5 Things To Expect When Travelling While Black

[@mariposapapillon9261]

Traveling while Black in my own country -- the United States of America -- has been most troublesome.

[@caciliawhy5195]

True. The black people in the south and in Chicago treated me badly because I was white.

[@koldraiynedownskayle5744]

Because the media highlights foolishness to point the country in the way they want. Both the Obama and Trump Presidencies were a result of white guilt and resentment, respectively.

[@wandahwisdom5646]

... at some times, one doesn't even have to 'travel' that far afield... could be walking to the corner store. :-(

[@dirtyd9792]

@@caciliawhy5195 I know right !! They always complain..

[@JohnSmith-qj6bj]

I just came back from Barcelona and Marrakech, and I felt more respected there, than just walking a city block @ home u.s.a.

[@Seldomtraveler]

When I was living in Singapore, my wife had Bantu knots, this Chinese lady started staring at her in a mall, then started circling her looking at her hair, front to back. My wife is from Chicago, she doesn't take kindly to space invasion. Lol. So she started circling her it was like a show down. Lol

[@Seldomtraveler]

LaraUAE nope. She was acting what's the big deal, I'm just looking @ your head, stand still so I can look. They literally circled each other in a busy shopping mall hallway

[@Seldomtraveler]

LaraUAE +LaraUAE nope. She was acting what's the big deal, I'm just looking @ your head, stand still so I can look. They literally circled each other in a busy shopping mall hallway

[@kingcyr6088]

seldom traveler 😂😂😂😂

[@PattiCake]

seldom traveler She was trying to figure out how to do that style to make a profit off of it. Asians make a hella lot of money from black people regarding hair and beauty

[@gc6929]

That is literally the best possible way to respond to that situation.

[@billligon4005]

As a 75 year old Black gay man who loves to travel, your comments are ‘spot’ on. I now travel with my partner on cruise ships, since it’s so much easier for people with mobility issues. We are taking our 3rd World Cruise Jan 2019. When the majority of people on long cruises rare White American, you can say you take your racism with you. When they find our your political beliefs they cannot reconcile your ability to travel on a World Cruise and the fact that you are Black. When we get to ports I always give a sigh of relief when I set foot in a foreign port, as you are finally, if only briefly, in a place that welcomes you. I always count the number of black people on cruise ships and always the number is increasing. Last cruise was about 10 Black people, out of 1300 people on the ship. Love you comments - Keep Calm and TRAVEL on.

[@dejakeith2291]

Her teeth are perfect!!!

[@DavyBaby3000]

They are very perfect and she is very pretty.

[@jamilabest8360]

Thank you for your video, Oneika! I've been around, and I feel like the place where I was the most turned off - like won't visit again is Panama. I was traveling there by myself, and ended up finding companions in a Peruvian and Puerto Rican woman pair. It didn't matter where we went, I was blatantly ignored, charged more for goods than my companions would, and could see blatant moments of racism. We went to go eat at an outdoor fish market. One side was clean, smelled OK, had LOTS of Mestizos. Another side - mainly Black, smelled HORRIBLE, cheap food, etc. I asked the waitress why people were separated like that, and she was like: they just want to drink all day and be drunks. Couldn't be serious. La Peruana didn't speak out at all when people would look at us and say, "You two, fifteen total...she pays twenty." She looked at me and was like, "That's Latin America, boo. We're not racist, everyone has the same opportunities." After we had just had a conversation about racial inequities in the US, I was surprised by her remarks. Needless to say, I ditched my companions early on, and spent the rest of my trip with a set of Black males who befriended me on the beach. I felt completely secure, but mainly because they shielded me from the nonsense. I did find some Panamanians who recognized the racial injustices, so it's not like the people don't notice, but it definitely made me uncomfortable enough that I wrote Panama off my list of places to return.

[@gnrepetova]

Wow. You would expect a LITTLE more from a country who has their own black people. Ridiculous.

[@carennasimiyu-overcoming5976]

sorry for that

[@sherrisolomon8673]

Jamila Best. You better Give Nikki MInaj her name back! lol!

[@sherrisolomon8673]

Jamila Best WOW! I thought Panama was cool. My stepdad is from there. He's Black afro Panamanian.

[@playboymaxim]

Just cause a country has black folk in it doesn't mean they're not treated terribly, look at DR or the US of KKK

[@BrunettexxxBabii]

I worked in Cape Town, South Africa. There was no racism towards me but I noticed it towards the black South Africans. My bosses (who are white) would talk to the black maid like she was an idiot but talked to me like I was white. One day my boss was complaining to me about the blacks but said that her statements didn't apply to me because I'm from America so I'm "civilized". As if me being American somehow separates me from the others and gives me a pass.

[@BrunettexxxBabii]

Wilsonian Garveyite The point i was making is that there was nothing wrong with the blacks and I didn't understand the racism towards them! I met and befriended just as many of them as I did the coloured and white South Africans.

[@patriceh8444]

LB ur boss is a ass

[@patriceh8444]

LB did u tell ur boss to bite the fat part of ur butt

[@cryptonova5110]

Wow. I'm heading there next month. Hope I don't experience that

[@BronzeSista]

@lucy gluce she didn't say she wasn't Black.

[@RokiaNY]

Thanks for posting - I'm a white American who spent 2 years in the Peace Corps in rural Mali. Being the only white person for 30 miles meant I got stared at and randomly touched a lot, too... I got used to it (it was only the kids and women touching me, not the men). I also was the first white person some of the kids had seen, and scared the crap out of them. The moms tell their kids that if they're bad, the white people would come and eat them. They thought it was HILARIOUS when their kids freaked out the first time they saw me. ;-D And as for touching--I finally just started touching people right back. They thought it was funny, and it was an icebreaker. I wouldn't have done it with men, but like I said, that wasn't an issue. The whole black/white dynamic was so completely different there. People had no problem commenting on/asking about my appearance. On the other hand, they had no problem with me asking about/commenting on their appearance. It was really nice to be able to ask those questions like "how do you wash braided hair without it getting all frizzy" or "do you get tan lines" which I was always afraid would cause offense in the US. No one minded, it took two seconds to explain, and then everyone went on with their lives. People were very interested to see MY tan lines, to hear that I had to put stuff on my skin every day so that I wouldn't turn red and have my skin start peeling off (how disgusting does THAT sound if you've never seen/experienced it?!). The women took great pity on me for my slick hair that wouldn't stay in nice braids. And that whole "race blindness" thing (aka: "y'all all look the same to me") goes both ways. I had people refer to me as Chinese! You know, all those pale folks. Chinese. Or whatever. Meanwhile, after 2 years, I got a LOT better at recognizing details of black features that I hadn't before. For example, in Mali, they refer to people as red black/yellow black/or black black, depending on skin undertone. I've also lived in a lot of different countries, and the attitude towards race really does vary a lot, in subtle ways. I now live in a small town in Germany where, up until the recent refugee crisis, I saw almost NO people of color for weeks on end. People who previously challenged me regarding "American racism" now talk about the safety concerns of German women walking around alone and running into groups of refugees from the camp up the road. Sigh. Then I talk to them about the Ethiopian teenager here who dreams of becoming a dentist. Or the Pakistani man who is actually secretly pleased that he won't immediately be able to find work in IT (his previous job), because he's always dreamed of being a cook. When people stop being a skin color, and start being individuals with stories and dreams, suddenly they aren't so scary. ANYWAY - all about me. I actually came here to say that I really appreciated what you had to say and the frank and positive way that you said it. Hope to run into you on my travels one day! Bon voyage, gute Reise, and alla ka hèrè ki nye! (The last, a Bambara blessing for travelers, "may God place peace before you")

[@OneikaTraveller]

+RokiaNY Wow!! I really love your comment and what an interesting life you lead! I love how you make parellels between my experience and yours living in Mali!! I was dying when you said that parents over there threaten their kids by saying that a white person will eat them! Whereabouts in Germany are you? I often feel that living in N. America we tend to view race relations through our lens and neglect to ponder how it plays out in other situations/places.

[@BB-qk8on]

RokiaNY loveeeee your comment! Thanks for sharing

[@robintillotson5665]

Well done! I have experienced all five!! In Shanghai two people literally jumped from a car to take my pic. They thought I was Queen Latifah!

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Robin Tillotson haha love it!!

[@mgray6598]

oh gosh so funny I guess a sense of humour helps

[@TheStanSellers]

Just found this. I started traveling last year. I'm a 58 year old skinny bald black man with a salt and pepper beard.:) I've gone to several cities in Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Netherlands, France. Never had a problem. Never. Someone is always staring but none of those other things happened to me. And I speak a little of several languages. Being able to say hello, goodbye, thank you, yes, no, how are you, good morning, good night goes a long way. And numbers. Especially in France. In 2017 I ran into people who wanted to talk about Trump. Or they wanted to let me know they hated Trump. But hey, I do, too, so we bonded! And traveling experiences are always different for men and women. And pretty women vs. not so pretty women. Handsome men vs. not so handsome men. And sometimes people aren't giving you bad service or being mean because you're black. Sometime people are just rude.

[@paulkenneally789]

You sound like my mirror twin. I started travelling back in 1972,from Afro to buzz cut.High end hotel to Railway benches.(37countries visited ) Best experience,probably that random bloke in Israel who started up a conversation with me or the truck driver who pulled up and gave me lift(Armenia) The Dutchman who offered me homemade cakes as I was in a campsite. Too many positives to the negatives.

[@mgray6598]

Let me first say I'm from Jamaica in the Caribbean. A couple years ago while visiting Switzerland an older female store owner after inquiring where I was from said "oh your from Jamaica, when the women come from to steal our men" I burst out laughing and said well since it's a group of us you'd better lock them up then. But that's just me lol.

[@kylasbibi]

Hi, while in Tuscany we came out of a gelato shop when we encountered a little girl who could not stop staring at us. When we spoke with our guide we all decided it was because she had never seen anyone black before. We weren't offended at all. After all the child was curious. On the other hand, we encountered straight up racism in our hotel in Madrid. From being ignored to being given inaccurate information on transportation to the airport. To let them know their behavior was unacceptable, this particular hotel received a terrible rating from me on Tripadvisor.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Kylasbibi I have heard lots of bad things about Madrid from my black friends! Luckily I have never experienced anything of the sort in my 3 times to the city.

[@dewaldvos8901]

I'm White and they were just as obnoxious and rude to us. Obviously not every single person but here and there. One thing I've learned it is not the best Idea to generlize according to race. There are just a bunch of arseholes out there and just as many good people.

[@missydonald6381]

@@dewaldvos8901 Lmao not surprised you completely dismissed her experience and BTW yes their are rude people and some are really just racist 😂. Quit defending ignorance it’s gross.

[@EvanTateMusic]

Thanks for the video and the straight talk on racism. I've travelled a lot earlier due to my profession as a musician. My experience with racism in Europe has been minimal and diverse. I now have been living in Germany for about 28 years and still love it (except for the weather sometimes). Acquiring some knowledge of the local language is imperative, even if one only plan to be a tourist! Plus you will impress the hell out of the locals because Black Americans are often perceived as not well educated, so any amount of the language you speak will destroy that stereotype. (Yep, I'm fluent in German, and a speak enough Spanish, French and Italian to get by.) Again, many thanks for the video!

[@existinginthegray]

Black Americans are not perceived as well educated? I've never heard that before...if anything it should be the other way around. My school had us taking Spanish classes in 3rd grade and my high school had majors that feed directly into a college curriculum, both in a predominately black area on the east coast.

[@TwistedLyfofTV]

The thing I've experienced the most is racism and the hatred of me being American. Usually in Caribbean places is where they assume I'm from somewhere Caribbean but after learning I'm from America, the stigma of being a black American was the problem. I seemed to not have issue until it was known I was American. i remember being told blacks from America think we are better than blacks in other countries. My time in Somalia, I initially was disregarded because of being of lighter complexion. My darker skinned friends were welcomed and it was explained I wasn't "pure". While living in Japan the excitement and fear of seeing a black person was the most present thing. I learned a lot of their myths about black people while there but they were interested in being friends. Having a black friend made the people I met socially popular if I was around. I was never confused with a celebrity but they treated me like one. In Mexico, I was seen as a a sexual prize compared to white women traveling with me. Puerto Rico is the only country I've met citizens willing to share black history with me and bridge the connection. I was told while there, "we're the same, my ancestors were just put off the boat earlier than yours." In Costa Rica, majority of people thought I was from Limon, an area were Costa Ricans who identify as being black/African is plentiful. a lot of times people would yell at me to go back to Limon. Walking through town, I began to assume anyone who gave me the universal head nod of unity, was from Limon.

[@RokiaNY]

+Putting off Pounds with Poetry Thanks for sharing--I have a LONG comment above yours about being a white Peace Corps Volunteer in Africa. I think many of the black American Peace Corps volunteers had similar issues in Mali, although I don't think any of them said to me that the problem was about being "pure" or not. It was that they were surprised to be treated the same way the white foreigners were. Foreign. They were even called the same word for "white foreigner" that we were: "toubab". But other than that...yeah, Americans aren't really very popular anywhere in the world now.

[@TwistedLyfofTV]

+RokiaNY it's interesting the things we learn while traveling or living abroad. My Guyanese friend says in his country because of my complexion they would assume I'm biracial and I would be called a Dugla (spelling may be wrong) but it means one without a nation. In all my experiences my good outweigh the bad and it has never kept me from seeing the world.

[@JoAnneFerreira-S]

+Putting off Pounds with Poetry 'dougla' means of mixed African and Indian ancestry. It is from Hindi, and originally meant 'hybrid, mixture', etc.

[@TwistedLyfofTV]

+Jo-Anne Ferreira Interesting, in Guyana I was told, one without a nation, from the Guyanese natives I met but it's possible to have different meanings.

[@JoAnneFerreira-S]

+Putting off Pounds with Poetry No doubt it's possible, but it is surprising to hear that Guyanese would say (only?) that. That must mean that they either don't know (the origin), or that the meaning is changing. Here is the traditional meaning, as documented by two professional Guyanese linguists (page 200) and check out the CCL www.cavehill.uwi.edu/fhe/LLL/CCL/home.aspx): books.google.tt/books?id=PmvSk13sIc0C&printsec=frontcover&dq=richard+allsopp+dictionary+caribbean+english+usage+dougla&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjv-bD135bKAhXGWx4KHeNMD4sQ6AEIGzAA#v=onepage&q=richard%20allsopp%20dictionary%20caribbean%20english%20usage%20dougla&f=false

[@renateseldon3769]

1992, Japan...... "Ooooh, Whitney Houston". I loved It!

[@haveagoodday629]

Renate Seldon I can see it. You're both very beautiful

[@fourtywater77]

LOL love it!

[@MzShonuff123]

I've experienced racism, especially in Italy. There were places that literally wouldn't serve us. When we were in Europe and someone would ask me where I was from and I'd answer (Chicago), they'd instantly ask me if I knew the Obamas (I guess we all know each other?)

[@QueenofHearts333]

where in europe? in the netherlands theyre not that...lame hahaha enough black people over here.

[@AllAboutEveWebTV]

Where do you live in the Netherlands? I would like to visit but do know the best place there so I can feel somewhat safe. :)

[@QueenofHearts333]

i live in Rotterdam and my dad lives in Amsterdam. Both are pretty safe for tourists and plenty to see. But when travelling alone its best you ask the people from tourist information most of the details. but i would stay in the center, which is big enough tho. in rotterdam you can travel through the whole city. im born and raised here and wandered the streets at night and never felt unsafe. contact me whenever youre ready to travel to amsterdam or rotterdam. 😊

[@AllAboutEveWebTV]

QueenofHearts Thank you so much for the information! Very helpful. Yes I will contact you when I am ready to travel. It would be my first time going abroad! More than likely in the summer time like July 2017 is the plan. I will contact you for travel help! THANKS A MILLION!

[@johandijkstra9143]

Well you must have had a very unique experience because out of all european countries, Italians love black women and their women love black men. They sang to my mother and sister how beautiful they were and called them nubian queens. I had to fight off the women and even the guys. In the UK there are a lot of italians as well and the same story goes there... Italians are the closest european descendants to Africans. They are well aware of it and even though you have racists everywhere, I always had positive interest from Italians.Europeans in general do not like american people so maybe that was the case?

[@w.t.o.154]

it is so nice to see such a beautiful sista out there doing her thing. just be careful when traveling alone, but i'm sure you are. more of us need to hop on the cultural express and see the world to give us a better perspective of our own lives. Respect!

[@OneikaTraveller]

+D. W. O. Thank you for this insightful comment! I will make make sure that I"m careful!

[@quantumsolace5864]

I'm a black man that travels as well. My advice on one particular place is Rome, Italy don't go there. you will be constantly stop by police there and all it takes is one bad apple to ruin your whole vibe or the possibility of getting thrown in jail because for me I stand up for myself and I'm not bowing down to no one that's hateful and full of malice. On-the-other-hand, I will respect someone who has a pure heart when it comes to usas black people being in the presence of people from other cultures.

[@Tarotscopebytina]

BLKCOBRA 5 I was advised by an Italian female friend from Rome not to travel there because of the racism.

[@starloszelson4541]

Tarotscope by Tina keep going if you don’t they win

[@dreamdelights]

BLKCOBRA/NINJA 5 I went to Rome and had good experience.

[@existinginthegray]

@@dreamdelights It's so different like someone else said for males, females, "attractive ", not "attractive ", etc...not just the skin color 🙄

[@WilkineBrutus]

Hi Oneika, I'm back in the US after 4 years of living abroad and traveling. I stumbled on this video through the Matador Network--it made me a bit nostalgic. The travel bug is bitting me again. Continue the great work. OneLove!

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Wilkine Brutus Thank you for the comment and for watching! Where were you living?

[@WilkineBrutus]

OneikaTraveller I lived in South Korea (cities: Jeju island and Busan). I have tons of videos about my experience there, but happy to be in Philly for now. I was in Toronto a few months ago...love your city.

[@ValenciaB]

I loooooovvvvveeeee this soooooo much!!!!! I live in Sri Lanka and all of this happens DAILY!!!!!! Praise God most of it is ignorance and not malicious, but it's still ALOT ESPECIALLY when everyone is my color and darker. The hair is just different!!

[@Astoldbykevin]

Staring has been my only issue in South Korea. I've been to Japan, Singapore,Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and The Philippines so far. All experiences have been positive.

[@missqtmimi]

Shaquan Abram hmm that's interesting when I went Japan, I got stared at, whispers and my hair touched lol.

[@naturallyun-lished6299]

Every last one of the things you mentioned happened to me. You were absolutely correct most people are just curious. Some people I meet in Thailand and Indonesia had never met a black woman before. It was a major reality check for me how a vast amount of the population has not had the benefit of travel and exposure like me. This is the major reason I believe travel and getting out of your comfort zone is so important.

[@dans810]

Oneika , loved the video. I travel and at times think it is all good, but one incident can bring you back to reality. The one incident can sometimes erase the 99 good times you have had while traveling. Thank you for your time and effort to create your videos.

[@steemdup]

I've never met anyone in another country whose skin or hair I wanted to touch. WTF?

[@jimgreen9059]

steemdup, I wouldn't, either. However, if you've lived a life where you've never once been more than 20 miles from home, you've lead a quite sheltered life, never met a person who doesn't speak your language, never met someone who's a different color, or even has an accent. Meet someone different, and it would be like visiting a galaxy far, far away.

[@yvetteboheme2789]

I have lived in Asia. They will come up to you and touch your skin and hair. It was not disrespectful. It was pure curiosity. At that time, I had really long hair (no weave).

[@wheresjennifer]

Yes, all of these have happened to me as well. Especially the staring and taking of photos in china. Even when I went to Russia last year, there was a tour bus from China that pulled up, and everyone literally rushed off the bus to take a picture with me. I still always have a good time. I do notice that people are nicer when they find out I'm American versus if I was from somewhere else. That is always a little wierd. But most of the racism I've dealt with while abroad has been from other Americans :( great video!

[@h2opmayana]

Great video. I was touched and photographed A LOT in Armenia. Everyone was sooo nice too. My friend warned me but I didn't expect the "first lady" type attention that I received. It got annoying after a while because for three weeks I was constantly stared at.

[@h2opmayana]

oh and beautiful lipstick what color is it?

[@OneikaTraveller]

+h2opmayana I feel you! The constant attention can really become exhausting.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+h2opmayana Thanks!! MAC "Diva" with "Vino" lipliner!

[@renae0923]

I love your channel. Your videos make me want to explore other countries.

[@thevacationlife9436]

Carrie Renae Hope you've been able to start traveling! Traveling is great 😊

[@bluenile048]

I must confess the most racism that I have received as an African American while traveling was in Ethiopia. Most stores would over charge me especially for shoes and clothes and all government agencies. But it could have been because I am from America and all Americans are rich. LOL In the Philippines girls wanted to touch my hair. I would see them staring and smiling and then I would ask them why are they smiling. Then they would ask can they touch my hair. And of course I would oblige. Life is GOOD!

[@lawsonone6015]

My wife went to Paris in the 90's and people kept calling her "Rudy" (from The Cosby Show). She kept correcting but it kept on. She actually thought it was pretty funny.

[@monicaw5445]

I saw your blog a bit before I stumbled upon this video, and the pictures of you on your blog do you no justice; you're quite lovely :) I haven't traveled extensively yet (so far a handful of cities in Canada, Cancun Mexico (which wasn't "travelling" really to me, as I was secluded within the confines of a resort that catered to US citizens and Europeans), Ghana, and I'll be in Morocco in a few months. I've been thoroughly researching all things travel related lately because at the end of this year I'll be travelling Central and South America for a minimum of one year with my daughter (who will be turning four years old just before we embark on our journey). On the one hand, I am so excited to be able to immerse my daughter's young, impressionable, developing mind in foreign language (which I think she'll pick up quickly), diverse people and customs, countless days on the beach, wildlife, etc (she absolutely thrived during our trip in Ghana; I wouldn't have thought she would care at all as she is so young, but it was eye opening seeing how much she absorbed from and delighted in her experiences during that trip); but on the other hand, the idea of her experiencing overt blatant racism at such a young age triggers a flood of emotions (for example, one of the countries I have been most looking forward to is Argentina...until I read about the experiences of Black women treated as and spoken to in a degrading manner as prostitutes in Buenos Aires, and the stares and words from strangers etc. I don't want my tiny daughter to witness her mom being treated in that way, and I absolutely don't want her to be subject to any type of othering and objectification.) As a Black child, I know I can't shield her forever, but I don't want to put her in the line of fire, ya know? All in all, I think we'll be fine. And if things get too uncomfortable in one place, I can always immediately travel over to the next city. If all else fails, the US will still be here, and I can always return to the racism and ignorance that I'm familiar with, lol. I enjoy your blog, and I'm looking forward to viewing the rest of your vids.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Monica W Awww you're really sweet! I'm very curious as to your experiences in Morocco, have you already gone or are you going soon? I don't have children yet but I wouldn't be lying if I didn't worry about them experiencing racism as they travel right alongside with me!

[@diana3599]

my blond, daughter (in her late teens) was treated as if she was a celebrity/freak while we were in rural India for a health initiative. At first she was polite, accommodating, when asked to have her photo taken with whomever. By the end of the trip she was creeped out.. I have very white hair and I had people touching my hair to see if it was it was real. Especially uncomfortable when this happens from behind you. I can only imagine how much unusual behavior you have experienced "traveling while black". Thanks for the interesting video.

[@kiniyadavis7347]

Hey Oneika, I also travel often and I have been stopped a numerous amount of time by immigration. I have been taken to the back and my passport was taken away while they ran my name through the system. Smh. Glad you're doing your thing and traveling. Cultural awareness is an amazing thing sis. Peace and Love

[@OneikaTraveller]

+kiniya davis Smh indeed! It sucks but it's a reality sadly! Thanks so much for watching!!

[@babybambi2204]

Hi Oneika!! I love your video! Just found this one and now I'm probably gonna bing watch the rest haha anyway, while I'm not black myself, I have too experienced the photo-taking, celebrity status when I was in Japan. I too thought it was kinda weird, but people were amiable and I'm friendly too so it didn't bother so much... But I can't help it but think it's a little off. Anyway, I'm appalled to have heard that club situation you had. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences! A new fan here :))

[@OneikaTraveller]

+babybambi2204 Thank you for watching!! Yay!

[@anaa5369]

Because I'm an immigrant to America being stopped by immigration doesn't bother me as much because I'm so use to it now. My first serious trip was to Ireland where I traveled for three weeks and experienced all of these five things. Hahah! I'd say the most annoying were the stares. The most hilarious was being told that we are same because President Obama is Irish. However, after that trip I realize it's about reminding yourself of all the things you mentioned (curious people, being different and something new) and not forgetting why you're there.

[@luxboho207]

Hi Oneika! I can honestly say I have experienced the racist questions from other travelers and I have also experienced the touching and staring, as you said, I don't mind that so much, I find it's often the people from my own country who prove to be the most rude, as well as they should know better. But! I'm glad you posted this and I hope it encourages more of us to travel! Love your blog, btw! :)

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Vivienne Bailey Thanks so much Vivienne! It's precisely why it's so frustrating when these remarks come from travellers who should really know better!

[@AaliyahJay]

The video was very well put together and very well spoken too. My dad who is a 6ft something black man that enjoys technology get pulled over every time for the not so “random” spot check when we travel to the USA 🇺🇸 stripped down to a T-shirt and sweats he’s always ordered to go in the body scanner hands up like a criminal. And of course his backpack... he’s a film and media graduate (bachelors degree) so his bag is full of cameras charging cables portable hard drives etc so that bag 99.9% of the time gets pulled for “further inspection”. My family and I were even racially profiled at niagra falls when crossing to go back to Canada 🇨🇦 from USA 🇺🇸 but that’s another story for another day. Besides this we love travelling and majority of our trips have been fun and positive.

[@TheKawaiiTraveler]

I haven't experienced much racism by locals but I have experienced being stereotyped by other foreigners, mainly Americans. I have gotten "I thought you only listen to rap music". I hardly hear people talking about this so it was a surprised to see this on your list!

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Natoya Wonderland GIRL. I could write a novel about the microaggressions I've experienced at the hands of Canadians/Americans/people who should really know better!

[@Babyshoes777]

Great info thanks! And your lipstick is fire 👍🏾👏🏾

[@OneikaTraveller]

+ricecristi Thanks!! Diva by MAC!

[@Babyshoes777]

wow! thank you!

[@TheLifetraveler1]

I will have to share one event with you. I've traveled a lot (Korea, Singapore, Australia, Europe, Japan, Tahiti, all 50 states, Brasil and Argentina and a whole lot more). In Japan after landing at the airport, a local woman came up to me. I guess she was around 45 years old and asked in her best broken english , could she take a photo with me. She thought I looked like a basketball star. Told her I was just a tourist. She accepted that, but indicated she'd still like to take a photo. Thought, "well as long as it wasn't anything racial, why not"? She had me hold her around the waste and held her arms around mine as if we were a couple. Then had another passing person take the photo. What was surprised me next was quite frankly, pleasant. I saw two gorgeous Asian women nearby, ages around 22 and 25. She called them over, told me they were both her daughters (they did look like young versions of her), asked me to wrap my arms around them both and their arms around me and took the two photos. Then they both kissed me on the cheeks and said goodbye as they headed for their outbound flight. I knew two things right then, I love international travel and that would not have happened here at home, where most Asian folks (well, accept in California) are rather reserved around black men. There's only two countries I felt a little uneasy as a black male traveler. France, because well they seem to be nasty to anyone that doesn't speak french and Australia (where black were actually banned from settling in the country many years ago). No one was hostile, though.

[@bluenile048]

TheLifetraveler1 I love Asia. I had a similar experience in South Korea and I love the Philippines.

[@Thatwhiteb]

I am an African American traveler also. I not as well traveled as you though, but I agree. Most of my travel experiences have been positive. I took a trip through middle America (South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Minnesota) and had normal interactions everywhere except for a guy at the airport behind the Hertz counter.

[@MaureenMurphy_]

Belinda White What happened!?

[@lj8816]

Belinda White Wow. What a cliffhanger.

[@alwaysagigi]

LOL

[@nomadictravelerfromTx]

Good video!There were stares and requests to take photos when we went to Turkey,but my female companion was the focus of this weird behavior.In retrospect,they were curious about black women because when I went out alone,I was ignored.lol

[@GlobalAdventurer]

Good video. I figure if wealthy black women like Oprah Winfrey have to endure outright blatant racism, like when she was in Switzerland, and who know wherever else, then it's pretty much a fact it exists everywhere. But, to different degrees. Something to always expect (unfortunately), but just keep on moving.

[@laritaheath]

I have experienced all that was mentioned except the picture taking, especially when I travel solo.I experienced not being given acces to a club in New York when I was with three white associates. We were told to join hands and come in...the doorman did a karate chop on my hand (I was last) that was in 1978...but I will never forget.

[@gnrepetova]

You should have done a karate *kick* on his... nevermind.

[@travelingsista]

This video is great. I definitely subscribed... I just moved to Tanzania and plan on traveling Africa. I've been to 13 different countries and have definitely experienced some racism myself. Although its been mild, its racism nonetheless... but I'm happy to see US getting around the globe and exploring. Cheers my fellow Black Traveler!

[@kengele89]

Hey Oneika, nice video ! I can totally relate to these examples. I've travelled to Asia by myself and I have to say that even if 99% of the time the experience was amazing and enjoyable, sometimes the struggle is real ahah. China was the worst with people taking pictures of me, touching my skin and hair and all that without asking grrr In South Korea just some people staring but I did scared a girl when I entered her shop once, that was kinda ridiculous ahah and some old ladies telling me to do my hair ( kinda rude but not violent in anyway) I think that Vietnam was where I felt the most uncomfortable because people were often staring a me in a really nasty way... Anyway like you said, people are just not used to "us" yet however nothing excuse straight racism but hey there are assh**** everywhere in the world unfortunately. And in the future I plan to live for a while in South Korea so this kind of things didn't stop me ;) Anyway I enjoy watching your videos ! Discovering your blog as well :) Keep up the good work ! :)

[@AmbitiousJemzAstrology]

+kengele89 Thanks for sharing your experience. The ignorance was quite funny and sad.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+kengele89 So interesting what you say about Vietnam, I have heard the same thing from other black travellers! I've been twice now and have been shown nothing but love but I am lucky in that regard!

[@malnr90]

Hey Oneika! I really liked this video. Though I'm not black, I do want to become more sensitive to and aware of the experiences of travelers from all different backgrounds. I also travel often with one of my best friends, who is black, and she has enlightened me to some of the experiences she's had during our travels that I wasn't fully aware of. That has opened my eyes a lot to help me appreciate what others experience while abroad (and even at home). But, to respond to your comment at the end of the video about experiences that might be similar--there was a time in Vietnam (I was visiting a friend who is originally from there) where I was fitted at a tailor's for a traditional ao dai (it was a gift from my friend's parents, which was very sweet). The ladies at the shop seemed to be intrigued by my measurements (I guess they thought I was pretty tall and curvy?? I don't consider myself particularly tall or curvy-at least not for American standards!). I remember comments, giggles, and gestures being made, and though none of it was outwardly rude or mean-spirited, it did feel a tad awkward. It was definitely not as intense or sinister as I know some people's experiences can be; but it was definitely a time in my travels where I felt oddly the target of other peoples' gazes for being "different." I sort of laughed it off in that moment and tried to find the humor in it all, but it did stick with me after. Anyway, thanks for sharing your insight, passion, and stories with us. It's much appreciated!!

I love this video. I totally relate to this video - For me I actually laugh every time someone walks up and says - can i take a photo with you - its funny.. I haven't experienced direct racism as yet at times its subtle and I realize its expected. I defn do not appreciate if you take a photo of me like an tourist attraction without asking. No celebrity reference YET :( hahaha

[@TheNaturalebeauty]

I find that her comments are very true. The experience is great for black travellers and never experienced blatant racism. Honestly, the most ignorance comes from white American travellers who hope to get away from us... LOL. Surprise, we are here!

[@caciliawhy5195]

What?

[@goldenheart751]

Yeah girl, we are everywhere. We were here first and will be here last.

[@aquagoddess8675]

GIRL - tell me I was in Germany with some friends and these white Americans asked us "how did you get all the way over here?" Clearly astonished we could afford the trip - ON A PASSPORT APPROVED BY THE STATE DEPARTMENT, HOW DID YOU GET HERE? We cannot escape!

[@missydonald6381]

@@aquagoddess8675 Girl I hope you said something.. sad especially when they are racist abroad…

[@jeffreya.powell6215]

Not bad. Sounds like a very honest and realistic interpretation of traveling aboard. I do wish more of us could do it.

[@moehrin]

I am a black Australian woman and have experienced Chinese tourists taking my photo and squeezing in a lift with me and my family and touching us. Also I am always stopped by immigration at the airport in Zurich whilst in transit to visit my in-laws in Germany. Always asked what I will be doing in Germany and who I will visit and why and always answer their questions in German - floors them a bit.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+moehrin Oh boy! What have your experiences been like in your native Australia? I have heard many things about it being racist!

[@zachariyadutyulwayo9591]

I like your point about racism....it's usually what causes people not to travel, and i do not really care :). more like i keep room for it. I traveled in Europe last June to France, Switzerland and Italy. The only thing i experienced when i went to this cellphone shop to look for a local sim card, the reception i got from the staff was bad. but as long as i am unharmed, im good hahaha. I was the only black traveler in my trip and the white young ones adored me so much that the were sad that my trip ended in Rome . LOL. Thank for the beautiful video.

[@AlexPayne1711]

I lived in China for Uni and I can say the touching staring and pictures? 100% true lol The staring I got used to but the pictures i never will. i always wonder what they do with them after.

[@JuneOmadela]

Hello Onika! I love love love love this list. After living in Mexico and South Africa and traveling to many other countries, I can include 4/5 on my list of experiences. Thanks for sharing.

[@mnotinglife7934]

Thank you for doing this video! I like your positive but real vibe! It is very helpful to know what could possibly be expected as I travel to less commonly toured places. P.S. it's great to see another black female traveler with locked hair!

[@metropressnews499]

I love the fact that Blacks are traveling all over the world. Have you heard of Maryjane Byum? She's another sister I watch. These videos are making me think outside the box. Keep traveling Oneika!

[@jdgannonable]

I'm white and have experienced some of the issues from your video whilst travelling in Latin America. Light hair, blue eyes etc., results in quite a lot of staring and comments, and one time in Peru I spent about half an hour taking photos with locals who were fascinated with my appearance. The other thing that's funny is when the locals would confuse me with 'the other white guy'. I worked in Mexico with a white American guy who looked NOTHING like me, and I'd still get called by his name some times (and vice versa). I'd say it's 90% from a good place, but the staring definitely gets really tiring after a while (especially if you spend a while living in one of these countries, and after a while you just want to forget that you stand out so much). I have to say that it was a very humbling experience really, as a white guy I have many privileges in my home country and many others that I was often unaware of. Being a racial minority in another country for an extended period of time reminds you of what many people have to put up with on a daily basis.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Jonathan David Gannon Thanks for sharing!! Too funny that you were confused for the other white guy-- tis the story of my life!!

[@JohnSmith-qj6bj]

While in Greece at a restaurant, the very nice waiter was so excited because he thought my partner looked like snoop dog,we got the biggest kick out of that ,because he looks nothing like him. People always say that he looks like Eddie Murphy. So just imagine somebody telling Eddie Murphy that him and Snoop look alike.Now u see what I'm talkin bout?

[@MochaManSpirit]

I love watching these videos made by black travelers. I think that more of us - especially in the US - need to get around the planet and see not only what makes us different - but even similar - in the eyes of other cultures. I haven't been out of the US since the early '90s & I'm way overdue. What would be nice would be more travel books by black travelers, and if any one knows of any please feel free to share. OneikaTraveller, great video.

[@StyleandVibes]

Great video, love your perspective and openness. So basically, feel like black Jesus, can be bad or good depending on how you look at it! Will definitely keep these tips in mind when traveling in the future. I've mostly been to places where there are black people so not too much of this.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Style Vibes Thank you for watching! Honestly it was so nice to travel in the Caribbean this summer where I totally blended in!

[@allencallahan1478]

Great post. Very informative; funny (occasionally hilarious); utterly charming. Kudos.

[@DesigningLife]

Great video... also great hair. Expat sounds like a great experience. Ive lived in Costa Rica for a job, but it was only a few months. I would love to experience another country like that.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Designing Life Thank you!!! Expat life is amazing! I've lived abroad for 10 years now. Where in Costa Rica were you? Pura vida!

[@DesigningLife]

OneikaTraveller I lived in a small port village called Punta Arenas... but worked outside of that city in the Orphanages. Punta Arenas is tiny little sand bar. It was a very fun experience. I def wanna go back sometime soon.

[@OneikaTraveller]

Nice! I was in La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio but didn't make it to Punta Arenas. Hopefully next time! The places I went to were very touristy.

[@DesigningLife]

Nothing wrong with touristy =)... Ill have to check out more of your vids.

[@AllAboutEveWebTV]

Yes! I was traveling from Greensboro, NC and I had my hair checked for drugs! I wore my hair up in a bun, and the security said, "Mam we will have to check your hair?" I laughed so hard because I thought it was a joke! I said "Thank you, but it is all my hair! and kept giggling." While I was tickled pink they came over with gloves and dug through my hair! I was embarrassed and shocked at the same time. I just let them do it and went on about my way. :)

[@vivianwilliams930]

It good to be black outside of america,come to Jamaica and see how we treat people,

[@stupidrams7792]

It’s all in your head you been brainwashed to think this way

[@nicoletaylor893]

Thank you so much for sharing! I've been super nervous about traveling to Thailand solo... and this has been really helpful.

[@MichaelDelaware]

My wife was from Colombia. She would get pulled aside by immigration just because of her country of origin on her passport, and given extra searches. I also experienced a somewhat similar issue once when traveling alone as a white male when I booked a last minute ticket for a job I was called to do in Los Angeles shortly after 9/11. I was told later by a friend who worked for the airlines that I fit the profile of a someone automatically searched by the airlines (White, male, beard, last minute one way ticket, and traveling with carry-on bags). I was searched three times, once at security, once walking to my gate and a third time at the gate. The third time they emptied everything out of my bag and I almost missed my flight. This happened a few other times to me when I worked for that company, as I most often traveled alone and my flight was often booked one way at the last minute, but never as bad as that first time.

[@AMoussa747]

I was Dave Chappelle in north Thailand (Chaing Mai & Chiang Rai) :D and there was a time I thought I was on a red carpet because all of these flashes but it was cool

[@austinhoward299]

Oneika, this is awesome! I am optimistic about living abroad. I haven't quite made up my mind in regards to what country in Africa would work best for me. I've looked into Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, etc. I know that I would need to setup a visit before committing to anything, I'm just not sure where to go lol I would certainly appreciate your feedback! Thanks for sharing.#BeBlessed

[@anayotothe]

Great video! I agree with your points and most of my travels have been carefree. However, at the end of my 3-month stint in Rome I was randomly stopped by the police and asked for my passport/documents. The minute I started speaking he realized I was American and started asking where in America I was from -________- that experience put a bit of shade over my trip but overall, I think most instances are simply due to extreme ignorance as opposed to blatant racism. And yes! I've been called Beyonce and Michelle O. many times in many places haha :)

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Mecca F. Go head girl!! *shimmies like Bey*

[@isb_3835]

Just recently experienced #1 in Nicaragua. This girl on the bus kept staring at my boyfriend (a native) and I. It was incredibly uncomfortable especially since she did it for almost 2 hours. I was so relieved when her stop came up. My boyfriend and I waved and were finally able to relax. I wanted to say something bit she gave me psycho, so umm nah.

[@OneikaTraveller]

+sambenny The thing that kills me about travelling while black in Latin America is that most of these folks are just as dark as us! Boggles the mind!

[@lactosalldaindustriadoleit8240]

Come to Rep. Cape Verde, you will be wanted, touched and loved, you are one of us...African Cape Verdean

[@rodniewilson1175]

Hello Oneika, I just found your video and I must say that I am very pleased with your presentation of information, if someone gets to travel and share that lifestyle well more power to you. You do a wonderful job of communicating your thoughts and feelings and you look like you are having fun while doing it! I have only seen one of your videos but I will watch many more because of your personality and the way you present yourself, you have a beautiful smile and very nice eyes so the camera is your friend, I look forward to enjoying many more of your videos! by the way I did subscribe!

[@justhuman43]

Yes coming back to the US from Haiti I had to wait and wait to come thru immigration randomly being pulled from the line for a check when going to Florida when I had my locs

[@OneikaTraveller]

Ugh

[@cathyortiz5911]

Such wonderful information. Thank you Oneika. btw: (yes off the wall).. your makeup is lovely. Im not nearly as savvy as you are with travel, so I gobbled up every helpful tidbit and your experience. You also gave some great ideas on meeting and connecting with other people. Loved your video. :)

[@GoBrandi]

Thank you for this video! I recently have gotten hooked on travel vlogs and found your channel. Thank you for sharing your journey and info on travelling while black.

[@IphiaCarlene]

Thank you for posting this! So informative!

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Iphia Carlene Yay! Glad you liked it!

[@annabellak4033]

A very honest a very honest and informative video, Thank you, and you look fabulous👍

[@curtiss744]

Great info you were right on point, as a black man who travelled the world in the navy i could relate, there are some countries that i will not recommend that black people travel to one of them is Croatia, i've seen lots of racism there

[@OneikaTraveller]

I think it depends. So much depends on context. But the most important thing is to be informed and to know what to expect.

[@lanag816]

Absolutely love this channel. Thank you so much for this! I hope to travel abroad soon and this helps me with getting prepared.

[@supershellybelly12]

So glad I stumbled across your channel. Such a great insight for a budding traveller ✨

[@MysticDonBlair]

As a white traveler in Africa (7 months) I had these same issues.

[@mgray6598]

Thanks for that comment, as a black person I needed to be reminded there is a flip side 👍

[@charessehagan]

This is such a great video! I am planning to travel this upcoming year. Thank you so much for all your knowledge!

[@gsdgroup1428]

Great video!!! I agree, never had an issue, we are so accustom to racism until we think its the whole world, BUT once you travel out side the US you realize its just here. Our brown skin is unique and beautiful, we (my family) receive lot of interesting stares in Paris. One lady in the CDG airport says to my wife "you have such pretty skin",.. Im thinking to myself this just a everyday Georgia girl LOL

[@lesamone3825]

Great video Oneika!

[@OldCameras]

I can relate to some of the things you said. Especially the celebrity one. I've got everything from Eddie Murphy to Will Smith :) I was also once a famous Nigerian footballer. The immigration officials also almost always give me some kind of grief or the other, especially in non-European countries surprisingly.

[@BronzeSista]

I am surprised to hear that about Mexico, most Black people have told me they loved Mexico. But certain prejudice things can happen in any country, some worse than others.

[@ReadingTimeWithZa]

Yes, yes and yes! I had my picture taken regularly in Singapore and was asked, "do you know how to rap?" Ha!!

[@gnrepetova]

Aww hell nah lol.

[@Astoldbykevin]

I was asked for my hair to be touched. lol

[@Astoldbykevin]

In Singapore

[@adc2327]

I went to Singapore in 2000. Nothing like it is now. I saw 2 Black people the whole time. They were at the airport leaving. No one paid me any attention. I moved around just like the rest of the population. It may be my appearance. I am Black, but have gotten that "what are you?" at times from my own people.

[@anez34]

I love your lipstick

[@87PageS]

Yes! ok first, I love the way you say "fascinating!" Lol Next, the touching has only happened to me in Beijing & it was so weird and a bit uncomfortable especially since it occurred at night (I was in Tiananmen Square-- so I guess perfectly "safe")... but I don't usually mind too much about someone taking my picture, usually they don't ask but it was weird in Beijing when I was blatantly being recorded (he just stood there lol) ..... in Cebu I was called Mommy Oprah & had so many adoring fans lol good times (I experienced a healthy dose of adoration of "black American culture" & their love for Obama lol This might sound strange, but my experience has been dictated by my nationality ... like in some places anti-American or stereotypes/prejudices of American behavior... but interactions between Americans abroad, still get those microagressions smh wooh that was long! Lol good video!

[@OneikaTraveller]

+87PAGES Thank you! That's too funny that you were called Oprah in the Philippines! I just suck up the adoration that comes with "looking" like a celebrity, sign autographs, etc, it's a nice boost to the ego ;-)

[@GeneralHensaleey]

Great video 👍. thanks a lot

[@cryptonova5110]

This is so true. Every single one. I took photos with an entire Chinese family in Cambodia.

[@Camavingo_]

Thank you for the video. I usually don't have much patient with immigration officers. Besides bein black, I'm South American and have many tattoos (face, neck, hand, chest, back etc etc). My girlfriend is white and American. We have travelled for more than 19 countries together, and I can only recall not having problems with immigration officers in 6 or 7 countries of them. They ask many questions, but after I say that I am travelling "with that person (white American)", they let me in haha

[@OneikaTraveller]

+Luis Batista haha! I guess she's good to have around then!!

[@abchappell01]

What an insightful video. Thank you so much:)

[@janeprepper177]

Very good vid. Thanks!

[@OneikaTraveller]

thanks!

[@zachariyadutyulwayo9591]

Great video and you are such a bubbly person :)

[@yournamehere4171]

Love the video. No real racism except in st maarten in this French restaurant where they out us all the way in the back of the restaurant. That's really been the only time I had that happen

[@Doa_Colin]

the prejudices i experienced was in the airport. Guess they get trained to see us (color people ) as a target. Thank all the time I travel and meet many people never see as the black girl. Was more seen as the Canadian girl. but in the airport just traveling u get the look like " how u traveling alone" " thats suspicious"... great video.

[@ajrenee3450]

This sounds like my experiences traveling to the other side of my city on the US. Lol

[@kodakv603]

My experience as a black traveler has been great. In Mexico City people treat me like I'm exotic. A local lady cat called me saying in Spanish look at that guy rollerblading. In Chile a Brazilian guy tried to start a fight with me because he thought I was Brazilian and got upset when I told him I was American. The chilian women were very flirtatious and would come up to me. I got a lot of stares in Mar Del Plata Argentina. It might be because I'm also 6"2 with an athletic build that is different from the local people.

[@gghostrrider]

One time in the Bahamas we took a dinner cruise, the black people assigning tables put all the black people at the same table, even though none of us knew each other!

[@budgetingrose5681]

Thank you for being open

[@Victoria-cm4jr]

I just found your channel and subscribed. Hello from Florida.

[@Ejnesjr]

This is very accurate for my travel experience!