Our Story
The Beginning
The idea for Discover1 Travel began between 2021 and 2023, when founder Samuel Walukouw traveled through Kenya, Jamaica, Indonesia, and across the United States as an artist. While staying with a friend in Jamaica, he experienced the country through the perspective of someone who called it home. That personal introduction to the culture inspired him to create the same kind of opportunity for others.
After becoming a certified travel agent in early 2024, Samuel realized that he wanted to do more than sell conventional travel packages. He wanted to create educational vacations centered around cultural immersion, authentic experiences, and human connection.
That vision came to life with Discover1 Travel’s first ten day program in Bali in 2024. After successfully curating and leading the journey, Samuel knew that Discover1 was something he wanted to continue building and share with more travelers.
Discover1 Travel was founded and is led by Samuel Walukouw, an Indonesian-American artist, travel professional, food enthusiast, and lifelong student of culture.
Raised in Bandung, Indonesia, and later building a life in the United States, Samuel brings together the perspective of someone deeply connected to his roots with the curiosity of someone discovering a place from the outside.
The “1” in Discover1 represents oneness, a value closely connected to Samuel’s background in reggae music and his belief in our shared humanity. Through travel, he hopes to bring people closer across cultures and create experiences that remind us that even with our differences, we are all connected.
The Heart Behind Discover1
Ready to discover what awaits?
Our Purpose
To bring people together through authentic experiences and invite travelers to experience a culture for themselves. By traveling in a small group, there is more room to participate, listen, learn, ask questions, and form genuine connections within the communities we visit.
We believe travel should be a meaningful exchange. Through thoughtful partnerships, we aim to give back to the communities that welcome us while supporting the people who continue to practice and share their cultural knowledge and traditions. We hope to create experiences that are meaningful for everyone involved.
