Tips for black women solo travelers

I’m so excited that you are thinking of starting this fun journey. I created this page as a space for black women who are interested in solo traveling. I wanted to provide a page solely based on tips for women so they are able to have a fun and safe trip. Here are some of my tips:

1. Choose destinations that are welcoming

• Prioritize places that feel warm, welcoming, and inviting.

• Look for cities with expat and black communities. Usually this is a great tell of this country being welcoming.

  
  

Solo travelers pro tip: utilize facebook groups! There’s a facebook group for everything. Before visitng a different country I usually look up (black in __). Usually facebook groups will pop up and sometimes you can catch when events are happening or a great way to introduce yourself in the group for meetups!

2. Research beyond the photos

• You will learn early to not just trust those instagram pictures! Read reviews and testimonies from people who have been there. the agoda app allows you to filter out reviews from solo travelers. A great tool to use!

• Watch TikTok’s, read forums, blogs, and reviews to get the real tea.

• Make sure to look into transportation ease (uber is not worldwide— is there a metro system, grab or bolt?) and how black women are perceived in this country.

3. Stay in well reviewed and central locations

• Stay in areas that are walkable access to food, nightlife, and transit. Make sure to read those reviews from travelers to be able to help choose these spaces.

• If you’re looking for that aesthetic look into nice boutique hotels or hostels if you are really looking to making friends.

4. Pack for comfort, confidence, and culture

• Nothing is worse then not doing your research before visiting and being offensive to said culture. Bring outfits that make you feel good and respect local norms.

5. Use tech to your advantage

• Apps like agoda, google translate, even your calculator for conversions will come in clutch.

• Share your location with a trusted friend or family member so they know where you are at all times.

Solo travelers pro tip: I like to share my whole itinerary with my family and friends. This includes the hotel I’m staying in, flight numbers, and anything else that might be pertinent for the trip. Safety first!

6. Be open, and always trust your gut

• Solo traveling is about connection and meeting new people

• However, if something feels off, it probably is. You don’t owe anyone your time or energy.

7. Celebrate your presence

• When solo traveling, especially as a black woman, you will have to be okay being stared at. You will stand out in some spaces— and that’s okay.

• Take up space, don’t be afraid to ask for that picture, ask questions, enjoy being the main character that you are.

8. Build your itinerary with intention

• Mix iconic and popular spots with things you also enjoy. Do that spa day, find a black owned spot (because we’re everywhere honey), enjoy a rooftop bar, go on that hike.

• Make sure to always leave room for spontaneity— some of the best things come out of unplanned events.