Traveling is one of life’s most incredible adventures! Whether you’re exploring hidden gems within your own country or jet-setting to international destinations, every journey offers fresh perspectives and unforgettable memories as you see the world through new eyes.
We’re thrilled to share a series of articles featuring fantastic cities that celebrate rich Black history while being safe, welcoming, and perfect for tourists! Our rankings are based on amazing tourist packages with must-see sightseeing opportunities, wallet-friendly options, and overall safety, because your peace of mind matters just as much as your wanderlust.
Of course, there are countless other incredible destinations out there, and we’d love to hear about your favorites! We’re passionate travelers sharing our discoveries, not travel experts, and our goal is simply to give you some exciting options to consider.
So pack your bags and get ready to explore these amazing cities that offer both cultural richness and unforgettable experiences for Black travelers!
1. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Why Visit: San Juan offers a rich blend of old-world history and modern Caribbean vibes. You get centuries-old Spanish forts and pastel-colored buildings alongside buzzing nightlife, trendy restaurants, and beach resorts — all without needing a passport if you’re a U.S. citizen.
Fun Things to Do:
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Wander Old San Juan: It’s like walking through a postcard. Don’t miss the massive 16th-century El Morro and San Cristóbal forts.
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Beach Day: Hang out at Condado Beach for a more urban vibe or head to Isla Verde for white sands and calmer water.
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Explore El Yunque Rainforest: About an hour away, it’s the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System.
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Bioluminescent Bay Kayaking: Take a guided night tour in Fajardo or Vieques — the water literally glows with each paddle stroke.
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Food Tour: Try classic Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo, lechón, and tostones. Wash it down with a piña colada (invented here).
2. Havana, Cuba
Why Visit: Havana is frozen in time — in the best way. From vintage cars to 1950s-style music clubs, you’ll get a sense of living history. It’s colorful, gritty, soulful, and unforgettable.
Fun Things to Do:
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Cruise in a Classic Car: Book a convertible tour to see the city in retro style.
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Stroll the Malecón: This iconic seawall is perfect for sunset walks, people-watching, and local musicians.
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Tour Old Havana: Packed with plazas, cathedrals, and cafés. Plaza Vieja and Plaza de la Catedral are especially charming.
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See Live Music: From jazz to salsa, the scene is raw and real. Try La Zorra y el Cuervo or Buena Vista Social Club shows.
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Drink Daiquiris and Mojitos at historic bars like El Floridita and La Bodeguita del Medio, Hemingway’s old haunts.
3. Willemstad, Curaçao
Why Visit: This Dutch-Caribbean city feels like a slice of Europe dropped into the tropics. It’s known for its colorful architecture, strong cultural mix, and some of the Caribbean’s best scuba diving and snorkeling spots.
Fun Things to Do:
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Walk Across Queen Emma Bridge: This floating pedestrian bridge connects the two main parts of the city and swings open for ships — fun to see in action.
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Explore the Historic Punda District: Great for boutique shopping, murals, and photogenic spots like the rainbow row at Handelskade.
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Snorkeling at Tugboat Beach: Check out a shallow wreck teeming with marine life — it’s perfect even for beginners.
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Taste Blue Curaçao Liqueur at the Landhuis Chobolobo distillery.
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Drive to Playa Knip or Playa Porto Mari for stunning beaches without big crowds.
4. Bridgetown, Barbados
Why Visit: Barbados is one of the most developed islands in the Caribbean, and Bridgetown is its cultural core. You’ll find a mix of British heritage, Caribbean flavor, and some of the friendliest people around.
Fun Things to Do:
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Walk Through Historic Bridgetown: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with colonial buildings, Parliament, and the Chamberlain Bridge.
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Visit Garrison Savannah: See horse races or explore historic forts.
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Tour Mount Gay Rum Distillery: Learn about the world’s oldest commercial rum brand, and sample different blends.
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Go Catamaran Sailing: Swim with sea turtles and snorkel over shipwrecks in crystal-clear water.
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Relax at Carlisle Bay: Calm waters and powdery sand make it one of the best beaches on the island.
5. Oranjestad, Aruba
Why Visit: Aruba is known for near-perfect weather, calm waters, and a cool mix of cultures (Dutch, Caribbean, Latin American). Oranjestad is tourist-friendly but still has local character, especially in its colorful downtown.
Fun Things to Do:
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Visit Eagle and Palm Beach: These are Aruba’s most famous beaches, and for good reason — white sand, turquoise water, and lots of amenities.
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Explore Arikok National Park: See cacti-studded desert landscapes, hidden beaches, and the Fontein Cave with ancient drawings.
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Try Water Sports: Windsurfing and kiteboarding are huge thanks to the steady trade winds.
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Shop at Renaissance Mall or stroll the local street markets.
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Take the Tram through downtown Oranjestad for a fun, easy city overview.
6. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Why Visit: This is the oldest continuously inhabited European city in the Americas. It’s loud, lively, and full of culture. If you want real city energy mixed with rich history, this is your spot.
Fun Things to Do:
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Explore the Zona Colonial: Walk cobbled streets lined with historic buildings like Catedral Primada de América, the first cathedral in the New World.
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Chill at Parque Colón: Great for people-watching and grabbing a local Presidente beer.
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Tour Alcázar de Colón: Once home to the son of Christopher Columbus.
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Visit Los Tres Ojos: A series of underground limestone caves and turquoise pools.
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Try Local Street Food: Empanadas, tostones, chimis — cheap and flavorful.
7. Castries, Saint Lucia
Why Visit: Castries is more of a jumping-off point than a full tourist city, but it’s the gateway to some of the Caribbean’s most dramatic scenery, including the famous Pitons and volcanic beaches.
Fun Things to Do:
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Shop the Castries Market: Great for souvenirs, local spices, and handmade goods.
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Take a Day Trip to Soufrière: Visit the Drive-In Volcano, Sulphur Springs, and soak in a mud bath.
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Cruise the Coastline: Catamaran trips give you incredible views of the Pitons and hidden coves.
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Visit Marigot Bay: A picture-perfect harbor with beach bars and calm water.
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Go Ziplining in the rainforest or hike Gros Piton for a challenging but rewarding adventure.