Running out of ideas? Try the "Friend Filter"
I’ve worked with a decent range of blogs from hobby bloggers to commercial travel blogs.
While their goals differ, the source of good ideas is usually the same.
You don't need to abandon the personal "diary" style.
You just need to tweak it so the reader sees the value for them.
Here are two ways to keep your writing personal but useful:
The Friend Filter. If a close friend asked about your trip to Rome, what would you tell them? You wouldn’t recite a history textbook. You would tell them which cafe had the best espresso and which tourist trap to skip.
This mindset forces you to be relatable. It keeps the personal voice but ensures the details actually help the reader.
The Reverse Search. Don't guess what people want to read. Dig for it. Before you travel, check Google or Reddit for questions people are already asking.
"Is it safe to walk around Rome late at night?"
"What is considered rude in Rome?"
Write these down. When you visit, you aren't just sightseeing; you are hunting for answers based on real experience.
The takeaway: Readers know the difference between hearsay and experience.
Whether you write for fun or profit, always ask: "What does my reader get out of this?"