It seems like you can’t even go on Instagram or TikTok these days without seeing an abundance of black women on picturesque beaches, overwater bungalows, or exploring a beautiful foreign country. Travel offers the opportunity to experience a sense of peace, tranquility or even just the ability to escape from the daily hustle and bustle of our work and personal lives.
In 2019 alone, Black American travelers spent $129.6 billion on domestic and international travel according to “The Black Traveler: Insights, Opportunities, and Priorities,” a report produced by MMGY Global, and our spending power is likely to continue to grow.
But behind the scenes, even the most well-traveled and respected women on the journey face unprecedented obstacles. Because, like America, being black apparently makes other people uncomfortable just by our existence. Depending on the country, you have to worry about being racially profiled, stared at, or worse – looking so foreign that strangers will actually want to come up to you and touch you (or your hair).
Let’s also not forget the general concern of crime and safety.
Recently, many travelers have taken to Instagram to document some of the safest places they’ve traveled or felt comfortable as a black woman. Although safety is never guaranteed at any point in time, anywhere in the world, we’ve rounded up a few destinations to consider when planning your next trip.
01
Ghana
There is a reason why people consider their trip to Ghana a “homecoming”. For some, Ghana is a destination where security concerns and racism are non-existent, not to mention a country where immigrants have flocked over the past two years. Of course, nowhere is perfect. But when it comes to culture, food, safety and overall quality of life – Ghana comes close.
02
Mexico
Mexico gets an undeserved bad reputation for travel, especially in the United States, but not all parts are created equal. Tulum in particular has been a vacation spot for black travelers for the past couple of years, with a growing community of black expats in the Yucatan Peninsula. The best thing about traveling in Mexico is that they have a thriving tourist infrastructure, great hotels at a range of prices, and some well-worn tourist trails, especially in the Yucatan.
03
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is an amazing island that black women should explore. The consistently tropical climate, friendly locals, and endless amounts of coquitos are just a few of the reasons, but even beyond that, Puerto Rico has a combination of rich black history and colorful culture that should pique everyone’s interest.
04
Bali
Bali is not called the “Island of the Gods” for nothing. Considered one of the safest places in the world, Bali is also known for its beautiful natural scenery, fascinating cultural scene and affordable price. Because of this, Bali attracts digital nomads around the world, including a group of black expats called ‘Black In Bali’.
05
Colombia
Colombia elected its first black female vice president this year, so it’s no surprise that it would be a haven for women of color. Safer than ever and filled with incredible things to see and experience, Colombia is at the top of your travel bucket list. Amazing street art, incredible places, unparalleled nightlife, amazing beaches, delicious food – the list goes on and on. Also, Colombia is the only country in South America with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, so you get the best of both worlds.
06
Puffin Island
Iceland couldn’t be an easier place to travel. The country is built on tourism, and therefore the travel infrastructure is spectacular. Also, as the least populated country in Europe, you’ll find open spaces and vast areas of untouched wilderness in Iceland. For black women who crave peace, Iceland’s abundant natural beauty is around every corner with unparalleled views unlike anywhere else.
