How to Create your own Online Travelogue

by Carla King

Things have changed a lot since those early days of the Internet and today I'm armed with all the tools I need to do it myself. At first glance, it's a formidable collection of equipment that includes a notebook computer, digital still camera and digital camcorder, and all the supporting chargers, adapters, converters and cables. Not to mention storage and transfer media like CD-ROMs, SmartCards, Memory Sticks, and a portable mouse that is also a memory card adapter. (Todayâs gadgetry knows no limits!) Software includes word processing, photo manipulation, video editing, Web design software, backup and data transfer programs. The addition of the necessary protective bags, cables, locks, motion detectors and alarm systems, along with your regular camera equipment, ensure that there's little room for a change of clothing in your baggage.

Now if that doesn't deter you, read on for recommendations for basic hardware and software followed by a checklist on how to put it all together.

Notebook Computers

Iâve used both Apple and Windows machines while traveling and, though there are a lot of good machines out there, can highly recommend three models: The Apple PowerBook G4 Titanium, the Apple iBook, and the Sony VAIO SR series computers. If youâre traveling extensively out of the United States youâll probably want a Windows machine, because thereâs really very little support for Apple abroad.

Digital Cameras

I highly recommend the new C-3030 Zoom camera for quality and performance, and it's price has dropped from $1000 to about $600. I bought an earlier model because I wasn't taking along a camcorder and wanted the MPEG video. In India the humidity, dust, and the vibration from my Royal Enfield Bullet motorcycle contributed to the failure of two of the three storage cards I brought along for the two-month journey. This kind of thing happens with most digital cameras, which is why itâs always important to bring more storage than you think youâll need, else youâll be limited to the number of photos the in-camera memory will hold until you download them to your laptop using the direct cable connection.

Camcorders

Iâm finally entering the digital video world with Sonyâs popular DCR-PC9, a tiny digital video camera with a swivel screen and night shot. Itâs loaded with features that Iâm sure Iâll never use, but Iâm looking forward to tinkering with it during my upcoming journey through Italy. Professional videographers probably scoff at the editing software that comes bundled with this camera, but Iâm not ready for anything more than the basics.

Web Design Software

Web design software allows you to create HTML pages without actually having to code in HTML. You can insert text, photographs, graphics, video and audio from other programs and experiment with page layout using all the WYSIWYG menus and windows. To begin, save a Web page you like as "source," then open it in your Web design program to modify it and insert your own photos. I use DreamWeaver but many graphic artists and photographers tell me they prefer the GoLive! package. These programs are really the key to your creativity.

Photo Editing Software

These days, every digital camera comes with easy-to-use photo enhancing software. While these are adequate, I wouldnât dream of using anything other than PhotoShop. However, unless youâre an expert, or plan to become one, you wonât need this expensive program for basics like color enhancements and sizing.

Word Processing / Text Editing

Word processing programs like Microsoft Word are handy because they have features like spell check and now even feature a "Save As HTML" function that works pretty well at creating a basic Web page from the Word document. Youâll need to experiment using it with your own pages, as some sophisticated formatting may not translate correctly. In my opinion, itâs no substitute for special Web design software.

Data Transfer Program (FTP)

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a shareware program available at http://www.download.com that allows you to transfer your pages to your Web site. You simply dial up to your account, enter key data (host name, user ID and password) into the FTP program window, and youâll be able to access the folders on your site, transferring the pages on your hard drive to the Web for everyone to see. This is the last, magical step to publishing your page.

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

It's very important to carefully organize your site before you go so that when youâre on the road you won't become confused. You'll write your text and enhance and size your photos, insert them into your pre-designed pages, connect to the Web, FTP them to your site, and enjoy the rest of your evening. Hereâs what it takes:

1. Carefully organize your folders so that your HTML files can find your images, audio and video clips, and so that the links between your pages remain consistent. Your Web design software has an organization tool that makes this easy. Pay careful attention to where your program wants your images to be.
2. Decide upon naming conventions for all of your files, such as Paris_Day01.html and Paris_01.jpg. Stick to them!
3. Collect existing graphics, text, and other common elements in a separate folder.
4. Create empty folders on your computerâs hard drive that match each section of your site (such as Home, Dispatches, Photo Gallery, Credits and Contact).
5. Create a template for each style of page youâll be creating, and create the shells of pages you anticipate needing. Put text in them like "Stay tuned! This page will be active November 7th" or some such.
6. FTP these to your site and test them on the Web, making sure that all the links work.
7. When youâve worked out all the kinks, FTP the folders to your server and voila! you have a site!

CONNECTING OVERSEAS

Internet Connection Software

America Online and Earthlink are two great big companies that provide Internet access all over the world, and it might be worth it to sign up with one of them if you travel a lot. So far, Iâve been able to finagle Internet access with companies I work with when I travel. If youâre a professional writer or photographer you may have the contacts to do this, too.

Finding a Phone

Hotel Digital PBX systems will literally fry your modem. If Iâm uncertain, I use a TeleAdapt digital PBX tester gadget, or just use the hotel's fax line instead (fax lines are always analog).

AVERTING DISASTER

Maybe youâll be lucky and youâll have no equipment disasters on the road. But just in case:

1. Get used to your equipment. Use your hardware and your software together and make sure everything works perfectly.
2. Copy key pages of instruction manuals, like troubleshooting pages, especially if the equipment is new to you.
3. Put copies of all CD-ROMs for your operating system and programs in a hard-sided case to bring along with you in case of system failure.
4. Back up your entire system and bring those CDs along with you.
5. Buy adapters, transformers, chargers, etc. from a supplier like TeleAdapt.
6. Collect phone numbers for technical support for all your equipment and software.
7. Buy theft-prevention hardware like cables and alarms.

NOTEBOOK COMPUTERS

Apple PowerBook G4 Titanium
5.3 pounds
1 inchthick
Starts at $2599

This notebook computer is really a portable PowerMac G4, a desktop computer popular with graphics profes-sionals, Web developers, artists, photographers and videographers. This computer can handle any Web site development need you have on the road or at home. Itâs a powerful and expensive machine and very, very sturdy with a real titanium casing. Itâs great choice if you want the best and have the money to spend for it, but itâs really overkill for most people.

Apple iBook
4.9 pounds
1.35 inches thick
Starts at $1299

The popular new iBook is economical, sturdy and slightly lighter than the Titanium. Itâs a very respectable travel machine with all the features and more than most people will use, even in sophisticated Web develo-pment. This is a great extension to your desktop Mac.

Sony VAIO SR
3 pounds
1" inch thick
Starts at $1099

A traveling photographer-friendly Windows laptop. Itâs incredibly light with a fabulous crisp screen and enough power and features to handle any Web site develop-ment need. The VAIOs are not quite as sturdy as the Apple notebooks, but theyâre nearly two pounds lighter, and that can make a real difference on a long trip.

CAMERAS

Olympus C-3030 Zoom
It's difficult to get better photo quality in this price range, and it's the only camera in this range with a superfast burst mode that lets you shoot one photo per second, a fabulous feature for action photography. Photos can be annotated with sound, and when you get bored with stills, try its QuickTime video mode.

Kodak DC5000 Zoom
The 2 megapixel Kodak DC5000 Zoom is a ruggedized camera perfect for adventure travel. It's water-resistant (but not submergible), dust-and-dirt-resistant, and it's got a sealed lens filter and protective lens barrel that makes it less fragile than other cameras. The controls are large enough to use even if you're wearing gloves.

ADAPTERS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS

TeleAdapt has the most complete array of connectivity products and services in the world, including telephone adapters, transformers, converters, and a phone-in tech support service. Just call, and they'll walk you through the connectivity process, wherever you are.

CABLES & LOCKS

Computer Security Products, Inc., carries cables and locks keyed to fit your laptop security lock, as well as adhesive-mounted cables for cameras and other equipment.
800/466-7636

ALARMS & MOTION DETECTORS

The TrackIT 110 decible alarm (with a keyring transmitter) sounds when you and your laptop, camera, or backpack are separated by more than 10 to 40 feet (selectable with built-in switch). It works through walls, windows and around corners, too.
888/487-2251

The DEFCON 1 motion detector attaches with a combination lock to your carrying case or the security slot in your laptop and sounds an alarm when it senses movement or the cable is cut or disconnected.
800/242-3133