Effective August 1, 2025
1. Mission and Scope
We believe that everyone deserves to travel better, and timely, accurate information is a key part of that journey. Our publishing mission is to deliver up-to-date travel news, alerts, deals, warnings, features, and research insights that empower readers to make informed decisions.
2. Core Editorial Standards
Ethical Framework We follow the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics, the Trust Project principles, and Google News Publisher guidelines. These benchmarks guide every stage of our reporting, from source selection to headline writing, and they help maximize our credibility and search visibility.
Editorial Independence The Adept Traveler maintains a strict separation between editorial and commercial activity. We do not accept sponsored content, and third-party ad networks (currently Google AdSense, with plans to migrate to Journey products) have no influence over editorial decisions.
Verification and Fact-Checking
- All news items require confirmation from at least one primary official source and, whenever practicable, corroboration from a second source.
- Writers document every claim in an internal research log. Editors cross-check the log before publication.
- Guides and research "Insights" undergo an additional accuracy audit that follows the Chicago-style footnote system.
3. Sourcing and Attribution
- We favor on-record, attributable sources. Anonymous sources are used only when information is unobtainable otherwise, the source's identity is known to the editor, and the information is of clear public interest.
- News articles list sources at the end under "Sources," using active hyperlinks. Insight pieces use Chicago-style footnotes.
4. Corrections and Updates
- We correct all factual errors promptly upon discovery. A "Last Updated" timestamp and a brief explanation of the change appear at the top or bottom of the article.
- Once email newsletters and the mobile app launch, corrections will be pushed to users who viewed the original article.
- Readers can request a correction through the form at https://adept.travel/correction.
5. Conflicts of Interest
- Although part of our company still operates as a travel agency, those commercial arrangements do not influence coverage decisions.
- Staff and contributors must disclose any complimentary travel, financial holdings, or close relationships that could affect objectivity. At present, we do not accept press trips or freebies.
6. Advertising and Sponsored Content
- All advertising is served programmatically by third-party networks and is clearly distinguished from editorial content via automated labels.
- Advertisers, partners, and affiliate programs have zero input into story selection, wording, or timing.
7. Use of AI and Automation
- We employ AI for hero-image generation and for mechanical editing tasks such as spelling, grammar, and clarity checks.
- Every AI output is reviewed, edited, and approved by a human editor before publication.
- If AI contributes substantive text, we will disclose that involvement in an editor's note.
8. Diversity, Inclusion, and Representation
- We spotlight accessibility issues and aim to represent all travelers fairly, accurately, and respectfully.
- Stereotypes, pejorative language, or imagery that demeans any group are prohibited.
9. Accessibility and Style
- We strive for WCAG 2.2 AA compliance, including alt text for images and keyboard navigability.
- Our house style adapts the Associated Press Stylebook while mandating the Oxford comma, two spaces after each period, and avoiding em or en dashes.
10. Legal Compliance and Privacy
- Our operations are governed by the laws of Elgin, Kane County, Illinois, and applicable United States federal statutes.
- We protect confidential sources and personal data to the fullest extent of the law, using encrypted storage and access controls where warranted.
11. User Engagement
- We do not currently host public comments or forums. Reader feedback is welcomed via the correction form or the site contact page.
12. Governance and Review
- Owner and Custodian: Brandon J. Yaniz, Founder and Editor-in-Chief.
- Review Cycle: This document is reviewed at least once per calendar year or whenever a major operational change occurs.
- Escalation Path: Any perceived violation of these principles should be reported directly to the Editor-in-Chief, who will investigate and respond within seven business days.
These Publishing Principles codify our commitment to accuracy, independence, inclusivity, and reader trust. They apply to every staff member, contractor, and contributor involved in creating content for The Adept Traveler.