Navigating Language and Word Choices in Travel-Related Contexts

Step aside stereotypes.

It’s time for better travel terminology.

Language matters. The terminology used to create travel content carries weight and connotation. It matters if content is littered with common travel stereotypes and clichés, or if thoughtful messaging is at the heart of travel-related storytelling. When chosen with care, words can be empowering, bring dynamic places and experiences to life, and encourage people to take meaningful action.

This module micro-course provides context for why words matter, the impact common terminology has, and tools for making more informed language decisions. It is especially relevant as stereotypes and clichés flood travel content while tourism professionals seek to be more mindful and inclusive in their communication choices.

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll learn in the module micro-course:

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LESSON 1: Why Words Matter

LESSON 2: How Language Frames Understanding

LESSON 3: Stereotypes, Clichés, and Other Potentially Problematic Terminology

LESSON 4: Authenticity and Traveling “Like a Local”

LESSON 5: Choosing More Mindful Terminology

LESSON 6: Connecting Inclusive Language and DEI Commitments

This module is
designed for:

Travel service and experience providers, destination representatives, travel and tourism marketing and communications professionals, and anyone crafting travel-related messaging

What this module includes:

6 lessons
6 videos (27 minutes total)
Written content and video content
Recommended reading and resources

By the end of this module, you will have the skills to:

Understand why some words are problematic when used in travel content
Identify environmental and societal issues that influence how messaging is understood
Evaluate word choices using guiding questions
Make mindful language choices that represent DEI commitments
Think critically about travel-related language