Vacationer of the Week: Joseph Wayne Henry Love

Joseph Wayne Henry Love is our Vacationer of the Week! The 32-year-old influencer, entrepreneur, and executive chef at Kona Grill was born and raised in Houston, Texas, but he currently lives in Dallas. 

Love seems to be following his mother’s advice – “stop letting the world tell me to pick one” career path. So, the enterprising millennial has dabbled in many creative fields, including working as a professional dancer, choreographer, and model as well as a board member and director of operations for Unleashed LGBTQ. 

We talk to Love about how he scored his gig working with VACAYA, the best places to go when visiting Dallas for the first time, what places are still on his bucket list to visit, and he reveals the countries that serve his favorite food. 

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

Joseph Wayne Henry Love: My first passport I got when I was 20 and my first trip was to Tokyo with my dance crew to train and dance abroad. Talk about a culture shock for my first trip abroad. But it was surreal and the experience of a lifetime that I will never forget. 

What trip or travel experience sparked your passion for travel? 

I would have to say my first true travel experience that actually sparked my passion for travel had to be a simple boys’ trip with some of my chosen family to San Francisco and then up to Napa Valley. Nothing abroad but it was such a surreal and uplifting experience full of joy and laughter. My friends and I are very close, so we literally take almost every trip together. There is just something so euphoric about being carefree and with the ones you love. 

What inspires you to travel?

I would have to say culture and people inspire me to travel. I love meeting new people, trying new foods, and exploring new places. The world is full of so many beautiful places and open-hearted individuals that I’m literally filled with joy to be able to step out of my known and into the unknown and truly experience something new. 

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 would have to identify myself as an openly proud gay black man. How does this influence my travel? The courage and pride that I have right now are due to the fact that I’ve had the support of so many people around me, and that has provided me with the strength and personal freedom to travel where I want without worrying or judgment. Of course, safety is always considered wherever I travel, but for me, travel reminds me of all life’s beauty and joy.

So, you’re currently the Executive Chef at the Kona Grill in Dallas. What are the top three places (domestic or international) where you really enjoy the food? Why?

Well of course being born and raised in Texas where everything is bigger and better, I would for starters say Texas. From the soul food to the BBQ, you just can’t go wrong. 

I’m personally obsessed with Italian cuisine so my all-time favorite would have to be Italy. You have not had authentic pasta until you’ve tried fresh-made pasta in Italy. I mean my lord. It’s so mouthwatering and delicious. 

After that, I would have to go with anywhere in Mexico. There is just something homey and comforting about authentic Mexican cuisine. This is a culture that really knows how to put time and love into every single dish! 

Occasionally, you also work with VACAYA. What do you do for them and how did you score that gig?

I am currently a Team Member or Travel Ambassador for VACAYA. We essentially are there for each and every guest to ensure they are having the time of their lives. Whether it be simple conversations, tips on things to do during a trip, or answering questions about any issues that may arise during a trip. We work day and night diligently to handle any issues presented to us to give our guests the ultimate trip. I have to say from our Team Leaders to the founders, I am truly blessed to be a part of such a loving family and team. Each one of them is full of so much inspiration and they truly care about every guest. 

VACAYA doesn’t judge you. We don’t care about your weight, race, sexual preference, or any of that. We simply want to see everyone open their hearts to everyone and spread laughter and love. I was blessed with this opportunity with much appreciation to my sister Danny Lee Cabrera aka Liquor Mini! She is an absolute blast and we literally vibe off each other and just laugh endlessly. I love her so much and am so thankful to have her in my life. 

What is the most memorable travel experience you’ve had thus far?

My most memorable travel experience would have to be when I took my first gay cruise on an Atlantis Events Cruise with all of my best friends. We traveled with a group of friends from all over the U.S. It was the experience of a lifetime not simply because it felt like a giant circuit cruise but because the people I was with and the people I met were so genuine and authentic. I’m such a Pisces too so being anywhere near water is like my happy place. Something about being on a giant boat and dancing your life away and just feeling so free just lifts my soul. 

What three words would best describe your travel style? 

Spontaneous, adventurous, and optimistic.  

What are some recommendations for LGBTQ+ travelers visiting Dallas for the first time? 

For starters, I would tell LGBTQ+ travelers to check out the gayborhood in Dallas, off Oaklawn and Cedar Springs. You can’t miss it as we have one of the longest and largest LGBTQ+ crosswalks in the U.S. Take your pick from any of the bars from Round-Up Saloon and Dance Hall, Mr. Mister Dallas, Station 4, TMC (formerly known as Throckmorton Mining Company), JR’s Bar & Grill, Dallas Woody’s, Alexandre’s and Sue Ellen’s. The vibe is drastically different at each so your niche is sure to be found. 

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

Puerto Vallarta – It’s an LGBTQ+ hot spot and you’re always sure to have a blast there. 

Cabo San Lucas – The views are just breathtaking, and the food is divine. You have to check out The Office on the Beach, a popular restaurant where the friendly staff does the most to make sure you have the best and fullest experience.  

San Francisco – With such a substantial LGBTQ+ scene I love being around my people and visiting a city filled with so many out and proud individuals. It just brings hope to your life and reminds you that you are not alone. 

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

Greece – I mean, it’s Greece. Enough said right? I mean it’s just absolutely breathtaking. I mean crystal clear blue water, gorgeous cities and towns, yachts, and sailboats galore. Yes, please! And I hear that Mykonos has some wild parties and just sounds like an experience of a lifetime.

Thailand – To not only experience Thailand’s beauty but also to immerse myself in what I’ve heard is the country’s very gay-friendly vibe. 

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

My shoes! I have a hard time packing because I usually end up bringing my entire closet. I just love fashion, but my paranoia is like running 30 scenarios in my head. What if it’s hot, what if it’s cold, do I bring all my outfits that slay, or do I just go casual? And then I’m like who am I kidding nothing about me is casual. Extra it is! Bring it all! And I still buy more. 

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

If I’m on a road trip, I’m usually jamming to a mix of house music and EDM (electronic dance music).