Leslie Forsberg
Writer · Editor · Author
Compelling storytelling is emotional, surprising, beautiful.
As a writer for magazines for more than 20 years, I am a master storyteller. My stories dive deep beneath the surface to illuminate the true essence of place, the people behind the scenes, the meaning behind a topic.
As a seasoned, award-winning writer and editor based in Seattle, I specialize in travel writing, with a focus on unique cultures and natural wonders. My stories have appeared in Alaska Beyond magazine, American Way (American Airlines), The New York Times, Sunset, AAA Journey, AAA Westways, AAA Via, AAA World and other print and online publications. The recipient of multiple Society of Professional Journalist awards, I am the author of two books, including a Michelin guide to the Pacific Northwest. On the editorial side, I was a long-time managing editor of Alaska Airlines Magazine, as well as the editor of AAA Journey, Go World Travel and Sea Kayaker magazines.
Tiny Love Stories: ‘Two Weeks Divorced’
Modern Love in miniature, featuring reader-submitted stories of no more than 100 words.
The New York Times, March 2024
Award-Winning Stories
Time Travel
Genealogy enthusiasts trace their roots to distant places, expanding their sense of family. SPJ Award Winner
Alaska Airlines Magazine, December 2012
Fragile Beauty
Scientists and communities work together to help preserve butterflies and their habitats SPJ Award Winner
Alaska Airlines Magazine, May 2011
Playing in Ashland
A mother-daughter road trip reveals why this Oregon town makes a perfect summer destination. First-Place SPJ Award Winner
AAA Journey, May 2010
Hawaii's Upcountry
Savoring the small towns, ranches and farms of Maui's countryside.
Country Magazine, December 2022
Whidbey Island
Outdoor adventures, seaside views and fantastic food make this drive dreamy.
Country Magazine, November 2022
The Fruit Loop's Top 10 Destinations
Stop, sample, sip and pick in the shadow of Oregon's magnificent Mount Hood.
Country Magazine, August 2021
Serenity by the Sea
Savoring the good life on Washington's San Juan Islands.
Country Magazine, May 2021
Olympic Peninsula Loop
With lush forests, waterfalls and sandy shores, this drive is a nature lover’s paradise.
Country Magazine, November 2020
Blue Hawaii
Deep dives, fun floats and uniquely exciting water adventures in the islands
AAA Journey, November 2019
Bellingham Getaway
Arts and attractions rise to new heights in B'ham
AAA Journey, November 2019
Scavenger Hunt
Stalking 'shrooms in the Quinault Rainforest
AAA Journey, September 2019
Bumper Crops
Fall harvest drives offer delightful surprises
AAA Journey, September 2019
Tulip Festival
Top things to see and do on your visit to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
AAA Journey, March 2019
The Joys of Discovery
A memorable cruise opens the door to exploration in Southern Europe and Morocco
AAA Journey, January 2019
3 Days in LA
A revitalized downtown plays a starring role in a Southern California getaway
AAA Journey, November 2018
A River’s Renewal
The free-again Elwha adds to the vitality of the North Olympic Peninsula.
AAA Journey, September 2018
On Caribbean Time
Cruise-ship comforts enhance the islands’ warmth and friendly charms
AAA Journey, January 2018
Storybook Settings
A cruise on the Rhine, Maine and Moselle reveals centuries of German tradition
AAA Journey, January 2017
Spectacular Stockholm
Scandinavian culture thrives amid stunning natural beauty
AAA Journey, January 2016
A Passage to Independence
A mother-daughter trip to Europe helps pave the way to adulthood
AAA Journey, May 2016
A Yellowstone Road Trip
The national park and its surroundings shine in autumn’s glow
AAA Journey, September 2015
Hawaii Weddings & Honeymoons
A ceremony in the Islands is a happy marriage of marvelous locations and expert wedding services.
Alaska Airlines Magazine, February 2015
The Life of Pie
A comfort food gains gourmet cache
Alaska Airlines Magazine, August 2014
Foods for Thought
Food festivals dish up culinary celebration
Alaska Airlines Magazine, July 2014
Returning to the Wild
Endangered species are finding new hope in old habitats
Alaska Airlines Magazine, May 2014
Flying Jewels
Hummingbirds Are New World Treasures
Alaska Airlines Magazine, August 2013
Natural Treasures
Discovering Costa Rica’s Ecological Wonders
Alaska Airlines Magazine, March 2013
Iceland Delights
Adventure takes many shapes in this land of geysers, glaciers and epic lore
AAA Journey, July 2012
Parks Place
The Hawaiian Islands Offer a Wide Variety of Natural Treasures
Alaska Airlines Magazine, October 2011
Naturally Norwegian
Oslo Features Viking Artifacts, Contemporary Art and Year-Round Sports
Alaska Airlines Magazine, June 2010