Wendy Altschuler is a seasoned writer and adventurer, whose work graces the pages of numerous digital and print publications. Her writing is characterized by a keen focus on adventure travel, often exploring the multifaceted experiences of women, families, and solo travelers. Altschuler doesn’t just document destinations; she delves into the heart of the journey, capturing its essence through descriptive prose and insightful observations. Wendy Altschuler’s expertise spans a broad spectrum of travel-related topics, making her a versatile and engaging storyteller.
Her portfolio is a testament to her adventurous spirit and her ability to translate personal experiences into compelling narratives. Altschuler has a knack for illuminating the transformative power of travel, showcasing how exploration can foster personal growth, cultural understanding, and a deeper connection with the world around us.
Adventures Across the Globe
Altschuler’s travel writing encompasses a diverse array of experiences, from solo expeditions to family adventures. She has chronicled her solo journeys around the world, offering readers a glimpse into the allure and challenges of independent travel. Her accounts of destinations like Dubai, Bali, and Hong Kong are filled with vivid details, transporting readers to these exotic locales. She doesn’t shy away from exploring the less conventional aspects of travel, offering a refreshing perspective on familiar destinations.
One of her notable areas of focus is the empowerment of women through adventure. She has written about female pods of skydivers, capturing the camaraderie and thrill of this adrenaline-pumping activity. Her stories highlight the strength, resilience, and adventurous spirit of women who push their boundaries and challenge societal norms. She also covers women-only adventure groups engaging in activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and biking, showcasing the supportive and empowering environment these groups provide.
Altschuler’s adventurous spirit extends to exploring unique cultural experiences. She has written about learning to surf in El Salvador, immersing herself in the local culture and sharing her experiences with readers. Her willingness to embrace new challenges and step outside her comfort zone is evident in her writing.
Family Travel and Cultural Immersion
Family travel is another significant theme in Altschuler’s work. She believes that travel can be a powerful educational tool for children, fostering empathy, respect, and a broader worldview. Her article on traveling to Japan with children illustrates how cultural immersion can teach valuable lessons about customs, traditions, and perspectives different from their own. She emphasizes the importance of engaging with local communities and creating meaningful experiences that will stay with children long after the trip is over.
Altschuler’s articles on exploring national parks in the winter with kids offer practical advice and inspiration for families looking to embrace the outdoors. She provides tips on planning a safe and enjoyable winter adventure, highlighting the unique beauty and opportunities for exploration that national parks offer during the colder months.
Her writing also delves into the more unusual aspects of culinary travel. Her piece on eating horse meat in Iceland, while acknowledging her own vegetarianism, explores the cultural significance of this dish and encourages readers to approach new culinary experiences with an open mind. She navigates the complexities of cultural sensitivity and ethical considerations in travel, prompting readers to think critically about their choices.
Practical Travel Advice and Local Insights
Beyond her adventurous narratives, Altschuler also provides practical travel advice and insider tips. Her article on hiking in the Grand Canyon National Park, rim to rim, offers comprehensive information on planning and executing this challenging but rewarding trek. She covers everything from permits and gear to safety precautions and trail conditions, ensuring that readers are well-prepared for their adventure.
She has also written about swimming with whale sharks, providing readers with information on responsible tourism practices and ethical considerations when interacting with these magnificent creatures. Her articles often incorporate elements of conservation and sustainability, encouraging travelers to minimize their impact on the environment and support local communities.
Altschuler’s ability to uncover hidden gems and local favorites is evident in her piece on where to find a great local beer. She goes beyond the typical tourist destinations, seeking out authentic experiences and sharing her discoveries with readers. Her writing encourages travelers to venture off the beaten path and explore the local culture through its food and drink.
Diverse Travel Industry Experience
Wendy Altschuler’s expertise is not limited to writing. She possesses diverse travel industry experience on the agency side, having worked as a full-time itinerary and travel tips writer for a boutique luxury travel company. In this role, she conducted extensive research, collaborated with tour operators and hospitality representatives, and maintained a comprehensive understanding of the travel landscape. This experience has provided her with a deep understanding of the industry, allowing her to offer readers informed and insightful perspectives.
Her experience in the travel industry has equipped her with a unique ability to understand the nuances of travel planning and execution. She is adept at identifying trends, understanding customer needs, and providing tailored advice that enhances the travel experience.
Journalism and Local Reporting
Altschuler’s background in journalism further enhances her writing skills. She worked as a special correspondent and contributing writer for Sun-Times Media, writing articles for print publication in Pioneer Press’ 32 local newspapers and the Chicago Sun-Times. Her work at Sun-Times Media involved producing hyperlocal articles on a wide range of topics, demonstrating her versatility and ability to connect with local audiences.
As a special columnist, Altschuler also wrote an online parenting column called Wendy City Mom for Sun-Times Media’s special section, Good to Know. This experience allowed her to explore the joys and challenges of parenting in an urban environment, connecting with readers on a personal level.
Her experience with the Windy City Rollers content committee, where she wrote recaps, press releases, news blasts, and skater stories, demonstrates her ability to adapt her writing style to different audiences and formats.
Published Works and Recognition
Wendy Altschuler’s work has appeared in a wide variety of prestigious publications, including Fodor’s Travel, Delta Sky, Modern Luxury, Red Tricycle, Make it Better, Sun-Times Media, Tribune Brand Publishing, The Daily Meal, Yoga Magazine, Outdoorsy, Om Yoga Magazine, Spafinder, Chicago Parent, and many others. Her contributions to the Association of Writers and Writer’s Programs, productions like the Listen to Your Mother Show, and tourism board websites further demonstrate her versatility and reach.
Her extensive portfolio of published works is a testament to her talent, dedication, and ability to consistently deliver high-quality content. She has established herself as a respected voice in the travel writing community, known for her insightful perspectives, engaging storytelling, and commitment to providing readers with valuable information.
Education and Volunteerism
Altschuler’s commitment to education and service is evident in her academic achievements and volunteer experience. She was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning her degree with High Honors from DePaul University in Chicago. During her time at DePaul, she studied abroad in India, immersing herself in the culture and expanding her worldview.
Her participation in Americorps NCCC, the domestic Peace Corps, further demonstrates her commitment to service. This year-long volunteer experience allowed her to travel across America, helping people in need and making a positive impact on communities.
A Passion for Travel and Storytelling
Wendy Altschuler’s journey as a writer and adventurer is driven by a deep passion for travel and storytelling. She believes that travel has the power to transform individuals, foster understanding, and connect people from different cultures. Her writing reflects this belief, inspiring readers to explore the world, embrace new experiences, and appreciate the diversity of human cultures. Wendy Altschuler continues to inspire people through her travel and adventure stories.
