Hoi An, Vietnam- December 27, 2023
About Me
I’m Ebony and I’m a plus size backpacker. I created this blog halfway through my Southeast Asia backpacking trip after realizing how many people reached out to me about how they are following my journey. It took me awhile to make this blog but the encouragement from peers has truly motivated me. I hope I can continue to motivate others to travel and indulge in their passions like me!
I started backpacking in 2019, a year after graduating. I had traveled before with my family but I never had the desire to travel alone. I was fixated on graduating and becoming a dentist. I obtained my bachelors degree while while working as a dental assistant and I also worked as a vaccine scientist. I believed that following that path was secure and fitting for societies standards. I constantly compared my career path to my peers and always feared that taking time for myself would put me behind. Eventually I realized that I at least wanted to see the world before I commit another 4 years to get my D.D.S. So I researched and watched vlogs of solo travelers and by Jan 2019 I had booked my first plane ticket for a solo trip. I traveled to Rome, Venice, Amsterdam, and London. It ignited something in me that made me view my life differently. I no longer had a fear of not meeting societies standards, I had a fear of not seeing the world.
Being a plus size girl growing up was hard and still continues to have its challenges. I faced a lot of bullying and discrimination from certain people. Over time the behavior shown towards me made me believe that I wasn’t deserving of a good life like others. I believed that I needed to lose a massive amount of weight to live my life or have someone with me so I could feel secure. I never wanted to go anywhere if my friends weren’t going. It made me feel like the attention wasn’t concentrated on me. Later I realized this held me back from doing what I wanted because I had to live life when my friends were available. After graduating, I started taking myself on solo dates due to feeling like I’m missing out. My friends were busy and I knew I couldn’t wait forever. So I started at the movies and next restaurants which then progressed to parks. I felt free. Being alone wasn’t scary anymore nor was people’s opinions.
I no longer travel solo after meeting my partner unless he is unable to come with me. A part of me misses solo travel but being able to share these adventures make it much more enjoyable. As of 2023, we have quit our jobs and chose to travel full time. I’m unsure of when we will be coming back home but we have no desire to come back anytime soon.
Luang Prabang, Laos- December 14, 2023