Southern Storytelling
One Adventure at a Time
Bringing destinations to life through authentic storytelling, whether it’s a charming Southern town or a must-visit family destination anywhere in the U.S.
Not all travel writing captures the essence of a place. You’ve seen the same recycled recommendations, but what about the hidden gems? The backroad diners where the biscuits are made from scratch? The small towns where history and charm collide? The family adventures that leave you with stories to tell for years?
That’s where I come in.
I’m Trudy Haywood Saunders, a nationally syndicated travel writer with a deep love for storytelling. My work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Southern Living, Garden & Gun, and more. While I specialize in uncovering the best of the South—its food, its culture, its small-town charm—I also cover family travel destinations across the entire U.S., helping families discover trips they’ll never forget.
The Story Behind the Stories
Travel writing isn’t just about destinations. It’s about people, history, and the experiences that make a place unforgettable.
Born and raised in rural Montgomery County, North Carolina, I’ve always understood the magic of small towns, front porch conversations, and road trips that lead somewhere unexpected. Writing has been a part of me for as long as I can remember, but my journey into freelance travel writing truly began during COVID, when life slowed down just enough for me to explore my passion.
Since then, I’ve built a career on sharing stories that matter—whether that’s a small-town hidden gem in the South or a thrilling family-friendly experience across the country. If it’s worth visiting, I want to help tell its story.
From Rural Roots to Published Pages
Growing up in the South, I understand its culture, traditions, and hidden gems in a way that outsiders simply can’t replicate.
A True Southern Perspective
As a mom to a preteen and a teacher of 23 years, I know what makes family travel successful — finding experiences that both kids and adults genuinely enjoy.
A Family Focus
I don’t just write about places—I experience them. Every story I tell is rooted in firsthand knowledge and real exploration.
Authenticity First
What Sets My Work Apart?
Looking for engaging, family-friendly travel content with a Southern perspective? Whether you need website content, a travel feature, or destination storytelling, I’d love to collaborate.