Are you the next travel star?

Are you passionate about travel, culture, and exploration? Do you have the personality to light up a room with your inviting nature and fun spirit? If yes, this is your chance to shine! We're searching for someone who can inspire and entertain our audience with their love for the world to win a development deal with GoTraveler to host their own series.

Here’s what you’ll need to apply:

  • This is your chance to make a memorable first impression. Create a personal introduction video, trailer, or sizzle reel (uploaded to your platform of choice—Vimeo, Youtube) that showcases your passion for travel. Highlight your storytelling skills, charisma, and enthusiasm for exploring new places. Make it engaging and exciting to grab the judges' attention. (Video must be 2-4 minutes long.)

  • Your personal bio is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the judges and viewers. Share your personal journey, background, and what drives your love for travel and exploration. Describe your unique qualities, experiences, and why you believe you're the ideal candidate to become GoTraveler's Travel Star. Be authentic and compelling in your storytelling.

  • A professional headshot is a high-quality photograph of yourself. It should capture your personality and charisma. Dress in a way that reflects your unique style and the image you want to project as a Travel Star. This headshot will be used for promotional purposes, so ensure it presents you in the best light.

  • Provide accurate and up-to-date contact information, including your email address and phone number. This allows the contest organizers to reach out to you if you are selected as a finalist or the winner. Double-check this information to ensure they can easily get in touch with you.

  • Your pitch deck is a crucial element of your submission. It should outline your travel show idea in detail. Include information about the concept, destinations you plan to explore, the format of the show (e.g., documentary, travel vlog, reality show), and what makes your idea unique and captivating. Use visuals, storytelling, and any relevant data to convince the judges that your show idea is a winner.

  • To be considered for the title of GoTraveler's Next Travel Star, it's essential that applicants possess an unwavering passion for travel. Your submission should vividly demonstrate your deep love for exploring new places, immersing yourself in diverse cultures, and sharing the magic of travel with others. Your passion should shine through in your video submission, personal bio, and pitch deck, leaving no doubt that you are genuinely dedicated to the world of travel and adventure. The judges are looking for individuals who not only talk about travel but radiate enthusiasm and curiosity, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of discovery. Your passion for travel is the fuel that will drive your success as GoTraveler's Travel Star.

The Judging Panel

  • Pamela Holt, a seasoned solo traveler, hosts the streaming series "Me, Myself & The World: The Art of Solo Travel." She began her solo travel journey at 19 and has explored 81 countries, from Antarctica to Bali. Pamela's adventures include living in the Amazon rainforest and bungee jumping in South Africa. Pamela's travel expertise has been featured on NBC and FOX and in notable publications like Travel + Leisure, Glamour, Women’s Health, and Condé Nast Traveler.

  • Christine Drinan, the CEO of Galavante, a NYC-based travel, lifestyle, and media company, launched her career after working at private equity firm, Blackstone. She's among the few who've explored 130+ countries. Christine is a philanthropist, mentoring women leaders and aiding at-risk children. She established the Galavante in the World Foundation, contributing $100,000+ to Afghan women's education.

  • Colleen Kelly, an Emmy-nominated executive producer and travel expert, is the Host and Creator of PBS's "Family Travel with Colleen Kelly." She contributes to National Geographic and hosts the radio show and podcast "Round Trip with Colleen Kelly" via Kelly Media Productions LLC. Kelly has produced top-tier content for National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, PBS, and Travel Channel, collaborating with international and domestic clients. She's a prominent brand influencer, keynote speaker, and has partnered with brands like Carnival Cruise Lines and State Farm, as well as global tourism boards.

Competition Finalists & TAS

Competition finalists will be invited to present their ideas at a live-pitch competition taking place on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show, where the Judges Panel will decide who will win the Development Deal.

Submit your chance!

Provide all required fields, including a link to your video and uploading your headshot and pitch, before December 8th.*

*Please note: Submissions will not be in consideration without all necessary requirements.

Finalists will be announced on December 15th and will present their pitch to The Judges Panel at the Chicago Travel & Adventure Show Conference on January 14th.