A Professional Organization of Travel Writers and Photographers

Professional Conduct Guidelines

Bay Area Travel Writers aims for the highest standards in factual reporting and unbiased evaluation in travel journalism, and membership in BATW implies acceptance of professional and ethical accountability. Failure to comply with the following standards will result in loss of membership.

Members are expected to act in a professional, courteous and considerate manner, and to show awareness of and sensitivity to the environment.

Members should accept press trips only if they have a genuine professional interest in the destination and the prospect of subsequently publishing an article or photo.

In presenting an accurate and comprehensive picture of a destination, members realize their primary responsibility is to the public, not to their sponsors.

A member’s attendance at luncheons, receptions and other hosted events carries an obligation to gather information and otherwise act in a professional manner, which shows genuine interest in the presentation.