An Exclusive Interview with Dan Levine, Pioneer of Avant-Guide Travel Media

The Genesis of Avant-Guide: A Conversation with Dan Levine

Norm Goldman: Dan, it's a pleasure to have you here. Could you give our readers a glimpse into your personal and professional journey?

Dan Levine: Thanks, Norm. It all started when I penned the London chapter for Frommer's Europe guide at 24, fresh out of college. Simon & Schuster appreciated my work, leading to more opportunities, including major cities like San Francisco and Miami. Eventually, I craved something more personal, which led to the creation of Avant-Guide. I envisioned a travel guide for the sophisticated traveler, those who seek the new, unique, and fashionable—quite the opposite of the typical Frommer's demographic, which we humorously likened to budget-conscious nuns.

Pioneering a New Era of Travel Guides

Norm Goldman: What sparked your interest in travel, and why did you launch the Avant-Guide series? Who is your target audience, and how has the response been?

Dan Levine: My passion for travel and writing merged when I reached out to Arthur Frommer, who, despite no longer owning the series, connected me with the editors at Simon & Schuster. That's where my career took off. Avant-Guide isn't just a book series; it's a global lifestyle media company that delivers cutting-edge content on travel and entertainment. We're now the fastest-growing travel guidebook series in North America, catering to the 'creative class'—consumers seeking a trusted source to curate the best in destinations, products, and experiences. Our feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with readers appreciating our insider reviews and stylish approach.

The Challenges and Rewards of Travel Writing

Norm Goldman: As a seasoned traveler and writer, what challenges do you face, and what do you find most rewarding?

Dan Levine: The challenge lies in staying abreast of everything new and fashionable, which is also the most rewarding aspect. Avant-Guide positions itself as a Master Curator, inspiring and enhancing the lives of our readers by guiding them through an infinite array of choices.

Selecting Authors and Maintaining High Standards

Norm Goldman: How do you select authors for your guides, and how do you ensure the quality of your publications?

Dan Levine: Unlike other guides, Avant-Guide authors are residents of the cities they write about, and they're all professional writers. We prioritize excellent writing alongside accurate information. Our authors are experienced and published, ensuring our content is both engaging and reliable.

Expanding Horizons: Future Avant-Guide Destinations

Norm Goldman: What new cities can we expect in the Avant-Guide series, and will Montreal be included?

Dan Levine: Our collection is growing quickly, with 11 titles already and more on the way, including Rome and Shanghai. We're looking at various destinations across Asia, North America, and Europe, with Montreal likely joining our 2007 lineup.

Advice for Aspiring Travel Writers

Norm Goldman: What advice would you offer to those considering a career in travel writing?

Dan Levine: Learn to write well. Avoid clichés and strive for originality. Understand that travel writing is more than just describing places; it's about conveying experiences and evoking emotions.

Norm Goldman: Is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

Dan Levine: I invite everyone to explore Avant-Guide Online and join our biweekly electronic Communiqué, reaching over 20,000 trendsetters in travel, entertainment, fashion, and media.

Norm Goldman: Thank you, Dan, and we wish Avant-Guide continued success.

Dan Levine: Thank you, Norm. Keep traveling in style!

For more information on Avant-Guide and to sign up for their Communiqué, visit Avant-Guide Online.

Interesting Stats and Insights

While the interview provides a comprehensive look at Avant-Guide's philosophy and approach, there are some intriguing statistics and trends in the travel guide industry worth noting:

• The global travel guide market was valued at approximately $17.91 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow to $27.73 billion by 2027, registering a CAGR of 7.60% from 2021 to 2027 (Allied Market Research).
• Digital travel guides are on the rise, with a growing preference for e-books and travel apps due to the convenience and up-to-date information they offer (Statista).
• User-generated content and reviews, such as those found on TripAdvisor, have become increasingly influential in travel planning, with 77% of travelers usually or always referencing reviews before choosing a hotel (eMarketer).

These trends underscore the evolving landscape of travel literature, where traditional guidebooks are complemented by digital resources and user feedback, shaping a more dynamic and interactive travel planning experience.