Word Travels

Word Travels is a fascinating TV series that aired on the Outdoor Life Network (OLN) from 2008 to 2010. This Canadian documentary show starred one of the most well-known travel writers and global adventurers, Robin Esrock. Esrock is a bestselling author and known for his unique journey, from being an accomplished music reporter and producer to transforming into a full-time global adventurer and travel broadcaster. His co-host is Julia Dimon, a robin-esque travel journalist with her explicit experiences in the journalism industry.

The premise of Word Travels is not just about travel indulgence; it mainly focuses on the profession and lifestyle of travel writing and broadcasting. In other words, while showcasing various international spectacles, it gives viewers a true taste of what it's like to be a travel journalist - often a side of travel that's hidden behind the glamour and thrill.

With three seasons totaling up to 40 episodes, each episode of Word Travels centers around a particular country or region, such as Bolivia, Namibia, Latvia, Jordan, and several others. The hosts, Esrock and Dimon, travel to different places worldwide and explore their culture, tradition, people, landscapes, and special events. Not all places they visited were mainstream tourist destinations. They ventured into off-beat paths, unraveling the facets of unexplored or less traveled territories.

What stands out in this series is the spontaneous and vibrant dynamic between Esrock and Dimon. The hosts of the show have starkly contrasting travel styles wherein Robin leans towards adrenaline-pumping activities and Julia favors immersing herself more into the cultural and humane side. This difference brings a broadened perspective to viewers, inculcating the idea that travel experiences are intensely personal and subjective.

Each episode was deftly scripted to fuse the intriguing sights and public interaction with the behind-the-scenes reality of being on the move continually, seeking stories, grabbing travel opportunities, meeting deadlines, and experiencing the thrill and exhaustion that follows. The graphic yet appealing visual shots, the perfectly timed narration, and, most importantly, the sincerity with which the hosts conveyed their experiences significantly contributed to the show's appeal.

Word Travels pushes the envelope of typical travel shows by providing a realistic and honest portrayal of the world of travel journalism. It focuses on the sheer hard work that goes into creating the polished articles and broadcasts that readers and viewers consume. The hosts could be seen routinely working late into the night, writing articles, editing photos and video footage, battling writer's block, hustling for internet connections, and negotiating with editors for stories.

The travel experiences range from awe-inspiring to challenging and even somewhat dangerous situations. They meet fascinating locals, debunk several stereotypes related to various cultures, and face unexpected hurdles like transit strikes, weather extremities, and cultural shocks. This reflects the unpredictability that comes with traveling, adding an authentic flair to the show.

The show also highlights the ethical dilemmas in travel journalism, whether it's about interacting with the local communities, respecting cultural norms, environmental concerns, or the challenges of projecting an honest image of the country visited. It subtly promotes responsible tourism and empathy towards different cultures and ways of life.

Word Travels is not merely about covering destination hotspots; it’s a series that blends both travel and journalism's ins and outs. It takes you through the joyous, chaotic, perplexing, and enlightening journey of globe-trotting professionals and their passionate pursuit of stories. It has adventure, humor, information, and an honest portrayal of travel journalism work and lifestyle.

In essence, Word Travels with Robin Esrock is a travel series that deviates from the traditional approach, offering viewers an unfiltered, in-depth look into the world of travel journalism. By focusing on the behind-the-scenes aspects of travel writing, the show provides a realistic and captivating perspective on what it truly means to travel the world as a profession. In doing so, it manages to encapsulate the essence of travel - an amalgamation of stunning sights, enriching experiences, daunting challenges, and incredible stories waiting to be told.