About the Journey
Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Oneika Raymond
Who are we when we travel? About the Journey is a travel show about connecting more deeply to the places we visit, and in turn, ourselves. In Season 4, travel journalist and Marriott Bonvoy member Oneika Raymond explores how mindful travel has the power to change us: to nurture us, our relationships, and even the world around us. We’ll travel to four destinations known to transform those who visit —and by the end of each episode, you’ll have a full day’s itinerary to kick start your own wellness journey. Starting this season, Oneika also sits down to chat with som...
Maui, Hawai’i: Practice Mindful Travel Through Language and Shopping Local
Oneika Raymond ends her wellness journey in Maui, Hawai‘i's second largest island known for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to sandy beaches. There, she meets up with locals who help her become a more mindful malihini, or visitor, to the island by connecting with the Hawaiian language and history and shopping local.Oneika begins her day with a morning Hawaiian language lesson on Kā‘anapali Beach with Luana Kawa’a, a language teacher who’s been instructing students to speak the melo
Oct 4, 2024 • 25:32
Mexico City, Mexico: Taste Your Way Through the Past and Present of This Global Food Capital
Oneika Raymond is hungry. And, luckily, she’s headed to Mexico City, one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the world — and a place she always finds herself coming back to. There, she visits three eating and drinking spots that connect her to the layered flavors and history that give Mexico City its particular sabor, or flavor, to deepen her understanding of the dynamic capital. Oneika starts her day off early with a sunrise float through Xochimilco, an historic and active canal syste
Sep 20, 2024 • 22:32
Introducing: Longer Tables with José Andrés
If you’re enjoying About the Journey, we think you’ll love Longer Tables with Chef José Andrés. Each episode, world renowned chef José Andrés welcomes friends from the worlds of culinary and creative arts, politics and media to pull up a chair at the table. Together, they dig in to find out how food shapes the world and makes us who we are.This week, we're rolling José’s conversation with Asheville, North Carolina-based chef and restaurateur Katie Button. Katie’s journey started with the moment
Sep 13, 2024 • 32:48
Family Travel Hacks: Everything You Need to Know to See the World with Your Kids
Oneika Raymond chats with good friend and fellow expert traveler Monet Hambrick, founder of the family travel blog The Traveling Child, about the positive benefits of traveling as a family. Together, they offer up tips, tricks and all the tea for how to do family travel right.Monet started The Traveling Child in 2016 with her husband after an international trip with their 8-month-old first born led to tons of folks wanting to know how they pulled it off. Monet’s been encouraging and advising pa
Sep 6, 2024 • 32:28
New Orleans, Louisiana: Soothe Your Soul With Jazz, Culture and Comfort Food in NOLA’s Tremé Neighborhood
Oneika Raymond heads to New Orleans, Louisiana to connect with the people and history of Tremé, one of the oldest Black neighborhoods in the U.S. There, she’ll sit with some of the Tremé culture bearers of music, food and history to build a deeper understanding of the city’s roots. Oneika sets off from her hotel, W New Orleans French Quarter. It’s a short commute to her first stop of the day in the Tremé: Kermit’s Tremé Mother in Law Lounge, the last standing jazz lounge in the neighborhood. She
Aug 23, 2024 • 21:41
Solo Travel Tips: How to Have a Life-Changing Trip with Yourself
Oneika Raymond sits down with solo travel expert Beth Santos, founder of Wanderful, a global travel community for women. Together, they talk about how traveling on your own can be an opportunity for personal growth and share expert tips on how to make the most of your solo travels.Beth takes a mindset-first approach to traveling solo on your own terms, and recently authored a book that explores her philosophy: Wander Woman: How to Reclaim Your Space, Find Your Voice, and Travel the World, Solo.
Aug 9, 2024 • 20:10
Sedona, Arizona: Where to Kick Start Your Wellness Journey in the Verde Valley
Oneika Raymond kick starts this season in Sedona, Arizona, a desert oasis tucked in the Verde Valley and known for its stunning red rock formations and energy vortices. There, she embarks on a wellness journey to explore how Sedona encourages visitors to slow down to reconnect to themselves. She meets up with three locals who help her tap into Sedona’s must-visit stops to experience self discovery and mindful travel.Oneika starts her day with a morning hike to Yavapai Vista to meet with Melina F
Jul 26, 2024 • 20:00
Introducing Season 4 of About the Journey
About the Journey is back! This season, host and travel journalist Oneika Raymond goes on a wellness journey to four distinct places with the power to transform those who come to visit. Join us every other Friday through early October as we mindfully get to know ourselves and the world around us through meaningful, nurturing travel. About the Journey is a podcast produced by Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, AT WILL MEDIA, mntra, and Oneika Raymond. Listen and follow the show here.To read full episode
Jul 19, 2024 • 2:32
Kreuzberg, Berlin: Support the City’s Women-Led Eateries with a Michelin-Starred Chef
Oneika Raymond is off to Berlin's neighborhood of Kreuzberg, a thriving multicultural district just south of Mitte, for the final stop on her journey. There, she meets up with Dalad Kambhu, the chef and owner of Michelin-starred Thai restaurant, Kin Dee. Together, they take a walking tour through Kreuzberg to get to know the district, and its large and growing collection of women-led eateries. Oneika and Dalad meet each other in front of Kitten Deli, a women-owned breakfast joint that serves Isr
Sep 8, 2023 • 20:16
Bronzeville, Chicago: Tour the City’s ‘Black Metropolis’ with a Local TikToker and Historian
Oneika Raymond dials into Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood, where historian Sherman ‘Dilla’ Thomas takes us on a bus tour through the birthplace of gospel music and Black History Month located just four miles south of the city’s downtown. Bronzeville has quickly become the most popular neighborhood tour that Dilla offers through his bus tour company, Chicago Mahogany Tours, thanks in part to the viral TikToks that Dilla makes to illuminate the history and contributions of Bronzeville, formerly
Aug 25, 2023 • 18:28
Little River, Miami: Go Beyond the Beach to Uncover the City’s Dynamic Latin Music Scene
Oneika Raymond heads to Little River, Miami, a creative hub north of downtown and across the bay from Miami Beach. There, she’s joined by local entrepreneur Isabella “Izzy” Acker for a driving tour of the area where Isabella launched Tigre Sounds, a global music discovery platform with a focus on Latin artists. Through it, Isabella hosts live Tigre Sessions, or music events in lesser-known neighborhoods and venues across the city. Oneika meets up with Isabella at Sweat Records, an independent r
Aug 11, 2023 • 20:15
South Central, Los Angeles: Find the Magic in South LA’s Everyday Moments with a Local Cycling Enthusiast
Oneika Raymond dials into South Central, Los Angeles, where local cycling enthusiast Michelle Moro takes us for a tour in her beloved hometown. Born and raised in South Central, Michelle knows her neighborhood inside and out - but she still takes the time to explore like a traveler when she documents her bike rides on her TikTok, @miche1ada. To showcase the past and present of historic South Central, Michelle hops on her glittery blue bike for a ride up South Central Avenue, one of the longest r
Jul 28, 2023 • 21:40
Peckham, London: Explore This British-Nigerian Hub with a Local Author
Oneika Raymond travels to the heart of Peckham, a bustling neighborhood in South London just a few miles southeast of the Thames River. There, she joins local author Jendella Benson for a walking tour of the district she holds dear. Peckham is where Jendella set her debut novel, Hope and Glory, in order to pay tribute to the town and its Nigerian-British community.Oneika meets up with Jendella at Peckham Rye station to kick off the tour of Rye Lane, Peckham’s main thoroughfare and the place to s
Jul 14, 2023 • 22:07
Washington Heights, NYC: Embrace 'The Little Dominican Republic' and Its Unexpected Running Scene
Host Oneika Raymond takes the A-line up to Washington Heights, a loud, vibrant Dominican neighborhood in New York City, to join local Hector Espinal for a walking tour of his hometown. Hector is the co-founder of We Run Uptown, the first-ever running group in uptown Manhattan, and the perfect guide to get to know the streets of Washington Heights. Oneika joins Hector at Locksmith Bar, a popular local watering hole and the meeting point for We Run Uptown’s weekly Monday runs, before heading o
Jun 30, 2023 • 18:16
Introducing Season 3 of About the Journey
What does it mean to truly know a city? About the Journey is a travel show about getting off the beaten path to better understand the places we visit. In Season 3, travel journalist and Marriott Bonvoy member Oneika Raymond visits lesser-known neighborhoods in six iconic cities across the world. With the help of locals who know their neighborhoods best, Oneika learns what makes these destinations one-of-a-kind: from the sights, sounds and flavors, to the hidden gems, and so much more.About the J
Jun 23, 2023 • 2:28
San Francisco, CA: Celebrate Queer History in the Castro
Oneika Raymond walks Castro Street with filmmaker and drag performer Joshua Grannell (he/him) on their way to opening night of Frameline, the largest and longest running queer film festival in the world.The Castro is a historic San Francisco neighborhood which first became known as a hub for the Gay Civil Rights Movement of the 1970s. Oneika meets up with Joshua, or Peaches Christ, outside Queer A.F., a queer arts space dedicated to keeping LGBTQ+ artists in the Bay Area. It’s also the site of
Sep 30, 2022 • 25:25
Reintroducing: Travel Tales by AFAR
If you’re enjoying all of the stories we shared so far, we want to reintroduce you to another podcast: Travel Tales by AFAR. Hosted by AFAR Deputy Editor Aislyn Greene, Travel Tales explores the way that travel shapes us. Each episode follows a storyteller who took a trip—and came home transformed. In their new season, they’re getting back on the road to share the real stories and sounds from recent trips. We’re sharing one episode with you today. Hear comedian Esteban Gast reflect upon a recen
Sep 29, 2022 • 31:41
Vancouver, B.C.: Explore Canada’s Largest Chinatown
Oneika Raymond dials into Vancouver's historic Chinatown to learn how local entrepreneur Carol Lee has been leading the charge to save the historic neighborhood. Carol is the chair and founder of the Vancouver Chinatown Foundation, and is dedicated to revitalizing the neighborhood without losing its invaluable cultural heritage.Oneika learns about the history of the Chinese community in Vancouver, and how Chinatown became home for many after the Canadian Pacific Railroad was completed in 1885. W
Sep 23, 2022 • 24:55
Dallas, TX: Celebrate Juneteenth at the Texas Black Invitational Rodeo
Oneika Raymond makes her way to Dallas, Texas on Juneteenth weekend for the legendary 33rd Annual Texas Black Invitational Rodeo to get to know Black cowboy culture and history, a part of the American story that often goes untold. From galloping horses and the hoots and hollers of the more than 300 competing Black cowboys and cowgirls to the reverential sound of the Black National Anthem performed by Dallas local Angel White, we take you behind the scenes of one of the most popular rodeo event
Sep 16, 2022 • 17:20
San Juan, PR: Restore the Red Mangroves of Laguna del Condado
Oneika dials into Puerto Rico to talk about regenerative travel with Carmen Portela and Iris Landruá of Local Guest, a tourism agency that connects visitors to sustainable experiences.She’ll learn about the rich natural beauty of the Caribbean island and hear how Local Guest is partnering with locals to share their knowledge of the island with visitors looking to travel more consciously. Carmen and Iris give us insight into how nature and city life collide in San Juan, something they felt acutel
Sep 9, 2022 • 18:18
Denver, CO: Hit the Inclusive Hiking Scene at Genesee Park
Oneika Raymond travels to the Mile High City and hits the trail at Denver’s Genesee Mountain Park to learn more about how we can make the outdoors a more welcoming place for all.She’ll lace up her hiking boots to join Denverite Beth Bradley for a short trek along the Genesee Summit Trail, a short drive from downtown Denver. Beth is a plus-sized hiker whose relationship with her body and her hometown were transformed forever when she went for her first hike. We’ll hear how Beth didn’t always feel
Sep 2, 2022 • 21:09
Washington, D.C.: Visit a Black-Owned Bookstore in Historic Anacostia
Oneika Raymond heads to Anacostia, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Washington D.C., to visit Mahogany Books, the community's first Black-owned bookstore in over two decades selling works by Black authors. She'll meet with co-founders Derrick and Ramunda Young – partners in business and life – to discuss the impact of selling Black literature in a predominantly Black neighborhood, their own ties to Southeast D.C. and how their community has warmly embraced their shop tucked inside the Anacosti
Aug 26, 2022 • 26:35
Introducing Season 2 of About the Journey
About the Journey is back! This season, host and travel journalist Oneika Raymond takes us on a six-city journey around North America to chat with locals and ask them what it means to travel better. Join us every Friday through September 30th as we see the world in more meaningful ways. About the Journey is a podcast produced by Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, AT WILL MEDIA, and Oneika Raymond. Listen and follow the show here.
Aug 19, 2022 • 2:29
Toronto-Montreal: A Great Canadian Homecoming
Jamaican Jerk Chicken in Toronto, towering museums in Ottawa, and matcha eclairs in Montreal. Join Host Oneika Raymond on a road trip from Ontario to Quebec to see some of the diversity of people, places, and foods that Canada has to offer. We start our journey in Toronto, where Oneika grew up. On Eglinton Avenue, we meet up with Oneika’s friend and local newscaster Brandon Gonez to learn about the neighborhood of Little Jamaica. We hear about some of the best food on this strip at places like R
Dec 17, 2021 • 22:36
Memphis to New Orleans: Hit the Blues Highway
It’s known as the birthplace of the blues. An area that helped define American sound. And if you travel through the Mississippi Delta today, you’ll find this musical tradition still runs strong here. Join Host Oneika Raymond on a road trip along the Blues Highway, from Memphis to New Orleans, as we uncover the vibrant music history that sustains the region and its culture. Along the way we’ll take in a classic juke joint, a Mexican dish with Southern flair and a music store for music people.We
Nov 19, 2021 • 17:31
Introducing: Travel Tales by AFAR
This week, we're excited to introduce you to another show called Travel Tales by AFAR. Travel, at its best, changes the way we see the world. Each week, host Aislyn Greene digs into stories from people who took a trip—and came home transformed. In this episode, we go on a three-week, 500-mile bike trip through the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert with photographer Peter Bohler and his fiancée, Celia, to learn when to say "yes" to adventure. Subscribe today, and learn more at https://www.afa
Nov 4, 2021 • 18:18
Boston to Portland: A Coastal Maine Escape
An iconic lighthouse, storied blueberries and the freshest lobster you can eat. Join Host Oneika Raymond on a road trip up the Maine coast to get a sense of the endearing character that northern New England has to offer.Our first stop is in York, Maine to enjoy one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine, the Nubble Lighthouse. We’ll hear from locals just what makes the Nubble so special — beyond its reputation as a tourist attraction.Then, we’ll make a stop in Kennebunk, Maine to hear fro
Oct 22, 2021 • 17:09
Green Bay to Chicago: A Day On Lake Michigan
Sailing on Lake Michigan, a sweet treat in dairy country and authentic Chicago blues. Join host Oneika Raymond on a trip along the west coast of Lake Michigan for a refreshing spin on the Midwest.We'll start our road trip off in the “Malibu of the Midwest”, Sheboygan, Wisconsin to learn about sailing from SEAS, a local organization that's making the sport accessible to all. There, we’ll speak to visually impaired local teen Mayah McWherter about how she takes to the open waters. Then, we’ll cool
Sep 17, 2021 • 16:11
Los Angeles to San Diego: Rolling into SoCal
From roller skates to birria tacos, this episode takes us southbound on the 5 from Los Angeles to sunny San Diego. Join Host Oneika Raymond on a road trip down one of the most famous coastlines in America to get a taste of southern California culture.We start our journey heading south down Whittier Boulevard to catch a glimpse of the iconic low-riders of LA. We’ll park on a stretch of Long Beach called Junipero Beach. There we’ll speak with roller skater Rubina Bernabe, best known for her roller
Aug 20, 2021 • 17:34
Seattle to Portland: Finding Community Spirit in the PNW
World class glassblowing, a diverse farmers market and even a bit of kayaking: join Host Oneika Raymond on a road trip through the Pacific Northwest, exploring the local communities between Seattle and Portland. We’ll hear stories from area insiders along the way as we stop in Tacoma, Washington; Olympia, Washington; and Estacada, Oregon. First, we’ll head south from Seattle to Tacoma, Washington to visit the Museum of Glass. There, we’ll speak with glass artist Benjamin Cobb who’s been creating
Jul 16, 2021 • 17:32
Wyoming’s National Parks: Witness Wildlife
Legendary grizzlies and a sanctuary for mustangs. In this episode, we’re driving around Wyoming’s National Parks in search of some serious wildlife. Join Host Oneika Raymond as we practice sustainable tourism throughout some of the most dramatic landscapes in the United States. We’ll base our trip at the Springhill Suites Jackson Hole in the mountain ski town of Jackson, Wyoming. There we’ll explore the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, Persephone’s, and Snake River Brewing. We’ll meet Mark Labelle, wi
Jun 15, 2021 • 18:31
New York to D.C.: Taking the Backroads
The key to enjoying this busy East Coast commute? Slow it down, and take a break from the highway. Join Oneika Raymond as she discovers the hidden treasures between these two hubs, from world-class birdwatching to the area’s Black history to three rival sandwich shops competing for the throne.First out of New York, we’ll go on a Garden State birding tour through Sandy Hook, New Jersey, with Lindsay McNamara from the American Bird Conservancy. At the Gateway National Recreation Area, we’ll look f
May 18, 2021 • 15:59
The Florida Keys: Drive the Overseas Highway
To reach Key West, the southernmost point in the United States, the legendary Overseas Highway travels 113 miles over more than 40 islands, each with its own story to tell. In this episode, we join host Oneika Raymond on a journey through these Florida Keys, traveling from Miami to Key Largo and all the way down to Key West. Along the way we’ll hear from the people who are preserving the Florida Keys’ unique flavors, history and culture. Our first stop is at mile marker 82 in Islamorada to meet
Apr 17, 2021 • 16:00
Oahu’s North Shore: Connect with Island Life
Oahu is famous for Waikiki and Pearl Harbor, but where do the people who live here really spend their time? Join Host Oneika Raymond as she takes off on a short, but packed road trip around the island’s North Shore, trying the poke at a locally loved shop, discovering ocean conservation efforts at a popular surfing beach, and exploring a lush valley with deep ties to Hawaiian culture. We’ll make our first stop for Shoyu Poke at Kahuku Superette, a grocery store run by Tina Lee and her husband Ha
Dec 22, 2020 • 21:28
Atlanta to Asheville: A Soulful Journey
School bus graveyards, soul food, and Native American folklore await travelers who know where to stop between Atlanta, Georgia and Asheville, North Carolina. Join Host Oneika Raymond on a Southern road trip full of culture, food and characters. First along Highway 85 in Alto, Georgia, Alonzo Wade Auto Parts, where owner Walter Wade reveals a School Bus Graveyard, a sprawling art installation painted on old buses that was started by artist Nick Morris.Next, head to Toccoa, GA to meet Shirley Comb
Dec 22, 2020 • 16:51
