Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Spotlight: 7 Travel, Food and Lifestyle Influencers to Tap into Year-Round

May 02, 2023

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who make up more than 5% of the nation’s population. From entrepreneurs to artists to educators and athletes, the impact that the AAPI community has on our country is one we should not take for granted. By honoring their influence and recognizing the challenges that Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders still face today, we can create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive space for all.

One way we can support the AAPI community is by uplifting their voices and sharing their experiences with a wider audience. To kick off this month of recognition, we wanted to share a few of our favorite AAPI travel, food and lifestyle influencers who you can partner with year-round. Here are seven content creators making an impact and sharing their cultural experiences through social media:

1. @stuffbeneats
Stuffbeneats, also known as Ben Hon, is a food influencer and photographer based in New York City. After working in the investment banking industry for several years following college, Ben decided to follow his passion and dove headfirst into the food photography scene. His Instagram page features mouth-watering photos of dishes from all over The Big Apple and Ben educates his followers about different cultures through cuisine.

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2. @globetrottingsu
Sunetra Biswas is an Indian travel influencer based in New York who shares her experiences traveling to some of the world’s most picturesque destinations. Her page showcases beautiful photos of her adventures, including trips to Switzerland, Abu Dhabi and India. Su’s posts often feature detailed itineraries, giving her followers a glimpse into the unique and diverse cultures of the regions she visits.


3. @thenextsomewhere
Millette Stambaugh is a Filipino American influencer, wife and mother based in Philadelphia. Her Instagram page matches her colorful aesthetic and features stunning photos of her travels near and far. Whether you are looking for incredible street food, rich history or budget-friendly destinations, this self-proclaimed “serial traveler” has got you covered. Millette is on her way to joining the Travelers Century Club and is inspiring her followers to explore and learn about different cultures.


4. @finding.jules
Jules is a Vietnamese American and Los Angeles-based travel creator and storyteller who has been sharing her experiences traveling around for over five years. In addition to dreamy photos of beautiful destinations she has visited, you might also find fashion, décor and general lifestyle content sprinkled throughout her page. Her love for exploring is undeniable and Jules encourages her following to build their own life of travel.

 


5. @cherrielynn
Born and raised in the Philippines, Cherrie Lynn is now a San Francisco-based travel, lifestyle and food influencer with an aesthetic that changes to match the seasons. From sushi and cocktail recipes to travel highlights in Bali and Iceland, you can expect to find fresh inspiration every month of the year on Cherrie’s page.

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6. @goanniewhere
Annie Jiang is a Chinese-born, American-raised content creator who shares her experiences as a solo female traveler. Her mission? Empowering others to chase their dreams and go anywhere. It was her own love of history that inspired a study abroad trip in 2016 and she has since visited 20 countries and 6 continents. On her page you will find vibrant photos of her travels, including trips to Guatemala, Hungary and Italy.

7. @aasian
Asia is a Black and Filipino influencer who grew up a military brat and lived in destinations around the globe. Now based in Los Angeles, Asia is an actress, activist and content creator who uses her platform to celebrate diversity and address challenges faced by Asian Americans and Black Americans in this country. Her Instagram page features posts about fashion, beauty and lifestyle, with a focus on inclusivity and promoting representation for women of color.

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A post shared by ASIA JACKSON (@aasian)

These influencers are just a few examples of many who are making a positive impact and sharing their cultural experiences through social media. This AAPI Month, we encourage you to support and celebrate the diverse and vibrant communities of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. 

If you have interest in exploring an influencer marketing program for your community, contact Ashley.Kotar@aboutdci.com. 

Written by

Ashley Kotar

Senior Manager