edited text (including sidebars).

* $100 for 1000-1500 words of edited text.

* $50 for 500-1000 words of edited text.

Submit your article or query via email to .

______________________________

Please check here for full guidelines, or visit www.transitionsabroad.com