It would be nice to visit all the places you want to write about. But the reality is that you don’t always have the time or resources to do so. So how do you write about a place you’ve never been to?
Tips On Writing About Places You’ve Never Visited
Fantasy writers have the freedom to invent worlds that suit their stories. But when you’re writing about the real world, accuracy is key. Otherwise, you create a caricature your readers can easily see through.
Fortunately, technology has made it easier to do research. Here’s how to write about a place you’ve never been to.
1. Check out government resources.
Most government bodies have sections of their websites that provide comprehensive information about their locality. This includes history, geography, demographics, points of interest, and laws and regulations. Some websites even include links to other places with more information.
2. Watch vlogs, documentaries, and films.
All three offer a wealth of visual and cultural information. And because each has different goals, they provide you with different angles. This helps you form a well-rounded and immersive view of the place.
But don’t forget that a lot of what you see here is exaggerated. Even documentaries can’t fully capture what life is like in a specific place. It takes years of actual, in-person immersion.
So read between the lines. If you find an interesting detail, research it thoroughly.
3. Join online communities.
Find online communities centered around the location you want to write about. Interact with the locals. Chances are, they’ll be more than happy to answer questions.
There’s also likely someone who’s considered an expert on local history and so on. Ask if you can interview them.
4. Use Google Maps.
Google Maps is a great way to explore a place. Its street view function can help you create an accurate picture for your writing. It’s easier to make sense of distance, neighborhoods, and how locations relate to each other.
5. Build a character profile of its inhabitants.
Yes, each person is unique. But you also can’t deny that people who live in close together share certain traits and habits. Accent and speech patterns are an obvious one.
This gives you a feel of the general populace. Use it only as a foundation to build your characters on. Flesh them out with unique experiences, interests, and beliefs.
And always be respectful. Avoid assumptions, understand local customs, and use their language with caution. Writing a realistic local is often the best way to make your setting feel genuine.
6. Research topography and climate.
Different places have unique characteristics that shape the environment and daily life. Ensure your depictions of flora, fauna, climate, and weather are accurate.
For example, Northern Europe’s cold winters led to architecture with thick walls and steep roofs. Southeast Asia, with its tropical climate, has open-air buildings that allow for airflow.
This extends to cultural and social customs. Desert communities often view water as sacred, with rituals focused on its conservation. In contrast, regions with abundant rainfall might celebrate festivals tied to seasonal cycles.
Being aware of these adds another layer of realism to your writing. It also allows for more nuanced dialogue and actions, making your characters feel more authentic.
7. Use sensory details.
Use the five senses to fully immerse your readers in the setting. Ask yourself: What are the specific smells that define the place? What colors dominate the landscape? When writing about local food, go beyond describing flavor—mention the texture, the temperature, and even the sound of a meal being prepared.
Each sensory detail adds vibrancy to your readers’ imagination. If they can picture the setting more strongly, the more impact your story has.
Also, pay attention to small, specific details. These often-overlooked elements bring authenticity to your setting, grounding it in reality.
For example, movies set in Barcelona frequently feature iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Família. But locals will tell you there’s so much more to the city. Focusing on less-known information shows you’re moving beyond what’s popular or superficial.
8. Plan a trip.
Of course, if you have the means, go ahead and visit! Just be aware that a brief visit might only give you a general feel of the place.
So plan it well. Learn what you can before the actual trip. Try to find a local tour guide who can help you navigate. Think about everything you need for documentation.
Conclusion
The setting is one of the most important elements of a story. It shapes the world your characters inhabit and influences the plot, mood, and tone.
A well-developed setting can immerse readers, making them feel as though they are truly experiencing the story’s location. Failing to establish one will make your story feel flat or disconnected.
When writing about a place you’ve never been to, research becomes critical. Dive into every resource you can find. Interview a local if you can.
By the time you write, you should have a wealth of information you can refer to. It’ll help you create a believable setting that feels like you’ve visited it yourself. Use sensory details to further make it feel authentic.
And remember, it’s a great responsibility to write about a place you’ve never experienced. Be respectful and give it a fair depiction.
What tips do you have on writing about places you’ve never visited? Share your thoughts below!
If you enjoyed this post, then you might also like:
- 5 Tips for Writing Your Setting as a Character
- How to Write the Setting of a Story: 4 Tips for a Memorable Backdrop
- 10 Tips on How To Write About Real People
Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. He has a degree in Communications and is an advocate of media and information literacy and responsible media practices. Aside from his interest in technology, crafts, and food, he’s also your typical science fiction and fantasy junkie, spending most of his free time reading through an ever-growing to-be-read list. It’s either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Wish him luck!
