Exploring the World with Savannah: A passionate traveler

Interview by Romilly

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Savannah Riley, a vibrant 20-year-old traveler who also happens to have Down Syndrome. In this interview, Savannah shares her love for travel, the places she’s explored, and how she manages to navigate the world with confidence. Let’s dive in!

1. What is your favorite destination that you’ve traveled to so far?

Probably Bermuda. I loved swimming with the turtles on Somerset Long Bay Beach, and the crystal blue ocean waters and pink sand beaches—unlike anywhere else in the world.

2. Do you like to fly?

I love to fly. My favorite airline is Southwest – because I get to pick my own seat – always by the window so that I enjoy the views and to lean on the windows when I want to get some rest. The Southwest team in Miami in particular is very helpful. Shout out to Winston at the ticket counter who always takes care of me. Seaplanes are pretty cool too!!!

3. Where would you like to go next? Is there a dream destination you have in mind?

On my bucket list, I’ve always wanted to go to Hawaii – it looks so beautiful, from the palm trees, the mountains, the beaches and the water.

4. I’m really curious about your solo travel to Miami, Savannah. How is it for you when you travel on your own? What do you enjoy most about it, and how do you prepare for those trips?

I love to travel on my own. I enjoy the independence and freedom that I get from flying solo. I go to Miami from Maryland every couple of weeks on my own to spend time with my dad. My packing routine is pretty dialed in, so it doesn’t take me very long. I download my boarding pass and take my ID with me for the airport. I have both Clear and TSA Pre-Check (Global Entry too!) which I would recommend for anyone who travels more than once or twice per year. I usually download some shows or movies to my Ipad to watch on the plane. Sometimes I like to do my art, and also word searches on longer flights.

5. What technology or tools do you use to help you when you travel?

The airline apps are very helpful. I also use Google maps to help me get around places that I’m not completely familiar with. I have a weather app that I frequently use to see if there might be anything in the forecast that might cause delays, etc.

6. Why is travel important to you? How does it make you feel?

It feels great and relaxing to travel – I love to explore new places, new things, new foods, and experience all that the destinations have to offer. It is important to me because it helps me to gain a bigger picture of the world, the people and how others live.

7. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced while traveling, and how did you deal with it?

Delays and cancellations are always a challenge. I don’t really like that but understand they are going to happen from time to time, so I do my best to deal with it as there is nothing I can do to change it. That’s why I usually make sure to download a lot of shows/movies from Netflix, etc. so that I have something to watch while I wait to help pass the time. I was once on a flight where another passenger had a medical emergency. While I was scared for him, the crew (and even some of the passengers) did a great job to assist him.

From her favorite spots in Bermuda to her excitement about Hawaii, Savannah’s passion for travel is evident. Savannah’s journey reminds us all that with the right mindset, the world is open to exploration, regardless of any challenges we face. Stay tuned for more stories from Savannah in the Journeyable community!