Authentic travel is Kianna Naomi’s specialty. The multifaceted Youtube content has a way of making viewers feel capable of seeing the world in their own unique way.
Naomi is well-versed in masterfully capturing her travels. Her energy radiates from the screen. You want to be her friend. Her videos, while minimalistic, carry a playful charm that captivates her audience. Instead of following trendy travel destinations, Kianna intently focuses on the countries she visits and takes root for months at a time. Her deep love, appreciation, and respect for the country she’s in is apparent as she learns their language, builds meaningful relationships, and lives as authentically as the locals do.
Authentic Travel Through Simplicity
For Kianna, simplicity is key. Her content feels like an extension of herself, never overshadowed by flashy transitions or complicated angles. What makes her incredibly relatable is that she doesn’t showcase a faux luxurious lifestyle filled with overpriced and touristy hotels or destinations. Instead, she listens to her heart and travels where her passion guides her, not shying away from sharing moments of difficulty. Kianna ensures her audience understands her life isn’t a constant fairytale, but the experiences she gains through her travels are undeniably worth it.
In 2024, Kianna represents what we need more of—genuine, relatable content creators who inspire us to explore the world in a way that feels real and attainable.
21Ninety sat down with Kianna and asked her about her travels. Here’s what she had to say:
21Ninety: What inspired you to start a YouTube channel focused on travel, and how did you develop your unique approach to showcasing it?
Kianna Naomi: At 14, I began posting fashion and beauty content. I brought my audience along for the ride as I eventually traveled the world. I would say my travel vlogs looked a lot like everyone else’s until I decided to explore the world the way I truly desired by staying in places for months at a time, learning the language, and becoming comfortable in foreign regions. The country I’m in and the people I meet strongly influence my vlogs. I am simply a vessel to show the beauty that these countries hold.
21N: How has your experience been traveling as a Black woman, and would you encourage other Black women to travel authentically?
KN: It’s been nothing short of divine. Of course, there are some unpleasant experiences, but that’s life. I would never let those things stain my love for traveling the world.
To the black girls reading this, please travel. Your energy and presence are desired and needed everywhere. Don’t allow others to stop you from experiencing all the beautiful things you know your future holds. Use your discernment, trust your intuition, and travel where your heart leads you!
21N: Many people dream of extensive travel but face obstacles like time and finances. What advice can you offer for those who want to incorporate more travel into their lives within their means?
KN: Be patient and intentional with your travel journey. Step out of the cycle of comparing your travels to others. There is nothing dreamy about ticking countries off an arbitrary list you haven’t invested thought into.
The tourism industry feeds us the lie that extensive travel, this race to see the most countries, is the best way to travel. They constantly market new places, only to recreate the same idealized experience. For instance, Americans can go to Mexico and get what they’re accustomed to back home. Essentially, swimming in the same hotel pools, surrounded by the language they speak every day. Doing the same things you’d do at home against a foreign backdrop is not “extensive travel.” In my opinion, that is not traveling at all, it’s a vacation. Vacationing and traveling are very different. Extensive travel shouldn’t be the goal, intentional travel should. Soak in the culture of a place that really speaks to you and truly immerse yourself in the culture. Your creativity holds the answers to your dream trip, and it might be closer to home than you think.
21N: Travel can sometimes be physically and mentally demanding. How do you prioritize self-care and well-being while on the road, and what tips can you share for maintaining a healthy balance?
KN: Ha. I’m still figuring this out, so I’ll get back to you on that.
21N: Your channel features a lot of cultural experiences and interactions with locals. How do you foster respectful and authentic connections with the people you meet during your travels?
KN: I’m very blessed that I attract so many incredible people when I travel. The connections I make abroad will always be one of the greatest gifts traveling has afforded me. In short, I make connections with others because of my deep connection with myself. I often meet people who reflect the energy I’ve put into the world.
21N: Share some travel tips for those new to exploring different cultures and environments, especially when it comes to embracing diversity and respecting local customs.
KN: Keep an open mind and be patient with yourself. New environments can be intimidating but lean into it instead of running away. Don’t reject what you don’t know. Try new foods, learn the traditional dances, and let the languages grace your tongue. Don’t be afraid to break out your comfort zone because that’s where the most rewarding experiences are.
21N: How do you choose your destinations, and what are some of your favorite places?
KN: I go where my heart tells me to go. I’ll hear about a country in passing, usually in a book or by word of mouth, and it speaks to my subconscious. As for my favorite places, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro easily take the cake.
21N: What future travel plans or projects do you have in mind, and how do you envision the evolution of your YouTube channel as you continue your journey?
KN: I hope my YouTube channel will continue to genuinely reflect my life, whether I’m traveling the world or on set in New York City. As far as future plans go, after two years of constant travel, my next great task is finding a new place to call home. Wish me luck.
