Blended Designs — black women travel
HBCU Sororities Founding Days
Of the four sororities established in HBCUs, three of these organizations were founded from January 13 to January 16. To commemorate this monumental time, we'd like to learn more about these groups and show our HBCU pride with BD sorority bags.
Travel Proud in 2019
5 Trips Every Black Woman Should Take Next Year
While black girl magic allows us to watch after our children, care for our loved ones and hold down our careers like a #LadyBoss, maintaining a hectic schedule can leave you feeling stressed and overworked. In 2019, we encourage you to take charge of your adventure in the New Year ahead. Check out five trips trip ideas for 2019 that will have you blazing ahead like the strong woman you are.
1. Brazil
With it's beautiful beaches, clear waters and streets full of locals and visitors alike with a variety of melanin tones, you can feel right at home when traveling to Brazil. Often referred to as the "body of America and the soul of Africa", this country has one of the largest African populations outside of Africa. It's diverse population has created a rich native cuisine, musical style and culture. Brazilians take their #BlackGirlMagic seriously, creating a movement for women to embrace their natural hair. They even hold a natural hair empowerment parade every year, known as the "Marcha do Empoderamento Crespo"!
2. South Africa
Our next pick is South Africa. Filled with sun, sand, scenic safaris and outstanding restaurants, this destination is bound to impress. South Africa is particularly relevant for both black women and men, bearing in mind that the country implemented institutionalized racial segregation, or apartheid, until 1994. While the country is no longer suffering under this system, meeting and interacting with those who have lived under this oppression will be an eye-opening experience for travelers. Be sure to check out Johannesburg’s official Apartheid Museum, where you learn about people such as Nelson & Winnie Mandela, Desmond Tutu and Walter Sisulu.
3. France
A perfect self care getaway, there's a reason why it's common to hear travelers say that "Paris is always a good idea". France is the ideal destination for a sister to indulge herself with world-class wines and cuisines. Take this indulgent getaway as an excuse to forget your worries and responsibilities back home, whether it be sipping on a coffee at a cafe in Paris or doing some shopping.
4. Thailand
Between Thailand's breath-taking seascapes and awe-inspiring architecture, this destination is bound to inspire any traveler. However, be forewarned: beauty and skin care products suited for a sister will be a rare find while traveling in Thailand. We recommend checking out The Black Travel Box, a lifesaving product created by founder Orion Brown. This black-owned business aims to create products for black women that like to glow while on the go. The Black Travel Box includes TSA friendly beauty and hygiene products that are made from natural ingredients to help protect your melanin glow in a foreign land.
5. Barbados
The birthplace of the #BlackGirlMagic that is Rhianna, Barbados is the perfect tropical getaway for any woman that needs a break from chasing their #SquadGoals. Crystal clear water, fresh seafood dishes and small roadside markets create a sense of community that simply can't be compared to other islands in the Caribbean. Not to mention, Barbados is also the birthplace of rum, with more varieties and flavors than your heart could desire!
Get Inspired, Sister!
Taking off on a solo getaway to a foreign land can be equal parts exciting and intimidating. We recommend checking out Sisters Traveling Solo, an online community that fosters the encouragement and empowerment of black women to step out of their comfort zone and start exploring. Sisters Traveling Solo also works to aid those facing financial hardships with a desire to travel with a monthly passport giveaway program for those in need.
Another go-to source of travel inspiration is award-winning travel blogger Oneika the Traveller. Oneika utilizes her platform to inspire, encourage and empower people and women of color to travel around the world. She has traveled over over 100 countries on six different continents, working to demystify travel for marginalized groups. Oneika is also a host for a host for Travel Channel web series including "Big City, Little Budget" and "One Bag and You're Out".
Take a page from pro-traveler Oneika, pack one bag and get out there! Finding the perfect travel bag can be tough, but BD has got you covered. Our travel bags are ready for the road, made of high-grade waterproof fabric that is durable and water-resistant. Travel bags are also equipped with a sturdy portable belt, durable luggage tags and a comfortable shoulder strap that makes toting your luggage through even the most crowded airport a breeze.
