AFAR: Inspiring and Empowering Travelers Who Care
Award-winning travel media, AFAR, connects, inspires, and empowers conscientious global travelers through storytelling and community.
About AFAR
AFAR is a leading award-winning travel media brand committed to making a positive impact on the world. Through high-quality storytelling, community engagement, and an unwavering dedication to responsible travel, AFAR empowers and inspires a discerning audience of conscientious global travelers. At its core, AFAR believes in the transformative power of travel—not only to enrich the traveler but also to support local communities and protect the planet.
What Sets AFAR Apart?
- Purpose-driven public benefit company with a focus on responsible travel practices.
- Celebrated for high editorial standards and professional, fact-checked content.
- Multi-platform presence including print, digital, experiential events, and educational initiatives.
- Offers an inspiring and empowering global community for travelers who care.
AFAR’s Mission and Philosophy
At AFAR, travel is more than just visiting places—it’s a platform to enrich lives, promote understanding, and foster positive change. The brand advocates for:
- Engaging travel that personally enriches the traveler.
- Supporting and uplifting communities visited.
- Being sensitive to environmental and cultural impacts.
- Approaching new destinations with humility and a willingness to learn.
Who Is the AFAR Audience?
AFAR’s audience consists of travelers who care: individuals eager for unique, meaningful, and responsible travel experiences that reflect their personal values. They are often described as:
- Conscientious and discerning explorers.
- Curious about the world, cultures, and authentic local perspectives.
- Driven to have a positive impact on the places they visit.
- Usually affluent, highly educated, and well traveled.
Media Offerings and Content
AFAR delivers its mission through a multi-faceted suite of content and programs:
- Editorial content—print and digital—featuring travel news, destination guides, in-depth features, and essays that expand the definition of travel writing.
- Comprehensive hotel coverage spotlighting accommodations that inspire a richer travel experience and create a positive local impact.
- Podcasts, videos, newsletters, and a vibrant online community.
- Destination inspiration, up-to-date news, and timely, curated features.
Editorial Approach & Standards
- High professional standards—every story is fact-checked and held to rigorous editorial guidelines.
- Emphasis on authentic, immersive storytelling—covering unique places, people, subcultures, and industry trends.
- Affiliate disclosure ensures transparency in sponsored content.
Pitching and Contributing to AFAR
AFAR welcomes pitches from contributors who want to share unique travel stories.
- Features and Essays: Seek ambitious explorations of the natural world, culture, industry trends, and untold stories behind iconic places.
- Hotel Coverage: Focuses on extraordinary accommodations that create meaningful traveler experiences.
- Sponsored Content: Sponsored stories and itineraries highlight partners while maintaining editorial integrity.
- Special themes, such as America 25, World Cup, and Route 66, guide content for milestone years.
Editorial Team and Process
- Experienced editors and contributors who are passionate about impactful storytelling.
- A careful pitch process for both print and digital stories.
- Clear guidelines for reviewing and producing content.
AFAR Community Initiatives
AFAR believes in fostering a strong and supportive network among travelers, industry professionals, and local communities.
The AFAR Travel Advisory Council
- A curated and well-connected group of travel advisers offering expert guidance to help travelers plan unforgettable journeys.
- Continuous insights from council members help shape content and community engagement.
AFAR Honors Program
- An annual initiative recognizing trailblazers—individuals and companies driving positive change in the travel industry.
- Highlights innovation and social impact within travel.
AFAR Experiences and Events
- Global event series connecting travelers and local communities.
- Encourages first-hand, immersive travel experiences that shape perspectives and deepen understanding.
Careers at AFAR
AFAR offers career opportunities for passionate individuals eager to join a collaborative, entrepreneurial, and innovative team. The company places a strong emphasis on:
- Collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Professional growth alongside other travel enthusiasts.
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
- A workplace culture that celebrates unique perspectives and backgrounds.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Ongoing DEI initiatives to ensure fair representation and opportunities.
- Commitment to building a diverse and welcoming workplace community.
Legal & Customer Service Information
AFAR provides accessible customer support and upholds legal standards, reflecting its commitment to a transparent and trustworthy relationship with readers and partners.
Advertise with AFAR
AFAR’s audience comprises affluent, highly educated, and globally minded travelers—ideal for brands seeking to reach a discerning market.
- Media Kit: Details advertising opportunities, audience metrics, and media partnerships.
- Sponsored content integrates advertising partners through articles and branded itineraries while maintaining editorial authenticity.
- Advertisers benefit from a robust digital, print, and event-based platform.
AFAR by the Numbers
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 2009 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco, CA (with NY office) |
| Audience | Global, affluent, responsible travelers |
| Platforms | Magazine, website, events, foundation |
| Signature Programs | Travel Advisory Council, AFAR Experiences, AFAR Foundation |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is AFAR’s main mission?
A: AFAR’s mission is to inspire, empower, and enrich travelers who care—encouraging responsible travel that benefits both the individual and the world.
Q: Who is AFAR’s audience?
A: AFAR attracts travelers who are globally minded, value meaningful experiences, and seek to travel responsibly.
Q: How can I contribute stories to AFAR?
A: Potential contributors can pitch digital or print stories, essays, and hotel reviews directly to the editorial team, following the published guidelines.
Q: Does AFAR run sponsored content?
A: Yes, AFAR partners with brands to produce sponsored articles and itineraries, ensuring content is relevant and transparent to readers.
Q: What career opportunities are available at AFAR?
A: AFAR regularly hires for editorial, creative, technical, and business roles, emphasizing diversity, collaboration, and a passion for travel.
Contact, Legal and Support
- Contact information and submission guidelines for contributors and advertisers.
- Dedicated customer service channels for reader queries.
For more information, visit AFAR’s website to explore stories, contribute, join the community, or engage in purposeful travel.
