You’ve finally mustered up the courage to head out of the US and discover the world. But where should you go for your first international trip? With so many things to consider like budget, cultural differences, safety and yes food, it may feel like the options are endless and that can be overwhelming. Before you get lost in the never ending streams of destinations popping up in your IG feed, let me provide you with a curated list of destinations and practical insights for choosing the right one. These recommendations take into account ease of travel, cultural experiences, safety, and being welcoming to Black travelers.
If you’ve been struggling with where to go for your first international trip? You should know that there’s more to it than just picking a beautiful spot. And not all of the “influencers” in your feed are providing real assessments of the destination. That means you’ll have to do a bit of research on your own. Here’s how to find a destination that’s not only exciting but also safe and welcoming for Black travelers.
How to Choose the Best Destination for First-Time International Travelers
Choosing the perfect destination for your first international trip doesn’t have to be stressful. Start with these key factors—comfort, safety, and culture—to find the best fit for you. Countries with strong tourism infrastructure, a welcoming atmosphere, and a reputation for safety, such as Japan, Portugal, and Ghana are often regarded as safe and enjoyable for first-time Black travelers. Many travelers feel particularly welcomed in destinations with rich Black heritage or diverse cultures. But you should know that not all destinations are created equal, especially for first-time travelers.
Narrowing the list down to just five was tough. There are quite a few others that I would put right at the top of this list like Japan. But I didn’t want to overwhelm you with too many choices. With that in mind, here are my top picks for your first international trip. I taken into consideration that as a first time traveler you’d enjoy the memorable, comfortable, and culturally rich experiences that these destinations can provide.
Ghana – A Cultural Homecoming
2019 in Ghana was dubbed “The Year of the Return”. It was an absolute brilliant marketing and encouraged Black Americans to visit the country and possibly resettle in the motherland. The government invested heavily in Ghana’s infrastructure, especially Accra. As the administrative hub of the country, you’ll find a familiar yet welcoming experience for Black travelers in Accra. There are so many historically significant sites and places of deep reflection to visit including sites like Cape Coast Castle.
There is also an extensive restaurant scene, exciting nightlife and lots of markets to dive into during your visit. Since this will be your first time, I recommend hiring a guide to help you navigate the country. This will also give you the insight you need to truly understand the historical significance of this massive country.
If your travel plans align to October – April, you’ll find less humidity for a more comfortable visit. Keep in mind the average temperature is around 80F all year so you can go anytime and enjoy the weather.
London – History and Culture
London is a no brainer for first time international travel. There are daily direct flights from major US cities, they speak English and getting around is really easy. You will barely miss a beat if you head here and almost right away, you’ll fit in. Bonus points: There is a huge Black Community in London. Many folks make this their first venture out of the US for all of these reason.
The British pound is worth a bit more than the US dollar which means traveling here may cost you more than some of the other places in this list. And because it’s jam packed with sights and activities, you’ll be busy everyday. Check out my guide on “Spending Two Days in London” for some insight on what you can do even if you are short on time.
Portugal – European Charm and Affordability
Portugal is an easy destination to mark as your first. It’s affordable, the weather is beautiful year-round and there is a pretty significant expat population. Many of us know at least one person who has moved to Portugal in the past few years. Large cities like Lisbon and Porto have a great infrastructure with loads of public transportation options and other tourist friendly resources to make traveling here a breeze.
Pro Tip: Don’t rent a car to explore any of the bigger cities. It’s hilly, the streets are narrow and parking is impossible. But when you are feeling confident to explore further on your own, you will find driving outside of the major cities safe and beautiful. The Duoro Valley is absolutely stunning and the vineyards are pretty spectacular too.
Check out my blog “The Ultimate Guide to Getting Around Portugal” to learn more about this fascinating destination.
South Africa – History and Natural Beauty
There is so much diversity in South Africa which makes it ideal for the adventurous traveler. One day you can be in a big city like Cape Town, the next you are spotting the Big 5 on safari in Kruger National Park. You can indulge in the wines of the Stellenbosch region, visit Robbin Island where Nelson Mandala was imprisoned or dive with sharks in Hermanus. South Africa offers a unique combination of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty that’s hard to find anywhere else. It is a bit of a haul to get there but totally worth it for an adventure you can’t find in the US.
Getting around the cities are fairly easy and likely not what you’d expect when you visit Africa (although I would not recommend a self drive safari). Certainly there is poverty and some spots are less safe than others but you also get that in the US. Most importantly, you’ll be blown away by how different the country is to the stereotypes you’ve likely seen in the media.
Caribbean Islands – Close, Budget-Friendly, and Culturally Rich
The Caribbean Islands gives you so many options and the best news is they are close and affordable. Explore magnificent beaches, check out a local celebration (i.e Carnival) or just go and enjoy some amazing cuisine. Some of my favorite islands include Turks & Caicos, St Lucia, Barbados and Jamaica. All have great options to keep even the most adventurous tourist entertained.
There is no shortage of Black communities on any of these islands. And language will not be a concern. Although you might struggle with the accent and local references but you’ll figure it out. The infrastructure might be a bit more challenging than you’ll find in Europe so plan ahead to ensure you understand how you will navigate the island with ease.
Weather wise – it is the Caribbean, so consider the season before you book. Hurricane season runs from June 1 – November 30 each year which means you are at an increased risk for travel disruptions. But it also means, prices might be slightly lower than in high season. If you don’t mind living on the edge, this might be the time to go.
My Perspective
Start with defining your travel goals and comfort level to narrow down destinations. Are you looking for a relaxing beach getaway, do you want to explore history or do something really adventurous? Figure this out first before you start looking at countries to visit. Next, keep an eye out for destinations that are easy to navigate and offer safety and inclusivity for Black travelers. Finally, consider proximity (how long is the flight) and budget. Airfare and hotels are likely to be your highest expenses on any trip. By sticking with this tips you are certain to be on your first international trip in no time!
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FAQ’s Choosing Your First International Destination
What is the best island for black travelers?
The best island for Black travelers often depends on interests, but popular choices include Jamaica, Bahamas, and Barbados. These islands have rich African heritage, vibrant cultures, and welcoming communities. For a deeper connection to history, consider visiting islands like Zanzibar or Cape Verde, which offer unique cultural experiences rooted in African history.
What is the most black friendly country in Europe?
The most Black-friendly country in Europe is often considered to be the United Kingdom, particularly cities like London, which are known for their diversity and inclusivity. Other countries like the Netherlands, especially Amsterdam, and Portugal, particularly Lisbon, are also recognized for their welcoming environments and vibrant Black communities.
Where do African Americans vacation?
African Americans vacation in a variety of destinations, with popular choices including the Caribbean islands like Jamaica and the Bahamas, as well as international cities like Paris, London, and Accra.
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