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Tag: Black Owned

  • New Portland Sports Bar Honors Black Athletes

    Portland, Oregon, has welcomed a unique new establishment that blends luxury, sports, and a powerful tribute to Black athletic history. Honorable Mention, a Black-owned sports lounge, has opened its doors in the historic downtown Benson Hotel, offering a sophisticated space that celebrates athletes who were historically excluded or overlooked.

    A Tribute to Unsung Heroes

    The lounge’s name, ‘Honorable Mention,’ directly reflects its mission. In sports, an honorable mention signifies high achievement just outside the official winners’ circle. Historically, many Black athletes were denied even that recognition, barred entirely from major leagues and collegiate programs. Honorable Mention PDX aims to rectify this by giving these pioneers the recognition they deserve.

    This venture is a collaboration between Urban Restaurant Group, a collective of Black business leaders, and notable community figures, including NBA star Damian Lillard, entrepreneur JR Duperrier, Dr. William Johnson, David Lucas, and Mark Byrum. Their collective vision is to create a high-end gathering space that centers Black excellence in sports history and fosters community.

    Art, History, and Culinary Excellence

    The lounge’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in celebrating Black athletic excellence. Local artwork adorns the walls, with a new artist commissioned each month to create pieces honoring influential athletes. The inaugural tribute features work by Tristan Kwame Irving, celebrating football pioneer Fritz Pollard, who was one of the first Black All-Americans and the NFL’s first Black head coach.

    Beyond its historical and artistic significance, Honorable Mention offers a luxurious dining experience. Led by Chef Bobby Brown, the kitchen serves elevated, shareable plates designed for community and celebration. Menu highlights include sweet corn ribs, chili-braised beef nachos, and a signature 8-piece fried chicken dish, all complemented by a curated cocktail program.

    A Community Hub for Portland

    Damian Lillard expressed his commitment to his home city, stating, ‘Portland is my home… I know that starts with presenting people with an experience we can all share: fellowship, fun, good food, and safety.’ Honorable Mention aims to be that space, blending Victorian-inspired elegance with a modern layout to create an inviting atmosphere for game days and elegant evenings alike.

    Have you visited Honorable Mention yet, or are you planning to? What do you think about this unique tribute to Black athletes in Portland? Share your thoughts in the comments!

  • Asheville’s Black Culinary Renaissance

    Asheville, North Carolina, long celebrated for its vibrant arts scene and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain views, is experiencing a powerful culinary resurgence. After decades of displacement and erasure, the city’s Black restaurant community is reclaiming its space at the table, bringing rich flavors and deep-rooted traditions back to the forefront.

    Good Hot Fish: A Taste of Affrilachian Heritage

    At the heart of this movement is Chef Ashleigh Shanti and her popular counter-service spot, Good Hot Fish. More than just a place for perfectly seasoned fried fish, Shanti’s restaurant serves up a potent dose of nostalgia. Reminders of cherished moments at grandma’s house, complete with stacks of Jet Magazine, greet diners alongside dishes like the sweet potato cabbage pancake and baked macaroni and cheese. It’s a true taste of home, reminiscent of a classic Friday fish fry or a Sunday family dinner.

    Shanti specializes in Affrilachian cuisine, a term that beautifully captures the unique experiences of Black people in Appalachia. Her cooking blends foraging techniques with West African and Southern soul food influences, making her one of the few chefs in Asheville dedicated to this distinct culinary tradition. She is not just cooking; she is leading Asheville’s culinary renaissance, intentionally spotlighting Black food culture.

    Reclaiming Space After Erasure

    While Asheville proudly calls itself a ‘foodtopia,’ its culinary landscape has historically mirrored national trends, often dominated by white ownership. Data shows that Black or African Americans represent a smaller percentage of chefs nationwide, and while Asheville’s Black population is around 10-12%, the representation in its celebrated food scene has been limited. This is largely due to historical urban renewal projects that intentionally dismantled Black-owned business districts, leading to significant displacement and loss of generational wealth.

    Margaret ‘Sista’ Harrison, who owned The New Ritz Cafe for over 30 years, was one of many impacted. Her restaurant, like countless others, was forced to close due to rising rents following urban renewal projects that destroyed Black-owned homes and businesses, displacing a significant portion of the city’s Black population.

    A New Generation Carries the Legacy Forward

    More than two decades later, Sista’s legacy is being honored by her daughter and granddaughter, Rhonda and Khiyara Wynn. They recently opened Sistas on Montford, a takeout restaurant dedicated to their matriarch. ‘This is a very big deal for us,’ Khiyara shared, noting the importance of creating authentic Black food spaces in an area that was once predominantly Black but is changing. The Wynn family’s return is part of a larger narrative of resurgence across Asheville.

    Chef Rakim Gaines, the executive chef at the popular rooftop restaurant Capella on 9, is another key figure in this renaissance. Though the restaurant is known for Spanish tapas, Gaines infuses his dishes with the soul food he grew up with. He fondly recalls braising short ribs with Spanish red wine but adding pepperoncinis for a ‘Mississippi pot roast’ flavor, a nod to his upbringing. An Asheville native, Gaines proudly sports ‘Soul Food’ tattooed on his fingers, a constant reminder of his roots and his mission to bring authentic soul food to the city.

    Being one of the only Black male executive chefs in town is super big. I want to bring soul food to this town. — Chef Rakim Gaines

    For chefs like Shanti, the Wynns, and Gaines, their work is deeply personal. They are cooking from cherished memories—grandmothers’ kitchens, Friday fish fries, Sunday dinners—and transforming these experiences into welcoming spaces for both locals and visitors. Chef Shanti notes the ‘small uptick’ in Black-owned restaurants as a ‘necessary progression’ after historical erasure, driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy.

    Asheville has always had a compelling food story, and now, Black chefs are finally telling their own version—a story that tastes like coming home.

    Have you experienced Asheville’s culinary scene? Share your favorite Black-owned restaurants in the comments below!

  • New Directory for Black-Owned Bookstores

    Love diving into a good book? What if you could easily find and support Black-owned bookstores in your community and beyond? Well, now you can! The National Association of Black Bookstores (NAB2) has just launched a groundbreaking directory, making it simpler than ever to connect with these vital cultural hubs.

    Introducing the National Black-Owned Bookstore Directory

    NAB2, an organization committed to uplifting and preserving Black literary culture, has created a first-of-its-kind resource. The National Black-Owned Bookstore Directory serves as a comprehensive index, helping readers discover Black-operated brick-and-mortar stores, mobile bookstores, pop-up vendors, and online sellers across the United States.

    This initiative is a game-changer for anyone looking to consciously support Black entrepreneurs and the rich literary traditions they represent. It’s a powerful tool for community building and cultural preservation.

    The State of Black Bookstores Revealed

    Alongside the directory, NAB2 released a significant “State of the Black Bookstore” report. Their research indicates there are currently 306 Black-owned bookstores operating in the U.S. This number highlights the resilience and growing relevance of these institutions in today’s market.

    NAB2 founder Kevin Johnson stated, “The growth of Black-owned bookstores across the country reflects the strength and relevance of these institutions today.” The report aims to provide a clear national record, creating a foundation to support their continued presence and inform how the industry engages with them.

    Challenges and the Importance of Support

    In an era dominated by large online retailers, the resilience of Black-owned bookstores is truly remarkable. However, the report also sheds light on the challenges they face. Nearly 90% of these bookstores reported annual revenue under $250,000, underscoring the critical need for community support.

    Furthermore, despite a slight increase in overall book sales, Black authors experienced a 14% decline in sales. Yvonne Blake, owner of Philadelphia’s oldest Black-owned bookstore, shared, “Black bookstores have always done more with less.” She emphasized their role in serving their communities, protecting stories, and creating vital spaces. The report serves as a stark reminder that their survival depends on our active support.

    • There are 306 Black-owned bookstores in the U.S.
    • Nearly 90% have annual revenue under $250,000.
    • Black authors saw a 14% decline in book sales.
    • These bookstores are crucial for preserving Black literary culture.

    Ready to explore? The NAB2 directory is your starting point to discover and patronize these invaluable literary treasures. Let’s ensure these spaces continue to thrive for generations to come.

    Have you visited a Black-owned bookstore recently? What are your favorite reads from Black authors? Share your experiences and recommendations in the comments below!

  • 20 Black-Owned Beauty Brands for Holiday Gifts

    The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re on the hunt for gifts that are not only luxurious and thoughtful but also deeply meaningful, look no further! The beauty landscape has been beautifully transformed over the last decade by incredible Black women founders. They’ve created innovative products that truly reflect our skin, our needs, and our unique cultural experiences.

    The Rise of Black-Owned Beauty

    What was once a niche market has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem. We’re talking award-winning formulas, global best-sellers, and cult favorites that beauty professionals and enthusiasts alike adore. Brands that started small are now industry leaders, setting new standards for inclusivity and product development. Think Fenty Beauty, Pat McGrath Labs, and Ami Colé – they’re not just gaining mainstream recognition; they’re shifting the entire conversation around beauty.

    Today, Black-owned beauty brands cover every category imaginable. From clean skincare tackling hyperpigmentation to bold, editorial makeup created by world-class artists, these brands are doing more than just selling products. They’re building generational wealth and demanding greater representation on shelves at major retailers, in magazines, and, of course, in our holiday gift guides.

    Gifts for Every Beauty Lover

    Whether you’re shopping for your sister who lives for the perfect nude lipstick, your best friend who cherishes their self-care Sundays, or the makeup aficionado who can’t resist a new eyeshadow palette, there’s a Black-owned brand out there made just for them. The formulas are crafted with care, the packaging is always chic, and the impact of supporting Black founders is incredibly powerful.

    This year, let’s elevate our holiday gifting with products that celebrate culture, creativity, and community. Explore these standout brands offering everything from essential skincare to festive glam. Each one makes a beautiful gift and represents the innovation and artistry shaping the future of the beauty world.

    Our Top 20 Picks:

    1. **OUI THE PEOPLE:** Founded by Karen Young, this body-care brand offers luxurious, irritation-minimizing formulas for shaving and skin nourishment.
    2. **EADEM:** Co-founded by Marie Kouadio Amouzame and Alice Lin Glover, EADEM focuses on melanin-safe formulas for treating hyperpigmentation, including their viral Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum.
    3. **DANESSA MYRICKS BEAUTY:** Created by legendary makeup artist Danessa Myricks, this line features bold pigments and multidimensional formulas favored by pros.
    4. **PAT MCGRATH LABS:** Dame Pat McGrath’s globally acclaimed luxury brand offers iconic eyeshadow palettes, lip glosses, and runway-ready glamour.
    5. **KNC BEAUTY:** Kristen Noel Crawley’s playful lip and eye masks are a self-care staple, providing fun and nourishing treatments.
    6. **JUVIA’S PLACE:** Founded by Chichi Eburu, Juvia’s Place is known for vibrant, highly pigmented palettes and inclusive cosmetics for deeper skin tones.
    7. **BEAUTY BAKERIE:** Cashmere Nicole’s cruelty-free brand offers long-wear makeup with an inclusive, dessert-themed aesthetic.
    8. **Hyper Skin:** Desiree Verdejo’s targeted vitamin C serum for dark spots is a favorite for brighter, more even-toned skin.
    9. **MENTED COSMETICS:** Founded by KJ Miller and Amanda Johnson, Mented provides everyday makeup essentials, especially loved for inclusive nude lip shades.
    10. **BRIOGEO:** Nancy Twine created Briogeo to offer clean, textured-hair-friendly formulas promoting hair health and moisture.
    11. **FENTY BEAUTY:** Rihanna’s groundbreaking brand redefined shade inclusivity with its foundations and skin-loving formulations.
    12. **PATTERN BEAUTY:** Tracee Ellis Ross’ haircare line is dedicated to nourishing curls and coils with rich, hydrating formulas for textured hair.
    13. **SHANI DARDEN SKIN CARE:** Celebrity esthetician Shani Darden offers results-driven skincare, including her award-winning Retinol Reform.
    14. **TOPICALS:** Founded by Olamide Olowe and Claudia Teng, Topicals addresses chronic skin conditions with gentle, effective formulas in vibrant packaging.
    15. **BEAUTYSTAT:** Ron Robinson’s science-backed line features stabilized vitamin C formulas for brightening and smoothing skin.
    16. **TPH BY TARAJI:** Taraji P. Henson’s scalp-focused haircare line offers targeted treatments for protective styles and textured hair.
    17. **KARITÉ:** Created by three Ghanaian sisters, Karité offers shea butter-rich body care rooted in tradition for deep skin nourishment.
    18. **DONNA’S RECIPE:** Founded by Tabitha Brown and Gina Woods, this vegan, clean-ingredient haircare line is designed for curls, coils, and textured hair.
    19. **CÉCRED:** Beyoncé’s haircare line, launched in 2024, offers inclusive products for all textures and recently expanded to Ulta Beauty.
    20. **JENTL:** This vegan, organic, cruelty-free brand offers body care essentials like hand-whipped butters and natural oils, turning routines into joyful self-care rituals.

    Happy Holidays and happy shopping! Which of these amazing Black-owned beauty brands will you be gifting this year? Share your favorites in the comments below!

  • Nipsey Hussle Foundation Gives Away Turkeys

    In a heartwarming display of community spirit, the Neighborhood Nip Foundation, established to honor the late rapper Nipsey Hussle, recently held its first annual turkey drive. On November 25th, thousands of turkeys were distributed in South Los Angeles, bringing much-needed holiday cheer to families facing economic hardship.

    This significant event marked a symbolic return to a space deeply connected to Nipsey’s journey. The drive took place in the Slauson Avenue parking lot, a location where Nipsey himself began his entrepreneurial path, selling mixtapes and eventually purchasing the entire lot. His brother, Samiel Asghedom, emphasized the importance of activating from this very spot.

    Continuing a Legacy of Giving

    Founded in 2019, the Neighborhood Nip Foundation’s core mission is to extend Nipsey Hussle’s enduring legacy by supporting underprivileged youth and inspiring the community. This turkey drive, a partnership with the Think Watts Foundation, aimed to distribute 5,000 turkeys, directly addressing the rising costs of living that are impacting so many.

    The timing of this giveaway couldn’t be more critical. While the average price of a Thanksgiving meal has seen a slight decrease, overall food costs remain stubbornly high. Adding to the pressure, recent government shutdowns caused temporary halts in crucial SNAP benefits, leaving many families scrambling for food assistance.

    The Growing Challenge of Food Insecurity

    Reports highlight a concerning trend: food insecurity is on the rise across the nation. Factors like persistent inflation, economic pressures, and the winding down of pandemic-era aid programs are pushing more Americans towards hunger. In fact, food insecurity levels are now approaching those seen during the Great Recession.

    The impact of these economic challenges is stark. A recent report from Feeding America revealed that a staggering 80% of surveyed individuals have resorted to buying cheaper, less nutritious food due to high prices. Furthermore, over half of respondents reported running out of food within the past year, even when they had funds available, and more than half admitted to delaying essential bill payments to afford groceries.

    80% of those surveyed said they have purchased cheaper, less nutritious food due to high food prices. — Feeding America Insights Report

    Initiatives like the Neighborhood Nip Foundation’s turkey drive are vital lifelines, providing immediate relief and embodying the spirit of community care that Nipsey Hussle championed throughout his life. It’s a powerful reminder that even in challenging times, collective action can make a profound difference.

    What are your thoughts on the Nipsey Hussle Foundation’s efforts? Share your experiences with community support initiatives in the comments below!

  • Black Families Building Legacy in Hospitality

    Building a legacy often starts with a single spark of an idea. In the world of hospitality, where representation has historically been a challenge, Black families are stepping up and carving out their own unique spaces. Despite Black-owned hotels making up less than 3% of all hotels in the U.S., these families are creating welcoming environments and securing futures for generations to come through hotels, guesthouses, and inns.

    Preserving Heritage and Building Community

    These family-run establishments are more than just places to stay; they are living testaments to love, kindness, perseverance, and faith. Each property tells a story, blending historical charm with modern comfort and a deep sense of family heritage. They offer a unique opportunity for travelers to connect with authentic experiences and support businesses that are actively shaping a more inclusive future for the industry.

    Featured Black-Owned Lodging Destinations

    • **The Celestine Bed and Breakfast – Pensacola, Florida:** This charming B&B is named after the great-grandmother of its current owners, Byron and Cornelia Edwards. Preserving the historic 1888 building, each guest room is thoughtfully named and styled after Celestine’s children, filled with family heirlooms and stories.
    • **The Ivy Hotel – Baltimore, Maryland:** Created by Eddie and Sylvia Brown, this luxurious hotel is housed in a restored 19th-century mansion. It offers a serene escape with personalized hospitality, art, and history, perfect for guests seeking to disconnect and indulge.
    • **The Ode Hotel – Toronto, Ontario:** As Toronto’s first and only Black-owned, family-operated hotel, Ode offers a warm, familial welcome in the Little Portugal neighborhood. The owners are dedicated to creating beautiful spaces that serve as a love letter to their community and possibilities.
    • **Spice Island Beach Resort – Grand Anse Beach, Grenada:** The Hopkin family has proudly kept this celebrated Caribbean resort within the family since 2000. Led by Sir Royston Hopkin’s daughter, Janelle, they are committed to providing the ultimate luxury experience with a range of suites and amenities.
    • **Stonefield Villa Resort – Soufriere, St. Lucia:** Once a colonial plantation, this resort is now a Black and family-owned haven. Owners Wayne and Anista Brown have transformed the property into a relaxing escape, raising their five children there and infusing the resort with a homey feel.
    • **The Osprey – Great Harbor Cay, The Bahamas:** Owned by Daphne and John Delaney, whose family history in The Bahamas spans over 300 years, The Osprey is a boutique resort celebrating the vibrant culture of the islands. It offers an authentic Bahamian experience filled with music, food, and art.

    These establishments are not just businesses; they are pillars of their communities, offering authentic experiences and demonstrating the power of family legacy in the travel industry. By choosing to stay at these locations, travelers not only enjoy a unique getaway but also contribute to the growth and visibility of Black entrepreneurship in hospitality.

    Which of these incredible Black-owned lodging destinations would you love to visit? Share your dream getaway in the comments below!

  • Ode Toronto: A Black-Owned Caribbean Gem

    In a city as diverse as Toronto, representation matters, especially in industries where it’s historically been scarce. Enter Ode Hotel, a groundbreaking establishment that stands as Toronto’s first and only Black-owned hotel. More than just a place to stay, Ode offers a warm, family-like atmosphere infused with vibrant Caribbean culture.

    A Family’s Vision Rooted in Culture

    Founded in 2021 by Tiffany Ramsubick alongside her mother and siblings, Ode was born from a desire to create a space that genuinely connects guests to the community. “We built something specific and deeply rooted in our culture,” Ramsubick shared with Travel Noire. “Not only did people show up, they stayed, posted about it, and told their friends.”

    What started as a word-of-mouth venture has blossomed into a recognized hospitality brand, even earning a spot in Louis Vuitton’s city guide series. Yet, for the Ramsubick family, the greatest achievement remains the positive guest experience and the feeling of belonging they foster.

    Highlighting Little Portugal’s Charm

    Ode Hotel is nestled in the heart of Little Portugal, a neighborhood often overlooked by tourists but brimming with character. This area is a dynamic blend of old-world charm and modern life, featuring Portuguese bakeries and a thriving community of artists and creatives. Ode perfectly mirrors this energy.

    Each of the hotel’s ten modern rooms is distinct, brought to life by local artists. Imagine stepping into the “Black & Yellow” room, a hypnotic striped wonderland, or the “Green Room” with its hand-painted jungle mural for a subterranean vibe. The whimsical “Plum Room,” dubbed Ode’s Willy Wonka, boasts deep purple walls and a massive vanity mirror.

    The Power of Representation

    The impact of Ode goes beyond just hospitality; it’s a powerful symbol of representation. Guests and collaborators have expressed how seeing a Black-owned hotel in a major city like Toronto opens their eyes to new possibilities and validates their own entrepreneurial dreams. “Representation isn’t just a buzzword — it really matters,” Ramsubick emphasized. “We didn’t have to hide our culture to be taken seriously. We led with it.”

    Ode has become a welcoming beacon for Black travelers, including many experiencing international travel for the first time. Guests from cities like New York, London, Atlanta, Accra, and Trinidad actively choose Ode because they seek a space where they feel “safe, seen, and stylish.” The hotel’s success is a testament to the strong support from the Black community, fostering a beautiful sense of collective ownership and pride.

    A Love Letter to People and Places

    While celebrating being the first and only Black-owned hotel in Toronto, the Ode family hopes to inspire more Black-owned and Indigenous-owned establishments, alongside spaces for all of Toronto’s diverse communities. Their future plans include merchandise, matchmaking events, art residencies, and curated dinners. “The dream is to keep building beautiful spaces that feel like a love letter—to our people, our places, and our possibilities.”

    Toronto itself boasts a rich Black culture, shaped by Caribbean, African, and American influences, making it Canada’s largest Black population center. A stay at Ode provides a perfect starting point to explore this heritage, from historic sites like St. John’s African Methodist Episcopal Church to the vibrant community hubs in Little Jamaica and the spectacular Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

    Have you visited Ode Toronto or experienced other Black-owned businesses in the city? Share your recommendations and experiences in the comments below!

  • 7 Black-Owned Wellness Retreats for Healing

    For Black Americans, wellness isn’t just a trend; it’s a critical strategy for health and longevity. Facing higher rates of chronic illnesses and the detrimental effects of racial bias, investing in self-care and healing spaces that understand and prioritize the Black experience is more important than ever. Fortunately, there are incredible Black-owned wellness retreats dedicated to providing solace and rejuvenation.

    Camp Yoshi: Remixing the Outdoors

    Founded by Ron and Rashad Fraizer and Shequeita Fraizer, Camp Yoshi offers a unique approach to outdoor wellness. They aim to ‘remix the outdoors’ through the lens of Black joy, delicious fire-cooked meals, and authentic adventure. Their off-grid experiences encourage participants to disconnect from their phones and reconnect with nature and each other through unforgettable activities and stunning views.

    HealHaus: A Haven for Mental Health

    Darian Hall founded HealHaus in Brooklyn after a transformative year of travel sparked a passion for mental health advocacy. Recognizing a lack of healing spaces, particularly for men, he created HealHaus. Now a café and wellness studio in Newark, New Jersey, with plans for expansion, HealHaus remains committed to creating accessible healing experiences for often-overlooked communities.

    HURU: Mastering the Art of Stillness

    Imani Samuels created HURU after experiencing severe burnout. She realized her state wasn’t sustainable and embarked on a journey to master the art of being still. HURU offers wellness retreats nationwide that prioritize rest and are curated based on client goals, whether dealing with burnout, life changes, or grief. It’s a space designed to minister to those struggling with exhaustion.

    The Jenesis House: Holistic Self-Care

    Entrepreneur Jenesis Laforcarde’s Jenesis House in Arizona offers holistic wellness experiences focused on empowering individuals to prioritize luxurious self-care. With options like a residential retreat at the Blanca House, a day retreat, and destination retreats, guests can enjoy curated packages including massages, meditation, sound healing, yoga, and gourmet food, all designed to nurture mind, body, and spirit.

    OMNoire: Luxury Wellness for Women of Color

    Christina Rice founded OMNoire after experiencing burnout and noticing a lack of representation in yoga teacher training. OMNoire creates luxury wellness retreats worldwide that combine yoga, meditation, and workshops with cultural exploration. These retreats foster personal growth, self-love, and self-discovery, offering women of color a dedicated space to thrive.

    Paradise Park ATL: Rejuvenation in Nature

    Based in Atlanta, Paradise Park offers exclusive wellness programs designed for ultimate rejuvenation. Founder Savauna Sage created the retreat to help people heal in nature. Whether you opt for solo or group retreats, holiday celebrations, or the Lumina Manor Spring experience, Paradise Park provides tools to reset your mind, body, and future.

    Ujima Retreat Center: Grounded Connection

    Located just outside Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, the Black family-owned Ujima Retreat Center, founded by Shanelle and Banio Koroma Jr., offers a warm and grounding healing space. Set on over seven acres, guests can enjoy immersive experiences in nature, including swimming, kayaking, fishing, forest bathing, and access to a sauna, hot tub, and sound and aroma gardens. Ujima aims to help guests restore balance and well-being through rest, reflection, and reconnection.

    Which of these Black-owned wellness retreats are you adding to your must-visit list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Black-Owned Airbnbs: Expats Creating Welcoming Stays

    The global Black expat community is blossoming, and with it, incredible opportunities for travelers seeking more than just a place to stay. These expats are creating welcoming spaces worldwide that offer connection, community, and a genuine sense of belonging. Through platforms like Airbnb, they’re not only paving the way for others to explore life abroad but also inspiring a new wave of travel focused on cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, and intentional rest.

    More Than Just a Stay: Connection and Community

    Black Airbnb hosts are redefining hospitality. They’re transforming home-sharing into an experience that celebrates culture and fosters a sense of home, even when you’re far away. This movement is a powerful reflection of the evolving Black travel landscape, where travelers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences and prioritizing wellness.

    Featured Black-Owned Airbnbs Around the World:

    • **Spacious 10-Bedroom Villa with Pool in Montego Bay, Jamaica:** Owned by Jamaican Shari, this villa is perfect for large groups, accommodating up to 20 guests. It boasts a private pool, tennis courts, multiple living areas, and offers optional private chef services for authentic Jamaican cuisine.
    • **Mountain Chalet with Cinema and Sauna in Asheville, North Carolina:** David’s Skyland Serenity Chalet is a top-rated mountain retreat. This 5,000-square-foot haven features six bedrooms, a private cinema with a popcorn bar, a game room, an indoor sauna, and is conveniently located near downtown Asheville and the Biltmore Estate.
    • **Nirvana Villa in Soufrière, Saint Lucia:** Experience a slice of paradise at this five-bedroom, four-bathroom villa that sleeps 10. Enjoy morning bird songs, relax by the infinity pool with stunning views of St. Lucia’s iconic Pitons, and soak in the magical nighttime sky.
    • **The Alberta House in Hampton City, Virginia:** Amina’s coastal retreat offers a calming seaside energy. This over 3,000-square-foot home sleeps up to 14 guests and is just a three-minute walk from Buckroe Beach. It features a spacious deck, a formal dining area, and multiple lounge spaces.
    • **Cozy City Retreat in Atlanta, Georgia:** Located in the charming East Point neighborhood, this two-bedroom, two-bathroom home sleeps four. Superhost Natina, an avid traveler, provides a curated itinerary of local spots, a dedicated workspace, and a private balcony, ideal for solo travelers or small groups.
    • **Hotel Sages in Bali, Indonesia:** Born out of the pandemic, Hotel Sages in Canggu offers tranquil luxury. This sought-after stay features airy spaces, high arches, open courtyards, and serene outdoor areas, embodying intention and mindfulness for a truly restorative experience.

    These Black-owned Airbnbs are more than just accommodations; they are gateways to cultural experiences and opportunities to connect with hosts who understand the importance of community. By choosing these stays, travelers support Black entrepreneurs and contribute to a more inclusive travel industry.

    Are you planning a trip soon? Consider booking your stay at one of these incredible Black-owned Airbnbs! Have you stayed at any Black-owned Airbnbs? Share your experiences in the comments below!

  • Casey Davy Connects Caribbean Through Tech

    For years, the most magical Caribbean experiences were often hidden gems, passed down through word-of-mouth and personal connections rather than online booking platforms. Montreal-born, island-raised Casey Davy recognized this disconnect and is now bridging the gap with Caribbean Travel & Tours (CTT). His vision is to create a more connected Caribbean, making authentic local culture accessible to travelers while ensuring the region’s communities benefit directly.

    From Personal Refuge to Digital Marketplace

    Davy emphasizes that the heart of the Caribbean lies in its people and the unique experiences they offer. “Beaches we can find everywhere, but there’s something unique about the Caribbean. It’s the people and those authentic experiences that make it so special,” he shares. With his parent company, Breeze Travel Solutions, and CTT, Davy is building a platform that addresses the region’s fragmented tourism landscape, limited online presence, and travelers’ desire for genuine cultural immersion.

    Davy’s journey into travel tech began long before online booking was mainstream. He co-founded Busy Rooms, a successful hotel management platform, in the late 2000s. During this time, he observed how the Caribbean lagged behind other regions in digital adoption, often relying on personal networks rather than online visibility. While initially hesitant to bring his professional focus home, the pandemic provided a catalyst for change. He launched Breeze Travel Solutions to help Caribbean businesses digitize, which eventually evolved into the comprehensive marketplace, Caribbean Travel & Tours, by 2023.

    A Marketplace for Authentic Connections

    Unlike traditional Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), CTT operates as a marketplace designed to connect everyone, from global travelers to local tour guides and boutique hotels. Users can explore pre-curated itineraries focused on wellness or cultural deep-dives, build their own flexible trips, or utilize AI-assisted planning to discover hidden gems. CTT also tackles the challenge of multi-island travel, offering seamless itineraries that most platforms struggle to facilitate due to fragmented transportation systems.

    • Pre-curated itineraries designed with local input.
    • Flexible ‘build-your-own’ trip options.
    • AI-assisted planning for personalized recommendations.
    • Seamless multi-island travel planning, including future Carnival itineraries.
    • An in-destination app highlighting nearby spots and local favorites.

    The platform’s in-destination app uses location data to guide travelers to nearby attractions and local culinary delights, ensuring they experience the true essence of each island. Crucially, CTT provides visibility for smaller, community-based operators who may lack the resources to market themselves globally, ensuring they aren’t lost in the algorithms of larger travel brands.

    Empowering Local Economies and Future-Proofing Tourism

    A core mission of CTT is to ensure that tourism revenue benefits the Caribbean communities directly. Through Breeze Travel Solutions, Davy partners with local governments and businesses to help them establish an online presence, whether it’s setting up digital reservation systems or creating websites for long-standing tour operators. This approach empowers local entrepreneurs to help themselves.

    CTT is also innovating with its Influencer Program, offering creators commissions on bookings generated through their curated itineraries, providing a more sustainable income stream. The upcoming Culinary Ambassador series, featuring renowned chefs, aims to share Caribbean culture through its rich food traditions. Looking ahead, CTT is investing in AI and voice technology to ensure Caribbean operators remain discoverable as search methods evolve, future-proofing the region’s tourism industry.

    We’re trying to future-proof Caribbean destinations for what’s to come. If these operators aren’t digitized, they won’t be found — unless you happen to have a friend on the ground. — Casey Davy

    Ultimately, Casey Davy’s work with Caribbean Travel & Tours is about more than just bookings; it’s about fostering generational wealth and ensuring that the region’s stories, creativity, and opportunities remain in the hands of its people. It’s a vision of modern, collaborative, and culturally rooted progress for the Caribbean.

    What do you think about Casey Davy’s approach to Caribbean travel? Have you experienced a truly authentic local tour? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!