Tracee Ellis Ross on Creating ‘Solo Traveling,’ Teases Season 2

Tracee Ellis Ross has always been a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, known for her roles in hit television shows like “Black-ish” and “Girlfriends.” But now, audiences are getting a closer look at Ross in her latest venture, the Roku Original series, “Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross.” This unscripted series has taken the streaming world by storm, quickly becoming the most-watched show in Roku history and earning a well-deserved Season 2 renewal.

Ross’s love for travel has always been evident, but it wasn’t until she noticed fans flocking to her social media accounts to catch a glimpse of her stunning vacations that she realized the potential for a travel show. “I came home from my regular summer trip with my friends, and the guy helping me at the airport mentioned how they wait to see my first dip and my Paris fashion every year,” Ross shared in an interview with Variety. This revelation led her to explore the idea of a travel show that captured the essence of her social media posts, and thus, “Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross” was born.

One of the unique aspects of the show is Ross’s insistence on showcasing the prep and packing process, a crucial part of her travel experience. With production on board, the first season of “Solo Traveling” follows Ross as she embarks on adventures in Morocco, Mexico, and Spain, all while bringing her iconic wardrobe along for the ride. The series not only highlights breathtaking locations but also delves into Ross’s vulnerability, distinct worldview, and how she navigates the emotional highs and lows of solo travel.

Solo traveling has been a significant part of Ross’s life for over 25 years, starting with a solo trip to the Pink Sands Resort in the Bahamas in her 20s. This experience shaped her approach to travel, leading her to embark on solo trips at least once a year. Ross emphasizes that there are different reasons for solo travel, whether it’s for adventure, meeting new people, escaping daily life, or decompressing, as she does.

While Ross is an experienced traveler, capturing the right tone for the show required careful consideration. She opted to travel with a skeleton crew to maintain the authenticity of her travel experience, forgoing a stylist or hair and makeup team. Safety and anxiety are common concerns for solo travelers, particularly women, but Ross stresses the importance of prioritizing safety and understanding one’s intentions for the trip.

Even with meticulous preparation, unexpected challenges can arise during solo travel. Ross faced a severe bout of food poisoning during her trip to Spain for the show, leading to a difficult filming experience. Despite the setback, Ross chose to keep the cameras rolling, showcasing the reality of solo travel and the unpredictable nature of life on the road.

“Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross” offers a refreshing and intimate look at the world of solo travel, guided by Ross’s unique perspective and unwavering authenticity. As the show continues to captivate audiences, it serves as a reminder of the transformative power of travel and the importance of embracing new experiences, even in the face of unexpected obstacles. Solo traveling has the power to transform a person’s perspective, as seen in the popular series where Ross embarks on adventures around the world. Throughout the show, viewers witness raw and emotional moments as Ross grapples with loneliness and the complexities of being single. Through honest video diaries, she delves into the journey of self-discovery and the courage it takes to truly be oneself in unfamiliar territories.

Ross reflects on the profound impact of solo travel on her own identity, stating, “It’s not about travel, but can you be yourself, by yourself, out in the world? Can you be who you are?” This introspective journey has led her to a deeper understanding of her true self and the importance of living authentically. The show serves as a testament to the power of self-acceptance and the pursuit of genuine happiness.

As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming Season 2 of the series, Ross is already contemplating her next destination. She shares, “When we did this season, I gave a long list of all the places I wanted to go, so there’s still a whole list of places. I have a dream list.” The allure of exploring new locations and immersing oneself in different cultures continues to drive Ross’s passion for travel. She welcomes suggestions from viewers, eager to embark on new adventures alongside her audience.

In essence, the essence of solo travel lies in embracing the unknown, facing challenges head-on, and discovering the depths of one’s own being. Ross’s journey serves as a reminder that things don’t always go as planned, but it is in those unexpected moments that true growth and self-discovery occur. As the series unfolds, viewers are invited to join Ross on her quest for personal fulfillment and meaningful connections across the globe.