Plus Paradise Getaways Founder Leah Henry On Reshaping Travel
Empowering Every Body — Plus Paradise Getaways Super Sizes Travel For Curvy Girls [Exclusive]
Source: Plus Paradise Getaways
The world’s beauty standards do not exist for Plus Paradise Getaways, the collective committed to curating travel experiences that cater to everybody and every body.
For founder Leah Henry, the need to create the group celebrating body positivity through travel stems from some of her own experiences as an avid voyager. She has visited places like Kenya, Iceland, Ghana, Mexico, and beyond, Henry noticed that no one looked like her throughout her many adventures and Paradise Plus aims to be a tool for change for those afraid to get out to see the world due to society’s standards.
One moment in particular that Henry says stands out was a trip to the Dominican Republic, where she encountered another plus-sized woman who happened to be traveling with a group of more petite women and struggled alongside Henry while trying to climb during one of their excursions. Despite having friends who stayed back to encourage her, Henry recalls how it only made her new friend feel worse, so she took it upon herself to have the group go ahead, and as they slowly made their way up the mountain, the lady stopped and cried.
This is when it clicked for Henry. Something needed to be done to make plus-sized women who love a good adventure feel more included on their voyages, not only amongst others who may not understand the challenges they face but also, helping them to feel like their best selves while seeing all the world.
“There’s a universal feeling of embarrassment as a plus-sized person when you can’t do what everyone else is doing, especially when it draws unwanted attention,” Henry told Madamenoire. “That moment stayed with me, and from that day forward, I knew that plus-sized people, especially women, need a community and a space where they can travel comfortably, free of anxiety and pressure. Plus Paradise was created with them in mind, prioritizing their bodies, self-esteem, and well-being.”
In 2024, Plus Paradise took its inaugural group trip to Jamaica, an intentional move, according to Henry, because the Caribbean loves and admires plus-sized bodies. During her previous trips to the area, she recalls being treated like a queen and wanted the women in her group to feel the same way.
Source: Plus Paradise Getaways / other
“I wanted my ladies to experience that energy, especially since it’s not something we often encounter in the United States,” she explained. “I wanted them to feel desired, but more importantly, I wanted them to be in a space where they could embrace their bodies without fear of judgement.”
One of her most memorable moments from the trip included the yacht party, which, much like Henry, was a first for many of the women on the inaugural Plus Paradise because it speaks to one of the organization’s core values – a life of luxury for a group of people that society often deems unworthy of deserving the best.
“When creating Plus Paradise, one of the first things I had to consider was the diversity of participants—people from all walks of life, shapes, and sizes. It was important to me to incorporate activities for all mobility levels because I wanted everyone to feel welcome on these trips, no matter their size,” said Henry. “This meant carefully curating an itinerary that catered to both super adventurous and those who preferred a slower pace.”
Source: Plus Paradise Getaways
Henry says one of the biggest hurdles has been trying to get others behind the concept; however, she will continue to pour her time, energy, and resources into making Plus Paradise a continued success.
This isn’t performative for Henry, and she has no concerns about some group trip horror stories often circulated online. The company’s mission is solid, and it attracts like-minded individuals.
“To go on a trip like Plus Paradise, you have to be open to discovering something new about yourself and filling a void that might not be addressed in your day-to-day interactions. We talked, connected, shared our stories and insecurities, and encouraged each other. It was truly one of the most liberating and freeing groups I’ve ever traveled with,” Henry recanted. “The beauty of Plus Paradise is that no one had to be the ‘fat friend’ on the trip. We were all beautiful, bold, large, and in charge! The girls that get it get it!”
Source: Plus Paradise Getaways
Next up, Henry says Plus Paradise will take its talents to Asia!
“We’re excited to announce our 2025 trip to Bali! Jamaica was just the warm-up, but now we’re stepping it up—Plus Paradise is heading to Indonesia. Our next trip is scheduled for September 7–13, 2025. We’ll spend seven unforgettable days in Asia, immersing ourselves in the beautiful Balinese culture. From traditional Balinese cooking classes to rejuvenating spa days, this trip will be incredible.”
For full details, visit the Plus Paradise Getaways Instagram below. @PlusParadiseGetaways.
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