Social media timelines continue to show that Black travelers are becoming an increasingly well-traveled demographic. But Black travel professionals understand all too well how the community’s value to the industry, both economically and culturally, is ignored. Aiming to find unique ways to advance the contributions of Black travel professionals and the economic impact of Black travelers on tourism, Black Travel Summit founder Anita Francois recently announced that It has been officially designated as National Black Travel Day. This auspicious day honors the birthday of Barrington Irving, the first black man to fly solo around the world in 2007.
In the early stages of a new holiday, the question becomes how to properly celebrate the day. Francois nods to the growing visibility of influential Black travel brands and the increased visibility of the industry within and beyond the Black community.
“In an ideal world, we would like to see influential, up-and-coming Black travel brands and individuals recognized within and outside of their communities,” Francois told Travel Noir. “Companies are highlighting his DEI milestones this past year and how they have diversified their hiring and partnerships.” Book your trip with a travel advisor.”
Francois also shares that National Black Travel Day is best celebrated in any way that celebrates the Black travel community. To celebrate the unparalleled experience of Black travel and expand Black purchasing power, consider supporting one of Tennessee’s approved Black-owned travel companies.
black austin tour
With nearly 200 years of family wisdom in the Austin area, Black Austin Tours founder Javier Wallace is a proud Austinite. Black Austin Tours offers several types of tours throughout the city. Each tour teaches visitors about major areas of the city and the origins, contributions, and influence of Austin’s Black community.
From downtown to the Colorado River, Black Austin Tours humanizes the history of Black presence in this part of the United States. Wallace does a good job of making sure the story of his home city is well-rounded. One that appropriately holds space to write about Austin’s black history.
Black History Walk – London
With 16 walking tours to choose from, many travelers rate Black History Walks as the best way to learn about the importance of Caribbean and African history in London. The travel company illuminates 3,500 years of Black history through interactive discussions and educational experiences.
Founded by Tony Warner in 2007, Black History Walks has since built a reputation for a diverse program of walking tours, lectures, educational courses, resources and film events. In addition to its popular walking tours, the company also offers bimonthly river cruises and bus tours. In addition to his tourism-based work, Warner also served as the first ever activist-in-residence at a London-based university.
Two Oceans Travel & Tours
Two Oceans Travel & Tours is a leading travel company known for carefully curated itineraries and personalized service. Their portfolio of destinations spans the continent, but they have a long-term foothold in the African experience.
Their team creates experiences that immerse you in the landscape, culture and wildlife that Africa has to offer. Founder Maurice Foley ensures that every traveler discovers the soul-stirring nature of Africa, from ancient deserts to vibrant cities. Whether you want to see the Serengeti or Marrakech, Two His Oceans has been hand-picking itineraries tailored to you for over 20 years.
Amsterdam Black Heritage Tour
Since 2013, founder Jennifer Tosh has been promoting the history of lesser-known African heritage in Amsterdam. Working with a team of academics, historians, civil servants, businesses and heritage tourism experts, Tosh leaves a mark on those who take his tours. Currently offering only private He Boat His Tours, Black His Heritage His Tours explore hidden history through the city’s canals. Reservations must be confirmed at least two weeks in advance.
Jelani Travel
For nearly a decade, Jelani Travel has made traveling to Africa easy with carefully selected culturally tailored holidays. Currently operating in 16 countries, Jelani Travel customizes travel experiences focused on self-care, service, culture and adventure. Popular group experiences that often sell out include Kenya and Zanzibar itineraries, typically held in the summer.
Jelani Travel’s Chief Curator, Ashley N. Company, has traveled to over 100 countries and loves customizing luxurious and authentic experiences for individuals and groups. The company also works with the nonprofit organization Jelani Gives to empower the next generation and provide educational and cultural opportunities for Black children.
Omnoir
It would be a huge mistake to commemorate National Black Travel Day without acknowledging the growth of wellness travel. Although OMNoire is not an exclusive travel company, we have become known as the go-to destination for carefully selected Black women-owned retreat experiences around the world.
Christina M. Rice, the visionary behind the brand, has expanded beyond her role in hosting retreats to create space for and support other Black women facilitators. OMNoire’s list of upcoming retreat experiences includes destinations like Portugal, Negril, Costa Rica, and Barbados.
Nomadness Travel Tribe
This travel lifestyle brand and community for Black and Brown nomads has over 35,000 members on Facebook alone. Founder Evita Robinson has simplified finding talent around the world by making at least her one passport stamp the only prerequisite. Robinson also recently concluded the fourth edition of Nomadness She Fest, a multi-day festival for travelers of color and their allies to connect, learn, and share resources.
Experienced world travelers looking for tribes in various destinations know that it’s very easy to do so as a member of the Nomadness community. Whether you’re in Bali or Merida, Mexico, there’s likely to be members of other tribes nearby, en route, or willing to share a lasting connection. No matter where you are in the world, there’s bound to be a connection to nomadness worth exploring.
