Traveling while black can sometimes be met with ignorance. Here are a few destinations that welcome black travelers, making you feel instantly at home and a part of the local culture.
Antigua
This island in the West Indies can only be described as paradise. Pristine beaches, welcoming smiles, and a relaxed, island culture bring people from all over the world. With direct flights from the US, it is best to visit this tropical island between May and November during the off-season when rates are generally cheaper.
Botswana
This land-locked country in southern African is home to numerous national parks, rich culture, and vast water trails. The Bushmen of Botswana have existed for over 20,000 years and a walk through their desert is an unforgettable experience. The people in Botswana are known for being warm and welcoming to foreigners and eager to share their culture and pride for their homeland.
Reunion Island
This lesser known island off the east coast of Madagascar is a region of France. Best known for Piton de la Fournaise, a volcano that is over 500,000 years old and one of the most active volcanoes in the world, this island holds a multitude of records. It also takes the record for the heaviest rainstorms on the planet. Locals welcome visitors from all over the world on this relatively undiscovered island.
RELATED: Traveling While Black: What To Do When You’re Stared At Abroad
Haiti
Haiti, a shared island with the Dominican Republic, is a country that has endured numerous crippling political and humanitarian crises in its history including the devastating earthquake of 2010. However, it’s people remain strong and prideful in the face of adversity. Its stunning coastlines and countryside also offer a range of options for visitors including Citadelle Laferrière, a large mountaintop fortress in Nord, Haiti, located on top of a mountain.
South Africa
From pristine beaches in Cape Town to a vibrant art and cultural scene in Johannesburg, South Africa is a major tourist destination that brings together people from all over the world to make their roots or simple explore. The result? A demographic as diverse as its scenery, making black travelers feel very welcomed while visiting major cities throughout the country.
U.S. Virgin Islands
Another Caribbean paradise. The U.S. Virgin Islands is home to a group of islands that are equally stunning in their own way. The laid-back, island lifestyle and culture is known for being a welcoming hub for travelers of all backgrounds and black people can easily feel at home among the locals.
Seychelles
The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa known for it’s immaculate natural beauty. The best times to visit Seychelles are April, May, October and November. These months represent the transition times between the hot and humid northwest trade winds (from November through March) and the cooler southeast trade winds that define April through October.
St. Maarten
Nestled within the Caribbean, St. Maarten is a favorite destination among U.S. travelers for its exquisite beaches and island culture that promotes relaxation, family, and fun. It’s easy for black travelers to feel at home on this island with welcoming smiles and a healthy culture that thrives off of its natural landscape.
RELATED: Coming To Terms With The Black Experience While Studying Abroad
Madagascar
Madagascar is an African nation in the Indian Ocean. With diverse wildlife, rainforests, and deserts, this island is an adventure seekers dream. Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island, with a population of over 26.2 million people and a welcomes paradise for travelers.
Malawi
Described as the ‘Warm Heart Of Africa,’ Malawi is a year-round destination offering stunning lake views, wildlife, and culture. Expect to find a genuinely warm welcome when visiting this peaceful country in southeastern Africa. Among the country’s top attractions are its bustling markets and outdoor activities including hiking and exploring Lake Malawi, a beautiful freshwater lake.
Tanzania
There is no shortage of activities in Tanzania, including safaris, mountain climbing, museums and monuments, historical sites, and more. This country in East Africa is home to Mount Kilimanjaro, a dormant volcano and the highest mountain in Africa. Black travelers will feel extremely welcomed by a culture of people who are proud of their country, its history, and its stunning beauty.
St. Kitts & Nevis
St. Kitts & Nevis proudly claims to have the best beaches in the world. Although it is a claim that some may dispute, there is no denying the country’s natural beauty and culture of hospitality and friendliness to visitors from all over the world. Located in the Caribbean, this dual-island nation is known for its sugar plantations and its mountainous landscape.
Jamaica
Jamaica is known for its rich history, its food, and of course, reggae music legends. Jamaicans celebrate the simplicity of life through music, food, family, and celebration and that joy in the every day is contagious when visiting the Caribbean island. Black travelers are welcomed with open arms and warm smiles.
