World Tourism Day: 5 Safe Travel Destinations For Black Women

Source: Deagreez / Getty

There is so much magic in seeing the world in all its beauty!

Whether it is to connect further with oneself, blow off some steam from life’s stressors, or desire to create new memories by uncovering the magic of cultures you’ve never immersed yourself in, the benefits of travel are not one to take lightly. To be able to see the world outside of the bubble you may be used to is a privilege and blessing in its own right. 

This year, World Tourism Day is acknowledged on Friday, September 27. It is a day when avid travelers may embark on a new journey, reflect on the beautiful places they’ve experienced with a trip down memory lane via their phone’s camera roll, or plot their next adventure. Whatever the case is, it is a moment where one may take a moment to recount their favorite travel memory, or for those who may have never traveled far or abroad before, it could be a time when they are bit by the travel bug. 

For Black women specifically, the luxury of traveling is not always at our fingertips. People-pleasing, work demands, family duties, and dozens of other things prevent ladies from going on that solo vacation that was saved on their travel Pinterest board, which seems like ages ago. Another factor that often keeps them from roaming the world freely on their own is the fear of safety because, let’s just be honest, being a Black woman in America is already hard enough, and to think of the challenges that may arise in another country is often scary to think about. 

In honor of World Tourism Day, MadameNoire has compiled a list of the safest destinations for Black women to traverse on their next solo vacation.

1. Portugal

Source: ljubaphoto / Getty

Compared to other European countries, Portugal has been marked as a top destination for travelers thanks to its low crime rates and history of good hospitality. Moreover, places like Porto, known for its wine, and Lisbon, for its historic landmarks and trendy neighborhoods, make this country a key place for enjoying yourself while also having the comfort of knowing your safety is not at stake.

2. Melbourne, Australia

Source: FiledIMAGE / Getty

“In a majority White country, Melbourne is probably the last place you would expect a Black woman to feel comfortable in, but I was in my element as a Black woman,” travel journalist Mitti Hicks told MadameNoire. “Between visiting chic cafes, indulging in amazing brunches, and exploring Melbourne’s incredible art scene and nightlife, I remember being sad how this city didn’t make it to the vacation group chat. Melbourne is underrated for Black travelers, especially Black women. In terms of safety, I never felt like I was looking over my shoulder, and I didn’t get those puzzling, “What is a Black woman doing here” stares. I felt I was seen in Melbourne, but not for the wrong reasons.”

3. Havana, Cuba

Source: Marcos Elihu Castillo Ramirez / Getty

Known for its rich history, architecture, and culture, this vibrant capital of Cuba is a top destination for travelers. Many recommend that the best way to explore it is to get lost in its alleys, allowing your senses to guide you. Old Havana, in particular, is considered one of the most peaceful and safest areas in Latin America, and it has even been declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, or UNESCO.

“In 2017, I traveled solo to Havana, Cuba, to meet a group of girls I had never met, despite not speaking Spanish,” said avid traveller Octavia Goodman. “Staying at an Airbnb with two Spanish-speaking hosts, I explored the city’s streets day and night, feeling safe and welcomed by the friendly locals, with a subtle but reassuring police presence when I occasionally saw them.”

4. Barbados

Source: Mark Meredith / Getty

This country has a direct connection to America because more than half of the white settlers and enslaved Africans who settled in the Carolina colony came from Barbados. Many Black travelers, myself included, note the warm welcome from our Bajan cousins once you step off of the plane onto the Caribbean country, where you are almost instantly greeted as sister or brother by the natives. From big smiles to warm hugs and excellent service, this country offers a small-town vibe partly because you can experience the island with a drive that spans only three hours.

5. Grenada

This country, known as the Spice Isle because of its large production of nutmeg, mace, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, is much more than a place to eat a delicious meal. Grenadians have a way of embracing Americans, specifically Black women, with a warm hug and big smiles. Their pride in their country is infectious and encourages others to get involved. During a visit to celebrate their 50th Independence Day, I was not only engulfed in the culture but directly relating with a woman who owns a family farm, much like my folks back in Virginia. 

Bonus Pro Travel Tip

Source: EyeEm Mobile GmbH / Getty

When traveling, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avid travelers and industry experts recommend visiting travel.state.gov to get real-time information on travel advisories, warnings, etc. as you prepare to explore the world.

RELATED CONTENT: World Traveler And Author Jessica Nabongo Talks Solo Travel For Black Women And Says ‘Quitting’ Was Key To Her Success