Traveling domestically and internationally while black can be very challenging, and 2020 has certainly given us a reason to get away and decompress! Travel is a great way to relax and take a hiatus from the current racial tensions, so here are a few places that are very welcoming to black travelers.
CARTAGENA, COLUMBIA
Cartagena is a village off Columbia’s Caribbean coast. This place has loads of beautiful beaches and rich architecture. If you decide not the walk the square, Cartagena can be a great place for outdoor cafes and people watching. Be sure to take the graffiti tour to see street art in Getsemani. For some relaxation, visit El Totumo, is a small volcano containing thick bubbling mud that you can bathe in located just outside of Cartagena. San Basilio de Palenque is a place of pride and unapologetic blackness This town housed escaped and freed enslaved Africans and is the birthplace of popular Colombian musicians and genres of music. Connect to the ancestors and have a great time with self-proclaimed family in Columbia.
ANTIGUA and BARBUDA
Antigua & Barbuda (Photo: Roman Melnichuk via Flickr) 
This beautiful island is truly paradise with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. While visiting, consider visiting English Harbour, St. Johns and Jolly Harbour with views of Mount Obama along the way. There are more than a dozen eco-friendly tours ranging from cycling, safari, paddle boating, snorkeling and trekking up mountain paths. Spice up your vacation with planning for Maritime and culinary-themed festivals spread throughout the year…think Carnival! Antigua can be pricy; fall is the best time to visit after peak season.
ST. MAARTEN
With over 45 miles of coastline, the dual-identity island features some of the world’s finest seascapes. Many of the shops and service providers are owned by native born citizens of the island…black-owned island people! St. Martin has stepped up its land preservation, hiking, pony-trekking, mountain biking & kayaking. And for the rum lovers like myself, drink the Old Man Guavaberry Brand Rum. It is black owned and operated, and SO good! Large cruise ships dock in Phillipsburg on the English-Dutch side of the island at A.C. Wathey Pier. To completely avoid colonizers on big ships, consider another area away from Phillipsburg! Go visit, support the citizens, and enjoy the atmosphere at the same time.
JAMAICA
Jamaica is my go-to spot for weekend wind downs or full getaway experiences. The island is known for its rich history and strong sense of national pride. Relax as the culture is a constant celebration of their simplicity of life through food, family, and music. The Hip Strip, Montego Bay Cultural Centre, Applegate Rum Factory, Rose Hall Great and golf courses are available and stress-free fun. So sit back, let the melodic reggae tunes lighten your vibes, and eat because Jamaica is clutch for the culture!
LADADEE, HAITI
Don’t listen to American media, Haiti is the perfect alternative to the Dominican Republic. Same country better treatment Sis! The breakwater protected shoreline has calm waves for families and snorkeling opportunities. Thank yourself many times over for purchasing beautiful Haitian art at low prices at Artisans Market. The rainy season is May-June and September-November, but brief showers can come at any time.
The world needs to see how majestic and amazing we are, but right now it’s self care time for our sacred bodies; these destinations are sure to provide the safety, relaxation, and memorable experiences. So leave the code-switching and caution at home and indulge in your blackness anyway you desire!
