Why More People of Color Should Blog About Travel Posted on June 17, 2026June 17, 2026 Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... I am not a black blogger. I am a blogger who happens to be black. And I follow several travel bloggers for their unique perspectives on travel. I never cared what color they were. Unfortunately, too few of them are black or ethnic voices. More Black People Should Blog because there aren’t enough voices that speak to me. As a black traveler, I face certain stereotypes when traveling, here, and abroad. Some stereotypes have a firm root in perception, in beliefs that are primarily perpetuated by mass media. However, those stereotypes generally have no basis. But with no rebuttals, these beliefs will maintain their stronghold until someone like me, a blogger, who is black, contradicts them. Table of Contents We All Have a Story to Tell Mass Marketing, TV and Promotional Advertising The Green Book More Black People Are Traveling Abroad Black Content Creators Offer Unique Perspectives Black People Should Blog to Inform Black Travel Dollars Matter Validation Like it? Pin it! We all Have a Story to Tell I love a good story. But it’s not about re-writing our story, it’s about allowing us to tell it in the first place. And show it, as we live it out. I read that somewhere, and it struck a chord with me. Unfortunately, too few of us are telling our stories—too few of us giving our travel impressions when it comes to traveling as a person of color. And although I can’t definitively call some of the treatment I’ve encountered prejudice. I have quite a few question marks that left a bad taste in my mouth. The truth is, it’s bigger than just travel. The world, riddled with large platforms, dilute our experiences as not universal. Black voices are considered unrelatable because of the color of our skin. We need to relay the fact that embracing stories of color does not alienate white audiences. Everyone admits that we should strive for diversity until it makes some of us uncomfortable. I write with all my senses. I try to imagine the smells, tastes, textures, colors, and sounds. And I believe it makes my blogging better. The world of travel blogging will be a much better platform with a little more color– a bit more flavor too. Check out the Blooms and Tradition: 83rd Tulip Festival in Orange City. Mass Marketing, TV and Promotional Advertising Last year, according to Nielson, less than 3% of overall advertising showcased African Americans. Unfortunately, the travel industry is not marketing to African American travelers. When I see ads on TV, we are not represented. I don’t see many pictures of people of color relaxing on the deck of a Vietnamese junk boat, trekking through the Balinese terraced rice paddies, or feeding our minds, bodies, and souls in the red sands of Sedona. But I went anyway because I could see myself doing it. Black people should blog more because we have the same ability to inspire. Today, the frustration runs deeper than representation alone. Many Black consumers are watching companies quietly step back from diversity initiatives and inclusive marketing while continuing to pursue our business. We know our dollars matter. We know we travel. We know we influence trends. Yet we are often reminded that our stories, experiences, and purchasing power are still treated as secondary. If the travel industry chooses not to tell our stories, we can tell them ourselves. We can show where we go, what we value, and why our voices belong in every travel conversation. Is Spain on your travel bucket list? Here are five reasons you should book a flight. The Green Book Travel is relatively new for blacks in America. During segregation, African-American travelers had a difficult time finding towns where they were legally allowed to stay at hotels, eat in restaurants, or just find gas stations willing to serve them. Victor Hugo Green wrote the first and much needed, a guide for road-tripping black travelers in 1936. The Negro Travelers’ Green Book was an annual guidebook for African-American travelers. It was commonly referred to as the Green Book. Published by New York City mailman Victor Hugo Green from 1936 to 1966, it helped black travelers safely cross the country during the Jim Crow laws era. More Black People are Traveling Abroad There are many reasons why people of color are traveling more. Fortunately, incomes have been steadily rising, and black people, young and old, are traveling abroad. Besides, the military, study abroad programs, and missionary outreach opportunities in churches and public service have encouraged a greater desire and ability to fly. View this post on Instagram Black Content Creators Offer Unique Perspectives Travel can come with an added layer of awareness for people of color. In many places, we may be the first Black person someone has met. For others, their impressions come from television, movies, music videos, or news reports. Those limited portrayals often shape expectations before a single word is exchanged. As a Black woman, I move through the world with that reality in mind. My husband and I are often more aware of how we present ourselves when we travel. He tends to overtip. I tend to share stories and answer questions. We know that for some people, we may be their only interaction with a Black traveler. Fair or not, we often find ourselves serving as informal ambassadors. Black People Should Blog to Inform One example happened during a trip to Croatia. A group of young boys greeted us by yelling, “Hey ni@@as.” My friend’s first reaction was anger. She wanted to confront them immediately. Yet something about the way they said it made me pause. It sounded more curious than hostile, almost as if they were repeating a phrase they had heard in a rap song or on television without understanding its meaning. Later, we learned they had never met a Black person before. Their greeting reflected what they believed Black people said to one another. Instead of taking offense, I saw an opportunity for a conversation. As a Black woman with natural hair that I often wear in twists, I attract attention in places where people are unfamiliar with Black culture. I’ve had strangers touch my hair without asking. I’ve unraveled and retwisted my hair for curious Korean women who wanted to see how it worked. In Cambodia, people compared their skin tone to mine. In China and Cambodia, strangers stopped me for photographs more times than I could count. I’ve been hugged, kissed, and told how much people loved Black women in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, and Cambodia. I don’t believe a single interaction can erase prejudice or undo years of assumptions. Still, if posing for a photo, answering a question, or sharing a brief conversation helps someone see beyond a stereotype, I’m willing to make the effort. Real understanding often begins with a simple human connection. Black Travel Dollars Matter People of color have much more money to travel. And the desire to go is increasing year after year. According to Phil Good Travel, Black travelers spent $63 billion on travel in 2018. Airbnb has also noted the growing influence of Black travelers, describing this period as an era in which Black Americans are helping shape travel trends and destinations. Yet many Black consumers are increasingly asking a simple question: if our dollars are welcomed, why aren’t our voices? Consumers are paying closer attention to where companies spend their advertising dollars, which communities they support, and whether their actions match their public statements. Many of us have watched companies quietly step back from diversity initiatives and inclusive marketing while continuing to pursue our business. Representation is no longer just about seeing a familiar face in a brochure. It is about feeling valued as a customer and respected as a member of the travel community. Black travelers are not asking for special treatment. We are asking to be acknowledged as part of the market we help support. The evidence of Black travel is everywhere. It is visible across Instagram, blogs, YouTube channels, travel groups, and social media communities. We are exploring the world, sharing our experiences, and influencing where others choose to go. That is why Black travel content matters. Every blog post, photograph, review, and travel story helps document a reality that can no longer be ignored. Check this out: Black Female Travelers: Enriching the Global Travel Narrative Validation People of color should blog more because there are tons of stereotypes about black people. One is that black people do not travel. And when we do, we go to places like the Caribbean or Las Vegas. While this is true for a few of my friends, it’s not right for all of us. We do travel; mass media has chosen to ignore it. And like photos, we don’t take it. If we don’t post them, it didn’t happen. African Americans are traveling more than ever. Black travelers don’t have to stay in America. We are also not just representing other African Americans; we are Americans. Because, again, TV and the news don’t define us as people. We can show our true selves to other cultures. It’s a chance to show we are not angry, violent, lazy, or unintelligent. A Form of Expression I am a military brat. I mostly attended the Department of Defense (DOD) schools around the world. They mainly were predominantly white schools. More than likely, I was the only black face in the classroom. And it never bothered. Just the opposite, I got used to it– welcomed the opportunity to stand out. I’ve always hated the idea of being like everyone else. And even though it’s trying to be the sole representative for black people, it gave me a rare opportunity to do just that. My voice got louder as I got older. Like it? Pin it! I love sharing stories, lessons from abroad, and tips for curious travelers. If my work has inspired you or made you smile, please buy me a coffee. Your support helps me keep the blog running—at no cost to you. My articles are available as mobile apps for offline reading and GPS-assisted directions. Download my articles on GPSMyCity. This post contains sponsored and/or affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission. BLACK WOMEN WHO TRAVEL communitytraveling while black
I completely agree with that. I a blogger who’s also black and one of my reasons for blogging was to share my voice and show more representation as a black woman. I wanted a space where black peoples especially black woman would be portrayed in a positive light. I haven’t travel yet. I’m waiting til I’m done with college and have my finance more in order but I hope to travel soon and have a good time enjoying it. Thank you for sharing your journey. Reply
Hi Darceline, thanks for the comment. Travel can be expensive but I hope you get the chance to travel soon. I’ll have to check out your blog too. Reply
What an interesting post! I totally agree with this. I wish I saw more people of color like myself, but unfortunately–that isn’t the case. Thanks for sharing! Reply
I agree, they should be encourage to blog and tell their own story, especially the stories that only locals knows. It is sometimes different reading stories that only relayed by a non-local. Reply
You are so right. And people shouldn’t have a problem with a different viewpoint. Agree to disagree is a polite and perfectly understandable position. Reply
I admire your train of thought 🙂 You’ve raised both interesting and inspiring points. Truly, travelling does wonders for breaking stereotypes and building genuine connections. I think bloggers (and travellers) have come a long way! And we shouldn’t stop 🙂 Reply
Thank you. It’s important to be a part of the solution and not the problem itself. Only open dialogue accomplishes that. Reply
Very thought provoking post. That is unfortunate that you had those experiences while traveling and on vacation. It’s great that you are sharing these experiences. Great post. Reply
representation is so important in the marketing and advertising field because the audience should be able to relate Reply
I really really love your perspective on this. And how you respond to people..having an understanding that they don’t know any different. Unless someone educated them, they’ll never know. It’s sad that we do live in a world with so much prejudice and stereotyping…we all really need to get the fact that we are equals and all deserve the same respect. Reply
Yes to all of this! Representation is super important to me as a mother. I believe that as a woman of color it important to show our younger generations that they can do different things. Writing is a way to share advice to others and a release for myself. Reply
I 100% agree. Representation is important. The more black bloggers we have, the more people will understand what it means to be black … which means that it looks different for every person. I also think it gives white people like myself a look into what it’s like to travel to some places and the challenges that people of color may face that I never thought of. Reply
Here in the Philippines, bloggers are a dime a dozen. There’s no delineation anymore between professional ones and hecklers. But hey, it’s a free world. Reply
Unfortunately you are so right, there are still so many stereotypes about people of color and not many of them travel. I don’t think I met many, especially in South East Asia or in Eastern Europe. Reply
very well said! I always believe that we write to express and not to impress. continue pursuing your passion. Reply
Very well written. I can feel you. It’s really sad that people consider this color game and it matters to them. I just love “A form of Expression” part. I love to read the blogs no matter who wrote it. Reply
I think you make a valid point. I think everyone should be represented in all spheres and to make the conversation relevant and bring unique stories. You know, to know the truth from the one’s living it 🙂 Reply
Blogging can be such a great platform for sharing truth and supporting a cause. The world has all kinds of views though, all you can do is be understanding and vigilant. Reply
I seriously couldn’t agree more! It think we are in desperate need of different perspectives. I have wonderful friends who are WOC and I really wish their voices could be heard more. Would share a lot more awareness. Reply
I seriously couldn’t agree more! It think we are in desperate need of different perspectives. I have wonderful friends who are WOC and I really wish their voices could be heard more.. Reply
I seriously couldn’t agree more! It think we are in desperate need of different perspectives. I have wonderful friends who are WOC and I really wish their voices could be heard more. Reply
Although I believe diversity is such an important thing in life and in blogging, I hope someday in my lifetime that I see a world where color and ethnicity does not matter, and just people do 🙂 Reply
Our world still has a long way to go when it comes to treating people for who they are and not for the color of their skin. We all have to learn to be accepting of other people. Reply
Girl I so agree! I love that you point out ‘too few of us are sharing our story.’ I believe that is true across the board. But I would love to see more variety in social media and blogs! Reply
It is a really great way to express opinions and an even better way to network! I am with ya girl! Reply
Im not 100% agree with the post. When I read, I dont look if the author is black, white, gay, straigh, etc. I just read and focus on the post itself! We still need to learn to apreciatte that we have more things in common than the ones that separate us. I dont need someone on tv to represent me, I dont need to mark the differences, I love to see each others as one, with same feelings, problems and goals. Together. Reply
A very interesting article. You make a compelling argument for it. I must confess that it’s not really something I’ve thought about, as I just see bloggers as bloggers. Reply
You are right. That is one of the reasons I started blogging. I am from India and noticed that a certain group of people have certain ideas expectations from travel, and ai am trying to cater to that. Reply
This is such an insightful post, and very true too. I don’t see many popular travel bloggers of colour, but we do exist! It’s good you’re open minded when traveling; I always get called exotic in Italy, and that’s okay with me, as I know they mean it in a beautiful way lol Reply
This is a great point! Diversity is so important with travel blogging as people of color can share their unique experiences that other travel bloggers may not face. Reply
Diversity in blogging is a good thing. Yes to more minority groups springing up and being shared. Reply
I agree, everyone should blog, doesn’t matter skin color, I love to see and rad everyone’s point of view. Reply
Diversity is good in every sphere of activities be it food, travel or education. Hence it’s a great idea that more people of color should blog. Reply
I totally agree with all of these. We need to accept others culture. I appreciate how you posted this and represents others thru your blog. Reply
Such a shame that people are still stereotyping people of color. You seem to have a good way of handling it. Reply
So true, it’s so important to have diversity in the blogging world! People always look to bloggers to relate to them, the more diversity we bring to blogging the better we become as a community. Reply
It’s a great article but honestly (and this has nothing to do with you) I’m so tired of the colour/race divide. It shouldn’t matter what colour or country u come from for your blog to be a success Reply
With no disrespect thats exactky what this post says. I don’t follow white or black bloggers, I follow bloggers who interest me. But unfortunately marketing campaigns have put us in a niche if a niche. I wish and hope one day it will be just that simple. Reply
I totally agree! I love learning about people from all walks of life and hearing about their experiences:) Reply
Yes! I think this is so important! POCs have such different experiences and views and stories and they have to be told, but they can’t be told by the people who are traditionally held as, you know, those top bloggers. Definitely keep sharing your story and influence others to share their stories too! Reply
so agree. so important to really represent as many people as we can in our beautiful blogging community. we are such a small yet large community and it would be amazing to see more people being represented. Reply
Nothing beats diversity in all areas of life. Thank you for sharing your perspective, I agree 🙂 Reply
I totally agree with this. It is so important to have diversity in all areas and make sure that people see that. Something that people don’t really think about. Reply
I don’t understand why this is not common knowledge. No society improves without an influx of new ideas, knowledge and invention. Reply
Here in the philippines, anyone who’s foreign whatever color will most likely get stares mentioned. It’s not just about being black, but it’s looking different than most people. That’s how people are usually -aren’t they? If they see someone who’s different than most people in their community, they tend to stare in fascination. I never have given thought about black people not blogging more before reading your post. Because honestly, I see a lot of black women blog. I didn’t realize any of those things you mentioned until after reading your post, which I enjoyed, btw. Reply
My husband is black, I’m white, and we are full-time RVers who travel the US visiting different places, meeting new people, and writing about our experiences. We love it! We camp at state, national and rv parks, and military bases (husband is retired Navy), and have found most people to be very nice, polite and welcoming. We’ve always heard that about the RVing community, and so far, it’s proven true. That doesn’t, however, mean we don’t still occasionally get “the look.” I’m sure most bi-racial couples know exactly what I’m talking about. We’ve noticed a huge disparity in the numbers of black and white campers at virtually every place we’ve stayed, and we find it a little disheartening. That’s not to say we don’t enjoy ourselves, but it would be nice to see more diversity within the lifestyle we’ve embarked upon. We’ve always wondered if it’s the lifestyle that black people are not drawn to, or if black people feel the lifestyle isn’t welcoming to them. We hope it’s neither! Travel, whether it’s to a new city in your own state, or out of the country, is something everyone should experience without the worry of being judged by something as superficial as skin-tone. People always say “this is 2018…racism doesn’t exist anymore!” Yes, it does. Maybe not as much as in the past, but it still does. I know, I’ve experienced it, as has my husband. And this can be a factor in a persons willingness to travel to new places, and certainly whether or not they share their experiences. It’s crucial for people like you to continue writing on this topic… you will encourage and inspire others to get their stories out there, whether in the written or physical sense. Change doesn’t happen until issues are brought to light… and this article is certainly a good start! Thank you! Reply
I so agree. I enjoy reading all experiences from people of all walks of life. You learn things that way, which is always a plus. Reply
I agree with everything you said in this post but mainly with representation. People of colors are not often representing and young people don’t really have role models to look out for. So people of color blogging can give representation, show that it is possible, etc Reply
Yes, representation is important. Especially if we claim to be a fair world. Then marketing campaigns should reflect the society that watches them, but unfortunately it doesn’t. That’s too bad because I don’t make a point not to follow bloggers who are white. So why do some marketing campaigns think ethnic bloggers wouldn’t appeal to white folks too. Reply
Thank you Monidipa. I appreciate that. I hope to see more voices represented online and in mass media marketing campaigns in the future. Reply
I completely agree with you that more people of colour should blog. It’s not ok to only get a small portion of a person’s perception. The way I travel and the challenges I face are vastly different from the way a person of colour travels and the challenges they face. Not only could it help encourage other POC to travel but would help educate (even though it is not the responsibility of POC to educate) those who do not regularly interact with POC. Reply
True. But I do think its our responsibility to educate people when we encounter ignorance. Now its up to that person how they respond to it. At first I thought only for people we care about or see frequently. But I changed my mind as I typed to include casual meetings, because it might be the only occasion when it can be done– if they don’t interact with people of color. At least the next time, they will have to the information and decide whether they will ignore it– which then changes from ignorance to something uglier. did I ramble? I hope you can follow my logic. lol Reply
I’ll try not to go off the rails here. We were a military family too. We lived on base for a little while, and there was plenty of discrimination against Officers and their families, so nobody would come to our son’s birthday parties unless they were of the same rank. I used to work in an international engineering firm, and I have long, blonde hair. When folks from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore came for meetings, they would flip out over my appearance. Some were excited – some from other cultures were shocked, and I was forced to cover my hair with a scarf. Now, living in a major city in Canada, we experienced true discrimination for the first time. We had to move, and we could not for the life of us find a house we could rent. 95% of the 47 houses I applied to rent, I was turned down – only to find out later that the Asian or African landlord had rented it to – you got it – an Asian or an African. In fact, one lady from Nairobi agreed to rent me their house, and was drafting up the terms, and it was an hour before I was to meet her to sign the lease, when she called and blatantly told me that a family from Nairobi had applied, and that she ‘needed’ to rent it to them. I can’t imagine what you go through. It was a real wake-up call to me. And you’re right – I never noticed, but you never see an African-American sunbathing or exploring Italy in the travel brochures! Reply
I totally get this. Until we and I mean all people can get past ethnic race, this will continue to be a plague on our existence as members of the human race. I saw what you describe in China and South Korea. The locals were just as fascinated by blond hair and blue eyes as they were with my twist and brown skin. My dearest friends repeatedly admonished me to wear hats to keep from getting darker. And siblings were separately praised if one was fairer in complexion. We have to learn to accept whatever we were born with and be open to accept others and instead judge people for their inner beauty. Reply
I couldn’t agree more! I know it’s fascinating to see people that we’re not used to, but people have to ask themselves, ‘is it really appropriate for me to touch her hair? Photograph her?’ Funny how that is. Reply