Your Passport Is Your Ticket to Adventure

Meaningful connections with fellow magical Black women, the opportunity to explore new cultures, a moment to refill my self-care cup – there’s nothing Roxie enjoys more than the freedom of travel.

It’s truly something I cherish and don’t take for granted. Not everyone is able to travel freely, so knowing that I can hop on a plane to escape is something I’m eternally grateful for.

Every time I look at my passport, I see more than just a small book with pages and pages full of customs stamps:

I see freedom.

I see adventure.

I see endless possibilities.

In fact, you can consider it your ticket to adventure. Here are a few reasons why:

You Can Travel Internationally

More than just a ticket to adventure and a form of identification, a passport is a collection of memories. Every stamp is a reminder of your Black girl magic: that you worked hard, played even harder, and had the courage to do both.

You see, traveling is an act of bravery. Whether it’s with a group of women you know, a group of strangers, by yourself, or a mix of all the above, it takes guts and gravitas to literally step outside of your comfort zone and fly to a new destination where nothing is the same.

Every time you pick up your passport, remember that.

You Can Immerse Yourself in New Cultures

A Diva knows there’s more to life than what she knows – that’s why she prides herself on being well-versed and cultured. Your passport unlocks opportunities for you to immerse yourself in cultures you never would have been exposed to otherwise, except for in a book or in a YouTube video.

Getting to know how others live their lives can inspire you to live more freely and openly. In fact, chances are, if you’re traveling outside of the U.S., you’ll discover just how much hustle culture isn’t the be-all-end-all.

As a hard-working Black woman, it’s important for you to see that you deserve a soft life. That life – no matter its dilemmas – can be one full of joy … sunshine … clear waters … luxury.

Your passport is the ultimate luxury. Don’t forget to use it.

You can practice doing just that by booking a trip and letting us plan it all for you right behind this link.

Can’t wait to see what adventure you choose next!

Your Top Essentials for an Antigua Adventure: Unveil the Caribbean Splendor with Travel Divas in 2024

Oh, Sis, can you feel it? The glint of sparkling gold as the Caribbean sun graces the shores of Antigua, the melody of waves embracing the sand, the fragrance of tropical blooms wafting in the breeze. It’s not just a destination; it’s a call to indulge in the extraordinary, a beckoning to unleash your Black Girl Magic. But before you answer this alluring call, let’s get you ready with the top essentials for an unforgettable adventure to Antigua. And here’s the cherry on top: We’re inviting you to join Travel Divas in 2024 to experience this island in pure elegance.

Pack Your Perfect Beachwear

Antigua boasts 365 stunning beaches, each a celebration of beauty and tranquillity. Pack your fabulous swimsuits, elegant cover-ups, and don’t forget a glamorous sun hat. Let your beachwear reflect the joy and style that’s uniquely you. From the sandy shores to the vibrant streets, your feet will dance to Antigua’s rhythm. Pack comfortable sandals for the beach, chic shoes for the night, and if you’re up for a hike, appropriate footwear. Walk, dance, explore; your feet are in for an adventure. Not sure where to start? No worries! we’ve got you covered! Here’s our take on the perfect look all in one click! Go for it sis!

Bring an Appetite for Caribbean Flavors

Antigua’s culinary landscape is a dance of flavors. Bring an appetite and an open heart to indulge in local delicacies. The tropical treasures of Antigua are a rainbow on your plate. Indulge in exotic fruits like guava, soursop, or mango. Sip on local beverages like Wadadli beer or the famous Antigua rum, each adding a touch of sparkle to your culinary adventure. Experience gourmet meals prepared by top chefs, blending international cuisine with Caribbean flair. Travel Divas offers curated dining experiences that blend luxury and authenticity, making every meal a memory.

Dive into Adventure with the Right Gear

Antigua’s underwater world is a spectacle of color and life. Snorkeling gear, a waterproof camera, or a simple beach bag for your essentials could be your best companions. With Travel Divas, every snorkeling session is a page out of a fairy tale. So, take the risk sis and make all your adventure wishes come true!

Travel Documents and Health Essentials

Ensure you have your passport, necessary visas, travel insurance, and any required vaccinations. With Travel Divas, we guide you through these practicalities, ensuring your journey is smooth and graceful. We want to ensure that nothing stands in your way of an awesome trip that is sure to be one to remember!

Prep for cultural differences, excursions, the airport, and more with other great tips from the Travel Divas blog

Answer the Call of Antigua’s Beauty with Travel Divas

You’re packed, you’re ready, and Antigua’s beauty awaits you, Sis. It’s not just a trip; it’s a celebration of life, an exploration of beauty, a connection that feels like home. Join us in 2024 as we uncover the wonders of Antigua, curated and hosted with the unique charm only Travel Divas can offer.

Sis, We can’t wait to see you in 2024!

A Step-By-Step Guide: How to Create the Most Magical International Travel Experience

Are you ready to sprinkle your Black girl magic all over the globe? Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, your fellow traveler Roxie’s got all the tips you need to confidently prepare for your next international trip.

Once you go through the steps in this guide, trust me – you’ll be the most confident, seasoned Diva-esque international traveler.

Shake those nerves off and let me show you how. Let’s get into it!

Get Your Passport

First things first – before you can even jet-set, you’ve got to get the credentials to get out of the country! I’m a fan of celebrating before you’ve accomplished something, so grab yourself a cute little passport holder and then check out the Department of State’s website for everything you need if you’re American: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/need-passport/apply-in-person.html

TLDR: You’ll need to apply in person using a special form and provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship. You’ll need your birth certificate or a certificate of naturalization or similar document, a photocopy of it, your ID (plus a photocopy), and a clear, color, no-shadow, and no selfie passport photo.

There are some post offices or passport agencies that will take the photo for you, but otherwise, you’ll need that, along with money for fees once you decide on a passport book or card. Best to go with the book if you’re planning on jet-setting a lot.

Some countries require a visitor visa. Check your destination’s official government website for details on how to get one and what’s required.

Most importantly – don’t wait until right before your trip to do any of this! It can take months to be approved for a visa, and anywhere from 2 weeks to more than a month for passports, so if you’ve even got an inkling you want to travel outside of the country – make your appointment now!

Booking Flights

Now that you’ve got your passport secured, it’s time to book your flight!

Where do you even start? How do you find the best deals? No need to waste your Black girl magic on figuring any of that out, because the answers are here!

Pro tip: if you’re a credit card holder, some companies have partnerships with your destination’s airlines. If you have credit card points, you can even use those to pay for your flights. Check sites like Hopper to help you determine the best time to buy a flight, and don’t forget to do all your searching in incognito mode.

Search engines like Google tend to show higher prices for the same flights or locations once you’ve looked at them the entire time, so escape detection by going incognito or downloading privacy browsers like DuckDuckGo so you can catch the best deals.

When traveling internationally, decide whether or not you want a nonstop flight or a layover. If you’ve never done long-haul travel before, it might be interesting to look at a layover in another country to give your mind and body a break from cramped airplane space.

Prepare for the Airport: Packing + Security

Oh, and you know your girl Roxie put together a guide on what to bring on the airplane with you for the most hassle- and stress-free ride. Check that out here plus this guide on how to breeze through airport security.

Choose Your Accommodations

Need tips on how to choose the right hotel (or Airbnb)? Check out this step-by-step guide on how to do it like a Diva right here.

Stay on Budget

Traveling internationally Diva-style doesn’t always mean spending Diva-level money. In fact, Divas know how to manage their finances effectively so they can do what they please on vacay. And once you read this blog post, you’ll know how to do it, too.

Confidently Travel inside the Country

Wondering what you should look out for when it comes to navigating transportation in a foreign country? Find out inside this blog I post I wrote for you.

Stay Healthy while Traveling

Girlfriend, you’re on vacay to sprinkle your Black girl magic, not blow your nose and be laid up in bed sick! Learn how to keep your Black girl magic meter charged before and after you land in a foreign country.

Embrace Tokyo’s Magic: Your Top 10 Travel Questions Answered!

Sis, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to dive into the mesmerizing heart of Tokyo! A city that dances between tradition and futuristic wonders, Tokyo offers a rhythm like no other, beating to the drum of innovation and cultural grace. Have questions? You’re not alone! “Embrace Tokyo’s Magic: Your Top 10 Travel Questions Answered” is here to unravel the mysteries, quench your curiosity, and ignite the spark for your next grand adventure. Join us as we explore the sparkling streets of Tokyo together, wrapped in elegance and the undeniable glow of Black Girl Magic. 🌸✨

Keep Scrolling! Your Top 10 Answers Await You…

1. Do I need a visa to travel to Tokyo?
Hold tight, traveler! Most tourists from Western countries enjoy visa-free entry to Japan for short visits. Just pack your passport and let’s go! But make sure to check the latest requirements based on your specific country.

2. What’s the best time to visit Tokyo?
Spring or autumn; that’s where the magic happens! Cherry blossoms in spring and colorful leaves in autumn paint the city in hues of love.

3. Can I get by with English?
No worries here! While Japanese is the primary language, you’ll find signs in English and many people who can assist you. Embrace the adventure!

4. How do I navigate Tokyo’s public transportation?
Tokyo’s trains are a thrilling ride! Get a PASMO or SUICA card, and you’ll be zipping around like a local. It’s efficient, clean, and always on time.

5. What’s the deal with currency?
Yen is the game in Tokyo. Bring your cards, but remember, some places only accept cash. There are ATMs galore, so you’ll never be stranded.

6. Is Tokyo expensive?
From luxury to budget-friendly options, Tokyo has it all! Your taste determines your expense, so plan ahead and dance to your own rhythm.

7. Where can I experience traditional Japanese culture?
The glint of tradition sparkles at every corner! Visit temples, tea ceremonies, or sumo matches to embrace the soul of Japan.

8. What should I eat?
Oh, Sis, your taste buds are in for a feast! From sushi to ramen, and everything in between, the culinary delights are endless. Dive in and savor the flavors.

9. Can I use my electrical devices?
Pack that adapter, traveler! Japan’s outlets usually run on 100V, so make sure your devices can handle the change.

10. Is Tokyo safe?
Like the embrace of an old friend, Tokyo welcomes you with safety and respect. Just keep your wits about you, as with any big city.

Sis, it’s been an incredible ride exploring the top 10 questions about Tokyo together, hasn’t it? But, Tokyo is just one gem in a world filled with adventures. Now that we’ve sparked your wanderlust, are you ready to explore beyond? Our 2024 travel events are crafted with love, elegance, and that sprinkle of Black Girl Magic. From the winding streets of Europe to the golden sands of the Caribbean, we’ve got your next journey covered. Come, explore all of our trips for 2024, and let’s embrace the world together, Sis! You’re worthy of it all, and we can’t wait to lift each other up and discover new horizons. 🌍✨🌸

Where Luxury Has No Limit: Come to Dubai

Hands down, our most popular, most extravagant, most upscale, premium, luxurious trip that’s talked about by hundreds of women in our Facebook group and beyond … is none other than our world-famous Dubai trip.

Listen, there aren’t enough fancy words in any of the languages we know to describe the decadence, over-the-top wealth and glamour that is Dubai.

Of course, what we do know is this … you’ve never, ever been pampered the way you are about to be when you come with us to this magical location.

Know this … we’ve got so much history with Dubai. Better yet, we always have a Dubai location specialist to travel with you throughout any of our Dubai trips.

And we’ve got options to choose from no matter the time of year. So, save your coin, your best dresses and your bougiest vibes because Dubai is the ultimate bucket list vacation.

Just take a look at some of our tours:

Vacances en Blanc Dubai 2024

From an all-white welcome reception and dinner where YOU are the VIP guest to an all-white yacht party to all-white high tea parties (get those 14K gold pinky rings ready), trust us when we say you’ll be sprinkling your Black girl magic all over Dubai.

Ride camels, drive over dunes, shop at the souks and party for 7 nights straight in all-white like the true Diva you are. And with a flying white dress photo op, you’ll have iconic shots and unforgettable memories to remind yourself that you are worthy of the best.

Nobody does Dubai like us. So come do it the only way you should – like a Diva.

Couples in Dubai April 2024

Dune bash with your bae as you channel your power couple Jay-Z & Queen B vibes with this romantic, upscale vacation. With hundreds of breathtaking sights and decadent foods to try, a couples’ welcome dinner, cocktail hour, yacht party, beach day with brunch, signature gifts and more … it’s a trip you and your honey will never forget.

Travel like a TRUE Diva in Dubai with us here.

Respectfully Preparing for Cultural Differences

Girlfriend, it’s Roxie again! Can I just give you a huge pat on the back and a “YASSS, GIRL!” Because if you’re reading this you’ve likely arranged for a trip to somewhere new and in a different country!

So many fabulous Black women just like you don’t get this opportunity, so take a moment to recognize your greatness.

Just like we do at work, we always stay ready so we don’t have to get ready, even for fun stuff like traveling. And while jet-setting is a beautiful thing that can expose you to new cultures and ideas, one thing that’s almost guaranteed to happen is a bit of culture shock.

Here’s how to prepare for cultural differences:

Be Open-Minded & Respectful

Everyone always talks about how you’ll feel in a new country, but it’s important to also be respectful about how natives might feel. That being said, what may be considered normal and appropriate where you’re from may not be the same in a new country.

For example, when visiting countries like the United Arab Emirates, walking around in a bikini near the beach is frowned upon, unlike Miami where it’s the norm. Be open-minded and respectful toward differences in cultural norms.

Learn the Local Language

You don’t need to bust out the Rosetta Stone, but learning a few phrases in the local language will go a long way. While English is spoken widely across the globe, it’s not always a good look to assume everyone speaks it at your destination. Learn how to ask for directions, where the bathroom is, thank you, and how to order food as you prep for your next international trip.

Research Local Customs & Etiquette

This is the big one! Just like being open-minded and respectful is a non-negotiable, so is learning the local customs and etiquette. Not only does this make for a memorable and comfortable experience, it can also make you safer. It’s easy for non-good-doers to pick you out in a crowd if you don’t follow a country’s customs or etiquette. Do your research and familiarize yourself.

For example, did you know slurping when eating noodles in Japan means you enjoy the food, whereas in the U.S. it would be considered rude and unkempt?  

My favorite ways to research include talking to others who’ve traveled there before, watching YouTube, and of course, reading blogs like this one (we’ve got tons more tips on how to travel like a Diva at every one of our destinations).

Prep for cultural differences, excursions, the airport, and more with other great tips from the Travel Divas blog.

How to Navigate Airport Security Like a Diva

Ooooh … hitting the TSA line’s got you feeling anxious? Your girl Roxie gets it.

If there’s one thing I used to hate about traveling, it was this part. That is until I figured out how to best avoid unnecessary delays and hassles at the airport. Now, I breeze through airport security like I own the place!

And once you follow the tips I’m about to share – you will too. I know you’re tight on time packing so let’s get straight into it:

Pack Liquids Properly

Getting stopped by airport security because your liquids and toiletries aren’t packed right can stop even the most prepared Diva in her tracks. First, decide if you’re doing carry-on only or if you’ll also be checking a bag.

If you’re doing carry-on only (or with a checked bag), make sure not to bring any flammable liquids. Everything should be under 3.4 oz (including the size of the container) and fit into a quart-size bag. If you’re checking luggage, you can pack full-size versions of your products. If you have a bottle of water filled up, make sure it’s frozen otherwise TSA will have to throw it away.  

Wear Slip-On Shoes

Have you seen how many people walk through the airport? Then you know the last place you want your feet to touch is the floor! When you’re going through security, you want ease of access AND comfort. The key? Get slip-on shoes. They can be mules, sneakers, or whatever your heart calls for – just make sure you can slip them on and off easily. Don’t forget a pair of socks or light stockings too to keep your feet away from the floor.

Organize All Your Documents

You know the moment: someone’s at the kiosk and the airport security agent needs to see their ID/passport/ticket and they’re holding up the line, digging in their bags and pockets. Don’t be that girl, Travel Diva! Get a cute Travel Divas document organizer (available in our store) and put all your important docs in there so you can whip them out with ease.  

Get Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Divas! If you have credit cards like American Express® Gold or Chase Sapphire® or even a travel card, they likely have special statement credits available for purchasing Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. I highly recommend one of these options (Global Entry also contains TSA PreCheck) so you can skip the long lines, keep your shoes on and protect your manicure, plus make it to your gate with plenty of time to spare.

Don’t forget to check the airport website at your destination for all their security tips, too.

Wondering what else you need to do to prepare for your next trip? If you’re heading out of the country, check out this list of essential items.

Pack these 8 Essentials for the Easiest International Trip Ever

Hey, there Travel Diva – long time no chat! It’s your favorite Diva, Roxie, here, and I’m getting ready to jet-set and sprinkle my Black girl magic outside of the country.

As an avid traveler who’s been lucky enough to sprinkle it all over the globe, I’ve learned a thing or 2 about what to bring for the most seamless, unforgettable experience ever.

Now, I’m sharing those globe-trotting insights with you! If you’re getting ready to do your own Black girl magic sprinkling with us internationally sometime soon, you’ll want to keep reading because I’ve gathered the ULTIMATE list of essential items.

You see – even though you might be the best of the best at packing for those quick weekend trips, packing internationally is a whole ‘nother ball game! So here’s a list of 8 items that are simply non-negotiable:

Travel Adapters

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve tried to plug something in when I was away in Asia or in Europe only to realize it wouldn’t work! Grab an international power adapter/converter (in fact, pack 2 to be on the safe side) so you can keep connected on your devices.

Portable Chargers

There’s nothing worse than being in a foreign place and having a dead phone! Be sure to bring a few small portable chargers. You can always rely on a big power bank, but they’re heavy. Look for small portable chargers that can give your phone or device a full charge and pack 2!

Comfortable Shoes

It’s easy to forget these since the goal is always to look like a Diva while you’re traveling, but beauty doesn’t need to equal pain. Pack a comfortable pair of shoes for walking around, and wear those to and from the airport so you don’t have to pack them.

Headphones

Let’s be honest, those airplane headphones they give out don’t do much to block the roar of the engine – or that loud passenger 3 rows back. Be sure to bring a pair of noise-canceling headphones on your trip so you can get some peace after working so hard!

Legal Documents

Diva, don’t forget your ID and passport! Yup, believe it or not, these are items that can be easy to forget. Make sure to also have digital copies of these stored in your email or safely online, in the event something happens!

Empty Water Bottle

Girlfriend, hydration is key. Especially on long-haul flights, you don’t want to let the dry cabin air take you out. Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after you go through security. It’ll be your best friend for those excursions we booked for you at your destination, too.

Travel Pillow & Earplugs

So you’ve got the headphones down, but earplugs are a must too, especially if you’re rooming with someone. For those moments when you need a bit of quiet, earplugs are a perfect addition along with a travel pillow to keep your neck comfortable throughout your ride.

Airplane Snacks

I don’t know about you, but something about sitting on a plane for hours on end watching TV, getting excited at the prospect of new travels, whips up a strong appetite for me! That’s why I always carry airplane snacks – nuts, protein bars, candy – so I can keep my energy up en route to and from my destination.

BONUS: Sweater

Now sis, we know you’re heading to somewhere hot and fabulous most of the time, but no matter the weather at your destination, one thing is always true: the plane is so cold! Pack a lightweight sweater so you can kindly deny those not-so-clean plane blankets and you can travel comfortably.

And if you know what to pack but don’t have somewhere to go, I’ve got you covered, too.

Come sprinkle your Black girl magic with us in whatever continent is calling your name (yup, even Antarctica is a possibility!)

How to Stay Healthy Like A Diva While Traveling

Well look at that – it’s your girl Roxie back with some more tips for the most Diva-esque traveling experience ever! There are so many new, exciting adventures with your name on them, and the last thing any Diva wants is to get sick and not be able to do any of them!

We all know how important it is to stay healthy before you travel so you don’t have to let that travel insurance kick in, but staying healthy during the trip is just as if not more important!

You’re traveling to release stress from working as hard as you do. So we can’t have you stressing out about how you feel while you’re traveling!

Here are a couple of Diva-approved healthy tips so you can look and feel your best during your next bucket-list trip:

Pack A First Aid Kit

If you’re feeling like you’re the bag lady Erykah Badu was singing about with everything inside your travel luggage, don’t fret. It’s better to be prepared than to get caught out there!

That being said, pack a mini first aid kit with antibacterial ointment, adhesive bandages, medication like painkillers, antacids, and upset stomach relief so you’ll be ready in case you cut yourself or eat something that doesn’t agree with you.

You can find great travel first aid kits on Amazon but don’t forget to also bring your own medicine, peppermint or ginger tea bags, motion sickness bracelets or meds, magnesium cream or tablets (great for aches/pains plus hangovers), and pads/tampons just in case.

Stay Hydrated

There’s nothing I love more than a good sip on vacay, but don’t forget to sip on some H20 as well! Often, we’re more active on vacation than we are at home, so you’re expending tons of energy. Be sure to get at least 3 meals a day (plus snacks!) and stay hydrated with lots of water throughout the day.

Especially if you’re the kind of Diva like me who loves to walk around or even lounge in the sun, hydration will be key to ensuring you wake up looking and feeling refreshed.

Get Enough Sleep

I know, I know. There’s so much to see and you’re too excited to sleep because you want to stay up chit-chatting and exploring, but every Diva needs her beauty rest. It’s easy to sleep less on vacations due to the excitement, but it’s best to aim for as much sleep as you can manage so you have enough energy to explore.

No one wants to be so tired they need to take a nap when they come back from their latest excursion – only to miss the next one because the nap turned into full-blown slumber.

Practice Self-Care

If your itinerary is packed, do yourself a favor and swap an activity out for a relaxing self-care moment. Try the hotel spa where you can get an overdue massage or facial, or if self-care feels like bubble baths and champagne, have your Butler or room service bring it to you! Maybe you love to read on the beach.

Whatever self-care means to you, it’s important to keep that up while you’re on vacation. You don’t need to power through your vacation and tick all your to-do’s – it’s not work; it’s fun!

Now that you know how to stay physically healthy, you’ll also want to make sure your wallet does, too.

Check out this blog I wrote for you on how to manage your finances like a Diva while traveling.

Manage Your Money Like a Diva While Traveling

Okay, confession time: I, Roxie, fellow Travel Diva, love splurging on myself. Just like you, I work hard to bring you all these globe-trotting tips! But, also like so many traveling Divas, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to manage my finances effectively.

Whether you’re new to traveling or you’re a seasoned vet, managing your money while traveling is key for maintaining a stress-free vacation.

You’ve already got enough on your plate, so let’s get straight to it – here are 3 ways you can manage your money like a Diva on vacay!

Use Travel Credit Cards

Let’s be honest: credit cards simply offer you way more protection and perks than debit cards do when you’re traveling. That’s why I always recommend that Divas like yourself use them!

Whether you’ve got Capital One, Amex, Chase, or another top travel credit company, you can easily manage your expenses using a single credit card for travel. It’ll help you keep track of how much you’re spending, plus depending on the card you may or may not have to worry about foreign transaction fees.

Plus, should anything happen – lost luggage, for example – travel credit cards usually have protections built in for that as long as the trip was purchased using that card.

Create a Budget

Listen, I know you’re a balling Diva, but having a travel budget doesn’t mean you have to restrict yourself. In fact, think of a travel budget as a way you can love on yourself while traveling without the worry you’ll have to work too hard to pay for it all when you come back home.

Ask yourself, what am I comfortable spending daily? How much do I want to spend on food? Trinkets and special touches? Tips? Decide what’s important to you and leave more room in your budget for that. Don’t forget a blow-it line item – a certain amount of money you reserve to spend on anything you want!

Avoid Unnecessary Expenses

When traveling to foreign countries especially, it’s easy to “get got” and be targeted for not being a native. For example, it’s common for taxi drivers in many international airports to charge exorbitant prices for weary travelers who don’t know where or how to get official, licensed transportation.

When you can, always go with vendors or services that have been vetted by hotel staff or are licensed to avoid spending more than you bargained for.  

Don’t forget to pay attention to tipping culture, too. I’m sure we’ve all had those 20% automatic gratuity moments at some restaurants back in the U.S., so be sure to check out where you’re going to understand how tipping works so you can budget accordingly.

You don’t need to be a spreadsheet queen, but every Diva does need to manage her finances well while traveling so she can actually relax.

Speaking of relaxing, you’ll also want to ensure your accommodations are fit for a queen. I’ve put together some tips for choosing the best hotels and places to stay and it’s right behind this magical link.