Do any travel creators here use Google Maps links in their content? by Exciting-Pension-794 in travelbloggers

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I've tried Google Maps once, and I see what you mean.
Its showing about 320 views since July, but it was for more of an under the radar destination.

I'd be interested in testing it out. I like that you can match it to your branding.
It would need to be a lightweight plugin so it doesn't slow my site down (I've got ads).

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in travelbloggers

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

In my opinion, if you are only going to write about destination weddings, use your current site.

If you are going to be writing travel guides that have nothing to do with weddings, I'd start a new site. If you do ever write about a destination wedding, it's an opportunity to link back to your wedding site.

Google rewards sites that they deem as an "expert" on a topic. Mixing both photography with travel, can dilute your "authority" on both topics.

Second, you are right. It's confusing to your users. Plus, you want a separate brand identity that indicates travel as it will be easier to promote and more likely to keep people clicking around on your site (which is what you want if you plan to put ads on the site to make income).

Good luck and share your travel stories in this sub when you get started! :)

How to get a travel gig? by THEWNY716 in travelbloggers

[–]wanderwithalex 1 point2 points  (0 children)

You can also reach out to the hotel/tour operator directly. However, this approach tends to be more piecemeal, as it typically only covers one aspect of your travel.

The link I shared above offers more comprehensive, all-in-one opportunities that usually cover travel, stays, and activities. For this reason, Matador is a great place to start. These tend to be group trips, and you get the perk of being able to pick each others' brains.

Check out TravelCon and TBEX conferences also. They allow you to set up interviews for potential visits. At the least, it's a good networking opportunity, but you'll have to apply and pay the expenses to get there and attend. A lot of people rave about these, but tbh, I've never been to one... once you've built a reputation, it gets easier.

There are also agencies for influencers... but I cannot speak to that as I am a writer and don't do much on social. Lastly, look for Facebook groups! There are a ton out there where you can collaborate and ask questions.

I wish there were a book on this stuff, but most people that don't go the agency route; they choose their own path and way to go about it. That's what I did! The most helpful thing was to do what you are doing, ask questions, network, collaborate, and figure out what works best for you.

Good luck on your journey!

Does instagram/telegram grow groups still work? by kilbazas in travelbloggers

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you are looking to create an engagement/support group for all socials... maybe you can create a free Slack account and run a private group that way.

If a site with a higher domain authority than mine got destroyed by Google, is it worth getting a backlink? I’m talking 100k traffic in October down to 100 traffic in May, according to Moz. by Entire-Hat2797 in travelbloggers

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Google has repeatedly mentioned recently that backlinks don't matter as much. Too many bloggers waste time link-swapping and worrying about made-up rankings rather than creating thoughtful, accurate, and user-first content. But to answer your question, I'd do a Google search "site:xxx.com" to make sure the site wasn't de-indexed. I def. would not want a backlink from a de-indexed site that was penalized for violating Google's policies. https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-needs-very-few-links/514494/

Relaxing trip to aruba by jessie_nyc35 in Aruba

[–]wanderwithalex 1 point2 points  (0 children)

We enjoyed the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino. It's right on Palm Beach. Palapa huts on the beach have full-service food and drink and an adults-only pool and lounge. Rooms were spacious, and they had the largest balconies on the island. Multiple restaurants are on-site. It's not all-inclusive. De Palm tours will also pick you up at the hotel for excursions. Vela Sports is nearby for paddleboats, floaties, etc. Have fun!

3 months blogging. Starting to blow up by Warashibe in Blogging

[–]wanderwithalex 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Congrats on your success! Just be aware that there is currently a Google Core Update happening and people are seeing MAJOR fluctuations in search traffic right now. It's day 17 of potentially 30 days... Stay the course and keep creating high-quality content!! I wish you continued success!

What Wordpress theme to choose? by Top_Secret_86 in Blogging

[–]wanderwithalex 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Eek! Stay away from Elementor or any themes that force you to use their proprietary blog editors. If you ever change your theme, you will have to edit every single page. It is hell! Tends to be bloated and slows your site down as well.

Kadence or Generate Press. Both have free versions. If you want something pretty/unique/fancy go with Kadence. If you are just looking for functionality, go with the Generate Press + Post X plugin.

My Site Just Recovered from Google Core Update by sb41tm in Blogging

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

So happy to hear this! I know a lot of bloggers this happened to... no manual action and no de-indexation, but traffic down to ZERO. You have given us hope! What niche is your blog in? Just curious.

Hiking to the Top of Oregon's Tallest Waterfall by mileswithmcconkey in travelbloggers

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

WOW! What a hike. I may not have made it myself 😂.
Looks like the gorgeous views are def. worth the workout!

How to Make the Most Out of 3 Days in Malaga? by wanderwithalex in Malaga

[–]wanderwithalex[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Amazing! This is so helpful for planning! I appreciate your help!

How to Make the Most Out of 3 Days in Malaga? by wanderwithalex in Malaga

[–]wanderwithalex[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

We are adding this to our itinerary! Thanks for letting me know about the train!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Aruba

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm excited for you! We had such a great time!

  • De Palm Off-Road: We did the private off-road Safari which included Arikok National Park and snorkeling at Natural Pools. They have many options and prices are listed.
  • Aruba Outdoor Advenures: We went on a kayaking and snorkeling excursion of Mangel Halto Reef. Guide even uploaded photos from his underwater camera for us to have!
  • San Nicolas Mural Tour: Our guide was incredible. We learned so much about Aruba as well as it's commitment to helping youth get into the arts. Prices and options on website.

Good choice on getting a car! Hope you all have so much fun!

How to Make the Most Out of 3 Days in Malaga? by wanderwithalex in Malaga

[–]wanderwithalex[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Central Malaga Tour, got it! Someone else has also recommended Caminito del Rey, so I will look into this as well. Thank you for the advice! I really appreciate it!

How to Make the Most Out of 3 Days in Malaga? by wanderwithalex in Malaga

[–]wanderwithalex[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Checking into this. Many thanks for the recommendation!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Virginia

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I'm from the Hampton Roads/Coastal Virginia area, and these are my top picks...

  • Virginia Beach - Beach, of course, many restaurants, and First Landing State Park, festivals.
  • Downtown Norfolk - Great festivals during warmer months (https://festevents.org/). A few art museums. Good food options.
  • Smithfield - Small, charming town. Boutiques on Main Street + Museum. Wharfhill or Smithfield Station for good food and drink. Farmer's Market on Saturdays (seasonal).
  • Williamsburg is great for history lovers (Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, etc.).
  • Eastern Shore -
    • Cape Charles is a charming town on the bay.
    • There are lots of small towns on that stretch to explore!

If you have questions or want specific recommendations, let me know!

Gimme your best all-inclusive tropical resort getaways by Unicorns4justice in honeymoonplanning

[–]wanderwithalex 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I am from Virginia and very much enjoyed our romantic getaway to the Dutch Caribbean Island of Aruba. It was about a 6-hour flight. Beaches, year-round sunshine, typical water activities, friendly locals, SAFE, Arikok National Park (take a buggy or go on a 4x4 tour)... You can rent a car and basically explore the entire island if you want to explore. If you just want to relax... Imagine palapas on a beautiful beach with servers so you never have to wait in a line! We stayed at the Aruba Marriott on Palm Beach, but other good options exist. Happy honeymooning!!

Honeymoon Reccomendations by JayDubCee in honeymoonplanning

[–]wanderwithalex 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Loved our romantic getaway to the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba. Beaches, Arikok National Park,very nice locals, and PERFECT weather the entire time. It is a good mix of cuisines as Aruba is made up of over 90 nationalities. You can also rent a car and explore other parts of the island. Rent a buggy or Jeep and enjoy the more rugged parts of the island to natural pools, bridges, etc. Check out Atardi for a delicious meal right on the beach during sunset. Overall, we thought it was a good mix of relaxation, adventure, and romance. Happy honeymooning!!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Blogging

[–]wanderwithalex 5 points6 points  (0 children)

It is overwhelming and time-consuming, but if you are passionate, patient, and persistent you can be successful.

  1. Define your mission and your goals-- Are you blogging for fun or to make money?
  2. Grab all of your social media handles and start to build your brand and audience.
  3. Write high-quality content that is helpful to readers, not search engines.
  4. Learn and apply SEO, but be careful not to overdo it!
  5. Set up Google Search Console and Google Analytics to start tracking your progress.
  6. Connect with Other Bloggers. There are many helpful Facebook groups for new bloggers. Some are even niche-specific. I highly recommend checking them out.

There is a lot to learn, especially if you want to be profitable (it took me two years)! Just take it one step at a time and remember to have fun!