It’s time. Work and life responsibilities have you in a 360 deal, and quite frankly, everyone deserves a break. This is a reminder for those who are strong enough to bear the children, then get back to business, not to forget about themselves. Use that PTO and take an adventurous trip to a bucket list beach, favorite coast, or trendy tourist hub anytime of the year. The best vacation starts by selecting the prime destination. While your Pinterest boards, TikTok saves, and Instagram bookmarks might be stacked with picture-perfect hotspots, putting intention into where you travel yields the best results.
“When choosing a vacation spot, I always advise people to first consider what they want to get out of it. Do you want pure luxury and relaxation? Do you want adventure? Do you want food-based experiences or history?” explains solo travel expert, journalist Martie Bowser. “That will help you narrow down where you want to go tremendously. Then the scary word ‘budget’ comes into play, because it can be the deciding factor in where you want to go and for how long. After deciding on your budget, safety factors come into play. Is the location safe to go to alone, specifically for Black women? I suggest researching or speaking with other solo travelers who look like you and share your interests, but still use your own discernment.”
Factoring in this advice, pack your bags, switch your phone to DND and let yourself enjoy the escape that you’ve earned. Read below for a list of travel spots that any woman can enjoy.
Paris
This is for the traveler romanticizing every step of life. A Parisian getaway is the first choice for many baecations, but the City of Love can make a peaceful solo getaway. Embark on a sightseeing journey, checking off landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Indulge in the bread, butter, cheese and chocolate. From bike rides and nightclubs to day cruises and luxury shopping, Paris has an activity that fits every agenda.
Los Angeles
The opportunities for vacation fun in Los Angeles are endless if casual leisure just isn’t your style. Take a break on the West Coast with a trip to Los Angeles for a taste of one of California’s most flavorful cities. The diversity of L.A. provides the opportunity to experience authentic cultural foods and traditions from a variety of ethnicities without leaving the country. Hubs exist to highlight Korean, Filipino, Ethiopian, and more communities with pride. Outside of underrated eateries, Los Angeles is sprawling with concert venues catering to fans of every genre from large outdoor spaces such as The Hollywood Bowl, to the newly-opened, intimate Blue Note, boredom is not an option. There are also beaches, parks, museums, and, of course, Hollywood to keep busy and help pass the time on your time off.
Arizona
Awaken your inner oenophile with a trip to Arizona and experience some of the world’s best sips. The wine regions in the western state are home to vineyards, resorts, tasting rooms, and additional experiences designed for visitors to savor every pour. The Verde Valley wine region is easily accessible from Sedona and Phoenix, and is described as the ideal introduction to Arizona’s wine scene. Separately, the Willcox Wine Region is home to most of the state’s vines and less than 100 miles from Tucson, and the Sonoita Wine Region is southwest of Willcox and where it all began. The Grand Canyon state is also home to some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes and relaxing spas. Pick a region and explore.
Ghana
Get a firsthand experience of the motherland with a trip to Ghana. The West African country is home to beautiful beaches, parks, and endless proof of the beauty in nature. Still, there’s another side to Ghana, including shopping in local markets, culinary experiences, and nightclubs where clubhoppers dance until dawn. There is also the opportunity to take a moment to reflect and explore the rich history present at various museums and historical sites. From Accra to Cape Coast to Kumasi to Busua, pick a city (or two) and start building the itinerary.
Curaçao
If your perfect vacation looks like serene beaches and captivating underwater fun, Curaçao is calling your name. The Southern Caribbean island is the pristine place to soak up some sun and enjoy unique activities at the same time. In the Caribbean sea, Curaçao boat trips, diving and snorkeling, clubs, casinos, spas, and additional museums, parks, and historic landmarks. Curaçao is also home to a sufficient number of restaurants and bars that offer both local and globally-inspired food and drink.
Bali, Indonesia
For the ultimate reset, Bali should be at the top of your list. The tranquil island has nightlife, food, drinks, and typical vacation necessities but many travelers prioritize the wellness experiences. Spas, wellness temples, beauty parlors, fitness classes, yoga workshops, retreat centers, and additional spaces offer endless opportunities to upgrade physically, mentally, and spiritually. Be sure to pack a good book, a journal, and comfortable clothes for this vacation and prepare to return renewed.
London
A trip to London is the perfect opportunity for any creative to find inspiration. The city is home to some notable attractions across interests and hobbies. Perfect for tourists, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, and Westminster Abbey all offer different stories relevant to London’s history. With must-see architecture, a thriving theatre scene, and timeless museum, the aesthetically gratifying United Kingdom capital should be considered for an extended stay. Try a traditional English breakfast for bonus points.
Thailand
The journey to Thailand might be long but worth it. Located in Southeast Asia, the country has multiple regions ready to welcome adventurous spirits. In Bangkok, explore historical religious temples, and night markets with tasty food offerings. Phuket is popular for beaches, restaurants and nightlife. Chiang Rai hosts cultural attractions such as the unique white temple, Wat Rong Khun, well as stunning views. Kanchanaburi in the west is the top choice for cultural, natural, and historical site seeing. No matter where the agenda lands, Thailand is sure to provide an incomparable getaway.
Rome
Travel to Italy’s capital and take full advantage of the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” The city is the perfect setting for a carefree trip to another continent. Put on your best walking shoes and take a stroll through historic landmarks including The Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, and Roman Forum. Delve into the extensive collection at the Vatican Museums. All of the walking can build an appetite for authentic Italian pizza, pasta, and wine, a vacation sure to satisfy all five senses.
Chicago
Chicago is the perfect cityscape for the woman on the go who enjoys good food, good drinks and a good time. A complete itinerary for a visit to the Midwestern metropolis should include moments to appreciate architecture, such as a tour of the picturesque skyline, a trip to museums such as the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center or the Art Institute of Chicago, and, of course, Millennium Park. While natives will tell you deep-dish pizza is a tourist thing you can’t leave the Windy City without authentic Chicago flavor found in Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, crispy fried chicken with mild sauce, or at one of the city’s 21 restaurants with Michelin star honors. With endless bars, concert venues, and additional nightlife spots, the city is a prime choice for a quick getaway to create lifelong memories.