Rekindling Our Love for Travel in 2022

A few years back, we were basking in what felt like a golden era for travel. Amazing flight deals were abundant, and accessibility made exploring the globe easier than ever. The rise of Black Travel became a significant part of popular culture, showcasing our presence in an industry that had long overlooked us, and it was truly inspiring.

However, the onset of a devastating global pandemic shifted everything. Suddenly, we found ourselves at home, reminiscing about our canceled trips and questioning when we might explore freely again.

This period prompted many of us to reflect on what truly matters. I realized just how much of the world remains unseen to me and how I had perhaps taken for granted the belief that there would always be time and opportunity to travel.

After enduring the challenges of the past two years, it's vital to reintroduce the joys into our lives. It was a dark and stressful time marked by loss—of life, jobs, and social connections. The isolation was profound.

For countless Black women like myself, coping with the stress of social injustice and the unique pressures in our careers made having an escape and a change of scenery essential for our self-care, yet that option was taken away from us.

The travel landscape has undergone significant changes, with new regulations and varying rules for different destinations. However, we can reintegrate travel into our lives once more.

Here are some suggestions on how we can embrace travel again in this new chapter.

1. Create a new travel vision board.

This is an opportunity to establish fresh travel goals and devise a plan to achieve them. Use words, images, or a combination of both to visualize the places you truly wish to explore.

In my bedroom, I have a poster board adorned with pictures of my dream destinations and trips I aspire to plan. I also maintain a dedicated collection of future travel ideas saved on Instagram, allowing me to revisit and plan whenever inspiration strikes.

This year, I’m thrilled to tick off swimming with whale sharks during my first cruise with UnCruise Adventures in Baja.

2. Seek travel inspiration from incredible Black travel content creators.

Instagram has long been a fantastic source for wanderlust. Now, with TikTok’s rise, numerous creators are sharing travel tips and providing the inspiration we crave.

A few of my current favorites include: @thetravelingchild, @chelseadoestravel, @worldofawanderer, @shidad, and @cedtripping.

3. Enable alerts for travel deals.

For a time, I had turned off many of my alerts because it was too disheartening to be reminded that I couldn’t travel. Now that things are reopening, it’s time to reactivate those notifications so you can stay updated on the latest flight and vacation package offers.

4. Explore Domestic Destinations.

There are stunning places all over the country just waiting for you to discover. A domestic trip can be just as exciting and unforgettable as one abroad.

Over the past year, I’ve grown fond of several mountainside lakes in Mammoth Lakes, CA, the Black-owned culinary scene in Columbia, SC, the splendor of Yosemite National Park, and the vineyards of Sedona, AZ.

This year, I’m eager to explore the Pacific Northwest and visit the charming coastal towns along California’s shoreline.

5. Opt for unique accommodations that allow for social distancing.

If you want to prioritize safety and reduce exposure to others, consider staying in options like Tiny House rentals, Glamping Resorts, Treehouses, Houseboat rentals, or even Van Camping.

I enjoyed renting a luxury camper van through Outdoorsy to experience van camping while road-tripping across Utah. Staying in a two-story luxury treehouse at Banning Mills in Georgia was also an unforgettable experience. This year, I’m excited to stay in a Hobbit Hole-style cabin at Enchanted Oaks Farm in Ocala, FL.

6. Schedule your trips for the shoulder seasons and off-peak times.

Traveling outside of peak season often means better deals and significantly fewer crowds, making social distancing much easier.

7. Investigate the travel requirements for your destination.

The U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories website is a valuable resource for understanding the travel requirements for international destinations, complete with a travel checklist. Additionally, be sure to check the official website of the country you intend to visit.

Given the ever-evolving nature of travel today, it’s crucial to frequently check for updates right up until your departure and return.

This advice is equally important for domestic travel, as various states and cities may have their own rules or regulations regarding vaccine mandates.

8. Think about small group travel.

Navigating travel plans now can feel overwhelming due to numerous new rules and regulations. Small group travel offers a safe alternative, ensuring that all critical aspects are taken care of.

Abundant Life Adventures and Up in the Air Life are Black-owned companies that organize small group excursions, introducing you to exciting new experiences.

9. Investigate and buy travel insurance.

Travel insurance is essential to guarantee that you receive necessary treatment or can return home if anything goes awry. With many new provisions related to the pandemic, it's vital to do your homework and choose the plan that best fits your needs.

10. Celebrate staycations.

Organizing a few staycations in your city or just a couple of hours away is an excellent way to reintroduce travel into your life. Sometimes all you need is a brief reset, and staycations are a convenient option for that quick refresh.

We have numerous ways to travel again safely and responsibly. Choose a destination, create a plan, and let’s venture back out to reclaim our place in this beautiful world.

Lauren Gay is the mastermind behind Misadventures of an Outdoorsy Diva Blog, host and producer of the award-winning Outdoorsy Diva Podcast, published photographer, speaker, consultant, on-air TV travel expert, and adventure coach. As a travel writer and social media influencer, she is devoted to inspiring and empowering Black women to step beyond their comfort zones for new travel and adventure experiences, embracing nature as a form of therapy. Lauren is also an empty-nest mom and a long-standing advocate for racial diversity and inclusion in outdoor recreation and adventure travel, as well as a founding member of the Black Travel Alliance.