...

Love for Travel, Cultural Insights, and Longing for Nigeria: A Globetrotter’s Reflections – Laolu Gbenjo

Laolu-Gbenjo

Do you enjoy travelling?

Yes, I genuinely enjoy traveling. It’s refreshing to explore new places, connect with people, and engage with fans internationally. Travelling also brings fresh perspectives and inspiration.

Travel Frequency:
My trips depend on bookings; I typically travel every three months for work events.

Most Memorable Destinations:
The UK and the US hold special memories. In London and Maryland, I experienced great support at my concerts, with fans traveling long distances to attend, which was heartwarming.

Cultural Highlights:
In the US, I was impressed by the passion for entertainment, especially within Black communities. Experiencing live shows and attending the BET Awards allowed me to see firsthand how seriously Americans embrace and celebrate entertainment.

Trying New Foods:
I didn’t find the cuisine to my taste, and while I can’t recall specific dishes, nothing compares to Nigerian food.

Stereotypes Encountered:
No, I didn’t face any stereotypes. My interactions were positive and welcoming.

New Connections:
I made many friends, especially colleagues in the same industry. Some fans have even become like family.

Sightseeing During Travel:
Most of my travels are work-focused, so I haven’t had much time to explore. However, I plan to take more leisure trips to fully enjoy different destinations.

Essential Travel Items:
My must-haves are ear pods, a phone charger, toiletries, and event outfits. Any additional items can be purchased abroad if needed.

Travel Advice:
Make sure to budget adequately. The cost of living abroad is much higher than in Nigeria. A similar lifestyle requires significantly more spending overseas than at home.

Preferred Citizenship:
If I could choose, I’d likely take British citizenship. It’s convenient, as the UK is close to Nigeria, and I have family in London.

What Nigeria Could Learn from the UK and US:
The US has a supportive environment for business, with accessible loans and efficient infrastructure. Unlike Nigeria, where I had to save for years to build my studio, the US offers easier financial support for individuals who meet credit standards.

What I Miss About Nigeria While Abroad:
I miss the lively Nigerian lifestyle, including our unique food, events, and even the bustling atmosphere.

Bucket List Destinations:
Canada, Germany, and other European countries are high on my travel list.

Share

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Seraphinite AcceleratorOptimized by Seraphinite Accelerator
Turns on site high speed to be attractive for people and search engines.