Young Black Travelers

Season 13, Episode 1: Who Are You When You Travel? 🌍✈️

We're back for Season 13 of the Young Black Travelers Podcast!

In our season premiere, Toni-Ann, Amina, and Simone kick things off by exploring this season's theme: Who Are You When You Travel?

From spontaneous adventures and unforgettable travel experiences to choosing the right travel companions, navigating unexpected challenges, and discovering new sides of ourselves, we're sharing stories, laughs, and lessons learned along the way.

Because travel isn't just about the places you visit—it's also about who you become along the way.

Tune in and join the conversation! What's one thing traveling has taught you about yourself?

Season 12 comes to a close from the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee!

In this special finale, the Young Black Travelers crew reflects on an unforgettable getaway hosted by Getaway Society. From breathtaking mountain views and exploring Anakeesta to meaningful conversations about expectations, community, and finding peace through travel, this episode goes far beyond a typical trip recap.

We discuss our first impressions of Gatlinburg, what surprised us most about visiting Tennessee, how travel can shift your perspective, and why sometimes the best trips aren't about checking attractions off a list—they're about slowing down, connecting with great people, and creating lasting memories.

Whether you're planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains or simply looking for travel inspiration, join us for an honest conversation about the experiences that remind us why we travel in the first place.

In this episode:

• Our Gatlinburg, Tennessee experience
• Exploring Anakeesta
• Staying with Getaway Society
• Expectations vs. reality in Tennessee
• Travel, wellness, and finding peace
• Summer travel plans and dream destinations

Thank you for joining us throughout Season 12. We'll see you next season with more conversations, more destinations, and more stories that inspire you to see the world.

Cape Town has been called one of the most beautiful cities in the world—but does it live up to the hype?

In Part 2 of our South Africa series, Asher shares why Cape Town exceeded every expectation. From breathtaking views of Table Mountain and unforgettable sunsets overlooking the city to colorful seaside neighborhoods and the powerful history of Robben Island, this episode explores what makes Cape Town unlike anywhere else.

The conversation also dives into the differences between Cape Town and Johannesburg, the city's unique landscape where mountains meet the ocean, and the cultural and racial dynamics that continue to shape modern South Africa.

Whether you're planning your first trip or simply dreaming about visiting, this episode offers an honest look at one of the world's most unforgettable destinations—and why South Africa deserves a place on every traveler's bucket list.

In this episode:

• Why Cape Town is considered one of the world's most beautiful cities
• Table Mountain, Robben Island & unforgettable viewpoints
• Hidden gems like Muizenberg
• Cape Town vs. Johannesburg: Which city is right for you?
• Travel tips for first-time visitors
• Exploring South Africa's history, culture, and modern identity

🎧 Press play and discover why Cape Town is so much more than a postcard.

What happens when your idea of South Africa is challenged the moment you land?

In this episode of the Young Black Travelers Podcast, YBT's newest host, Amina, sits down with Asher to unpack his unforgettable journey through Johannesburg. From the powerful history of Soweto and the lasting impact of apartheid to the vibrant energy of local neighborhoods, incredible food, and unforgettable conversations, this episode goes far beyond the typical travel guide.

Asher shares practical advice on where to stay, why a guided township tour is essential, how to experience Johannesburg safely, and why Monday nights might just be the city's best-kept secret. Along the way, the conversation explores how travel can deepen our understanding of history, challenge stereotypes, and connect us with people and cultures in meaningful ways.

Whether South Africa is already on your bucket list or you've never considered visiting, this conversation offers valuable insights, honest reflections, and plenty of inspiration for your next adventure.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Why Johannesburg surprised Asher in the best ways.
• The importance of visiting Soweto with a knowledgeable local guide.
• How apartheid's history still shapes modern South Africa.
• Safety tips and the best areas for first-time visitors.
• Local food, music, nightlife, and authentic cultural experiences.
• Why Johannesburg deserves more than the reputation you've heard.

Pack your curiosity—this is just the beginning of our South Africa series.

Discover the transformative power of travel through the eyes of a young Afro-Latino student from Staten Island who just stepped off a plane in Puerto Rico for the first time. Ronald Wilder’s candid story of his island adventure reveals how crossing borders opens minds, breaks stereotypes, and ignites purpose—all while sharing the vibrant cultures of the Caribbean. This episode isn't just about a trip; it’s a celebration of exploration, education, and the profound personal growth that comes from experiencing the world firsthand.From navigating the airport chaos to feeling the Caribbean heat for the first time, Ronald takes you on an authentic journey of discovery. He shares the surprise of seeing how close the islands really are, the sensory overload of local foods, and the awe-inspiring rainforest adventures that deepened his understanding of biology and nature. You’ll hear about his jet ski rides on turquoise waters, the bioluminescent bay that illuminated his spirit, and how these experiences shattered his previous notions about travel—showing that stepping out of your comfort zone is the real lesson.You’ll discover how travel broadens perspectives: Ronald reflects on the importance of cultural immersion in shaping open-minded leaders and the vital role of education outside the classroom. He emphasizes the significance of experiential learning and how moments in nature and community connect us across borders. His story offers practical insights for young explorers, highlighting the power of travel to inspire future ambitions—like becoming a prosecuting attorney or studying abroad in England and France.Why does this matter? Because countless young Black and LatinX students face barriers to global experiences, missing out on critical cultural and personal growth opportunities. Ronald’s journey is a rallying cry to embrace travel as a tool for empowerment, resilience, and global understanding—especially for those who’ve never left their hometowns. His story demonstrates that a single trip can redefine your identity, expand your worldview, and spark a lifelong passion for exploration.This episode is perfect for students, educators, parents, and anyone curious about the impact of experiential travel. Whether you’re dreaming of your first abroad trip or seeking to inspire the next generation to see beyond their neighborhood, Ronald’s story invites you to join the movement to travel with purpose. Hit play and start reimagining what’s possible—because the world is waiting.

On this feature of the YBT Podcast we talk with Jermaine Cameron ,Principal of The Eagle Academy for Young Men of Staten Island and Ronald Wilder, a student leader, who is about to travel to Puerto Rico for the first time. We discusses the importance of travel and the impact it has on young people of color, as well as the role of community support in enabling these experiences.

Takeaways

• Community support is essential for enabling young people to experience travel and explore the world.
  
• Travel provides young people with the opportunity to broaden their horizons, experience different cultures, and gain valuable life experiences.

In this episode of the Young Black Travelers Podcast, we sit down with Principal Jermaine Cameron of the Eagle Academy for Young Men of Staten Island and one of their students, Ronald, as he prepares for a life-changing trip to Puerto Rico.

For Ronald, this journey represents more than just travel—it’s his first time on a plane, his first experience traveling outside of the mainland U.S., and an opportunity to experience a new culture in a completely different way.

Through the support of the Young Black Travelers community, donors, and Eagle Academy’s commitment to student exposure and development, Ronald received donation funds to help support his upcoming trip. Throughout the conversation, we explore why opportunities like this matter, especially for young people who may not always have access to travel, cultural experiences, or environments outside of what they’ve grown up around.

Principal Cameron also shares Eagle Academy’s mission to create globally conscious and globally competitive young men through exposure, education, and experiences beyond the classroom. From conversations about first-time travel and Puerto Rican culture to discussions around community support, mentorship, and student empowerment, this episode highlights the real impact that opportunity and exposure can have on a young person’s life.

Ronald also opens up about:
• Preparing for his first flight
• What he hopes to experience in Puerto Rico
• Why community and support systems matter
• The educators who helped shape and encourage him
• His message to other young people about starting young, staying humble, and remaining determined

This episode is a reminder that travel is more than just vacations—it can be a tool for growth, confidence, perspective, and transformation.

Listen now and join the conversation.

#YoungBlackTravelers #PuertoRico #StudentTravel #TravelOpportunities #Community #YouthEmpowerment

Brazil isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling.

In this episode of Young Black Travelers, we sit down with traveler and content creator Jacque from The Travel Hour to unpack his experiences traveling through Brazil, from the bustling streets of São Paulo to the deeply rooted Black culture of Salvador Bahia and the vibrant energy of Rio de Janeiro.

What starts as a travel conversation quickly becomes something deeper: a discussion about identity, culture, community, music, history, and the powerful feeling of seeing yourself reflected in another part of the world.

We talk about:

• Why Brazil felt like “home”
• The cultural significance of Salvador Bahia
• Differences between São Paulo, Salvador, and Rio
• The impact of music, dance, and community spaces
• Hidden Black communities and experiences travelers often overlook
• Travel planning tips and the value of slower travel
• How cultural exchange changes the way we experience the world

Whether you’re planning your first trip to Brazil or simply curious about the deeper layers of Caribbean and Afro-Latin culture, this episode offers insight, perspective, and stories you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with the founder of Travel Bay to break down what it really looks like to travel across Africa—and why most people are approaching it completely wrong.

With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry and having built a multi-million dollar travel agency in Nigeria, our guest shares the deeper story behind Travel Bay and its mission to simplify travel across the African continent.

We get into the reality that many people—both in the diaspora and within Africa itself—don’t actually know where to start when it comes to exploring the continent. From limited information to trust concerns and overwhelming logistics, there’s a real gap that keeps people from experiencing everything Africa has to offer.

But here’s the truth: Africa isn’t one experience.

From cultural festivals and city life to mountains, beaches, safaris, and hidden destinations most people have never even heard of—the diversity is unmatched. And the key question becomes: what’s your vibe?

We also dive into:

• Why Africa’s travel industry is rapidly growing—and what that means for travelers
• The disconnect between perception vs. reality when it comes to African destinations
• How social media is reshaping how people discover and connect with Africa
• The biggest mistakes first-time travelers make
• How Travel Bay is creating a seamless, curated experience for travelers from the diaspora

Whether you’re planning your first trip or just starting to explore the idea, this conversation will challenge how you think about travel—and open your eyes to what’s actually possible.

#Travel Bay, #diasporatravel, #traveltipsAfrica, #culturaltravel, #Blacktravel, #exploreAfrica, #travelplanning

The conversation covers the Trinidad Carnival experience, including the YBT Tribe for Carnival 2026, the Tobago experience, performances, and the Road March competition. It also delves into the music and cultural aspects of the carnival, providing insights and reflections on the overall experience. The conversation delves into the competitive nature of the road march competition, the impact of soca music in New York, the storytelling of the road march heist, and the personal reflections on the significance of carnival as a celebration of freedom and unity.

Takeaways

• Trinidad Carnival experience
• Music and performances
• Road March competition Carnival is a celebration of freedom and unity
• The road march competition involves strategic campaigning and promotion

Chapters

• 00:00 Pigeon Point Beach and Cultural Experience
• 18:02 The Road March Competition
• 24:40 The Road March Heist Story and Carnival Experience
• 31:17 Defining Carnival and Its Significance