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Home • Travel

Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome

ESSENCE's exclusive guide on how to see, taste and experience the hottest destinations in Black travel.
Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
By Danielle Pointdujour · Updated December 6, 2020
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From the moment you land, the remnants of Rome’s golden age surround you. Iconic sites like the Colosseum, Pantheon and St Peter’s Basilica tower over the city just as awe-inspiring as they were when they were first built. Add to that, the sights and sounds of the bustling streets and it’s easy to see why everyone loves Rome.

Ancient architecture isn’t the only reason to visit ‘The Eternal City,’ the quaint streets are filled with shops for every type of fashionista and the food, oh the food! From authentic Roman pizza to the classic cacio e pepe, it’s hard to have a bad meal in Italy. One jet-setter that’s currently living her best life in Rome is media maven, lifestyle authority and fashionista (seriously, we want her closet!) Kéla Walker (@kelawalker). The boss babe has been slaying the city’s cobblestone streets, taking her followers along on her epic #KélaVie adventure, and we’re loving every second.

With 2020 on the horizon, we know you’re planning your next travel adventure, so check out a few photos from Kéla’s slaycation and grab a few tips from our exclusive guide, so you can let your melanin magic shine in the eternal glow of Rome too.

01
Benvenuti a Roma (Welcome to Rome)
Rome can only be described as magical. It’s the fourth most populous city in the European Union and while many people head there during the summer months, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds (and catch a few travel deals) try visiting between September and November and April to May instead. Rome might be full of magic, but your wallet is not, so make sure you budget accordingly for that pricey Dollar to Euro exchange rate.
Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
02
Sleep With A View
There are tons of great accommodations to be found in Rome, but if you’re looking for a spot that’s central and flawlessly combines modern decor with sexy rooftop vibes and views, then The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel is where you want to be.
Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome
Photo Credit: The Pantheon Iconic Rome Hotel
03
Historic Bites
If the popular book turned movie Eat, Pray, Love taught us anything, it’s that the way to the soul is through food…and lots of it! There’s no way you can visit Rome and not indulge in its flavorful cuisine. After visiting popular sites like the Parthenon, grab a seat at nearby street cafes like Armando Al Pantheon and toast to the good life.
Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
04
Winner’s Circle
There’s no doubt about it, the main attraction in Rome is the Colosseum–hands down . Built to hold between 50,000 to 70,000 people, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests where only the strongest players in the game survived.
Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
05
Ancient Blessings
You can’t leave Rome without heading to Vatican City for a tour of the sacred Vatican Museum and stunning Sistine Chapel. Lines can get long, so be sure to get your tickets way in advance and arrive early. That is unless you’re blessed enough to avoid the crowds and walk right on in like Kéla was!
Black Travel Vibes: Bask In The Eternal Sun Of Rome
Photo Credit: @kelawalker
TOPICS:  Black Travel Moment of the Day coinage Rome travel travel guide