Black girl travels the world
Generating $130 billion to $145 billion in annual economic impact, Black American leisure travelers account for over 13% of all U.S. leisure travel. While domestic trips make up 84% of total travel spend, driven by cultural hubs like Atlanta, New York, and New Orleans, international travel generates over $20 billion annually across key destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Africa, and East/Southeast Asia.
Black women serve as the primary engine of this industry, controlling over 80% of travel decisions, driving the growth of solo international travel, and mobilizing community networks—nearly half actively consult Black travel affinity groups for safe, culturally resonant recommendations. Safety and feeling welcomed remain the top criteria for 79% of Black travelers when choosing a destination, while 54% are more likely to visit places that authentically reflect Black representation in their media. Ultimately, travel for Black women has evolved into an intentional act of rest, cultural immersion, and authentic global exploration.
This series is an attempt to highlight a black woman in various spaces around the world. She is shot mostly from behind to highlight her natural hair and to act as an avatar for any one thinking of traveling as a way of freedom. Her face is shown in the last few pictures of the series to show some of the emotions of traveling. Trying to find your way around, being surrounded by faces unlike yours, the joy of sharing a moment in a beautiful new place with someone you love.