Black Girl Magic Personified: Davonne Reaves

Travel Diva, have you ever just been awe-struck at the excellence, commitment and overall Black girl magic that’s out there in the world?

While we’re not surprised, it still warms our hearts to see Black women out here crushing their goals!

That’s why we’re highlighting some of the most phenomenal women who have been sprinkling their magic in our hemisphere lately.

If you’re not following the woman we’re about to reveal, you’re missing out!


First up is real estate and hospitality magnate Davonne Reaves.   

Davonne is the founder and chief hospitality strategist of Atlanta-based 

hospitality firm, The Vonne Group.

Experience

With over 14 years of experience in hotel operations, asset management, hotel development and feasibility studies, Davonne is a certified Diva!

She’s killed it in event management at Blair Management Consultant Services, hotel operations at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta, and hotel development consulting and feasibility at Horwath ATL. She switched it up and was the reigning queen of asset management at CHMWarnick.

She managed portfolios with over $1 billion in assets when she was at Horwath HTL and CHMWarnick. Talk about a boss!

Highlight Reel

While there isn’t enough space here to list all of the magical things Davonne has accomplished, we’ll share a few highlights.

In 2017, she founded the Vonne Group, a premier hotel consulting firm known for its cutting-edge market research and innovative brand positioning. 

In 2019, she co-founded Epiq Collective, a commercial real estate investment fund specializing in hotels and multi-family real estate. 

Where You Can Find Her

Davonne is on a mission to make hotel ownership and investments a reality for 221 

ambitious wealth-builders this year. 

Keep your eyes on her by visiting https://thevonnegroup.com/ to learn more.

Also, visit her #stayblackexperience initiative here.

Get Your Red Bottoms and Designer Wear Ready for Rome 2023

You bring the diva with you wherever you go, sprinkling your Black girl magic, iconic style, undeniable confidence and damn-good looks all through the streets, whether you’re at home or jet-setting around the world.

That’s why strapping on your finest designer shoes to strut in front of the Colosseum like a true warrior queen is just one of the highlights of our ultra-glam, ultra-boujee, ultra-luxe Rome 2022 tour.

And we’re inviting you to bring your Red Bottoms, your “damn, who’s that” outfits, long flowing goddess dresses and spent-a-bag-or-two-on-these purses to travel, pose and relax like a true diva should.

When you do Rome with Travel Divas, you’ll indulge in all things diva-like:

Slay In Front of the Spanish Steps 

Listen, IG photos are nice for a minute … that is, until someone else posts and your photo is lost in the scrolling sauce. But what about hanging a stunning pass-it-down-for-generations photo above your mantel or in your foyer. If you’re a diva like us, then the hanging around option sounds more like you.

That’s why you’ll be professionally photographed as you’re dressed-to-the-nines, posing in front of the Spanish just like Rihanna in the latest issue of Vogue. Breathtaking. Beautiful. Boss. And these are just a few words to describe the incredible, high-quality photos our melanin-loving photographers will take of you.

Oh, and did we mention we’ll also photo-click capture you posing in the most iconic vintage cars in the streets of Rome? Modern meets classic meets Black girl magic is the vibe you’ll effortlessly embody.

And, you’ll probably be hungry after working so hard to look so good (though truthfully, it’s easy for a melanated goddess such as yourself). That’s why you’ll need to:

Sip Prosecco at a Gourmet Luxury Picnic

Sip on the finest Italian champagne at a carefully-curated picnic lunch one day. Dress in your best whites, you know … like you’re on Diddy’s yacht at our all-white rooftop welcome dinner. Then, learn how to make pizza and gelato in a private cooking class. 

Next, unwind while you swish, smell and marvel at the exquisite wines over the hills just outside of Rome. 

After filling up your cup, get ready for a glam, classy night on the town.

Put on Your Red Bottoms, Little Black Dress and Pearls

After touring the Colosseum, taking a walking tour with a private fashion expert and soaking in the thermal waters of Acque Albule Springs, you’ll want to slip into your sexiest Black dress, Red Bottoms and pearls for our upscale farewell dinner.

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Glam it up and walk the streets of Rome as if you’re Cleopatra herself when you travel with us to Rome in 2023. Get all the details on accommodations, excursions and more here.

Ready for Your Most Opulent Vacay Yet in the South of France?

Girlfriend, I don’t know about you, but 2023 is all about marvel, luxury and wonder here at Travel Diva.

And while we’re definitely hopping on the #wherethemoneyresides train, we thought we’d bring some of those same magical, abundant vibes with a midsummer excursion to a town that makes that famous Instagram video tagline all but real:

Views of Nice, France

Nice and Saint Tropez.

Yes, sis, the same opulent, decadent southern French getaways that only the highest net worth celebrities frequent. 

Now, it’s time for you to join the ranks and experience glamour on another level. THIS is where Black girl magic glitters like gold. Let’s get into some of the excursions here:

Monaco Monte Carlo sea view with yachts

Yacht Vibes on the French Riviera

Get your floppy hats, your finest sundresses and your carefree vibes ready for a private yacht excursion along the gorgeously breathtaking French Riviera coastline as we visit Monaco, Monte Carlo and Cannes. You smell that? It’s the air of luxury.

Skylines for Days with a Rooftop Dinner in Nice

Our all-white welcome dinners could rival Diddy’s annual parties. Here, you’ll gasp at the uninterrupted skylines in Nice as you sit on the finest white wines and relish in Black girl magic during a decadent rooftop dinner.

Experience the Luxury of Having a Fragrance Expert

Sure, you can cop the latest perfume from Macy’s and Sephora (maybe even Neiman Marcus), but why do that when you can experience what it’s like to work with a professional perfumer? Take your olfactory senses for a ride when you visit the famous gardens of La Mouissone accompanied by a fragrance expert.

Romantic dinner at harbor of Portofino

Wine, Wine, Wine

You do so much, sis. That’s why it’s time for you to wine down and let all the tension, caretaking, bossing up and resilience go for a second (or two) during our local winery excursion. 

Taste southern French wines straight from the source (and get a history lesson, too) as you let your curls down and mind flow free.

Excited for the luxury, opulence and decadence that southern France has to offer? Get all the details about these excursions (and more) and accommodations here: https://thetraveldivas.com/trip/south-of-france-2023/.

Rich Aunties Invade Dubai

In case you missed it, the rich aunties toured Dubai. And the trip highlights were too amazing to keep to ourselves! 

So, what went down? 

After unwinding and settling into our luxury accommodations, we got to know each other at an amazing party with a view. The next morning, we jumped right into the city, visiting landmarks and marveling at the incredible architecture. 

Then, we explored the area’s natural beauty, as we rode camels through the desert. Later, we celebrated the local culture. We watched the area’s top talent perform and danced the night away. And we haven’t even mentioned the incredible photo opportunities, gourmet dishes and extravagant pool party. 

If it sounds like an epic trip, with rich auntie vibes from start to finish … it was.

Want to see for yourself? Check out the daily Dubai videos below to see the highlights from each day of our Dubai getaways. Be sure to turn up the volume! 

And if you want to join the fun next time, go here to discover your dream Travel Divas trip right now.

Shop Like a Diva in Milan

When it comes to fashion, sure, New York’s where it’s at in the United States. But when it comes to global fashion trends, luxury and designer galore? The place to be is in Milan. And the best part?

The discounts.

That means those same pricey designer goods – those Tom Ford padlock heels, that Dolce & Gabbana Italian leather belt with the gold buckle, those Gucci slides and the latest Bottega Venetta sandals are all yours for less than U.S. retail price.

And nope, there’s no catch.

You see, part of sprinkling your Black girl magic all over the globe is about looking your best, enveloping yourself in luxury and living those wealthy vibes.

When you join us for 6 nights in this famous northern Italian city, that’s exactly the kind of life you’ll be living. Here are just a few ways you can shop till you drop with us in Milan:

2 Days at the Serravalle Outlet Mall

Welcome to Italy’s first and largest outlet mall. And no, we’re not talking about the Italian equivalent of Marshall’s or Burlington. The Serravalle Outlet Mall has over 230 stores and up to 70% off your favorite designers: Celine, Saint Laurent, Valentino, Moschino, Versace, Armani, Balenciaga, Burberry … the list goes on. 

Bring your AmEx and an extra suitcase because the deals here are so magical that we dedicated 2 whole days to exploring the designer outlet shops. 

Private Boat Tour

Rock your newest designer wears on a private boat ride on Lake Como and give your feet a rest. You’ll need to recharge and pick out which D&G outfit will go best when you dance with us during club night, or you can explore nature with an exquisite panoramic walking tour, or then again … more shopping is always the bliss that you can’t go without. 

Shop Some More

Sneak out of your luxurious suite at the Rosa Grand Milano to roam the streets of Via Montenapoleone, one of the city’s most elegant shopping streets. Pick up a few items before you book your very own personal trainer, relax your muscles with a Turkish bath and solarium and live luxuriously in a gold-gilded, impeccably comfortable Italian-style room.

Ready to fill your closet with discounted and authentic designer gear that shows off your magical self? Join us in Milan in 2022 and get the details here.

Travel Divas, Bring Your Bae!

Listen, while we’re all about curating unforgettable memories where you can spread your wings and sprinkle your Black girl magic around the world, the premium Travel Diva experience isn’t just for magical, excellent Black boss women like yourself.

We’re here for your boo thangs, too! You see, one of the most frequently asked questions we get is, “Can I bring my boo?” or “My husband wants to come … are men allowed?”

And the answer is yes, girlfriend!

You see, here at Travel Divas, we want you to forget about the stresses of your daily life and the hustle and bustle that’s required of so many Black women at work and at home.

While your happy place may be exploring a foreign city and meeting new folks, this doesn’t mean it can’t be with bae on the side. 

In fact, we know just how powerful, life-changing and relationship-strengthening traveling together can do for a power couple. That’s why we have several couples’ trips throughout the year, like this upcoming Couples Trips: MALDIVES,

But just because it isn’t a trip designed for you and your boo, doesn’t mean he can’t join! No matter if you’re bringing your best self, your best friend or your partner on the trip, you can rely on Travel Divas to ensure your experience is magical.

If you need some inspo, here are a few baecay spots we love:

Whether it’s Black girl magic, Black bae magic or Black boy magic … our main goals are to expand your mind, expose you to new cultures and remind you of your excellence, your worthiness and your magic.

Sprinkle your Black excellence and magic together right here: https://thetraveldivas.com/trips/

Diner en Blanc – But Make It Travel Divas

Travel Diva, have you heard of Diner en Blanc?

If not, let us tell you real quick. Diner en Blanc is an upscale, world-wide event where folks dress in their finest white outfits to dine out together in a public space. 

And no, it isn’t a glorified picnic. If the French name (meaning “dinner in white”) is any indication, Diner en Blanc is an exclusive, VIP-only event.

We’re talking only a select few are “privy” to the secret location of the dinner, and they find out the day of. Most of the time, folks must bring their own dining accoutrements such as tables, chairs and cloths, as well as their own food. 

While the best part could very well be that they’re often held at iconic locations, it’s the all-white elegance for us.

The event’s so popular it’s held on six continents in over 90 cities. And of course, we said to ourselves, let’s do that … but make it Travel Divas.  

That’s why we’re extending our virtual hands to invite you to our upcoming Vacances in Blanc 2022 in one of the hottest cities:

Los Cabos!

Yes, that’s right: there’s nothing better than feeling that tropical Mexican breeze caress your face as you dine with your fellow Travel Divas. 

Here’s a quick sneak peek of what you’ll do when you join us for 5 days in Los Cabos:

All White Everything for 5 Days Straight

Who said you can’t wear white after Labor Day? When you join us in Los Cabos, you’ll rock clean, crisp and carefree white every day for five days. Bring your favorite long, flowy white dresses and your crisp white tees as you soak up the sun and sprinkle your Black girl magic all over Los Cabos.

And oh, don’t forget your white sunnies, white sandals and a white handbag to match. Yacht-ready, rich and carefree is the vibe.

Diner en Blanc

Now you know we couldn’t host a Vacances en Blanc without an all-white dinner. Between our welcome and farewell dinners, you’ll enjoy culinary delights from the finest chefs Los Cabos has to offer while you kick back and chat about life, goals and love with your fellow Travel Divas.

Sprinkle Your Black Girl Magic

Bring out your best white swimsuit, because the resort you’ll stay out when you join us for Vacances en Blanc is an oasis of opulence on the tip of the Baja Peninsula. From luxury spa treatments that’ll loosen those hard-working muscles to beachfront pools where you can recharge your melanin for maximum glow, you’ll never want to leave Le Blanc Spa Resort Los Cabos.

So, if you’re ready to party like Diddy but travel like a Diva, join us in Los Cabos in 2022.

Catch the Vibe of a Sisterhood of Travel Divas

travel divas in jamaica

You see them too, don’t you? The selfies snapped in South Africa. The pics of friends busting dance moves in Dubai, the laughs and the “Livin’ La Vida Loca” going on in Las Vegas and the envy-inducing R&R in Riviera Maya. 

Now, if you’ve been to some or all of these places, you should have a dedicated place to share your memorable moments – a place filled with divas who can appreciate luxury travel experiences. 

IF you haven’t been to any of these destinations, you need some tips and guidance on getting more stamps in your passport, girlfriend. 

Either way, we’re gifting you an all-access pass to a community of 85,000 travel divas who are just waiting to comment “Yes, girl, yesss” on your Dubai dance moves and share tips on how you can finally knock “travel to exotic places” off your bucket list. 

Listen, the community is a whole vibe. And because traveling is always better when you have divas around, your sisters are waiting for you. Join us for FREE.

Get Crazy Rich in Singapore

Girl, have you heard about Singapore? If you haven’t, just watch “Crazy Rich Asians.” Yes, Travel Divas is going to the one of the most luxurious, futuristic, rich countries there is. 

And you’re invited to experience the magic that world-class service, stunning waterfront views and celebrity treatment Singapore and Malaysia have to offer.

Curious what kind of excursions you’ll visit after you stop staring in awe at the gorgeous skyline? Let’s get into it:

Night Safari & Dinner at Trepiz

Southeast Asia is known for its lush greenery. So, what better way to explore it than with a decadent, exciting and riveting night safari, followed by a dinner at Trepiz so you can chit chat about the breath-taking wonders of Southeast Asia. 

Sentosa Island

This island may be man-made, but it’s magic is out of this world. From boardwalks to monorails to lush rainforests, award-winning spas and themed attractions, Sentosa is synonymous with fun. 

WOW Restaurant Dinner

This restaurant didn’t get its name without reason. Not only do we explore the luxurious country of Singapore with you, but we also treat you to a cultural infusion at the Kuala Lumpur Restaurant in Malaysia. Relish in an unforgettable international buffet. 

KL Tower

As the world’s sixth tallest tower, not only is the view from this modern architectural wonder absolutely breathtaking, but so is the authentic Malaysian cuisine and international cuisine options at its famed revolving restaurant. 

It’s the perfect place to whip out a pint of that Black girl magic and let the world bask in all your melanated glory. 

We could go on and on about all the sightseeing, tours and luxurious accommodations, but we’ll let you take a look for yourself. Be prepared for your breath to be taken away here. 

The Travel Divas Guide to Traveling Safely During COVID-19

It’s been a stressful year. And before any of this happened, you were already on the verge of needing a vacation. After all, you’re a boss chick who’s about her business. 

And with COVID-19, that business just got busier.

You’re feeling burnt out and ready to escape the world and take a break from the business, your career and constant news coverage about what’s going on in the world.

The only problem is, we’re still in the middle of a pandemic.

And while you KNOW there’s no way you can settle for yet another staycation, you’re still a little unsure if it’s a good time to fly or even what travel etiquette looks like with a contagious virus everywhere.

That’s why we put together a protocol guide to keep you safe, so you can stay healthy and lower the chances of you or someone else getting sick:

A happy female business traveler video chats as she waits for ride share to the airport. She is wearing a protective face mask as she travels during COVID-19.

Protocol #1: Check Yourself

Before you arrive to the airport or your destination, assess your health. How do you feel? Is your temperature normal? Do you have a fever? A cough? Is your sense of smell normal?

Don’t forget to monitor yourself prior to leaving to determine what normal feels like for you.

Protocol #2: Mask

Wearing a mask is the easiest way to prevent the spread of the virus. Wear it everywhere, even on the airplane, and change your mask every few hours. 

Dispose of single-use ones and wash reusable masks every night. 

Protocol #3: Sanitize

Use the hand sanitizer stations everywhere you go while on vacation. Remember to sanitize after touching frequent touch points such as elevator buttons, door handles, escalator rails, TV remotes and more. 

Don’t forget to sanitize your hotel room: TV remotes, doorknobs and more. 

Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, then rinse for 10 seconds. 

Try to keep your hands off your face as well. 

Bring personal bottles of hand sanitizer with you, as you may not have access to soap and water everywhere.

Protocol #4: Social Distance

Maintain at least 6 feet apart from people (other than your travel buddies) when possible. Follow any lines on the floor that indicate this. 

Protocol #5: Get Checked Out

If you’re not feeling well, get checked out. Many hotels/resorts have professionals onsite or can direct you to medical help.

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Girlfriend, don’t let COVID-19 get in the way of a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

Give yourself the gift of a memorable, luxury travel experience. Ready to let your hair down and inject some excitement, self-care and fun into your life? Check out www.TheTravelDivas.com to find out how to do exactly that.