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Tracee Ellis Ross on the Joy and Loneliness of Solo Travel

Tracee Ellis Ross Embraces the Freedom of Solo Travel: Insights from Her Roku Adventure

In a captivating exploration of self-discovery and wanderlust, actress and entrepreneur Tracee Ellis Ross shares her profound experiences with solo travel in a new Roku original series that blends personal narrative with breathtaking global escapades. Ross, best known for her Emmy-nominated role in "Black-ish" and as the daughter of music icon Diana Ross, has long been a beacon of empowerment, style, and unapologetic individuality. Now, at 52, she's channeling that energy into advocating for the transformative power of traveling alone, a practice she describes as both liberating and essential for personal growth.

The series, titled "Tracee Travels Solo," premiered on Roku this month, offering viewers an intimate look at Ross's journeys across diverse destinations. Far from a typical travelogue, the show delves into the emotional and psychological layers of venturing out independently, especially as a Black woman in a world that often imposes expectations on how one should move through spaces. Ross opens the first episode in the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany, Italy, where she recounts her initial foray into solo travel over a decade ago. "I started traveling alone because I realized I was waiting for someone else to make my adventures happen," she says, her signature laugh punctuating the confession. "But why wait? Life is too short, and the world is too vast."

Ross's solo travel philosophy is rooted in reclaiming autonomy. Growing up in the spotlight, with a mother whose career demanded constant movement, Ross learned early on the value of exploration. Yet, it wasn't until her 40s that she fully embraced going it alone. She describes her first major solo trip to Bali, Indonesia, as a turning point. Arriving without a rigid itinerary, she immersed herself in the island's spiritual retreats, practicing yoga at dawn and wandering through rice terraces. "There was no one to compromise with," she explains. "I could eat when I wanted, sleep when I wanted, and cry if I needed to. It was pure freedom." This theme recurs throughout the series, where Ross emphasizes how solo travel strips away societal noise, allowing one to confront inner dialogues and foster self-reliance.

One of the most compelling episodes takes viewers to Morocco, where Ross navigates the bustling souks of Marrakesh and the serene Atlas Mountains. She shares candid moments of vulnerability, like getting lost in the medina and relying on her instincts—and a kind stranger's directions—to find her way. "Solo travel isn't always glamorous," she admits. "There are moments of loneliness, fear even. But those are the moments that build you." Ross highlights the unique challenges faced by women travelers, particularly women of color, discussing safety concerns and cultural perceptions. She offers practical advice: always share your location with a trusted friend, learn basic phrases in the local language, and trust your gut. In Morocco, she connects with local female artisans, drawing parallels between their resilience and her own journey as a trailblazer in Hollywood.

The Roku series isn't just about escapism; it's a call to action. Ross weaves in her entrepreneurial spirit, referencing her hair care line, Pattern Beauty, which she often packs for her trips to maintain her signature curls amid varying climates. In an episode set in Japan, she explores Tokyo's vibrant neighborhoods and Kyoto's ancient temples, using the solitude to reflect on mindfulness. "Japan taught me the art of being present," she says, describing a solo tea ceremony where silence became her companion. The show features stunning cinematography, with drone shots of cherry blossoms and intimate close-ups of Ross journaling her thoughts. She encourages viewers to start small—perhaps a day trip to a nearby town—before graduating to international adventures.

Ross's advocacy for solo travel extends beyond personal anecdotes. She discusses its mental health benefits, citing how it combats burnout in a hyper-connected world. "We're so plugged in, but solo travel forces you to unplug and reconnect with yourself," she notes. In the series, she interviews fellow solo travelers, including a young artist from Senegal who backpacked through Europe and an elderly widow rediscovering joy in Southeast Asia. These stories underscore the universality of the experience while highlighting diverse perspectives. For Black women, Ross stresses the importance of representation: "Seeing someone who looks like me thriving alone in these spaces is powerful. It's about claiming our right to explore without apology."

A standout segment follows Ross to Iceland, where she chases the Northern Lights and soaks in geothermal hot springs. Amid the stark, otherworldly landscapes, she opens up about the emotional highs and lows. "There were nights when the isolation hit hard, reminding me of past heartbreaks or career pressures," she reveals. "But then the aurora would dance across the sky, and I'd feel this profound sense of belonging to something bigger." This vulnerability is a hallmark of the series, making it relatable and inspiring. Ross pairs these reflections with tips for sustainable travel, like choosing eco-friendly accommodations and supporting local economies, aligning with her values as an activist.

Throughout "Tracee Travels Solo," Ross infuses humor and fashion flair. Viewers see her styling versatile outfits—from flowy maxi dresses in Bali to layered coats in Iceland—proving that solo travel doesn't mean sacrificing personal style. She even dedicates time to culinary explorations, savoring street food in Thailand and cooking classes in Italy, emphasizing how food connects us to cultures. "Eating alone isn't sad; it's an opportunity to savor every bite mindfully," she quips.

The series culminates in a reflective finale back in the United States, where Ross hikes solo in the Grand Canyon. Here, she ties her experiences together, advocating for solo travel as a form of self-care. "It's not about escaping life; it's about enhancing it," she concludes. For those hesitant to embark on their own journeys, Ross offers encouragement: research destinations thoroughly, build a flexible plan, and embrace the unknown. She mentions apps like TripIt for organization and communities like Black Travel Movement for support.

Ross's foray into travel content on Roku marks a natural evolution from her acting career, blending her charisma with a passion for empowerment. The show has already sparked conversations on social media, with fans sharing their own solo stories using #TraceeTravels. By demystifying solo travel, Ross invites everyone—regardless of age, gender, or background—to step out alone and discover the world within and without.

In essence, "Tracee Travels Solo" is more than a travel series; it's a manifesto on independence. Ross's journeys remind us that solitude can be a profound companion, leading to unexpected joys and deeper self-understanding. As she puts it, "The best travel partner is the one you find in the mirror." Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a novice dreamer, her stories inspire taking that first step—alone, but never truly isolated. (Word count: 1,028)

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/25/travel/tracee-ellis-ross-solo-travel-roku.html ]