Category: Black Excellence and Travel

  • Black Woman On FBI’s Most Wanted Arrested

    A significant development in a years-long manhunt: KaShawn Nicola Roper, a Black woman who was on the FBI’s Top Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list, has been found and arrested in Florida. This marks the end of an extensive search for the individual, who was considered armed and dangerous.

    Years on the Run

    Roper is a suspect in a 2020 shooting incident in Kansas City, Missouri, where authorities allege she fired multiple shots at a car, tragically killing one woman and injuring another. She faced charges including second-degree murder, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. However, she managed to evade law enforcement for years following the incident.

    In 2021, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Roper on charges of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Investigators had identified ties to Georgia, prompting alerts for residents to report any sightings. The FBI even offered a substantial reward of up to $1,000,000 for information leading to her arrest, highlighting the high priority placed on apprehending her.

    The Capture in Florida

    Despite investigators believing Roper might be found in states like Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, Colorado, or South Dakota, she was ultimately apprehended in an entirely different location. On April 10th, FBI agents, working in conjunction with local law enforcement and U.S. Marshals, detained the 50-year-old fugitive in High Springs, Florida.

    During her time on the run, Roper reportedly used various aliases, including changing her middle name to Nicole or Nicola and adopting the last name Shaw. Her capture in Florida brings an end to the long-distance pursuit and means she may now finally face prosecution for the alleged crimes committed in Missouri.

    What are your thoughts on this arrest and the long pursuit? Share your reactions in the comments below.

  • Black-Owned Honeymoon Destinations for 2026

    As couples plan their 2026 honeymoons, the focus is shifting towards intentionality, personalization, and experiences that truly reflect their unique story. This trend opens the door for exploring Black-owned luxury travel options, where every detail, from the welcome to the overall aesthetic, is thoughtfully curated. If you’re dreaming of a honeymoon that celebrates your love and connects you with rich cultural identity, these Black-owned resorts and experiences offer unforgettable romance.

    Elegant Escapes in the USA

    For those seeking a sophisticated getaway closer to home, Salamander Middleburg in Virginia offers a luxurious escape. Nestled on 340 acres of horse and wine country, this Forbes Five-Star resort provides privacy, open spaces, and a romantic countryside atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples who desire more than just a room and dinner, offering spa treatments, horseback riding, and visits to nearby wineries.

    In the Northeast, Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns, owned by Monique Greenwood and Glenn Pogue, provides intimate and stylish stays. Choose between the character-filled Akwaaba Mansion in Brooklyn for a city vibe or the quieter Mansion at Noble Lane in Pennsylvania for a more secluded retreat. These inns offer a unique brand of romance, focusing on warmth and personal hosting, ideal for a mini-moon or shorter honeymoon.

    Caribbean Charm and Island Flavors

    If the Caribbean is calling, the Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada, founded by the late Sir Royston Hopkin and now led by Janelle M. Hopkin, is a top choice. This intimate, all-inclusive property on Grand Anse Beach offers a distinct Grenadian hospitality, setting it apart from larger corporate resorts. Beyond the stunning beach, Grenada invites exploration of spice estates, waterfalls, and rum distilleries, perfect for newlyweds seeking both relaxation and adventure.

    Curated Journeys and Cultural Immersion

    For couples who envision a honeymoon centered around deep cultural immersion and curated experiences, Black & Abroad and Jelani Travel offer exceptional options. Black & Abroad, co-founded by Eric Martin and Kent Johnson, crafts itineraries to destinations like Ghana, Senegal, Tanzania, and Cartagena. Jelani Travel, founded by Ashley N. Company, specializes in journeys focused on Africa and the diaspora.

    These companies excel at shaping entire trips, providing access to history, community, and unique perspectives that go beyond a typical resort stay. Imagine exploring the rich history of West Africa or the vibrant culture of Cartagena, all guided by experts who understand the importance of cultural access and a strong point of view.

    Baltimore’s Boutique Luxury

    Another exquisite Black-owned option is The Ivy Hotel in Baltimore. This beautifully restored mansion in the Mount Vernon neighborhood, owned by Eddie and Sylvia Brown, offers a blend of design, privacy, and intimate scale that honeymooners often prefer. While Baltimore might not be a typical honeymoon hotspot, the city boasts rich architecture, museums, and a thriving food scene, with The Ivy providing a secluded and luxurious haven.

    Ready to plan your dream honeymoon? Which of these Black-owned experiences sparks your interest the most? Share your thoughts in the comments below!