Posted: 1/28/19 | January 28th, 2019
Let me say what most of you are (probably) thinking: this blog kind of sucked in 2018. It actually might have started sucking a bit toward the end of 2017. Maybe even 2016.
What do I mean by that?
Well, while we continue to produce “how-to” content that I am very proud of and think is better and more detailed than what else you’ll find on the web (’cause we’re the best!), those kinds of articles — while I like writing them because, to me, budget travel is like solving a puzzle (and they are great for Google) — just doesn’t make a blog….well, a blog.
They lack personality.
They are helpful, sure, but you read blogs because of the people behind them, not just the useful information they give.
And I think this website has become a lot less personal and a bit stale over the last couple of years.
I just haven’t been motivated to write anything “personal.” Once in a while, sure, but like in the old days? Ehhh. Not really.
I don’t travel as much as I used to and think my days are pretty mundane. I mean who cares about what I eat for breakfast, what I do on the weekends, or really anything non-travel related?
Moreover, I felt like my thoughts and feelings about travel were already out there and that there was nothing else really left to say.
So what was left to write about?
Another “best hostel in X” post, that’s what!
I don’t feel I really wrote anything “groundbreaking: last year. A lot of what we posted in 2018 was just old posts updated with new content.
A few weeks ago, I mentioned moving to Paris (temporarily but maybe forever? Who knows! I got to try it out first). NYC is an unproductive place for me and I want to spend more time writing this year. I need a new space for that. I need a place where I feel my creative juices flowing.
I don’t know if that is Paris but I know it’s not NYC.
But, as I mentioned in that post, this year, I want to change this website too.
Or, should I say, change it back to what it used to be.
I want to write more stories.
After a two year break and a case of unmotivation, I’m finally feeling motivated again.
This year you’re going to see not only the “how-to” posts we’re good at here but also more of me — more about my life as a traveler, more posts about the emotional ups and downs of travel, and more posts about people.
I’ve got a dozen articles drafted on my desktop: thoughts on globalization and travel, plastic and travel, life in hostels, what I hate about travel right now, being connected “to home” on the road (I’ve noticed a lot of hostels have Netflix now), getting “stuck” in places, why I never want to hear about digital nomads again, and a bunch more stuff!
I’ve been writing up a storm this month.
And I’m also going to start sharing more photos and stories on my Instagram (especially as I’ll probably have a lot to say when trying to settle into Paris)!
One other thing that is happening this year: I’m opening the website up to more guest posters starting in March. I want to bring in different voices and more stories on the website. People who are just starting out or have expertise in a certain area.
It’s a new idea. I don’t know how it will work. I want to create some guidelines first (so don’t email just yet! If you do, we won’t reply!) as I want to make sure we do this right!
So, yes, new year, new me!
But also a “new” blog!
I’m excited to make this website personal again.
Who knew I had so much still left to say after all?
I guess all that was missing was a bit of motivation!
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Georgie Mack
That’s great to hear Matt! I was literally just talking to someone about how I feel the obsession with SEO has killed some of the pizzazz of blogs for me. I remember reading a post of yours about being a “scammy marketer” (I believe those were your words, not mine!) and I do feel a bit bummed out to realise, through that post and then my own experiences advertising my services as a freelance writer, that so much of the content that we see on the web is literally just drummed up to drive affiliate link sales, to the point of some of it being quite dishonest. For me, that’s a good blog’s point of difference – you come to know the *person* behind it, you trust the *person*, you like hearing things through their eyes and following their adventures. I’m excited to read more along these lines on your site!
Jarrod H
Goodness. It’d be fun to see some of these stories. I know I’ve found a completely new way to travel, and had a lot of fun doing trips that I normally wouldn’t do, staying places I’d normally never stay.
It’s exceptional. 😀
Pete Rojwongsuriya
It’s great to see you are writing more personal stories again. I always enjoy reading about people’s travel experience because everyone experienced different ways. Me, as an Asian solo traveler, will definitely experience the same place differently than every other backpacker :).
And don’t worry about not being personal last year, I think there are phases a blog has to go through throughout the years. I am at the beginning of the “writing how-to articles” phase myself on BucketListly Blog. I mean your blog is definitely on its own league compared to mine ?but I think everyone goes through this change in the same way.
Anyway, can’t wait to see more personal stories from you! Keep up the great work Matt.
PS If you are looking for an Asian Backpacker’s POV stories, feel free to hit me up any time. ?
Iulia
I just saw your article on Facebook and immediately wanted to read it. I agree with everything you wrote! And sometimes I feel the same. And overwhelmed with all the travel blogs out there. Then I struggle to find my motivation or sometimes, even a topic to write about. I hope you share more from your real travel stories, what really happens to you, not just where to stay and what to do. I try to constantly remind myself just that. I’m writing a blog, not a magazine! Cheers! PS. Cannot wait to see your guest post guidelines, maybe I can contribute!
Filipe Morato Gomes
Glad to hear this, Matt. You know, I follow you since the beginning and was about to give up reading your blog several times, because it was not about your trips anymore, but a bunch of SEO oriented pieces of well-written content and guidebooks produced by a team of people. I mean, I feel Nomadic Matt is more about business now, not about your trips or inspirational content.
I know you have to make money from your blog, and “how to”, “where to stay” and “best things to do” kind of posts work (i also do it on my blog). But, as a reader, I do hope you can keep it more personal. So, if I can suggest you something, please go back to the road, enjoy traveling again and make your old readers happy. Back to the basics, Matt! I’m not leaving… 🙂
Dustin
Very cool to hear! There’s definitely a need for more narrative-driven stories and less generic content online. Looking forward to what you come out with!
Veronika Primm
Looking forward to reading those! And to see how Paris will throw you in the creative vibe again 🙂 I’m about to do something similar, just to Asia!
Crystal
I do love reading travel blogs full of personality, opinions, and personal stories that allow me insight into the person behind the blog. I look forward to learning more about you, Matt! Enjoy living in Paris and definitely keep us updated on all things Paris!
Chris Backe
What, you mean the world needed another ‘best hostels in X’ post?
LOL.
I’d very much love to see your expertise and experience shine through whatever you choose to write. Cheers =)
Chuen Buan
Hang in there Matt. Your blog posts are changing my life ! Looking forward to your creative posts !
Nicole
These days, there are so many travel blogs out there dishing out advice when you wonder if the writer had really visited the place. It lacks personality and I refused to join the trend. I’m glad that my readers have found my deviation from the “normal path” useful. They enjoyed the extra juicy details and tips.
I will probably start reading your blog more often. All the best in your next adventure in Paris. I’m sure that will give you lots of inspiration. 🙂
Antonina
Great to hear that, Matt! Waiting for all those drafted articles you’ve mentioned 😉
jan
I’m looking forward to the story telling lean that you are proposing. I feel exactly the same as you about how everyone’s focus on SEO has killed a good story. Way to go Matt.
NomadicMatt
Thanks everyone for the words of encouragement! 🙂
Kevin
That’s good news and a wise path.
PS: For example, it would be interesting to hear about why NYC isn’t doing it for you anymore?
Abby Scott
Oh can’t wait to hear more stories and your opinions! Hopefully I get to be one of the guest posts in the future!
Also pumped to see more Instagram content!
Ryan
Looking forward to reading more of your stories Matt. I agree that it’s hard to not fall into the pattern of publishing a bunch of listicle articles. After all, it seems like those are the articles that get the most search engine pickup.
Can’t wait to see what the New Year brings for you!
Karen
Matt, I’m actually semi-glad to hear you say that because you have so much experience and I have just started out so it’s good to know we all have our struggles. Moving to Paris is, for me, the goal! You really do provide inspiration for someone like me that has already lived the mundane life and is now starting over with the aim of less mundane from here on out….I look forward to reading about your next ventures…and if you find any reasonably priced places in Paris, tips and advice are welcome!
Phillip D Holland
Been following you through thick and thin. I think you’re spot on – the only way to write interesting content is to live an interesting life. NYC might be great, but if it isn’t propelling you forward, then it’s time to move on. Good luck in Paris!
Natalie Gates
I love this. Like some others have mentioned, sometimes the whole pursuit of SEO and all that jazz only just brings blogs down. I know personal stories/reflection are the type of thing I love to write on my own blog. I’m excited to read your stories, I’m sure you have many great ones! And I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for more info on guest posters 😉
Elizabeth
Excited for more story-type posts! This is something I struggled with when starting my blog in your course. I’m finally getting back to real writing roots- storytelling- and added two story-type posts to my blog this week. I can’t wait to read yours!!!
Monica Schroeder
Thanks for the lovely post, Matt. I’m a lifetime international traveler and North America continent RV traveler. I found you through One Step 4 Ward, and actually think I’ll be able to get this online deal going, now, with your excellent help.
Glad to hear you are ‘back’ so to speak!
Paris? I love Paris!
Thank you for sharing your life and for your encouragement. You are a great encouragement.
Moni
Kat
“why I never want to hear about digital nomads again” I literally can’t wait for this post! My sentiments exactly. I’m a freelancer who works online (and actually makes a living doing it) and I’m a traveler, who moves a lot, so technically I may be a digital nomad, but I just cannot stand this term and the obsession with becoming a digital nomad and everything around it drives me nuts. I could write a book about my issues w/ digital nomads….but then again, I prefer not hear about it at all lol
Dennis
Good luck in Paris!
What is your backup plan in case Paris turns out to be an awful place for you to live long term?
In any case you will have more opportunities to travel in Europe, even on short notice and to places even Europeans have no idea they exist. Paris is a city which is well connected by train and plane (also low cost) to the whole continent.
Rosalee
Hi Matt, congratulations on your move – very exciting. Exciting to me is a shift in the content of your blog. It seems like so many bloggers are writing for search engines rather than readers. I like to hear people’s impressions, how they felt and enjoy the journey of their discovery.
I’ve felt heartily discouraged when a great blog post (imho) gets one read, and no comments, when something with a “top ten” in the post title goes viral when it is clearly just advertising.
Shannon Gehringer
Welcome to Paris! I’m an American living here too, so let me know if you need anything!
Shannon
Leanne
I was actually just thinking the same thing with my blog! I’m not really gaining a following yet even though I’ve been doing this for over a year and a half now. I personally don’t find myself as an interesting person but that’s what people want to hear, right? Personal stuff about me!
I wonder if I should have a more “personal posts” section on my travel blog. What do you think?
Kris
Matt, the blog NEVER sucked! I have only been reading and subscribing for about 6 months and I love it! I am a hermit, but you inspire me to want to travel. And, my days have an escape as I read your articles. So, thank you! Paris is interesting. I hope you venture to areas nearby. Happy Travels.