Vacationer of the Week: Dalton Reeves

Our Vacationer of the Week is Dalton Reeves! The 30-years-young flight attendant and content creator lives in New York City but was born in Washington, Missouri, and raised in Cuba, Missouri. But now, he travels the world as often as he possibly can. 

So, we caught up with Reeves to talk about his advice for passengers who choose to travel by air, and he also offers his tips for queer travelers visiting NYC. He also dishes about his favorite places to visit, the top three places on his bucket list, and a travel trend he’s excited about!

Vacationer Magazine: At what age did you receive your first passport? What was your first trip?

Dalton Reeves: I was 21 years old. My buddy and I decided to study abroad in London at the Theatre Academy of London for a Shakespeare intensive course over the summer. We figured since we were already over there, we might as well backpack across the continent. So we backpacked through Europe for three months. 

What trip or travel experience sparked your passion for travel? 

That backpacking trip allowed me to fall in love with seeing the world! We visited so many places and experienced so many things I could never have imagined growing up in my small town. I knew I wanted to see the world; I just didn’t think it was possible. 

Please tell us how you identify yourself on the LGBTQIA spectrum. Tell us if how you identify influences the way your travel. If so, how?

I identify as gay, and it does play a big part in how I travel. I meet a lot of LGBTQ+ people when I travel, and I get the opportunity to hear their stories. In some places where I’ve traveled being LGBTQIA+ is illegal and very underground, and in other places, it is celebrated. I love to be in places where it is celebrated. However, I cannot forget that other people do not have the same opportunity to travel as I do. 

Is there a travel destination that most queer travelers would think isn’t safe to visit, but you’ve visited and enjoyed it? If so, where? 

I visited Morocco and I thought it was such a great experience from the wonderful people I met to the food to the ease of travel. I would recommend anyone to visit to experience the culture; however, it is still illegal to be LGBTQ+ in Morocco even though there is a European influence. I found several locals who showed me around and took me to various local Moroccan venues that allowed me to dive into the culture. 

We were able to converse not only about LGBTQ+ issues both in the States and in Morocco, but we also talked about the power the US Passport has, which we often take for granted. The number of places we can visit for just being American is astounding, whereas others have to jump through so many hoops just to leave their country. 

What are three ways passengers can ensure that they have a good flight?

1. Ensure you come well prepared. Bring headphones, a water bottle, a jacket, and plenty of downloadable content. You never know what could happen. You want to be prepared. 
2. Always arrive a little earlier than you think you should especially if you’re not a frequent flyer.  
3. Go with the flow. Things happen and you can only control so much. Smile and have a good time!

Are there any new innovative changes to planes or positive changes or trends that you’re excited to see in air travel?

A lot of airlines are moving to free streaming content through their Wi-Fi which is great. You no longer have to worry about having headphones for the screens or screens not working. Also, the network possibilities across the world are growing more and more every day!

Also, the network among airlines is growing so fast that getting to any destination is becoming easier. The partnership airlines are working together to ensure a smooth transition from airline to airline, which allows for smooth travel.

What are three things LGBTQ+ travelers should do when visiting New York City?

First: See and do as much as you can. Plan out an itinerary of things you want to do and also book a show.

Second: Jump around to various LGBTQ+ nightlife found all over the city, such as Industry, Ritz, Three Dollar Bill, and Icon. There is a place for everyone in NYC.  

Third: Get out and meet people. New Yorkers are friendly and fun people who will offer advice on a few hidden gems that will allow you to explore beyond the beaten path. Don’t be a typical tourist and pave your own way!

What are your top three favorite places to visit? Why?

1. New Zealand – The gorgeous regions and landscape of the country are literally right out of a movie. I have never been anywhere else like it. The people who live there and are visiting are so free-minded. I recommend New Zealand all the time!

2. Costa Rica – I love some adventure and there is always something very cool to do. From ziplining to rock climbing, to beaches and monkeys! I simply adore this country.

3. Japan – The culture is so vastly different than any country I have ever visited. The food is simply amazing as well and I could eat it every day!

What three places are still on your bucket list to visit? Why?

1. South Africa is still on my list. It’s different from the rest of Africa but has so many things Africa has to offer, such as outdoor adventures like a guided safari. A trip to South Africa will be planned soon.

2. Indonesia specifically Bali! I’ve been dreaming about going to Bali for years with thoughts of the serene landscape and what seem like friendly locals. Sometimes I go on Airbnb and imagine myself in a treetop hostel or a bungalow on the water. It is on my list.  I hope to get there soon. 

3. Fiji is also on my bucket list. I have yet to explore a South Pacific island, and as a fan of Survivor, it remains high on my list. Fiji has gorgeous beaches, and the island lifestyle is so intriguing to me. One day it will happen!

What’s one thing you never forget to pack in your suitcase?

Headphones for sure! I am always listening to music, or an audiobook, or watching something on Netflix. I need them and they have to be charged!

You’re going on a road trip or a long-haul flight. What singer or band is always on your playlist?

My musicals playlist never disappoints! I am constantly adding to it every time I see a new show and it always has something for any mood that I am in! I am a musical gay!

You can follow Dalton Reeves’ most recent travels @DaltonReeves21 on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.