10 Insights from Travelers of Color: Defining the Experience

“The more we all travel authentically and the more we all open our minds, the more — I hope — our shared human experiences won’t rest in the differences on the surface, but with the similarities underneath.”

Where are you from? No, but where are you really from?

This conversation-starter, seemingly laced with suspicion, has pursued me around the world — in an Uber in New York City, during a tour in Vietnam, at a restaurant in Mexico, and while shopping in Greece. Occasionally, this uncertainty transforms into a guessing game about my ethnically ambiguous appearance: Spanish? Brazilian? Puerto Rican? Pakistani?

Sometimes, depending on the location and who is asking, I worry. I worry about how I come across and the stereotypes being formed. But mostly, this back-and-forth — at once playful and loaded — is exhausting. My answer, “I’m American,” is seldom accepted.

It’s true, I wasn’t born in the U.S., but I immigrated here from India at the age of six and have always considered myself — first and foremost — an American. My English is accent-free, my passport is issued by the United States of America, so why then the hesitation, skepticism, and follow-up question? The answer lies simply in my skin.

Experiences of being viewed differently have arisen in various situations: at the airport upon receiving my umpteenth SSSS boarding pass stamp, on a luxury cruise mistaken for housekeeping, despite wearing vacation attire. A vivid memory occurred on a trip to the Middle East when my carry-on bag was disassembled, held for hours, and I was escorted onto the plane, alongside my luggage, by airline personnel. I am often reminded of my race during trips to India, where I’m affectionately called didi (or sister) by locals, and in other destinations where my skin becomes an object of curiosity, drawing stares and photos.

Don’t get me wrong; I’ve been privileged enough that my relationship with travel is predominantly about what I’m experiencing, rather than how I’m perceived. Travel satisfies my curiosity, showcases my independence, and forces me out of my comfort zone. It also represents my livelihood. Exploring new places and meeting vibrant people—especially for work—fills me with gratitude and joy.

Thus, the question of what it means to be a traveler of color is filled with contradictions. On one hand, my travels are not without jarring moments that can strip away my dignity, but on the other hand, my career as a travel journalist and my middle-class background afford me global mobility that is not generally complicated by concerns about my safety due to my complexion. I can typically navigate through spaces with ease — without questioning where I can go or if I belong in the travel narrative. In certain countries, particularly India, my Brownness offers a sense of belonging, a coat of camouflage, while my circumstances create a disconnect that is in constant tension.

However, that’s not always the case. During a recent trip to India, while walking through a market in Mumbai, a man dressed in a lungi approached me and asked, “Where are you from?” Excitedly, I informed him I was born in India — just 30 minutes from where we stood. His smirk conveyed disbelief as he shook his head. Perhaps it was my attire or my American accent, but I was once again deemed the other — left to defend my answer.

At its core, travel is about celebrating diversity. The fundamental idea of visiting new destinations, meeting different people, and uncovering varied cultures breaks down barriers and helps us find commonalities. Travel enhances our lives, making us better, stronger, braver, and more empathetic.

Blending in can offer comfort, especially as a storyteller whose greatest asset is the ability to explore, observe, and learn as an insider. However, embracing uniqueness also bears power.

It enables me to act as a representative, confirming that there is a place for individuals who look like me — from the mountains of Patagonia and Peru, to the beaches of Croatia and Thailand, to the streets of Vienna and Budapest. I recognize my fortune in this.

Rachel Chang

“As I was getting off a boat in Costa Rica, I heard voices cheering in delight in the distance. I looked around, curious about what captured their attention, but didn’t see anything unusual. Their enthusiasm grew louder — cameras started pointing in our direction. I took another look. Monkeys were everywhere among the trees, but they chanted “Chino! Chino! Chino” in Spanish. This moment crystallized for me; I was the tourist attraction.

Born in the United States to Taiwanese immigrant parents, I’ve always identified as American. As a frequent solo international traveler, I often stand out among groups as the only American. My Asian heritage often goes unnoticed by those I meet during my travels, especially in Europe, Australia, and South America. In fact, I’m frequently referred to simply as ‘the American’.

Nevertheless, there are instances — like when a souvenir seller approached me in Mexico, greeting me with ‘Ni hao ma?’ or when a Moroccan family followed me around a historic area asking to take photos — that make me acutely aware of my racial identity.

As a travel journalist, exploring the globe is more than a job; it’s a necessity to deepen my understanding of the world by immersing myself in it. It isn’t about posing in front of famous landmarks or ticking off a bucket list. It’s about engaging with the cultures around me and being willing to challenge my own habits and beliefs.

To seek authentic experiences often requires blending in.

Depending on my location, this challenge manifests differently. After a White colleague warned me about her experiences in Istanbul, I was initially terrified to venture there alone. Yet, upon arrival, I roamed the backstreets with a new Black American friend I met there and faced zero issues. Conversely, on one trip, being with several Asian Americans and Asian Canadians made it impossible to soak in the atmosphere of the Marrakech souks, as shopkeepers persistently called out to us in Chinese.

In fact, the place where my race is most often highlighted is right here in the United States. I’ve lost count of how many Uber drivers have asked, ‘Where are you from?’ only to press on with, ‘No, where are you really from?’ when I’m honest about my roots in California.

The essence of travel lies in uncovering the shared humanity of people worldwide — whether assisting a stranger in need in the Patagonia forest or enjoying a home-cooked meal with locals in Zimbabwe. In most locations, this connection is simple. However, in others, including many close to home, that connection feels elusive.

It only takes one person pointing out your skin color to make you feel like an outsider, even amid already feeling different in a location. Yet, the more we all travel authentically and open our minds, the more — I hope — our shared human experiences will not hinge on surface differences but on the underlying similarities.

Gabby Beckford

“I am a full-time traveler (pandemic aside) and blogger at Packs Light. Travel shapes a substantial part of my personal passions and professional endeavors.

Growing up in a multicultural military family allowed me extensive travel experiences. To be considered an ‘avid’ traveler of color is both a privilege and a responsibility. Many cannot travel the world as part of their careers, particularly at 24 years old. Therefore, being a young Black woman pursuing the path I am on places me in a rare category.

The most significant challenge I face as a solo traveling young Black woman is safety. Standing at only 5’2″, even though I’m fierce, I can never fully relax, much like when navigating a crowded bus back home. When I travel, I always register with the STEP program, communicate my plans to my parents, walk purposefully, adopt a serious demeanor, and take all necessary precautions. Sometimes, I contemplate whether others would genuinely try to find me if I went missing.

My favorite destination is Dubai. I won a language scholarship to study Arabic there during college, which was a transformative experience. As a child, living in Okinawa brought special memories, especially when, at eight, local Japanese women swarmed me, calling me kawaii-des, which means ‘so cute.’ While this might hint at exoticism, I cherished that attention then, despite being older now and more reserved about it.

I’ve also encountered moments of glaring curiosity while traveling, such as being stopped in the streets of the Republic of Georgia, having a person in Sri Lanka ask to take a picture with me, or even strangers reaching out to touch my hair in South Korea.

Nonetheless, identifying as a BIPOC traveler has been incredibly rewarding. I acknowledge that this perspective comes with privilege. I’ve faced awkward and ignorant encounters, yet fortunately, I have never experienced a dangerous racist incident. Caution likely plays a role, along with my light-skinned privilege, which lends me a different experience compared to darker-skinned friends.

Despite the inherent risks of traveling while Black, I embrace the identity. Discovering another Black traveler signals potential friendship. Many welcome me into their homes, engage in conversation, and recognize me as someone who embodies their culture.

In joining Facebook groups before trips, like ‘Black Expats in ____,’ I find refuge. Connecting with local groups can ease fears about safety or solitude while traveling. I prepare thoroughly, enjoy my journey, and remind myself that racism often occurs closer to home than in places like Dubai. My message is simple: not every experience is doomed to negativity; there are magical experiences uniquely available to BIPOC travelers. And those moments are certainly worth pursuing.”

Oneika Raymond

“As the child of Jamaican immigrants growing up in Canada, travel has long been an integral part of my life. Initially, it involved visiting family across the Caribbean and the USA. Later, while studying abroad in France during university, travel became a way for education, exploration, and empowerment.

Being a Black traveler often means assuming the role of a representative when visiting places with few Black individuals. It also entails being a resource for fellow Black travelers hesitant to venture to certain locations.

In countries like China, India, and Uzbekistan, the color of my skin represents a point of curiosity, often leading to annoying episodes. For example, in Sri Lanka, not only did people stop me for photos, but they also insisted I pose alongside their children. In South Korea, I experienced similar discomfort, with people tugging at my hair.

I relish visiting unfamiliar places with different languages, cultures, and religions; yet, some of my treasured trips took place on the African continent. South Africa, Ghana, and Senegal stood out as highlights. I revel in traveling through predominantly Black nations, learning more about our shared heritage.

While my experiences underscore the curiosity towards Black travelers in parts of the world where they are scarce, it often fosters connection and camaraderie with locals and can lead to friendships. It’s these lively interactions that make travel truly exciting for me.”

Chadner Navarro

“As a full-time travel writer, I’m consistently on the move, either for work or personal exploration. I’ve always had a passion for travel, inspiring a career shift from fashion journalism to travel writing. When traveling for a story, my profession defines me to those around me. It’s important to note that POCs are underrepresented in media, often leaving me as a solitary figure at events.

Numerous experiences with ignorance surface throughout the world. I’ve encountered soldiers yelling ‘China man’ while exiting the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, and children pulling at their eyes in Portugal while seated near their family. Such humiliating moments leave little room for response, especially when navigating foreign places where English is less prevalent.

Despite these occurrences, the overwhelming majority of my trips proceed without incident. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to support POC aiming for leadership positions in travel media. I once received a thoughtful letter in Tagalog left in my hotel room from housekeeping upon learning of my Filipino background. Although a lovely gesture, it underscores our industry’s need for inclusivity in public-facing roles beyond just housekeeping.

Living in a world dominated by White narratives means standing tall as a minority. Natural biases await when someone encounters a Filipino; such moments often provide me the chance to educate others about my cultural background while encouraging curiosity and appreciation for diversity.”

Evita Robinson

“Travel is my life, my vocation, my community, my passion, and my freedom. Being a traveler of color epitomizes pride. I represent my community while inviting numerous Black travelers to journey to diverse locations around the globe — unapologetically. In Africa, I feel more at home than in the United States due to the presence of Black individuals and the reverence they demand.

Witnessing another Black person abroad feels like a kinship, where, despite being strangers, we are connected. I dedicate my efforts to cultivate a community internationally through travel and foster relationships in every location we visit. We seek out the Black experience to enhance our understanding of our history and heritage, independent of the geographic context.

The challenges faced by travelers of color range from everyday microaggressions to the experience of Black women receiving wrongful assumptions about being sex workers. While we have faced denial of service at times, it’s worth noting that most significant racial issues stem from the USA itself. Frequently, we find greater comfort abroad, eclipsed by troubling domestic narratives of violence and injustice.

Since 2012, we have navigated over 40 trips with Nomadness members, creating endless memories. Some of our fondest destinations include India, South Africa, Thailand, Samoa, and Hungary. From experiencing Holi celebrations and Songkran festivals to engaging with locals impacted by the 2009 tsunami in Samoa, pure connection characterizes our favorite moments. We cherish the substance of these encounters.

I present as culturally ambiguous, yet globally I identify as Black. I recognize the privilege of being light-skinned but remain aware of how my appearance contributes to racial categorizations. I engage in organizing international trips for Black individuals, facilitating genuine representation of who we are proudly. Simultaneously, circumstances often arise where we may be judged or have to acclimate to a destination that hasn’t encountered a group of Black travelers before.

Being an ambassador for change is exhilarating. Returning to places years later to find increased diversity resonates with genuine progress. Our travels introduced us to venues in Jaipur, India; Johannesburg, South Africa; and numerous other locales. For us, travel equates to freedom — a rich cultural interplay where we leave pieces of ourselves and embrace parts of others that we cherish.”

Nneya Richards

“I have celebrated a lifelong love affair with travel. My West Indian family is split between the U.S., UK, and Canada, marking travel and community as fundamental aspects of my life. As I grew older, I leaned into this, perceiving travel as a bridge between gaps while also asserting my independence. A perpetual learner, travel satisfies my curiosity and offers peace of mind as a Black American.

Being a traveler of color empowers me with unique access to spaces that may be closed off to my white male counterparts. I understand the value of representation, realizing it’s vital for someone who shares my background to tell my story authentically. Conversely, I embrace an ambassadorial role when exploring destinations where my race is less common. Normalizing Black women traveling holds significant strength.

A few years ago, before Cuba’s borders opened, I traveled there with my mom to volunteer. The warmth of the Cubans who helped us at restaurants was palpable, and their hospitality stemmed from joy in meeting Americans who looked like them. This sentiment resonated with me deeply, empowering us during our journey.

Being a traveler of color, born and raised in NYC, and living as an American profoundly shapes my identity. I perceive myself as a global citizen, bearing multiple passports while navigating the world through the lens of being a Black New Yorker. Often, I must confront the New Yorker instinct to remain aloof and focused, but upon engaging with people, I grapple with whether their curiosity stems from admiration or prejudice. People have reached out to touch my hair in various countries without permission, while I’ve also been subjected to derogatory remarks in others.

As a Black woman traveling alone, I factor race into my safety assessments in a manner that perhaps my white counterparts overlook. My preconceptions of India stemmed from media portrayals primarily featuring white experiences. However, visiting the country revealed a stark contrast between my encounters and those shared by white influencers, which made me vigilant about experiences unique to my identity. Nevertheless, I strive to amplify Black voices within the travel community.”

Choosing my favorite destinations is challenging, but I can list five. South Africa stands out, especially Johannesburg, flourishing after apartheid and focusing on Black empowerment. Morocco also holds fond memories — a birthday celebration in the Atlas Mountains surprises me with celebratory cakes, coupled with the renowned Berber hospitality. While we explored Fez and its markets together, we also visited Chefchaouen. Cuba remains dear, particularly my visit to Havana with my mom, where we volunteered at an arts center. More recently, Medellín, Colombia, left an impression; its robust art scene and beautiful weather captivated me. Last but not least, I cherish time in Singapore exploring food, and my happy place is Sayulita, Mexico.

Racism and prejudice exist in nearly every country, yet that shouldn’t deter exploration. We all deserve to witness the beauty of different cultures globally and participate in cultural exchanges. Living in London, I cherished being identified as American first, creating opportunities to experience privilege. Traveling can bridge cultural misunderstandings, reminding us that ambassadors can come from every background.

Ultimately, we are welcomed and cherished, eager to explore diverse locales. A prevalent topic from my site is 10 African American Friendly Travel Destinations, stemming from an inquiry on Quora. The surprising interest highlights the segment of women and POC travelers often overlooked in narratives of vacationing. Thus, my guiding message is central: only through cultural exchanges can we challenge boundaries and ensure all collective journeys are honored.”

Meredith San Diego

“Travel is my drug of choice, and I have an unyielding addiction to the adventures it presents. Each landing in a new city, country, or culture fills me with wonder unmatched by anything else in my life currently.

To me, being a traveler of color signifies community more than ever. There exists solidarity among POC travelers that uplifts our shared experiences.

Eastern Europe and specific parts of Asia present unique challenges for Black travelers. The rarity of our presence attracts attention; I’ve encountered strange requests for photographs, stared at rudely, and even trailed by strangers recording without consent. Teaching moments are insightful, yet in various situations, my skin color has stripped me of autonomy.

Being a person of color informs my relationship with travel, reminding me of the immense gratitude I hold for these opportunities. Daily, I meet POCs yearning to explore but are hindered by concerns about safety, finances, or simply not being able to recognize that travel is within their reach.

As a traveling individual of color, I’ve embraced the understanding that privilege extends beyond mere skin tone. As a U.S. passport holder, I embody a traveler’s privileges. My experiences reveal that being Black and exploring the world is both rare and necessary, particularly with numerous cultures I visit expressing surprise at meeting an American of my background.

Among my favorite destinations, Australia, Brazil, and Thailand stand out. Having spent nearly a month in Australia, I forged connections with friends I met during previous trips. This epic adventure enabled me to snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef, witness sunrise at Uluru, and bond with local Aboriginal communities while learning about their culture. The continent offers thrilling experiences, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

Brazil captivated me with its stunning vistas and vibrant cultural exchanges, inviting exploration of iconic locations like Ipanema Beach and Ilha Grande. Engaging in local dance parties showcased the rich tapestry of Brazilian culture, particularly its melanin-filled vibrancy.

Thailand holds a special place in my heart; my multiple visits yield new experiences, from volunteering at an elephant rescue to attending an intense writer’s residency, all of which resonate deeply with my spirit.

Ultimately, negative stereotypes of Black Americans perpetuated by the media demand a visible narrative that counters these notions. I aim to provide that visibility for the next generation of travelers.”

Gabrielle Pharms

“I travel approximately four to five times a year, both domestically and internationally. My travel passion stems from childhood experiences shaped by parents who encouraged exploration from a young age.

Being a traveler of color represents an acknowledged privilege. I acknowledge that travel is not a universal right. While challenges arise from traveling as a Black individual, I refuse to let those obstacles hinder my experiences.

Last summer, while my parents and I had a layover in Frankfurt, Germany, we encountered mixed experiences as tourists. Locals consistently reminded us of our skin color — taxi drivers bypassing us in line and airport security singling us out for ‘random’ checks. We faced service refusals at a restaurant.

However, I’ve enjoyed wonderful moments in Europe, experiencing warmth in places like Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Dhërmi, Albania, which felt welcoming despite cultural differences.

I hold a special fondness for the UAE and Albania. Albania’s charm resonates deeply, especially since I learned the language over a decade ago, delighting locals by conversing in their native tongue. Nicaragua also held joy; locals viewed my skin color as ‘good luck’ in one town near San Juan del Sur.

As a traveler of color, I am hyper-aware but refuse to succumb to paranoia. I recognize that in many places worldwide, I will be in the minority.

I refuse to allow the negative attitudes of others to deter me from cherishing the invaluable gift of travel. I will not let racism impede my peace during trips.”

Bani Amor

“Travel shapes our lives significantly. Reflecting on the rich histories of the ancient Valdivia and Huancavilca cultures in modern Ecuador — where my family hails from — I’ve recognized the journey of my ancestors from Spanish incursions to my family’s immigration to Brooklyn in the 1960s, culminating in my travels back to Ecuador and beyond. These pathways underscore my existence.

Challenges faced as a traveler of color often revolve around assuming local identities in unfamiliar territories. I encounter White tourists speaking of me in English, presuming I possess no understanding of their language, along with experiencing constant microaggressions in tourist-driven spaces. Alarming instances, such as being treated as a curiosity due to my American background in foreign lands, cultivate complexities in understanding identity.

Each person’s relationship with travel is intricately influenced by race. Being a traveler of color invites encounters that compel us to evaluate our belonging. Much of our identity can hinge on being perceived as the other, as emphasized by Faith Adiele’s assertion that every time people of color step out of our homes, we undertake a journey.

Racism persists globally, with unique expressions in various contexts. I encourage fellow travelers to immerse themselves in travel literature authored by BIPOC individuals and seek communities of diverse travelers online or in person who have navigated the paths you aspire to explore. Prepare for surprises along the way.”