Ask Matador: So, You’ve Been Selected for a Press Trip. Now What?

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned travel journalist, knowing how to navigate a press trip professionally can make all the difference. From understanding your deliverables to building strong relationships that lead to future opportunities, this AMA (Ask Me Anything) with Matador Creator Coordinator Tolu covers everything you need to know about conducting yourself on a press trip.

Below, I break down the process, expectations, and best practices to help you make the most of the experience while keeping the door open for more collaborations down the road.

How many press trips can I go on?

As many as you’d like! Once selected, I’ll personally reach out and guide you through the entire process from start to finish. You’ll receive an introduction to the press trip host, a deliverables agreement, and detailed guidelines for your article, as well as any vertical content you may be capturing.

What happens once I’m on the press trip?

Before your trip, all bookings and logistics will be handled by the press trip host or the PR rep I introduce you to. Once you’re on the trip, you’ll have the opportunity to explore, create, and enjoy the experience, either individually or with a small group of other journalists. After the trip, I’ll follow up to check in, thank you for representing Matador Network, outline steps for your deliverables submission, and introduce you to the editors who will work with you on your article.

How should I conduct myself during the trip?

Since you’re representing Matador Network, professionalism is key. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Stay communicative – Check in with our team when needed and respond promptly.
• Engage fully – Attend scheduled events, connect with hosts, and immerse yourself in the experience.
• Follow the guidelines – Respect the rules and expectations that the hosts set.
• Maintain professionalism – Have fun but think, “What would Matador do?” If it’s something that could cost you future invites, skip it. Enjoy yourself, but don’t be the cautionary tale!

How much creative freedom do I have in my storytelling?

The great thing about writing for Matador is that you’ll have creative freedom over your story while still following our style and writing guidelines. To get an idea of what we’re looking for, here are some examples of previously published stories by creators like you.

When is my article due?

Deadlines typically range from 14 to 21 days after the trip, depending on your deliverables. If an emergency comes up, just let us know. We can be flexible, but clear communication is key.

How long does it take for my article to go live?

Once submitted, your piece usually goes live within three to four weeks. As soon as it’s published, we’ll send you the link. We highly recommend adding it to your Matador Creators profile and sharing it on your socials. Not only does this boost your visibility, but it also helps us keep track of our past collaborations.

Can this lead to more opportunities?

Absolutely! If we have a great experience working with you, this could open the door for future press trips, branded partnerships, and even paid campaigns. Some brands specifically request certain writers, so if your work stands out, you could be top of mind for upcoming projects.

How can I get started?

So, what are you waiting for? If you’re ready to land exciting press trips, join our Creators platform and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest opportunities.

Have questions? Feel free to reach out to us at creators@matadornetwork.com, and we look forward to supporting you!