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Behind the Content

Editorial Guidelines

Welcome to Marlene On The Move, a travel blog focused on authentic experiences, cultural insight, nature, and surf.

This blog is the result of years of travel, journalism, and storytelling. My goal is to inspire and inform readers through real-life experiences and practical advice, always with a deep respect for local cultures and the environment.

Stories With Soul

The values Behind The Blog

Every word written on Marlene On The Move reflects a commitment to real, meaningful travel. This isn’t a content factory. It’s a space where every story, guide or travel tip is the result of lived experience, ethical reflection, and the desire to help others travel with intention.

These are the principles I follow. Not as rules, but as a compass that orientates everything I publish.

Editorial guidelines

My content is inspired by personal journeys and built on themes I care deeply about:

    • Hidden travel gems and cultural authenticity
      I share destinations that tell a story, places shaped by identity, culture and real life, not just popularity.

    • Nature, outdoor experiences and slower rhythms
      Whether it’s a surf session or a remote hike, nature grounds many of the adventures I share.

    • The surf connection
      As a surfer, many stories are tied to the ocean, not just waves, but the lifestyle and communities around it.

    • Curated travel tips and practical guides
      I create content to help readers plan and enjoy their trips in a real, useful way.

    • Sustainability and conscious travel
      I promote experiences that respect the environment and local communities, always with long-term impact in mind.

The voice of this blog is:

  • Personal: grounded in my own experiences as a traveller and journalist

  • Accessible: clear, straightforward and reader-friendly

  • Intentional: no fluff, no empty clickbait, no AI-generated filler

  • Emotive: when it matters, the writing reflects emotion and connection to the place or moment

I’m intentional about what I don’t include, too. This blog doesn’t publish:

  • Disguised advertorials

  • Deceptive or invasive ads

  • Outdated or unchecked information

  • SEO-first content with no real substance

I value the reader’s time and trust, and write accordingly.

  • Sponsored content is clearly marked

  • Affiliate links may be included, but are always disclosed

  • I only recommend products, services or experiences that I believe in and, ideally, have tested

  • Editorial decisions are based on usefulness and relevance, not payment

All content is written and edited by me (Marlene Marques). Most of the photography is also mine, but in some cases, I use carefully selected stock images to illustrate the story and enhance the reader’s experience.

Guest contributions are rare, thoughtfully chosen, and always credited. I aim to keep this space personal, authentic and consistent in voice.

If you’re a brand/company interested in collaborating, check out my media kit.
If you’re a traveler or writer with a story that truly fits this space, check out the guest post page.