01
India
When it came to the magical world of India, #BlackGirlMagic fit right in. If you’re looking to head to India in 2019, October through early spring are the best times to visit, with the chance to check the colorful festival of Holi off your bucket list in March.
02
Kenya
When it came to travel within the Continent in 2018, no country was hotter than Kenya. From animal adventures at Giraffe Manor and safaris in the Masai Mara to relaxing beach time on the island of Lamu, Black women left their mark all over the country.
03
Haiti
Whoever told you Haiti shouldn’t be at the top of your travel list lied. Black women slayed hard and lived their best lives all over the island, and brought their friends along for the ride. November through March is typically the best time to experience the island’s vibrant culture. Book with companies like Haitian Nomad and Haiti Got It, who specialize in showing you the side of Haiti you won’t see on the news.
04
Egypt
Egypt had us jumping for joy this year, but who wouldn’t be joyful at the chance to walk in the footsteps of our ancestral kings and queens? Visit the sacred pyramids between October and April when the weather is most pleasant, and stay at the Mena House Cairo for rooms with great pyramid views.
05
Italy
Italy – specifically the Amalfi Coast – brought out all the Black girl joy this year, and we were here for it. From great eats to beach day slays, Black women showed up and showed out. Island hopping is a must when you’re visiting the area, so book a one day tour on a yacht so you can hop and tan in style.
06
Iceland
Only a Black woman can make you feel the heat in the cold weather, and that’s exactly the kind of fire we brought to the chilly streets of Iceland this year. With WOW Air offering unbelievably cheap flights to Iceland, getting there was super budget friendly, but please keep in mind that the rest of the country is not, so plan accordingly. Of course the visit to the Blue Lagoon should be at the top of your list, but if you have a few coins to spare and want to skip the crowds, book a room at the new luxe hotel The Retreat. Stay in the Lagoon Suite to have private access to the Blue Lagoon steps from your bed.
07
Senegal
After years of East Africa getting all the shine, West Africa finally got the respect it was due in 2018. Black women flocked to Senegal in droves to experience the amazing history, culture, beaches, and of course, food. If you’re looking to see some Senegal in the new year, be sure to check out Tastemakers Africa for insight on the musts when visiting.
08
France
France is home to the city of love, so that must be why Black women were loving themselves all over the country. From the champagne region to the lavender fields of Provence, and back, Black women laughed, loved and lived their best lives. Budget airlines like WOW and Norwegian offer affordable flights to Paris year round. Check out the Black Paris Tour to get an inside look into the wealth of Black history in the city.
09
Greece
It seemed like everywhere you looked in 2018 Black women were killing it in Greece. The best time to visit the islands is typically April through September, but note that the summer months are peak season, and prices for accommodations will be higher. If you’re looking to have a moment in one of those gorgeous dresses you see everyone wearing, then the Santorini Dress is what you need.
10
Singapore
A futuristic vibe and delicious foodie scene definitely brought Black women to Singapore’s yard this year. Travel to the Asian city-state is great all year long, and it’s location makes it an international hub for jump overs to other hotspots like Malaysia and Bali. Keep an eye on The Flight Deal for airfare deals to the country – and try the chilli crab when you get there, trust us!
11
Cuba
Ever since the doors of Cuba were opened to U.S. citizens, Black women have been flooding their streets. This year, girlfriend trips to the Caribbean island were huge, with girl gangs bringing the heat like only Black women can. Stressed out trying to figure out how to plan your own trip? Let companies like Friendly Planet do all the work for you!
12
South Africa
South Africa is always on the list when it comes to traveling to the Continent, and with all the flight deals and glitches that happened in 2018, visiting was even easier (and more affordable) than ever. Thinking of planning your own trip soon? Check out our handy travel guide on all you need to know about experiencing the beauty of South Africa.
