“I started One Girl One World to inspire women of color to live life on their own terms, and today that has expanded into representation in the beauty space as well. I love giving natural hair tips on the go, skincare advice for melanated travelers, and everything in between!” Murray told xoNecole.
Murray grew up in Los Angeles, where she was exposed to a diverse set of cultures and friends from Filipino to Afro-Brazilian backgrounds. She took her first international trip at 18 to visit her Grandma’s Garifuna village in Honduras. This trip ignited in her a deep passion for travel, and a few years later, she received a scholarship to study abroad in Italy.
Her hope is to bring more representation in the travel industry, which was lacking when she was growing up, and starting her career. With over 30 countries under her belt, she has been able to do just that. One of her biggest pieces of advice for those who want to travel is not to be afraid to take the adventure solo.
“I’m a big advocate for solo travel! If I had let not having someone to go with stop me, I probably wouldn’t have been to half the places I’ve been. If you’re nervous about solo travel, start with a staycation in a nearby city or state. Big cities are great because it’s easy to blend into a crowd, and no one will know you’re there by yourself unless you tell them,” she said.
Read more about a few of Murray’s favorite locales and experiences thus far:
Cook Island
Cook Island
Photo Credit: Imani Murray
2019
"I love how rich the culture is. I took a dance class and learned that there are a lot of similarities between their culture and my own as a Black American and Afro-Latina. They move their hips to the rhythm of the drums, and it came really naturally to me. I also enjoyed visiting Aitutaki, a short plane ride away and a literal paradise. The Te Vara Nui overwater night show is an absolute must-see if you want to experience Cook Island dance from professionals! I also highly recommend going to the Muri Night Market for amazing local dishes at an affordable price."
Pro Tip: "Indulge in a massage and spa treatment at Hibiscus Spa at Moana Sands Lagoon Resort!"
Paris, France
Courtesy of One Girl One World Media, LLC
Frequently over the years
"I lived in France for a year after college and completely fell in love with the language and diversity within the culture. Especially in Paris! I’ve been to Paris more times than I can count. People don’t often picture people of color when they think of a typical Parisian, but it’s one of the most diverse cities I’ve been to. I also love French cuisine, especially the cheeses! One of the reasons I enjoy visiting France so much is because I speak the language. I’ve found that knowing the language helps to get a better understanding of the culture, as well as better recommendations from locals! While I thoroughly enjoy the usual attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, I’ve also discovered some cool activities I wouldn’t have if I didn’t know the locals.
"If you love luxury and niche perfumes, you must go window shopping on Rue Saint-Honoré. It’s where all the luxury boutiques are, from Chanel to YSL."
You’ll also be pleased to know that prices are also cheaper than in the USA! If you’re feeling fancy, follow that up with drinks at the nearby Ritz Carlton. My most recent memory is traveling solo this summer. I’ve come a long way from my broke post-college days, and it was a pleasure to be able to explore the city differently. I have a bit of an obsession with fragrances, and France is the fragrance capital of the world. It was so much fun to be able to go from niche boutique to boutique, like Maison Francis Kurkdijan (the house that produces Baccarat Rouge 540) and Byredo, and discover different scents and chat with the employees about their favorite fragrances."
Pro Tip: "I recommend going skincare shopping, which can be easy and affordable since France has world-class products available at the grocery store. Pick up a beautifully scented body wash (one of my favorites is rose-scented from Roger Gallet) body cream, and perfume, and treat yourself to a spa day in your hotel. Afterward, you can venture out for a happy hour and indulge in a glass of red wine while people-watching!"
The United States
Los Angeles
Courtesy of One Girl One World Media, LLC
Homebase, more in-depth travel in 2021
"I know this is a wildcard, but I love offering more accessible choices for people who don’t have the means to go abroad yet. In 2021, I made it my goal to mainly partner with U.S. tourism boards to show people that they didn’t have to go far to have a great experience. I went skiing for the first time in Utah, took a road trip to Big Sur in California, and did wine tasting in San Luis Obispo. The memories I have are priceless, and many of them were life-changing! The ease of traveling through the USA makes it worthy of consideration. You can do so many things without a passport. You can see the most incredible autumn foliage in Maine, or feel like you’re in the Caribbean with a trip to the Florida Keys. The possibilities are honestly endless!"
Pro Tip: "Visiting Tulsa for the centennial of the Tulsa Race Massacre was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I learned so much about race relations in America, and I honestly think a visit to Greenwood should be on every single American’s list, no matter your race or background. Tulsa is also just a fun city in general, with fun nightlife, great food, and a lot of interesting cultural museums."
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Featured image courtesy of One Girl One World Media, LLC
As a Black Girl Wanderer, she has visited over 40 countries and is based in Atlanta with her husband, who she met at Harvard University. She was first bit by the travel bug during childhood when she visited Frankfurt, Germany with family. From there and throughout her adolescence, she traveled throughout Europe. As a travel blogger, Romie bridges educational and inspirational travel content on her platforms to inspire viewers to travel deeply and with meaning. One of her most memorable trips was the two weeks she spent roaming Hawaii with her husband.
"I'm sad about the over-tourism situation in Hawaii because it's truly one of the best places on Earth, and people should experience it. However, I hope the state and local governments successfully implement policies to preserve Hawaii and prevent the inundation of tourists," she tells xoNecole.
Her best travel advice is not to compare yourself and your travels to the flashy content Instagram portrays because there are beautiful places to explore in one's backyard! If you don't have many resources to travel, start where you are.
Read more about Robertson's adventures and travel tips below.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Romie roaming the Batu Caves of Malaysia.
Courtesy of Romie Robertson
August 2022
"Kuala Lumpur (lovingly called KL) is so underrated. This city has something for everyone, and the best part about KL is its affordability! Amazing food, museums, attractions, cultural landmarks, and shopping exists. I truly was blown away by how much of a metro KL is. I learned that you don't have to spend much money to have a great experience. This was the second stop in a multi-city/multi-country Asia trip that my husband and I did. I decided to stop here because I saw amazing KL content from other creators online, especially when it came to places of worship and the KL skyline.
"A few must things to experience include Batu Caves (don't leave Malaysia without seeing it). Hungry Tapir (phenomenal vegan/vegetarian restaurant). Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Petronas Towers. Masjid Jamek Jalan Alor (famous for street food). Jalan Petaling (Chinatown market)."
Pro Tip: "There are plenty of affordable Airbnbs and hotels with beautiful infinity pools overlooking KL's gorgeous skyline — book one! And schedule at least four days in KL, if you can. There's so much to do."
Jamaica
Courtesy of Romie Robertson
October 2022
"There is truly no place on Earth like Jamaica. The natural splendor, the famous culture, the people. My husband is Jamaican, so I've gotten the pleasure of forming a close relationship with this island. Every time I visit Jamaica, I learn more about appreciating — and paying attention to — the beauty of Earth. My most recent trip to Jamaica was in October-November 2022. I visited to support some business my husband was doing and then gallivanted around the island having fun with friends.
"There are infinite things to do in Jamaica. Here are some things off of the top of my head: Boston Jerk Center, partying in Kingston, Bob Marley Museum, 7 Mile Beach in Negril, bamboo rafting in Ocho Rios."
Pro Tip: "Try to see only some things during one trip. Plan to visit the island at least 3-4 times and explore a different region during each trip. I've been to Jamaica over six times, and there's still so much that I have yet to see."
South Korea
September 2022
"South Korea is definitely a bucket list destination because of its distinct culture and global impact. South Korea has something for literally everyone – outdoor/natural spaces, foodie culture, museums/cultural activities, shopping, and nightlife. The list goes on. One memory (out of many) is the last night we spent in Seoul. We sang our hearts out in a private karaoke room. I remember lots of Beyoncé songs. Then we walked outside to do a group photoshoot in our neon outfits, and rain started pouring down. We decided to do the shoot anyway, making for a cool photographic effect. Then we showered, stayed out all night partying in Hongdae, and ate some of the best take-out pizza at 3 a.m. It was a great night. "
"A few must-visit places in Seoul are Gyeongbokgung Palace, party in Hongdae and Itaewon, shop in Gangnam, Gwangjang Market, and Korean Karaoke. In Busan, check out Gamcheon Cultural Village, Haeundae Beach, Igdae Coastal Trail, and SpaLand Centum City."
Pro Tip: "Visit a traditional Korean spa. Talk about self-care! South Korea has an awesome spa culture that everyone who visits should experience. Once you leave, you'll feel like a brand new person."
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Featured image courtesy of Romie Robertson
Furthermore, the report explains that while people are traveling, how they travel has changed. For example, 33% of people are more flexible and adjust travel days to find the lowest price, and 22% want to meet friends and family halfway. Also, 20% of people are still unsure of their travel plans. If any of this applies to you, check out these destination ideas below to help you spark inspiration for your next adventure.
Carlina Teteris/Getty Images
1. Chiang Mai, Thailand
2. Samaná, Dominican Republic
Konstik/Getty Images
3. The Maldives
4. Los Angeles, California
Not looking to go abroad? California's perfect year-round weather makes visiting Los Angeles a good choice. The city of dreams offers an electric combination of activities for travelers. From exploring neighborhoods like Koreatown to kicking it back and bike riding in Venice Beach, LA has something to offer every type of traveler. When arriving in LA, check out Dream Hollywood, a luxury lifestyle boutique hotel in the Vinyl District. The hotel was designed by the award-winning firm the Rockwell Group and serves as a creative playground in Los Angeles. Its location in the city is perfect, and you can easily escape to the beach or spend the day shopping in the surrounding areas.
5. Oahu, Hawaii
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6. Curaçao
This island is pretty underrated compared to its neighboring island of Aruba. However, Curaçao is not to be overlooked! The colorful-filled island of Curaçao will surely knock the winter blues out of any traveler. For a local experience in Curaçao, stay at Terra Boutique hotel, a bed & breakfast with only six rooms. It's located in a central district with no shortage of restaurants, coffee shops, and markets nearby. The backdoor of the bed & breakfast opens right up to the ocean so travelers will love the unique beachfront experience.
Curaçao is a dutch Caribbean island, and the local language is Pamermpinto, a mix of Spanish, English, and French. Travelers can book food tours, spend the day in Klein Curaçao, a private island, or even wander through the vibrant markets and downtown area.
7. Ambergris Caye, Belize
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8. Mexico City, Mexico
9. Sedona, Arizona
10. Antigua, Guatemala
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Social media can make moving and traveling abroad an exhilarating experience. However, there are serious things one should consider before making the jump. Instead of romanticizing what it looks like to live and move abroad, assessing your day-to-day life and the responsibilities of being a foreigner in a new land is worth it. Before I started traveling in 2021, I dreamed and planned for years. I went down the rabbit hole of YouTube videos and blogs to learn everything I could about traveling full-time.
There is no need to rush the lifestyle you desire. However, if the digital nomad lifestyle is something you are curious to explore, then take your time and set concrete goals. Goals can include securing a remote job or having a certain amount of money in your savings account before the big move. Before you know it, the 6-12 months or however long it takes will go by fast.
So, besides dreaming about all the beautiful Instagram content you'll create on your travels, check out the things you should consider before taking the leap to move abroad.
1.Voting
Thomas Barwick/Getty Images
While living and traveling abroad, do not forget your responsibility as a citizen to vote. Voting abroad does not have to be a confusing or overwhelming process. All travelers have to do is request an absentee ballot online and mail it back before the election day. American citizens abroad can request a ballot at https://www.fvap.gov and select their state for instructions on requesting and returning their absentee ballot.
2.Paying Bills
You may be just living out of Airbnbs and hotels, but bills will arise for an extended period of time. When living abroad, you'll need to account for how you want to set up your phone bill and how bills are paid locally for your country. For example, when I lived in Europe for the summer, it was easier and cheaper to set up my phone using a local SIM card. I had to purchase one at the airport and paid my bill monthly through their website. During my time in Mexico City, I quickly learned that I could only pay my bills in cash, seeing I didn't have a local bank account.
Understanding how the country you're moving to processes and accepts payments of bills is vital — especially so you don't get your water or electricity cut off due to a simple miscommunication. In addition to paying bills, you'll want to set up your finances and budgets. Consider looking into credit and debit cards with no foreign transactions or ATM fees and cards that offer points so your money can go further and work for you!
3.Visas
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Does the country you're considering require a visa? Do you have to apply for it online beforehand, or can you receive a visa on arrival? It would help your transition if you asked these questions and researched the answers before deciding on a country. As American citizens, we can enter most countries visa-free or get a visa on arrival for 3 to 6 months with just our passports. However, if you're looking to move to another country for over a year or longer, that will require a different type of visa.
Since the pandemic, most countries have created "digital nomad visas" that cater to how the world and travel are changing. Make sure to visit the official government website of the country you are interested in moving to so that you fully understand how the visa process works.
4.Taking Time to Adjust
When moving and traveling to a new country for an extended period of time, remember to give yourself a ton of grace in the process. In the beginning, everything will feel like a new high, but as you slowly find your roots, life might start to feel more "normal" — and that is fine. While you're traveling, things back at home might change, or you may miss a birthday or two, but give yourself grace because you are embarking on a journey that few are brave enough to do! It will take time to make friends and feel like yourself. However, the reward of travel is not in the fabulous photos we take but in the people we become along the way.
5.Building Real Community
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When moving to a new country alone one of the first things you will want is new friends. While making friends as an adult is not easy, there are definitely actions you can take to help you build community in your new city. Building community is important not only for social reasons but for safety as well. I was recently in a group chat for Black expats and the admin of the group created a Google Doc where we could list our emergency contact in case of an emergency. It’s important that someone you trust knows your location, that’s especially true when living abroad.
The best way to find community is honestly through social media. You can search groups on Facebook and Instagram that will show you community events and the best places to hang out. You can search phrases like “Black women in Mexico City” or “Black Expats in Dubai” and swap out your location. Once you meet a few people, make sure to show up and put yourself out there! Invite people to meet up with you, and remember everyone else is also looking for friends, so you’re not alone.
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From cute museum dates in London to grabbing drinks in Mexico City and walking the boardwalks in Curacao, dating abroad has allowed me to explore and expand my mind. Of course, there was also the time in Puerto Escondido when my surf instructor picked me up on the back of his motorcycle, and we drove around at night, played pool, danced, and talked on my porch until 2 a.m.
My dating life in the U.S. was pretty stagnant, and I've found that dating overseas has allowed me to be more adventurous and open-minded regarding my love life. My main tip for dating is to trust that God is not limited by location. But don't just take my word for it. I chatted with a few other Black women travelers to get their advice and tips on dating in foreign lands and how to thrive while doing so:
xoNecole: What's the best way to meet potential dates when traveling?
Amber: WhatsApp groups are like a secret society overseas, and what’s great about these groups is they are often a large group for expats or Black expats, but also are segmented into different lifestyles so you can search for groups of activities you like or want to learn like dancing or language exchange, or that you already do, like vegan restaurants and LGBTQ+ meetups. That way you can meet people who you already have something in common with and then meet their friends and grow your potential dating pool.
How did your travel journey begin?
Amber: I was planning a program for Black women who wanted to live outside the U.S. At the time, I had lived in the Middle East and the Caribbean for over two years, received my dual citizenship from Antigua and Barbuda (where my Dad is from), and was able to combine my previous experiences in creating business systems for solo entrepreneurs to partner with travel groups and companies coming into and out of Antigua.
Then in January 2021, I launched The L.I.T. (Local In Training) House as an overseas group transition house for Black women who want a more streamlined way to test out overseas life with a built-in community.
Courtesy of Amber C. Edwards
What has been your experience with dating abroad?
Amber: As a relocation specialist for Black women, around 65% of my clients are single and solo Black women and a majority of those women are interested in dating and have dated while overseas. Initially they take the traumas from their U.S. dating life into their new life, but as they adjust to their new city, they learn to open their horizons to different cultures and mindsets than they have experienced before in the past, especially in the larger cities like México City which has a large Black expat and global community. I’ve had clients who have gotten into relationships and even created a new life while overseas, and now her baby can have two passports!
What advice would you give to others who want to date abroad?
Amber: Be open and take your time to figure out who you are in your new environment. Living overseas allows you to address and leave your baggage back in your home city, so spend some alone time in the beginning of your move abroad so you can figure out just who you are, what kind of life you want to create, and what type of people you want to exchange energy with.
How did your travel journey begin?
Tiffany: I was living on the south side of Chicago navigating the riots and pandemic blues. Do you remember those loud booms and firecrackers in the middle of the night? At that moment, I said, 'I gotta get the f-ck out of here for a couple of weeks.' So I left for Playa Del Carmen and ended up in Tulum for two months. I returned to Chicago to put my things in storage and never looked back. It's been two years of exploring 15 cities in Mexico, and I finally decided to be an official resident in Mexico City.
What was your experience dating abroad?
Tiffany: It’s been a fun, exciting, crazy whirlwind, navigating cultural differences and learning more about other cultures. Mexico City is a global community, so you meet people from all over the world. It was my first time dating outside of my race. I figured the world would end soon, so I might as well do things I've never done before. I wish that I had been more open before.
Courtesy of Tiffany Tapley
How do you feel like dating abroad differs from dating in the States?
Tiffany: In my experience, dates are more intentional, and men communicate how they feel. In the States, you are lost in a sea of 'wyd'ing' texts and 'What you up to?''Here, men are direct and make dinner reservations and creative dates. They're more traditional and will let you know they will protect and provide. Both men and women are so guarded in the States. It's been hard for me to connect there because it's always based on superficial checklists instead of someone's character, and we're supposed to accept the least and give so much of our hearts.
The cultural difference from a Mexico City perspective is that Mexicans are very kind and giving. They lead with their heart, so at first, it was uncomfortable for me to date because I had this American side-eye and I'm letting go of it. On the flip side, as Black American women, we may not be used to someone pouring out their heart so soon, so it's easy to get attached quickly. Mexican men are the ultimate love bombers, just go in having fun and enjoy yourself.
Can you share a time when you stepped outside your comfort zone with dating abroad and the results of that?
Tiffany: Yes. I met a cute Argentinian guy who took me to a private club with a stripper pole, and he jumped up on it and slid down into a split. I was intrigued and got competitive and realized he was better on the pole than me. We went out a few times, but unfortunately, his sexual preferences did not match mine, and he got upset when I asked if he was in a sex cult. We never spoke again, but he inspired me to sign up for pole dancing classes. It worked out for both of us.
How did your travel journey begin?
Sharita: My travel journey began in 2018 when I first moved away from the U.S. to Medellin, Colombia. I moved there mostly to learn Spanish and to just experience life somewhere new. I also chose Medellin because it was popular among other “digital nomads”and it had a thriving Black expat population.
What advice would you give to others who want to date abroad?
Sharita: When dating abroad, trust your gut. Don’t be afraid to try new things, but never second guess your instincts if you get a bad feeling. I’ve said yes to taking a motorcycle ride through the mountains with a man in Antigua, Guatemala because I felt safe with him after a few dates. On the other hand, I’ve just as quickly said no guys who just rubbed me the wrong way. If anything in my gut feels off, I don’t wait to find out why on the date. I just say no or block numbers and move on.
What safety tips do you have for women dating abroad?
Sharita: I have a lot of tricks up my sleeve. I might make some crazy decisions on dates, but I always have safety in the back of my mind:
All first dates should be in a very public place. While I love for a guy to choose the date, I might say that I prefer to be in XYZ area where there are lots of tourists or just lots of people which means I can leave if I need to, or get help in a worst-case scenario.
Share your location with someone who is local. If I’m staying in an Airbnb, I’ll ask my host, when friendly, if I can send them my location while I’m on a date. At a minimum, I’ll drop a pin and say, “I’m here with a new guy.” And especially if my host is female, they know exactly what’s up. I’ve had Airbnb hosts really look out for me, and offer to come pick me up if I felt unsafe on a date (in Guatemala and Mexico).
If riding with someone, share license plate info and your date’s name. In a rare case, if I’m getting into a date’s car, I take a photo of their license and send their name to a friend. I know it’s a bit much, but you just never know. I even let the guy know so he’s on notice that I’m not to be messed with!
Be sparse with your traveling details. Of course, like any solo female traveler, I don’t share everything about my travel situation upfront. I always say that I’m traveling with friends and I don’t share where I live until I feel safe with them, if ever.
How do you think dating abroad differs from dating in the States?
Sharita: For me, dating abroad has been better, mostly due to my attitude. As a woman who’s new to a city or country, I’m much more open and vulnerable than I am at home. I have to rely on my dates to show me around, teach me things about the culture or language, and it really makes me a better dater, in my opinion. So I lean into this “foreigner advantage” as much as possible.
Another difference that I’ve noticed is how much (or little) Black women are appreciated from place to place. I’ve gone from feeling completely overlooked in Medellin, to feeling like I was Beyoncé in Playa Del Carmen and Mexico City. And years ago in Madrid, Spain, the local men treated me as though I was a prostitute when I’d walk through the streets in my business attire. So, location can make all the difference in the overall dating experience.
Courtesy of Sharita Jennings
What's been your favorite destination to date abroad?
Sharita: When I was in Latin America, Mexico was my favorite place to date. It may be the proximity to the U.S. that helps, but I really enjoyed the dating scene there. And most importantly, in Mexico, unlike many parts of the world, my Blackness felt like an advantage. I genuinely felt appreciated for being darker skinned, and I never felt fetishized, in my personal experience.
Share a time when you stepped outside your comfort zone while dating abroad and the results.
Sharita: What I’m most proud of in my time dating abroad, is attempting to date completely in Spanish. When I first moved to Colombia, I had a disadvantage by not speaking the language well. But when I moved to Mexico City for the first time in 2019, I wrote all my dating profiles in Spanish (with a note that I was still learning) and wrote all my messages in my imperfect Spanish. I’d even work with my Spanish tutor to cover dating topics and situations. The experience was thrilling and turned out so much better than I could have imagined. Again, I became more vulnerable as I had to rely on my dates to help me out with the language and they had to show a lot of patience as I tried to express myself in 2nd-grade level Spanish.
Overall, it was a great way to meet new people, have unique experiences, and improve my Spanish. I would 10/10 recommend trying to date in another language even if you just have a basic level. Perhaps seek out dates who also speak English so you can fall back on that when needed.
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