When you Roam, do as the Roamers do.

Nusa Penida, Bali

There are a plethora of ways to plan your next trip, and I sat down with John Lawrence - one of the social media managers for The Roaming Republic. The Roaming Republic (RR) based off their website is: A collective of global citizens who are passionate about freely roaming the world in the endless pursuit for more. Birthed from a connection on Instagram, RR has amassed over 10.5k followers with multiple trips planned throughout the year. Traveling with travel groups like The Roaming Republic has become the norm over the last few years, especially with the access social media provides its users. John described to me how traveling with a group like RR has its pros and why you should consider it the next time you travel.

Why did you decide to join The Roaming Republic?

John: How many times have you planned a trip with 10 people, but only three actually come? Or want to plan an international trip, but none of your friends have a passport or no interest in getting one right away? Working in hospitality, I have always had an interest in seeing the world and to not limit my life experience to the border of The United States. I was tired of being put into these situations and at the time not quite ready to do solo travel, so going on a trip with The Roaming Republic, presented a great opportunity.

What are some of the pros and cons of being part of a travel group?

John: The biggest pro to group travel is the trip itinerary being prepared for you. All of the pressure of figuring out what to do, the best places to eat and see, are all handled for you. My best takeaway from joining The Roaming Republic was the endless friendships and relationships I have built on my trips with many of the travelers. If you are someone who is not a team player, prefers to be alone, and not interested in meeting new people, then group travel may not be for you. Everyone should try it at least once.

Camps Bay, Western Cape, South Africa

What would you say to the people who aren't extroverts who want to travel but joining the unknown with unknown people can be scary to them?

John: Growing up, I considered myself an introvert or more so an observer. I used to analyze and observe any situation before throwing my full personality out there. One of my biggest life goals these last few years has been to test my limits, see what I can do, and understand what I cannot do. Sometimes you have to push yourself to try new things even if it takes you to the other side of the world. Everyone who I've met on The Roaming Republic trips were always welcoming and it felt more like traveling with my best friends even though I had just met some of these individuals hours before. At the end of the day, we all have the same mindset. We love to travel, have an interest in a similar travel destination, and want to have a great time.

You're The Roaming Republic's social media manager, how did that happen? And how do you utilize social media to recruit new people?

John: The Roaming Republic was Co-Founded by Cassy Isabella & Cedric Hutchison, who are two individuals who have truly inspired me to travel. Cassy, recently brought me on to join the team to help with their Instagram account and to run their trip IG stories. It’s been really fun and exciting. I am truly grateful for the opportunity! Be sure to check out our IG Highlights!

The best thing about social media is that it gives users a direct way to interact and connect with each other. The Roaming Republic is a high energy travel group that loves bringing people together. It’s very important that we stay consistent and keep our messaging on track about the brands values and the experiences we can provide. I think people love our Instagram account and if we can inspire at least one person to travel, then we have done our part.

Speaking of recruitment, how does one join a travel group like yours?

John: Check out our instagram account, @TheRoamingRepublic to view IG highlights, photos & videos from our past trips. More information can be found on theroamingrepublic.com to see how you can roam with us!

Camps Bay, Western Cape, South Africa

There are dozens of travel groups sprouting up on social media. Why do you feel RR is better or different than other travel groups out there?

John: I think there is room for everyone in the travel industry. Definitely do your research and see what’s best for you. What sets The Roaming Republic apart is not only the experiences that we provide, but also the sense of family and good vibes. Every trip will have at least two hosts, who help guide the group and keep everyone pumped up and motivated. For those, who don’t want to travel alone, but still want to see the world, our group is perfect for you. For those, who have always wanted to visit a specific destination, but unsure how you would go about planning it, we do the work for you! It’s the best of both worlds.

Explain one of the best trips you've had with RR and the benefits you found with traveling with a group vs by yourself/group of friends. Factoring in cost, planning, and more. Is traveling with a group always the cheapest option?

John: My favorite trip by far was to South Africa! It was an exceptional combination of immersing ourselves with the culture and art in Johannesburg and seeing the breathtaking views and shorelines in Capetown. I’ve always known I wanted to visit Africa. So seeing that this trip was available and financially affordable, I signed up immediately.

Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa

Trips are paid by a monthly payment system or you can pay in full. With rent, a car note, student loans, and other bills, I knew I couldn’t pay in full. However, with this payment plan, it made it more manageable and more realistic for a dream to become a reality. Payments include nice accommodations, excursions, and some meals. You can find specific pricing and information on the website. If you are someone who likes luxury and prefers not to stay in low rating places then group travel definitely helps with splitting the costs to experience the nicer things in life. I know nomads and solo travelers who have no problem staying in hostels. Know your budget! Don’t go broke trying to flex for the gram.

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Follow John on Instagram at @johnlawrencejr and The Roaming Republic at @TheRoamingRepublic.