Last week we mentioned the Bridport prize for 2010 - a great chance to earn some serious money and acclaim.  However, if fiction or poetry aren't quite in your niche, then the perhaps you can turn your hand to some travel writing for the Trazzler Writing Contest.  Trazzler is a top destination website for travellers looking for great reviews, insider knowledge and travel tips.  There are five categories: Foodie Temples, Love in the City, LGBT Icons, Neighborhood Spots and Only in SF. Each category lets you flex a different writing muscle, so why not tackle an entry as a good exercise before deciding whether or not to submit it?

If you consider yourself a bit of a gourmand, and want to share your experience of the best places to eat in your city, then crack out your pen and fork and get writing for the Foodie Temples category.  Think with your senses, and describe not only the food, but the atmosphere of the restaurant, and what makes it special.  Whether it is the best hot dog stand in Chicago or the most breathtaking five star restaurant in New York, it is how you make it stand out that counts.

Fancy yourself as the next Carrie Bradshaw?  Know exactly where to find the hottest guys and gals in your area? Or perhaps you know the most romantic haunts for a special evening with your significant other?  Or the best place to propose? If so, then the Love in the City category is perfect for you. 

The LGBT Icons category is designed for writers who can share tips and recommendations for same-sex travellers.  Don't focus purely on gay clubs, but share your favorite places to hang out day or night, that are friendly towards lesbian, gay or bi-sexual singles, couples or families.

Share those special, only-known-to-locals-in-the-know locations with visitors to your city by entering into the Neighbourhood Spots category.  Where do tourists need to go to find the must-see sights? 

As with all travel writing, be sure to put plenty of flavor and personality into your entry.  Avoid cliched descriptions and put your experiences into your own words for a piece that will capture the imagination of the reader and have them rushing to book travel tickets!

The contest is sponsored by the city of San Fransisco, and while all other categories are open to anyone living anywhere in the world, only California residents are eligible to win the final category of Only in SF. 

Prizes include a five night trip to San Fransisco, including airfare and hotel and a $750 Trazzler writing contract.  The top fifteen entries will also be awarded a $250 writing contract so this is a great way to put yourself on the radar of a great source of ongoing travel writing work.  If travel writing is an area that you are trying to break into, or want to add to your portfolio then don't miss this opportunity.

For ideas on the types of entries, style and tone that appeal to both the Trazzler editorial team and the site's visitors be sure to browse the content on the site for inspiration.

Find full details at: http://www.trazzler.com/contests/sf