Traveling while Deaf....

Photo credit: Travel+Leisure.com

Outside of my love for travel, Deaf culture and American Sign Language has been a passion of mine for the last 5-6 years. I once had aspirations of becoming a Sign Language Interpreter; I still may (Black Girl Magic). So when I ran across this podcast on Apple Podcast hosted by the incomparable Ms. Kellee Edwards (best friend in my head) I dove right in. Her interview with Deaf traveler and America's Top Model, Dancing With The Stars heartthrob, Nyle DiMarco, was nothing short of amazing. In the interview, Edwards covers the biggest misconceptions about Deaf people, traveling alone and what it's like to travel as a Deaf person. For those that have ever wanted to learn more about American Sign Language or traveling with what some may consider a 'disability', check this out!

Now, my inner circle knows my respect and admiration for Kellee Edwards. She's a pilot and the first black woman to host her own show on the Travel Channel. I have followed her over the years and have been taking notes the whole way. However, this interview really hit home for me, partly because I am an advocate for the Deaf community and respect the culture. To add to that, I have a few successful ASL interpreter friends. So it was a huge delight to see someone I admire cover a Deaf traveler's story; the Deaf traveler being DiMarco only made the story that much sweeter.

The focal point of Edward's interview is highlighting the ease and or the possible obstacles that a Deaf traveler may face. But there are a few other things that came to mind while listening to this podcast interview. For instance, the traveler that has been wanting to explore stateside or international destinations, but may not have anyone willing to tag along, will find encouragement to go solo. We all know the feeling of planning a fantastic vacation but as it gets closer to departure, all of  sudden, the other travelers drop out. After listening to DiMarco's experiences, you will feel like you can take that solo trip and conquer your fear of traveling alone. Head over to your favorite podcast platform and check out Kellee Edwards' interview, from Travel & Leisure on Traveling While Deaf. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

For more information on how to book your next vacation, be sure to visit www.kcrumbtravel.com and follow me on Instagram and Facebook.