The New York Times has taken a new approach for its 13th-annual “52 Places to Go” feature. Instead of assigning multiple writers, the paper plans to hire a single reporter to visit all 52 destinations on the list over the course of 52 weeks. The job posting attracted widespread interest, receiving more than 9,000 applications before it closed on October 31.
Applicants were asked to demonstrate media experience, fluency in English, and strong skills with social media and digital devices. Travel experience and the ability to commit to a full year on the road were also required. As travel editor Monica Drake put it, the search was for a “unicorn”—one candidate who combines all the necessary talents.
Although the opportunity sounds glamorous, the assignment will be demanding. Visiting 52 locations in 52 consecutive weeks presents logistical and physical challenges, and it requires resilience, organization, and stamina. A year of continuous travel leaves little room for breaks and will test the dedication of whoever is chosen.
The announcement drew significant attention across media channels, and anticipation for the final list has been high. Readers and travelers alike are eager to see which places make the list and to follow the reporter’s year-long journey. The full “52 Places to Go” list is scheduled for publication in January 2018.