BLK, the leading dating and social app for the Black community, released its summer travel report, revealing how Black travelers are planning their getaways this year. According to the report, Black travelers are embracing trips that prioritize self-care, meaningful connections, and cultural heritage.
Self-care is at the heart of Black travelers’ preferences, with 47 percent prioritizing beach escapes or wellness retreats. Others are chasing adventure, exploring new cultures, or keeping an eye out for romance. Another key trend is solo travel, with 48.3 percent of respondents planning trips centered on self-discovery and personal freedom.
But not everyone is going it alone. Many are seeking shared experiences, with 21.6 percent planning to travel with friends, 16.4 percent with romantic partners or through group tours, and 13.7 percent with family. About half of the respondents are open to new connections, and about a quarter have formed lasting friendships or casual ties while traveling.
When it comes to choosing where to go, Black travelers are seeking destinations that reflect their heritage and offer a chance to recharge and unwind. Cities like Atlanta, Lagos, and London are among the favorites, along with sun-soaked beach spots like Barbados and Zanzibar. Cultural hubs with strong ties to the African diaspora, such as Ghana and Bahia, Brazil, also rank high, as do adventure-rich locations like Costa Rica and Cape Town.
Nearly half of the respondents say their dream trip includes an unscripted journey that combines city, beach, and nature. Others are looking for group adventures, cultural immersions, or wellness retreats, with activities that range from concerts and nightlife to spa days and historical tours.
Of course, hitting the road isn’t always easy. Financial barriers remain the biggest hurdle, with 37.3 percent citing cost as a concern, followed by safety worries at 27.3 percent. Technology is proving to be a helpful travel companion, with nearly 47 percent of travelers surveyed turning to the BLK app and Instagram to discover local events and make new connections on the go. While AI tools and rewards apps are making trip planning easier, many still appreciate the beauty of spontaneous exploration.
A 2024 report released by Tripadvisor and Group Black shed light on the travel preferences of Black travelers in the U.S.
A MMGY study found that Black leisure travelers took over 184 million trips in 2023, spending a record $145 billion. Black travelers are projected to spend an additional $1,300 per person on travel in 2025.