The travel and tourism industry had a challenging year. But things are looking up; according to a recent study, more than 70% of Americans intend to travel in 2021. 

60% of American’s have received at least one Covid-19 Vaccine dose.  Though American’s who have obtained both vaccinations are no longer required to wear masks in most places, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says the pandemic is far from over. This is important to remember as life begins to take on aspects from the “before-days,” and vaccinated Americans partake in normal activities once more. 

As we gear up to travel post-vaccination, we do so in the most recent wake of White America’s racial reckoning. Intentionally supporting Black-owned businesses is a habit that consumers must sustain as we move forward. Of course, consumer choice alone is not enough to close the racial wealth gap in America. There must also be aggressive policy changes. A heavier tax on the extremely wealthy is a good place to start. Even how we look at tax breaks and brackets must change to move towards closing this racial gap. 

Though we need significant systemic changes, the choices we make as individuals impact our financial ecosystem and the Black community. Our spending as consumers collectively makes up 70% of the American economy. In other words, choose where you spend your dollar wisely. Travel and tourism are no exception. 

To help, we’ve compiled a list of 5 Black-owned hotels, each in a different city, with charming characteristics and excellent reviews on their hospitality services.

1. The Oak Bluffs Inn 

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

The Oak Bluff Inn sits on an island in the Atlantic, just south of Cape Cod. Known for its many lighthouses, beaches, and fresh seafood, Martha’s Vineyard is a vacation straight out of a storybook. 

The Oak Bluff Inn was initially built as a regal Victorian-style home in the 1870s. In the 1990’s it was converted into a proper inn, with ten bedrooms full of modern coastal charm. Spike Lee has stayed here, in the penthouse suite. 

2. Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns 

Brooklyn, NY.  Washington, DC. The Poconos, PA. And more! 

Akwaaba Bed & Breakfast Inns has five locations in total, sprinkled throughout the Northeast. Husband and wife team Glenn Pogue and Monique Greenwood opened their first location in Brooklyn in 1995. 

The couple meticulously restored and renovated old manors and mansions to upscale and delightful stays, where hospitality is always at the front of their mind. They have been featured on HGTV and the Oprah Winfrey Network. From city stays to lush acres in the Lake Region of Northeast Pennsylvania’s Mountains, a stay at Akwaaba is sure to offer delight. 

3. Urban Cowboy 

Nashville, Tennessee 

Located in the coolest part of town, Urban Cowboy embodies Southern hospitality with its motto, “Come as strangers, leave as friends.” 

Eight experiential suites are housed in a historic Victorian mansion in East Nashville. Each suite has high ceilings, and comes equipped with clawfoot tubs and a cloudlike mattress. At the same time, the design and decor are unique, and each bedroom feels different from the last. 

The Urban Cowboy also has locations in New York in the city, but if you’re looking for a natural vibe, retreat to their lodge in the Catskill Mountains. 

4. Nopsi Hotel 

New Orleans, Louisiana 

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in NOLA, look no further than the Nopsi Hotel. The hotel is located in the crescent city’s Central Business District, steps away from the lively scene in the French Quarter. Foodies and art lovers will enjoy the proximity to the warehouse district. 

Though surrounded by activities, you may not want to leave. Nopsi is situated with a rooftop pool and spa-like amenities in your bathroom. 

5. The Copper Door B&B 

Miami, Florida 

The Copper Door B&B was created in the heart of Historic Overtown, Miami. The brand focuses on an intimate experience for guests, all while featuring chef-driven amenities and local goods. 

Twenty-two spacious rooms are styled in classic 1940’s vintage design. There is no shortage of walkable activities, and the B&B is happy to help you plan your day around world-class beaches and incredible Latin American food. 

 Mary is a millennial currently based in Nashville, TN. She studied Political Science & English at the University of Tennessee and went on to work in the NYC Mayor’s Office following graduation. She is an Americorps VISTA alum. Mary later transitioned into writing for brands and creative advertising agencies as a copywriter & blogger. (That said, she has serious doubts about late capitalism but has been known to partake in spurts of online shopping for ridiculous items- like the perfect selfie stick or that handmade candle kit she has never used.) 

Mary enjoys connecting, learning, and sharing stories. She is particularly interested in political, community, or historical pieces, and those that seek to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health. As a white cis-gender female, she is an advocate for racial and gender equity. 

Website: www.ihailmary.biz

Instagram: @ihailmary 

Inquiries: [email protected]

Read more from Mary Hinesley:

The Prolific Power of Dreams: A Conversation with Black Indie Filmmaker, Muhammad Bilal

5 Ways to Cope with Stress in 2021

Nashville Hot Chicken Royalty: The Head that Wears the Crown