Discover why the true value of travel isn’t in the cost, but in the memories we create with the people we love. In this EbonyTravelers blog, Dr. Donna shares why waiting for the “perfect” time or budget may mean missing the most unforgettable experiences.

Most people board a plane thinking only of the destination—not realizing the aircraft may have flown five times already that day, carrying hundreds of strangers with it. As someone who’s lived behind the curtain of air travel, I can tell you: what you don’t know matters.

Travel is in a state of chaos—not just for new travelers, but even for the most seasoned among us. And for Black travelers and travelers of color, the experience often comes with an extra layer of complexity.

I’ve been a wife, a mother, a flight attendant, and a caretaker. But solo travel reminded me that before all of that—I was me.

There’s something beautifully transformative about traveling alone. No expectations. No compromises. Just you, learning what you love, rediscovering your voice, and moving at your own pace. When you become the itinerary, you stop waiting for permission to live fully.

We travel—because, for many of us, it’s part of how we breathe. But in this new reality, it’s more important than ever to ask: Am I traveling to heal, or am I just trying to get away from what I don’t want to face?

If you’re only planning for your flight time, you’re missing the bigger picture. There’s the reality of navigating airports, delays, weather disruptions, and crowds—and that reality isn’t always picture-perfect. 

Traveling is often painted as the ultimate freedom—the chance to escape, explore, and experience new cultures.  But when you’re in an interracial relationship, the journey often comes with unspoken challenges. 

Don’t wait for “someday.”
Travel while you still can.
Not when it’s convenient. Not just in retirement.
Now—while the energy, health, and curiosity are yours.

Fear of flying is more common than most people admit, and it doesn’t mean you have to give up your love for travel.  It means you need the tools to manage your fear, reclaim your confidence, and keep going.

Whether it’s a surprise baggage fee at the airport, a last-minute taxi ride because the hotel shuttle stopped running, a hefty resort fee hidden in the fine print, or a cant-resist souvenir, unexpected expenses can sneak into any trip—and quickly blow your budget.

Whether you're flying internationally or simply returning home, today's travel landscape in the U.S. is increasingly hostile—especially for travelers of color. The choice is yours. But you deserve to fly when you're ready—when the skies are safer, the laws are fairer, and your humanity is recognized from check-in to customs.

Sometimes, it’s not turbulence or delays that disrupt a flight experience; it’s positional power—the invisible weight of authority worn in a uniform or carried in a title.

In the wake of recent tragedies with girls or group trips. There are too many cautionary tales, and it’s time we talk honestly about how choosing convenience or price over compatibility and safety can cost far more than expected.

Beyond travel, having a REAL ID is more than just getting from point A to B—it’s about having an ID that leaves no room for doubt when dealing with law enforcement or security officials. REAL ID-compliant cards will have a specific marking on the upper portion of the card.

The racism we navigate in everyday life doesn’t take a vacation just because we do. Sometimes, it becomes even more pronounced when we step into unfamiliar spaces, where our presence is questioned, our experiences are dismissed, or where we become the target of subtle (or not-so-subtle) discrimination.

A modern Green Book could be an essential resource, providing safety tips, culturally affirming destinations, and a sense of community for travelers of color. Considering the changes the United States is now experiencing, here’s why this guide is more relevant than ever.

Traveling should be an adventure, not a hassle—but anyone who’s tried to navigate inconsistent carry-on rules across airlines knows it can feel like a battle. Showing up in certain spaces as travelers of color often comes with its own challenges, and the last thing we need is to add unnecessary stress over something as simple as a bag.

Not all travel blogs are created equal. Some are built on personal opinions and fleeting experiences, while others, like EbonyTravelers, are deeply rooted in years of lived experience, cultural insight, and industry expertise.

There was a time when air travel was a luxury, and passengers dressed accordingly. Now, whether for personal comfort or to adhere to airline dress codes, your travel outfit can make or break your journey.

Solo travel has taught me the value of listening to my needs, pursuing my travel style unapologetically. Most importantly, it has taught me to choose the right travel partner to have the best travel experiences.