Travel Noire has always been about showcasing black travelers that inspire others to see more of the world. Twins Hermon and Heroda of the blog Being Her share how they hope to inspire people from the deaf and black community to see more of the world.  

Travel Noire: Where are you from and where do you currently live?

Hermon and Heroda: We were born in Eritrea, Asmara. We have lived in London for 25 years.

Travel Noire: When did traveling become more than a hobby for you?

Hermon and Heroda: Travel is definitely more than a hobby because we see it as a lifestyle. Our challenge was to travel to 12 countries last year to share our experiences with the deaf and black community, who don’t travel much. Through our travel, we experience different cultures and people and we always try to learn from these differences.

Travel Noire: What are your favorite destinations to travel abroad?

Heroda: I must say Iceland. It reminds you that we’re on this earth by the good graces of nature. Watching the Aurora Borealis was magical. We waited in pitch black for three hours in freezing conditions. Just before we were ready to abandon our quest, the light appeared as if by magic, and the tremendous light illuminated the sky. It was so bright you had to look away but couldn’t wait to look back into its gaze again. During our three-night stay, we managed to see the Aurora twice, which is very lucky.

Hermon: Santorini is a delight and the picturesque views defy the imagination. Walking along the narrow paths, whitewashed buildings with the sunset poking around corners, bouncing off walls and creating spectacular combinations of color.

Travel Noire: What are your top three travel secrets that black travelers should know?

Hermon and Heroda: If you can’t afford a luxury hotel, then you could save even more by choosing to stay with Airbnb.

Save money by avoiding high season travel.

Wandering a city with no plans is the best way to discover hidden gems. Don’t forget to embrace what you see, feel and experience.

Travel Noire: How did traveling change your perspective on life?

Hermon and Heroda: We love to travel, and our blog gives us the opportunity to widen our perspective. The more you see, the less you hate. Prejudice is a big part of the human condition and the more cultures you experience, the more you realize they are not that different from us. Being deaf isn’t a barrier, being scared isn’t a barrier. Be brave, be courageous and new experiences will alter your life forever.

Travel Noire: What has been your most inspiring travel moment?

Hermon and Heroda: We took a hike in Santorini, and we were determined to experience the amazing sights, but the weather was so hot and the descent down a long, steep, rocky hill to Oia from Imerovigil was draining and a little dangerous. Hiking is the best way to experience Santorini: just follow the awe-inspiring coastline. The view was jaw-dropping, incredibly beautiful from the darkest blue sea, caldera and interesting volcanos. It’s one of those places where you are reminded that nature is purely natural and beautiful. As you keep on walking, you can see lots of little-whitewashed villages dot the edge of the caldera.

Travel Noire: What advice do you have for black travelers traveling abroad?

Hermon and Heroda: Be brave, travel, experience and live. Traveling with a friend, brother or sister is important. It makes for shared memories, a better appreciation of each other and a stronger relationship. Also, have an understanding of the culture you are visiting and the breakdown of perceived barriers.

Travel Noire: Where are you off to next?

Hermon and Heroda: Paris, France. Can’t wait!

Follow Hermon and Heroda on Instagram: @being_her