Black Business Month: Hotel Must Stays
Hey travelers! August is Black Business Month, and what better way to celebrate than by highlighting some incredible Black-owned boutique hotels? These gems offer unique and unforgettable travel experiences, showcasing the rich diversity and cultural heritage of their owners. From serene beachside retreats to luxurious city escapes, these hotels are perfect for your next getaway. We’ve got recommendations from Travel + Leisure and Ark Republic, so you know you’re in for something special. Let's dive in!
1. Anguilla Great House Beach Resort - Rendezvous Bay, Anguilla
Owned by W. Fleming, the Anguilla Great House Beach Resort has been a beloved destination since 1985. This beachfront escape offers 35 spacious rooms, with beautiful garden or ocean views. With all-inclusive packages and special meal plans, planning your vacation is a breeze. You can enjoy activities like scuba diving, sailing, and even horseback riding on the beach! Don’t miss out on a glass-bottom boat ride or exploring Anguilla’s rich history.
2. Urban Cowboy Hotel - Nashville, Tennessee
Jersey Banks, co-founder and co-owner of Urban Cowboy, has created a haven for adults with this Nashville location. Set in a stunning Victorian mansion, Urban Cowboy Nashville boasts eight experiential suites, each uniquely designed. Whether you're enjoying craft cocktails at the Public House Bar or listening to live music at the Parlor Bar, the vibrant atmosphere here is unmatched. Plus, downtown Nashville is just a nine-minute drive away, making it the perfect base for exploring the city’s cultural heart.
3. Jnane Tamsna - Marrakesh, Morocco
Meryanne Loum-Martin and her husband, Dr. Gary J. Martin, have crafted a stunning retreat at Jnane Tamsna. This boutique hotel offers 24 exquisite rooms, nestled within a breathtaking nine-acre garden. With activities ranging from cooking classes to guided bike tours of the Atlas Mountains, there's something for everyone. The blend of traditional and modern Moorish design makes this a luxurious and culturally rich destination.
4. Elephant Plains Lodge - Katunguru, Uganda
Owned by Amos Wekesa, Elephant Plains Lodge is a paradise for wildlife lovers. The lodge offers stunning views of Lake George and Lake Kikorongo and features 10 cottages that range from single occupancy to a family-sized private cottage. Guests can experience Uganda’s rich biodiversity through activities like chimp tracking and game drives. It’s a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of Uganda’s landscapes and wildlife up close.
5. La Maison Michelle - St. James, Barbados
Perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views of Barbados' Platinum Coast, La Maison Michelle is owned by Guy and Michelle Jenkins. This luxurious seven-suite villa is ideal for destination weddings, romantic getaways, or a fun vacation with friends. The villa offers a full-service staff, including an on-site chef who prepares mouthwatering Barbados fare. Whether you're enjoying a massage by the infinity pool or exploring local attractions like Harrison's Cave, this place is a Caribbean paradise.
6. Blue Apple Beach - Tierra Bomba Island, Colombia
Just a short boat ride from Cartagena, Blue Apple Beach, owned by British-Trinidadian Portia Hart, is a peaceful oasis perfect for relaxation. The boutique hotel offers 10 stylish rooms and eco-chic cabanas. The restaurant, led by Chef Pedro Mosqueda, serves delicious dishes with ingredients from the on-site farm. Known for its lively events and inclusive programming, Blue Apple Beach is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
7. Magnolia House Inn - Hampton, Virginia
Lankford and Joyce Blair run the historic Magnolia House Inn, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With three elegant rooms, this bed-and-breakfast offers a cozy and intimate experience. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast featuring local Virginia fare, and spend your days exploring nearby beaches and museums. The inn also features a wedding chapel, making it a charming choice for couples looking to tie the knot.
8. Akwaaba Mansion - Brooklyn, New York
Monique Greenwood, former Essence magazine editor-in-chief, opened the Akwaaba Mansion in Brooklyn in 1995. This 1860s landmark mansion blends antiques with Afrocentric elegance, offering four beautifully appointed rooms. Guests can relax in the secluded garden or enjoy the rich cultural offerings of Brooklyn, just a 15-minute subway ride from Manhattan. Greenwood’s other properties across the East Coast maintain the same commitment to warmth and hospitality.
9. Salamander Resort - Middleburg, Virginia
Owned by Sheila Johnson, Salamander Resort offers a luxurious escape in Virginia's picturesque Horse and Wine Country. Set on 340 acres, the resort features gourmet dining, horseback riding, and spa treatments. With breathtaking views and a rich historical background, it's a perfect destination for those looking to unwind in a luxurious setting.
These Black-owned boutique hotels offer unique and culturally rich experiences, reflecting the creativity and dedication of their owners. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beachside retreat or an adventurous wildlife experience, these hotels provide exceptional service and memorable stays. Celebrate Black Business Month by supporting these outstanding establishments and enjoying unforgettable travel experiences.
Ready to book your stay at one of these amazing boutique hotels? We can start planning your next adventure today, this black owned business is just an email away.🌍✨