”If you wait for people to travel, you’ll wait forever.” I’ve lived(and traveled) by this motto for the past nine years and it’s led me to over 30 countries solo. Most recently, it led me to Brazil for Carnival with Luxe Tribes and I’m so glad that I didn’t have to wait around for others to make it happen. I’ve been wanting to experience this legendary celebration for YEARS, but none of my friends could ever make it work. I was blessed to be invited on a Luxe Tribes Group Trip, a Black-owned travel agency specializing in luxury group trips for Black women,  and I’m here to report back on the trip of a life-time. 

Though I will always advocate for solo travel, Carnival called for community – both for safety in a party/festival environment and in order to effectively navigate Brazil’s language barriers. While I could have done Carnival solo, Luxe Tribes effortlessly executed a trip that met all of my desires and beyond. The true magic? Being surrounded by Black women who just *got* eachother, creating an instant connection that isn’t always easy to come by. 

In this Luxe Tribes Group Trip review, I’m breaking down my entire experience traveling to Rio for Carnival with this Black women travel group. I’ll spill all the tea – the good, the real, and everything you need to know if you’re considering traveling with Luxe Tribes on one of their luxury group trips for Black women.

Where I Traveled with Luxe Tribes

I traveled to Brazil with Luxe Tribes February 26 to March 6 2025 for the biggest Carnival celebration in the world. The trip included a 6-day, 5-night stay at a luxury hotel on Copacabana Beach. 

Who I Traveled With – Luxe Tribes

Luxe Tribes is a Black-owned travel agency that organizes some of the best trips for Black female professionals looking for upscale travel experiences worldwide. They plan trips that focus on cultural immersion and authentic experiences without sacrificing comfort and quality. After spending my early twenties hostel-hopping and riding on the struggle bus, my thirties are all about treating myself when the occasion calls for it – and Luxe Tribes definitely delivers in that department.

You can join a Luxe Tribes small group trip with up to 16 like-minded travelers or they can execute a personalized itinerary that will give you the best overview of the destination of your choice. I had the opportunity to experience both their private and group tour options, which were both planned out perfectly. 

I’ve traveled with many group companies before, but meeting the other Luxe Tribe travelers in Rio showed me that the quality of Black women LT attracts is what sets them apart. Being surrounded by brilliant, accomplished Black women who not only shared my passion for travel but also understood my lived experiences? Priceless.

How many of us have friends who can’t get PTO, can’t afford to travel, or simply don’t prioritize seeing the world? That same dilemma is what made me start traveling solo in the first place and ain’t nobody got time for that. With a Luxe Tribes group trip, you’re instantly placed with women who value these experiences just as much as you do.

Who is a Luxe Tribes group trip for? 

• Black women travelers who want luxury AND authentic travel experiences
• Solo travelers who want safety and community while exploring
• First time solo travelers who want to go solo without going completely alone
• Professional women who work hard and want their vacation to truly FEEL like a vacation. No planning necessary! 
• Travelers who need the perfect balance of structured activities and free time.
• Women looking to build genuine connections with other like-minded Black female professionals

Why travel to Brazil for Carnival with Luxe Tribes?

Why NOT do Carnival solo or with a small group of friends? As yall know, I never back down from a solo challenge but one thing is for sure – I would NOT recommend doing Carnival solo. Here’s why: 

• With Carnival bringing in tens of millions of travelers to Brazil, advance planning is a must. Day tours sell out quickly, traffic is chaotic, etc. Without local connections on the ground like Luxe Tribes provides, planning may be difficult to manage.  
• The language barrier in Brazil is significant. I met less than 5 people who spoke English across 3 weeks in Brazil. If language barriers overwhelm you, then you’ll feel pretty out of place while trying to navigate the biggest event in the country for 1 week straight. This means booking transportation, reservations, etc. will be a constant struggle. With Luxe Tribes, you’ll have local guides on the ground who speak Portuguese. They’ll take care of the logistics for you. 
• You must be very vigilant about safety in Brazil in general but things get much crazier during Carnival. A luxury group for Black women offers safety in numbers when enjoying block parties and nighttime festivities. I would never recommend partying alone in Brazil, but that’s the entire point of Carnival, so you’d miss out on the main events if you chose to go solo.

How Booking A Trip With Luxe Tribes Works

Booking a Luxe Tribes group trip is straightforward:

1. Visit Luxetribes.com to browse available trips

2. Select a trip based on your interests, dates, and budget

3. Make a down payment to secure your spot

4. Pay the remainder in monthly installments or all at once

5. Receive pre-trip information, including a PowerPoint presentation about the destination and what to expect

6. Join a group chat with other travelers to connect before the trip

7. Show up and enjoy your trip with everything planned for you!

What’s Included in the Luxe Tribes Trip Price?

This will vary depending on which destination you choose, but my 6-day, 5-night Carnival trip in Rio De Janeiro included:

• 5 nights at a luxury hotel on Copacabana Beach
• Daily breakfast and five included meals
• Welcome dinner at Fogo de Chão, a premier steakhouse
• Airport transfers and transportation to all included activities
• Christ the Redeemer tour with a professional photographer
• Helicopter tour over Rio
• Sugarloaf Mountain and Selarón Steps excursion
• Cooking class or forest tour option
• Samba dance class
• Professional makeup for Carnival
• Tickets to the Sambadrome for the Carnival parade
• Local guides and full-time assistance
• Luxe Tribes group trip goodie bag

Is Luxe Tribes Worth The Cost?

Let’s be honest – traveling with Luxe Tribes(and group travel in general) isn’t the cheapest way to experience Brazil. However, you’ll receive an amazing value for your trip investment:

• Convenience: Everything is planned and booked for you, saving countless hours of research and coordination.

• Access: Carnival tickets, restaurant reservations, and activities during peak season are secured on your behalf the moment you book your trip. No thoughts, just vibes! 
  
• Quality: Luxury accommodations and experiences that have been vetted

• Safety: Traveling with a group and having local guides in a city known for safety concerns

• Expertise: Local knowledge that helps you avoid tourist traps and experience the destination authentically

• Peace of mind: No stress about logistics, transportation, or language barriers

So while you might pay more upfront compared to planning everything yourself, the time saved, stress avoided, and quality of experiences gained makes it worthwhile for those who value these aspects of travel.

How Much Free Time Do You Get with Luxe Tribes?

One of my favorite aspects of traveling with Luxe Tribes was the balance between structured activities and free time. The trip was roughly 50/50:

Mornings and early afternoons were typically dedicated to guided activities and tours while later afternoons and some evenings were free to explore on your own. You’ll have a free day, and ultimately all activities are your choice to attend. 

They’ve set it up so that you’ll have enough day tours to ensure you don’t miss the highlights, but plenty of down-time to do your own thing or simply relax at the beach or hotel.

Should You Sign Up to Travel with Luxe Tribes Alone?

Absolutely! As someone who advocates for solo travel, I found traveling with Luxe Tribes to be ideal for solo travelers because you’ll instantly have a group of like-minded travelers to share experiences with. You can join group activities when you want and explore independently when you need time to recharge your batteries.

What’s It Like Traveling with Strangers?

I know what you’re thinking – “Girl, isn’t it awkward being stuck with people you don’t know?” It can be a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, but you quickly build bonds over shared experiences. With a max group size of 16, Luxe Tribes’ group trips are big enough to find your people but small enough not to feel like a tourist herd. There’s ALWAYS someone down to join whatever random activity you want to do during free time and there’s zero pressure to stick with the group 24/7 – unless you want to, of course. That pre-trip group chat helps break the ice before you even land and the welcome dinner on day 1 will help the group break the ice upon arrival. 

What really blew me away was meeting multiple women who were on their 2nd, 3rd, even 5th Luxe Tribes group trip! When people keep coming back, you know the company must be doing something right. These repeat travelers shared stories from their previous trips and how Luxe Tribes had handled any issues that came up with care and professionalism. They mentioned seeing consistent improvements based on customer feedback, which is exactly what you want from a travel company.

What Are the Accommodations Like?

Luxe Tribes booked us a stay at the Grand Mercure Rio de Janeiro Copacabana. I loved it so much I paid extra to stay longer after the trip!

They nailed it with the accommodation because the hotel was perfectly situated for an event like Carnival. It was just steps away from Copacabana Beach. I’m talking walk across the street and your toes are in the sand. Not to mention, so many Carnival street parties (blocos) happened right outside of the hotel. When there’s that much traffic and chaos in the city, being able to just walk downstairs to join the fun instead of finding transportation is a game-changer.

The hotel offered room service(which I definitely utilized a time or two), buffet breakfast to feast on before long day tours, and a rooftop pool to watch the sunset from.

Choosing the wrong accommodation location in Brazil could cost you in more ways than one. Back in 2019, I booked what I thought was a cute Airbnb in Rio, and ended up witnessing a literal shootout on my street! This hotel was in a secure area with doormen and proper security. This is why it’s crucial to travel with a tour company that doesn’t cut corners on any aspect of trip planning or logistics. 

What’s Transportation Like?

Transportation was seamless throughout the trip:

• Airport transfers were included and on time
• Dedicated drivers for all excursions
• No need to navigate public transportation or deal with language barriers
• No worries about finding reliable and safe taxis or Ubers (which can be challenging in Rio)
• Consistency in drivers built trust and eliminated safety concerns

The value of reliable transportation cannot be overstated during Carnival when the city is extremely congested and ride services are in high demand.

Do You Need to Speak the Language in Brazil?

The language barrier in Brazil is no joke. This is where traveling with Luxe Tribes was a lifesaver:

• Local guides handled all the communication with drivers, restaurants, and attractions
• I didn’t have to stress about negotiating prices or getting directions. Guides informed us how much we should be paying for street snacks, souvenirs, etc. 
• The pre-trip materials included helpful Portuguese phrases (but honestly, even my attempts at pronunciation got blank stares)
• All bookings and reservations were handled in advance

If you’re planning to go, start practicing on Duolingo NOW. Even just basic phrases will help, though be prepared for rapid-fire responses you won’t understand. Having guides who speak the language fluently was one of the most valuable parts of this trip.

How’s the Food?

My Luxe Tribes package included: 

• Welcome dinner at Fogo de Chão, Rio’s premier steakhouse. Everything was on point! 
• Lunches at restaurants with stunning views of the city, which would have been difficult to book independently during Carnival.

Finding good restaurants on my own after the trip was actually quite challenging, which proves the value of having local experts select the best dining venues. 

How’s Customer Service?

The customer service from Luxe Tribes was excellent from start to finish:

• Pre-trip communication was on point with detailed information, timely responsiveness, and a helpful PowerPoint presentation about the destination
• Local guides and staff available 24/7 on the ground
• Local guides were accommodating and quick to resolve any issues that arose. When one activity had to be rescheduled due to traffic, they quickly arranged an alternative day and time so the group wouldn’t miss out
• The local guides were professional yet warm. They remembered preferences and made everyone feel valued, which isn’t always easy with a big group.

My Personal Experience on my Carnival Trip in Rio With Luxe Tribes 

My top 5 experiences included: 

1. The Helicopter Tour – Rio has one of the top five cityscapes in the world, so seeing Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and those beaches from above? Life changing.

2. Professional Photos at Christ the Redeemer

As someone who’s usually the one behind the camera on solo trips, having a professional photographer at one of the Seven Wonders of the World was a serious highlight. I’ve visited six wonders and have awkward selfies or random tourist-taken photos from all of them except this one! Now I’ve got professional shots that didn’t involve me asking strangers to take 15 versions.

3. Exploring the Santa Teresa Neighborhood 

This charming, quiet neighborhood was the perfect contrast to the high-energy beach areas. I visited Rio back in 2019 and never even heard about this spot – it wasn’t on any of my Pinterest boards or TikTok recommendations. This is exactly why traveling with a luxury group trip for Black women that has real local knowledge makes such a difference.

4. Carnival Done RIGHT

Getting tickets to the Sambadrome without the stress, having a professional makeup artist, and experiencing everything with a group of other Black female travelers? This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m so glad I didn’t have to DIY it.

5. Learning to Samba (Kind Of)

Dancing is the heartbeat of Brazil and Carnival itself, so having the opportunity to learn from actual Brazilian dancers gave me a deeper appreciation for what I was seeing at the parades. The fact that they offered this cultural experience (alongside a cooking class option) showed that Luxe Tribes really crafted a well-rounded culturally immersive trip.

Would I Recommend Traveling with Luxe Tribes?

Without hesitation, ABSOLUTELY YES! Especially for:

• Black women who want to travel solo safely without sacrificing authentic experiences or nightlife. 
• First-timers to Brazil who don’t want to deal with that learning curve during the chaos of Carnival
• Anyone who wants to kick back and relax on vacation without stressing about logistics
• Black female professionals looking for elevated travel experiences

After hitting 70+ countries through all kinds of travel styles, Luxe Tribes stands out as the absolute best tour company for Black female professionals. They understand our specific needs and preferences in a way that generic travel companies just won’t get.

My General Tips for Traveling to Brazil for Carnival

• Start practicing your Portuguese NOW!
• Research activities & restaurants for your free timeI saved some TikToks of restaurants and spots I wanted to check out during downtime.
• Get an eSIM. I used Holafly which gave me unlimited data throughout my trip with no issues. Having data is non-negotiable for maps, translation apps, and staying connected abroad – especially in Rio, since you won’t be able to use a physical sim card as a tourist 
• Bring a backup phone device for safety – I packed an old iPhone as theft can be common in Rio, especially with the crowds during Carnival
• Purchase travel insurance so you can be reimbursed incase of lost luggage, theft,  medical emergencies, or transportation issues 
• Extend your trip like I did to explore other parts of Carnival such as Salvador – the Blackest city outside of Africa
• Limit cash carried. I used Apple Pay for almost everything in Rio, which was super convenient. If your cards get stolen, you can still use your phone to pay. I only took about $50 cash out of the hotel per day and I used my card for bigger purchases
• Leave any expensive clothing or jewelry at home. I met a girl whose necklace was literally snatched right off her neck at a ‘bloco’ party. Better safe than sorry
• NEVER walk alone in Rio, especially at night. Take Ubers everywhere if you’re not with the group. I know multiple people who got robbed trying to walk short distances, even in “good” areas
• Print copies of your passport and store it digitally (I email it to myself)

What to Pack for Carnival

• Liquid IV for hydration in the heat, while drinking alcohol, etc.
• Portable fan for the strong Rio sun
• Fanny pack
• Money belt to avoid pickpocketing
• Colorful clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• High SPF sunscreen
• Packable shopping bag. Stop by Farm Rio for some vacay dresses and customize your own flip-flops at Havaianas

My Final Thoughts On Traveling with Luxe Tribes 

If it weren’t for Luxe Tribes, then another year would have flown by without me crossing Carnival off of my bucket-list. What could have been a stressful, potentially overwhelming experience turned into one of the most memorable trips of my life. Having traveled to so many places solo, I was honestly shocked at how much I enjoyed having everything handled for me while still having the freedom to do my own thing. 

For my fellow Black women travelers out there, especially those who work demanding jobs and don’t have time(or the desire) to research every little detail – this Black-owned travel agency will curate the ultimate adventure that will suit your travel needs. Luxe Tribes has a true understanding of our unique needs in various destinations around the world such as Brazil, Bali, Thailand, and many more. On top of that, their built-in community is something that you just can’t put a price on. 

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized how difficult it can be to find people who share both my love for travel and my lived experiences as a Black woman. The women I met through Luxe Tribes were accomplished, intelligent, and inspiring. If you refuse to wait for the trip to make it out of the group chat in 2025 and beyond, then there’s no better tour company for you to travel with than Luxe Tribes. 

The post An Honest Review of My First Luxe Tribes Group Trip to Rio De Janeiro for Carnival | Black Woman Travel Group appeared first on Showit Blog.

1. Go Horseback Riding at Campo Rico Ranch

We galloped through lush green farmland on this famous ranch where famous movies like Fast & Furious have been shot. I felt like a kid again as I rode through cornfields under the island sun. You can book ziplining and four-wheeling at the same ranch!

2. Take Foodie Tour Through Old San Juan

No better way to discover a place than through its food right? Ate my way all the way through old San Juan while learning about the history of the Island. Learned how to make Mofongo, enjoyed some tasty Mallorca sandwiches, and devoured the mango popsicle/paleta you see in the video here. You can’t miss Senor Paletas!

3. Have A Rum Experience

I got the chance to taste the rum and sip on cocktails in both classic and hidden gems throughout old San Juan on a cocktail tour. I’m a sucker for a good cocktail so this was the oneeeeeeee! If you’re going to visit the Bacardi Factory, be sure to plan ahead! I missed out because there was no availability when I arrived.

4. Go Island Hopping via Catamaran

I’ve been to both Culebra and Icacos Island vía catamaran on separate trips to PR. If you ask me, I personally preferred Icacos! However, both islands are gorg and worth the day trip! If you book the right one, you’ll get unlimited rum punch along with lunch onboard!

5. Venture out to Cueva Ventana

Which is a large cave in a limestone cliff out in Aricebe, Puerto Rico. The views are everything and this is definitely more off the beaten path!

6. Take a Foodie Tour

Wander the streets of Old San Juan while tasting traditional foods like the Mallorca, Mofongo, Tostones, lechón a la vara, Mallorca, and Arroz con Habichuelas with every single meal. Make a stop at Veradura, one of my Favorite restaurants in old San Juan.

7. Listen to La Bomba Music

If you’re looking for Afro- Puerto Rican music and culture, then La Bomba music might interest you!  Check out Terraza de Bonanza to experience the lively sounds of La Bomba!

8. Go Salsa Dancing

Salsa dancing to live music at la factoría on Monday nights(once rated top bar in the world, has 3 diff rooms and the backroom is live Salsa on certain nights). If you don’t know where to start, take salsa lessons! When In Puerto Rico, right?

9. Explore El Yunque Rainforest

Get ready to soak or dive(if you’re feeling adventurous)  into Puerto Rico’s National rainforest. El Yunque is rich in biodiversity and there’s no shortage of waterfalls throughout this massive rainforest. It’s absolutely worth the visit and it will give you a chance to discover Puerto Rico’s natural beauty! You can rent a car and visit the park for free. If you don’t have a car, you’ll need to book a day tour that included transportation. Get there early to beat the crowds and do some waterfall jumping if you get the opportunity!

10. Go Partying at La Placita(Plaza del Mercado)

There are several streets of markets & restaurants that turn into bars at night. SO much fun! We wanted to go back each night, *best nights are Thursday & Friday*

11. Stroll through Santurce

The Santurce neighborhood in San Juan is closer to the beach, street art, and yummy food. Check out La Placita(where market stalls basically transform into a block party by night), street art, and Lote 23(a fairly new food truck park) while you’re in the neighborhood.

12. You can book excursions using Get Your Guide, Trip Advisor, or Airbnb Experiences.

These are invaluable resources for booking with local companies via a trustworthy website where you can read reviews. They’re also ideal for solo travelers to join a group and meet new people. If you don’t rent a car, these sites will make it possible for you to discover more of the island without running up an Uber tab.

13. Kayak the Bioluminescence Bay

Ever seen sparkly plankton particles glow in the sea at dark? It’s pretty cool! If you visit during the right season, you’ll be able to see the water sparkle!

14. More than anything, just explore!

Wander the streets and talk to as many locals as possible to really get a feel for the city. With everything that we did, we still didn’t scratch the surface in San Juan!

The post 14 Bucketlist Activities For An Unforgettable Trip to Puerto Rico appeared first on Showit Blog.

So….I finally got to try out the iconic Chaco sandal. 

As a college student and world traveler, I would constantly see people rocking Chacos! I noticed that they had a very loyal following and people seemed to wear their Chacos to bed. I was definitely intrigued and I wanted to see what the hype was for myself. 

When I was approached for collaboration with Chaco, I was stoked. I love trying out different brands to share as a resource for you here. This makes it easy for me to truthfully recommend which shoe is best for your next adventure. 

While browsing the Chaco site, three styles stood out to me: 

The Classic Z/Sandals are basically made for every kind of adventure. have the iconic design, pass-through straps, strong traction, and made in many colors.

I can already tell the Chillos Slides will be my go-to sandal. They’re chill, lightweight, and floatable.

Whether you’re the type to climb mountains or chill poolside, I discovered there’s basically a Chaco for every kind of traveler.

As you’re buying gifts for loved ones or even if you plan to treat yourself, head to Chacos.com to find the perfect shoe. I’m personally excited to rock these for my future travels! Use code HEYCiARA15 for 15% off your order of Chacos this holiday season.

Which pair of Chacos would you rock?

Pin It:

The post Adventuring in Austin With Chaco | A Shoe For Every Traveler appeared first on Showit Blog.

An unforgettable night in the Sahara Desert.

THE JOURNEY TO THE SAHARA

The journey to the Sahara was a long one, but I knew it’d be worth it. After stepping into the only non-muslim permitting mosque in Casablanca and shopping in the maze-like Medina in Fes, our tour group made our way south to Midelt. Situated in the high plains between the middle & high atlas mountains, this stop allowed us to witness the Berber way of life. It was the perfect way to break up our 2-day drive just before arriving in Merzouga, a small town that sits right at the edge of the Sahara.

ARRIVING TO MERZOUGA

We arrived to remote Merzouga midday after driving through massive gorges and lush green valleys. We dropped our bags off at a hotel overlooking the desert, packed small overnight bags, and set off for the experience we’d all been waiting for – a night camping the Sahara. I remember asking all 9 members of our group what they were looking forward to most and the majority admitted that they expected our desert trek to be the highlight of the trip. I couldn’t help but feel the same amount of excitement for what was to come.

Before jumping on our camels, we prepped ourselves for the elements by wrapping scarves around our heads in traditional Berber style and fueling up with some Moroccan mint tea. We walked out onto the sand to meet the camels who’d be carrying us through the dunes. Since this was my first time seeing a camel in real life, I was completely taken aback at just how tall these animals were. They seemed calm & confident, which helped ease some of the fear a few people in our group had. One by one, our Berber guides helped us get mounted on top of our camels. We were told to hold on tightly as the camels abruptly rose from the ground to an upright position. As I sat atop my camel’s hump, I could hardly believe that this was real life. Woah! I was seriously about to ride a camel!

RIDING CAMELS THROUGH THE DESERT

Up then down, was the continuous motion as we set off into bright orange dunes are far as the eye could see. There was not a single soul or building in sight. Other than the squeals we’d occasionally release as the galloping camels jolted our bodies, you couldn’t hear a sound. The desert was completely silent. Despite the silence of the Sahara, I was overwhelmed by the power of the dunes that towered around us. We all expressed how surreal the experience was in the moment. I began to tear up as we rode into sunset and our shadows silently dance along the seas of sand.

DRUMS UNDER THE SKY

We arrived at our desert camp at dusk and our guides helped us off of the camels. We quickly realized that the 2-hour camel ride would leave us sore for the next few days, but we all agreed it was worth it. The ride was unforgettable! Before getting settled in our tents, we ran to the top of a nearby dune to take in the views during the last bit of light. After only several days, it was like we forgot that we started this trip as strangers. We were cracking inside jokes, rolling in the sand, and snapping photos. I sunk my hands into the powder-like sand and thanked the universe for gifting me these new friends to share this experience with. We headed back down to the desert camp and the first order of business was Moroccan mint tea, of course. We looked at each other in the eye, clinked our glasses, and gushed about the fact that we were spending the night in the Sahara together. We sipped on our tea as the desert guide served us a traditional Tagine. This was the best Tagine of our trip, and I think the extraordinary setting had something to do with it.

SLEEPING UNDER THE STARS

After eating, we all gathered around a campfire for some traditional Berber music. It was just us,  the warmth of the fire, and the sound of drums underneath the night sky. We danced, we sang, and we rejoiced under the starlight. Millions of tiny stars filled the pitch-black sky. It felt like we were in a dream. We all decided to scrap the tents and sleep outside right under the stars. If there was any place made for sleeping outdoors, this was it.

FINAL MOMENTS IN THE SAHARA 

We awoke at a silent 6 am to prepare for our trek back into Merzouga. With sore bums, we jumped back onto our camels with the hopes of witnessing a miraculous sunrise. Unfortunately, the fog prevented us from doing so but that didn’t make our last moments in the Sahara any less magical. I sat on my camel, looking out into the sand, absorbing the calm, and trying to soak in the entire experience. In fact, I decided to demount my camel and stay in the dunes a bit longer as the rest of my group continued on. I stood completely alone surrounded by sand for nearly an hour, trying to process what exactly my eyes were seeing. Being out there in complete solitude was nearly too much to handle. It was both powerful and humbling.

My feet sank with each step as I finally made my way back to the hotel to meet up with the rest of my group. I took one last look around at the magnificent mountains of sand that surrounded me and I felt an immense amount of gratitude. This would be my last moment in the Sahara desert, but I knew that the experience would be imprinted in my mind forever.

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The post An Unforgettable Experience In The Sahara Desert | Morocco appeared first on Showit Blog.

This blog post is in Partnership with Explore Morocco

I hardly ever get “culture shock” these days, but Marrakech was different – in the best way possible. I’d heard about the medinas – the old towns of Moroccan cities which once served as protection from invaders and date back to the 11th century. However,  nothing could have fully prepared me for wandering through these winding alleyways.

My senses were ignited as soon as I stepped foot into Marrakech’s medina or marketplace, Djemaa El Fna. It became apparent that you could easily lose yourself here – both literally and figuratively. There were so many sounds, sights, and smells vying for my attention all at once. It felt like I was immediately transported to another world.

Once we stepped into the medina, I was smacked with the overwhelming smells & sights of my surroundings, like the sound of sandals clacking against the hot pavement, donkeys pulling carts of who-knows-what, engines from speedy motorcycles, endless forms of transportation buzzing by, spices on spices on spices. There were goat heads laying on tables, men giving unwarranted directions, endless honking, winding walls that made me feel like I was in a maze, the call to prayer sung in every corner, horses galloping in carriages and so much more. My senses were on alert as I wandered through the blush alleyways unsure of what would lie around the corner. Exhilarating and vibrant – it’s easy to see why they call Marrakech the ‘Red City’.

I really try to be mindful of my surroundings and appreciate every moment when I travel. Morocco made that easy.

Here’s my Marrakech Experience in 5 senses: 

Sight: Red taxis, blue taxis, ornate tiles & archways, dark & narrow alleyways inside the medina, Arabic letters, the man serving my food, olives, fish, naturally dyed clothing, stray kittens, donkeys carrying loads, leather jackets, leather poufs, mosques, the process of scarves being stitched, and the molding of wet clay.

Sound: The call to prayer, horns honking, Arabic, donkeys straining, “Balak” which means to move out of the way in the medina, and “Shukra” which means thank you.

Smell: Dust, fresh mint, engine exhaust, and the scent of pigeon poop from the leather tanneries.

Taste: Camel burger…don’t ask, amazing lentils, beets, fresh yet tasteless bread, olive oil & salt to give the bread

taste, bitter mint tea, and the sweet & savory taste of chicken pastilla.

Feel: Kaftan on my skin, mint leaves, leather, fluffy rugs, and the hammam (traditional body scrubbing) that removed all of my dead skin.

Anytime I hear these sounds or smells these scents, I am immediately transported back to these days spent walking through the medina. Marrakech was one of my final designations in Morocco, after Fez, Casablanca, Merzouga, Moulay Idris, and Ait Ben Haddou. Out of all of the cities I visited, it certainly left the biggest mark on me.

Here are my tips for exploring the medina:

Get a Guide – A guide might make you feel more comfortable and they’ll also be able to provide relevant information. This will also prevent you from getting lost.

Bargain – Yes, you can and absolutely should bargain! It’s customary! Stand your ground, but have fun!

Wander Wisely – Be mindful of your surroundings, use a money belt and carry valuables closely.

Buy A Local Sim – Download Maps.me or Google Maps in order to help you find your way around the medina. You should be able to buy a local sim for cheap.

Dress Appropriately – While it’s not mandatory, it’s best that your shoulders and knees are covered due to cultural customs.

Know A Few Arabic Words – Learning some basic phrases will get you far, especially with the locals!

Be Respectful While Taking Photos – You’ll want to take plenty of photos. Just respect local boundaries and always be sure to ask if you want to take photos of/with people.

Marrakech is one of those places that reminded me why I travel – to see, feel, and experience a totally different world. Enjoy!

The post My First Impression of The Medinas In Marrakech, Morocco appeared first on Showit Blog.

When Royal Caribbean invited me to board their Newly Amplified Oasis of the Seas for a 7-day sailing trip through the Caribbean, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Naturally, I had questions:

“Would I get bored after 7 days?”

“Would I get seasick?

“What would it be like on this large cruise ship?”

I’d never been on a cruise before and it wasn’t necessarily on my radar. If you know me by now though, you know I’m willing to try (almost) anything at least once! My life motto is “why not?”, so I decided to give it a go. After three years of traveling full time, it’s always nice to mix things up and try various forms of travel. More importantly – as a travel blogger, It’s important for me to be able to speak about different trip styles from first-hand experience. To give you an idea of what went down, here were my

Top 5 experiences on Royal Caribbean’s Newly Amplified Oasis Of The Seas Ship:

Listening To Live Jazz Music

From salsa to rock, I was shocked to discover all of the live performances onboard. The jazz room was my favorite, by far. I returned night after night to listen to this extremely talented jazz band. I’d never been to a jazz club, so this was an absolute treat. Who would have known my first experience would be on a cruise ship?

Oh, and did I mention these musical performances are completely free?

Riding The Waterslides

I haven’t ridden a waterslide in years, so I was stoked when I realized that there were three different slides on the boat. I couldn’t believe that these jumbo slides we’re on the top deck. Our hearts raced and we felt like kids again as we raced down to the pools at the end.

Watching A Live Ice Show

An ice rink is the last thing I thought I would see on a cruise ship. Like the live jazz performance, I didn’t think my first ice-skating show would happen onboard. However, I quickly learned that anything was possible on the Oasis of the Seas. While I enjoyed the Broadway productions and even Aqua Dive Show (INSANE!), ⁣The Disney themed ice show was a major highlight for me. I was in absolute awe of these world-class ice skaters from all over the world.

Exploring The Islands On Port Days

We visited Haiti, St. Marteen, and Puerto Rico after departing from Miami. Our day in Puerto Rico was my favorite in particular. We were able to visit the ‘Cueva Ventana’, enjoy a local meal, and visit one of the top cocktail bars in the world. Port days may be short, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be sweet.

People Watching

With over 6000 people on the ship, there are plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers – or cruisers, as they might call themselves. We’d have random conversations with people we never expected, passengers and crew alike. In my opinion, it’s amazing to have access to so many different types of people. You never know who you might meet.

From ziplining to rock climbing, this barely scratches the surface all that we we’re able to do and see on the Oasis Of The Seas 7 night Caribbean Cruise. I worried about possibly getting bored on a cruise ship for SEVEN freakin’ days but there was so much to be done.

My final thoughts:

Overall, I’m so glad I tried a cruise for myself and Royal Caribbean was made the best first impression. Due to the low-maintenance level of planning, I think this option is a great group travel with family or friends. It would also work well for solo travelers that aren’t fully ready to deal with all the logistics alone. The boat itself was enormous and we got lost more times than I could count. There is plenty to do, so you’ll never get bored. The best part? You can do everything and nothing, depending on how you feel.  There were days where we did the absolute most and hours where we slept to the sounds of the sea crashing outside of our cabin balcony. There were moments where we felt young & wild & free on jumbo water slides and where we felt a bit more grown & sexy as we sipped cocktails to the sounds of live jazz music. We may have gotten lost more than a few times, but it felt good to know that the possibilities in this floating city were endless.

Here Are Some Items You Should Pack For Your Cruise:

Waterproof Phone Pouches – You can find these bad boys online for $5-$8 and they work extremely well. You can use them for ‘just in case’ moments or you can literally dive right in & use them underwater. It’s essentially a bootleg go-pro. Thank me later! ⁣
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Microfiber Towels – These thin, quick-drying towels really come in handy for back to back days in the water. Or just a regular beach towel! That works too!⁣
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Dramamine/Motion Sickness meds – Whether you plan to get on a giant cruise ship or speedboat, you risk the chance of getting seasick. If this happens, Dramamine will make you feel grounded again⁣
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Sea Sick Patches – I ordered patches for the trip and I’m not sure whether this is the placebo effect or not but they seemed to work rather well ‍⁣
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Waterproof Sandals- There’s nothing worse than ruining a nice pair of shoes/sandals or scraping your feet on a rocky beach/waterfalls. Been there done that. Get you some water shoes or sandals. I’ve used Tevas and Birkenstock’s! ⁣
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Lightweight Cover Up – A cute lil coverup will make it a breeze to transition in and out of the water! Bonus if it’s quick-drying! ⁣
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Sunscreen & SPF Lip Balm – Okay, my fellow black & brown girls…we need sunscreen too! Quite a few brands cater to darker skin these days, so yay to no white streaks!! I’m loving Supergoop currently. Also have been eyeing Black Girl Sunscreen & Glossier’s sunscreen! ⁣
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Bug spray – After a million sandflies tore my legs up in Cuba, I don’t play about bug spray!

Related: 22 Amazon Essentials For Every Trip
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The post I Went On Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas Cruise And Here’s What I Loved About It appeared first on Showit Blog.

How did I end up drinking and watching the most beautiful sunset on a 50 year old woman’s boat? I’ll tell you how.
My heart beat was racing, my body full of adrenaline.

We’d just jumped from a cliff into ice cold water and the sun was about to set over Milos.

The few people who were hanging around we’re departing, which meant that we would have this precious beach all to ourselves.

Suddenly, Archeleos was jumping for joy. His friend, who happened to be on a boat in the distance, spotted us from afar.

“There’s no way!”, we thought. How could his friend spot us on the beach from miles and miles away?

Well, before we knew it, we were all meeting on the beach. His friend was a skipper and he was hosting a 50 year old woman on a month long sailing trip around the Greek islands – solo. ⁣⁣Um…can we say “goals”?
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This woman was a character. The kind of person you only hear about in stories or see in movies. She was talkative, direct, and curious. She spoke with a cigarette in her hand and she had a few more adult treats that she’d brought along with her.

After a brief meeting, she invited us to join her on the sailboat. ⁣⁣ We sat on the boat as the sun set over the ocean. We shared drinks and interesting conversations. She was the life of the party.

“It’s destiny”, she proclaimed.

And I couldn’t help but agree with her.

How did we end up on this boat right here in the middle of the ocean with her with every single one of us being strangers? ⁣⁣Should I call it serendipity? Synchronicity?
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I’ve been faced with this question many times during my travels, but I’ve learned that some things don’t need an explanation. These moments are made for living. ⁣⁣
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Have you met people during your travels or found yourself in circumstances that can’t be explained by coincidence? Would love to hear your stories!

The post Sweet, Serendipitous Travel Moments In Milos, Greece appeared first on Showit Blog.

I have to be honest. I visit different towns in Mexico yearly, and I only recently heard of La Paz. This is exactly why Mexico just might be my favorite country in the world. I spent a month traveling through lesser known towns in Mexico earlier this year, yet I somehow missed La Paz. I find myself pleasantly surprised to discover a new side of Mexico every time I visit. This also means that I will always have reason to return. It doesn’t hurt that a flight from Texas is usually $200 and less than 2 hours away.

ABOUT LA PAZ

La Paz lies just two hours outside of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It’s the capital of Baja California Sur, but it remains laid back in comparison to many of the larger resort towns that many visit Mexico for. I stand by the fact that Mexico has much more to offer than the stereotypical resort vacation, and La Paz is the perfect example of that. It’s basically Heaven for anyone who is searching for adventure(think swimming with whale sharks & sea lions), idyllic beaches(#1 beach in Mexico), and possibly the best Ceviche that has ever touched your lips(#FACTS).

GETTING TO LA PAZ

La Paz has a small airport, but I flew directly into Cabo from Houston. You’ll likely pay less to fly into a larger airport, and then you can arrange transportation from there. Consider booking a shuttle with Eco Baja from the Cabo airport to the La Paz Malecon/Boardwalk

HOW LONG TO STAY IN LA PAZ

Admittedly, La Paz is a relatively small town. It’s perfect for day-trips or possibly even a two/three day weekend. You can definitely see everything within a weekend!

Things to do

SNORKEL WITH WHALE SHARKS

Most people visit La Paz to get up close & personal with whale sharks. I am proud to say that I found myself face to face with 5 whale sharks within a period of three hours. This was by far one of the most exhilarating experiences of my life. Check out Tuna Tuna Tours to book this experience!

SWIM WITH SEA LIONS

As if swimming with whale sharks wasn’t enough, I had the opportunity to swim with Sea Lions. It was hilarious to hear their howls and witness them in their natural habitat.

GO STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING

This was my first time stand-up paddle boarding and I fell in love! My legs were wobbling like crazy in the beginning, but it was so much fun once I got the hang of it! Check out Baja Desconocida Tours to book a session at Balandra Beach.

SWIM AT BALANDRA BEACH

Balandra Beach is known as the most beautiful beach in Mexico! There’s a lot of competition, so that’s saying a-lot. The beach is mostly full of locals and man, is it breathtaking! Be sure to take the short hike at the entrance of the beach for an incredible view from above!

VISIT ENSANADA GRANDE

Ensanada Grande was a true gem in every sense of the word. This beach can only be reached by boat, but I encourage you to make it a point to visit. It has the most crystal clear water I’ve ever seen with a pink hue of sand.

STICK AROUND FOR SUNSET

They say that no sunset in La Paz looks the same and I definitely believe it. Within the short amount of time that I was there, I saw the most beautiful pink and orange sunset.

CHECK OUT TODOS SANTOS

Todos Santos is a nearby ‘Pueblo Magic’(Magic Town) that’s worth a day-trip if you have the time. This is where I took surf lessons at Mario Surf School and simply admired the colonial architecture.

La Paz is literally a hop, skip & jump from Texas, so I’m sure that I’ll be back. It’s another destination has rekindled my love affair with Mexico.

Thank you to the La Paz tourism board for Inviting me to experience this destination. All opinions are my own.

The post A Weekend In La Paz, Mexico | Places That Leave You Pleasantly Surprised appeared first on Showit Blog.

Who knew that I’d be returning for a wellness retreat with G Adventures just a few years later?

Jaw dropping Waterfalls, lush rainforest canopies, piercing volcanos, stunning beaches, SLOTHS, mangos, plantains, monkeys, treehouses, adventure activities, Caribbean and vibes(on the Caribbean side) are a few of the things that drew me to Costa Rica the first time around. I vowed to return for more after my first trip and it was even sweeter this time around.

Unlike my first trip,  I joined a group of like-minded strangers on a G Adventures Wellness tour. After running all over the world solo throughout 2018, I knew that group travel would be a much-needed change of pace. After spending an average of 15-20 hours per week(while working and traveling) planning my trips throughout the year, I knew that it would be a huge relief to travel without worrying about logistics. After sleeping in janky hostel beds over the course of two years, I knew that a yoga retreat was exactly what my mind and body needed.

This trip was part of G Adventure’s new wellness line of tours centered around movement, mindfulness, nourishment. In addition to cultural immersion, the itinerary was full of wellness activities like intention-setting, meditation classes, yoga classes, and healthy eating.

Costa Rica’s ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle, biodiversity, & stunning landscapes make it the ultimate destination to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. I knew that this trip would be the perfect opportunity to reflect on 2018 and prepare for 2019.

This eight-day tour throughout Costa Rica ended up being much greater than I could have ever imagined. We visited San Jose, La Fortuna, Rincon De La Vieja, and Play Carillo.

Some of my favorite activities included:

Daily Yoga – From sunrise yoga on Playa Carillo to stand up paddle-board yoga on Lake Arenal, we had plenty of opportunities to perfect our downward dog. I started practicing yoga at the beginning of the year, so it was a lot of fun to experiment with different types of yoga. These daily classes were everything I needed to practice mindfulness.

Surfing Lessons at Play Carillo – I took my first surfing lesson during my trip to Costa Rica two years ago, so it was amazing to be back where it all started. I’m no professional, but I love surfing and I try to take advantage of it whenever I find myself in a huge surfing destination like Costa Rica.

A Visit to Mi Cafecito Community Coffee Plantation – I try my best to support local communities when I travel so it felt really special to visit Mi Cafecito. We had the opportunity to tour the coffee plantation and learn more about the co-op. This activity was supported by the G Adventures For Good partnership with Planeterra, which is a non-profit with an aim to encourage sustainable tourism.

A Hot Springs Soak In Guanacaste – Need I say more? Imagine soaking in a natural hot spring that’s heated by the most active Volcano in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. My body was thanking me after I spent an hour relaxing in the mineral-rich thermal water. Let’s just say, this was definitely a wellness moment.

I haven’t even mentioned our adventurous hike through Arenal Hanging bridges park, the breathtaking properties that we stayed in, or our knowledgeable local guide who knew the country like the back of her hand. I could go on and on about the benefits of my wellness trip with G Adventures. I’m always unsure of how group tours will turn out, but they curated the perfect blend of adventure, cultural, culinary, and wellness activities. I left the trip feeling like I discovered another side of Costa Rica and myself.

Thank you G Adventures for providing me the opportunity to go back where it all began. Thank you for reminding me why I started.

Talk about a full circle moment! You can check out their new line of wellness adventure tours in Iceland, Nepal, Peru, Bali, and Costa Rica here.

I was invited to attend this trip with G Adventures, but all opinions are my own.

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The post Back To Where It All Began In Costa Rica On A Wellness Tour With G Adventures appeared first on Showit Blog.

WHY SOUTHEAST ASIA? 

I’ve spent the past 2 months traveling Southeast Asia. I’ve visited Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam so far. It’s been a whirlwind of an experience.

I initially set out to visit Southeast Asia a year ago. I wanted it to be the first stop on my ’round the world trip because everyone raved about it. Thanks to delicious food, budget accommodation, rich culture, and developed tourism infrastructure, Southeast Asia is known as the ultimate backpacker’s destination.

Ya girl was on a budget, so the cheap prices in this region were definitely appealing. Ultimately, I ended up traveling Latin America instead, but I’m happy to finally visit this part of the world.

“We go anywhere, do anything, and live for the unscripted moments that make the best memories” – Teva

For the most part, everyone was right about Southeast Asia. 

I’ve fallen in love with Pad Thai, spicy Pho, and unidentifiable food served from street stalls.

I’ve stepped foot on what might be the most perfect beach in the world.

I’ve slept in beds that cost less than a cup of coffee.

I’ve explored ancient temples that blew my mind.

I’ve discovered a new love for cozy cafes hidden in busy alleys.

I’ve frolicked alongside elephants in the jungle.

I’ve eaten fruit that I didn’t know existed.

I’ve risked it all on the back of motorbikes.

I’ve stayed in a Cambodian family’s home.

I swam in a bioluminescent beach. It was magical.

The best part? My trip isn’t over just yet.

TRAVELING WITH TEVA

I bought my first pair of Tevas for a trip to Costa Rica. It was my first solo trip abroad and I wanted to be prepared for ALL OF THE THINGS. You know how it goes. Anyway, I knew Costa Rica was full of waterfalls, river, volcanos, and beaches. I heard that Tevas would be the perfect waterproof shoes to wear while exploring the country. Despite them looking like shoes for an American adventure dad, I bought a pair and I fell in love with them.

Over a year later, I’m proud to collaborate with Teva on this blog post. They sent me their Hurricane XLT 2, Original Universal, and Midform Universal, which have been perfect while traveling Southeast Asia. I’ve worn them while walking on rocky beaches, exploring busy markets, and bathing beautiful elephants. They’re sturdy yet lightweight, and easy to adjust. It’s so difficult to find cute adventure shoes/sandals, but Teva has a wide range of colorful and fun sandals.

I’m grateful for the chance to partner with a company that I use and love. It also helps that they’ve given me complete creative freedom. A year ago, I was so nervous about quitting my job to travel the world. On that first trip to Costa Rica, I was unsure about what my future would hold. I don’t have it all figured out, but it’s such a blessing to be able to inspire others to see the world and live life on their own terms. Partnering with Teva has shown me that everything eventually comes full circle.

Buy on Amazon

“How you choose to live is the ultimate form of personal expression, and around here, we want to seize every second—to live light and loud. If you’re up for anything and love the thrill of spontaneity, then we are your people. This adventurous spirit—the one that pioneered the very first pair of Teva sandals—takes form in everything we create.”  – Teva

PIN ME!  ⇣⇣⇣

SHARING IS CARING! IF YOU FOUND THIS HELPFUL, SHARING OR PINNING IS ONE OF THE GREATEST WAYS YOU CAN SHOW SUPPORT! THANK YOU!

You Might Also Enjoy:

• How to Make Travel a Reality in 2018
• 25 Tips To Stay Safe As a Solo Female Traveler
• What I Gained From My First Solo Trip Abroad
• 5 Worst Things About Solo Travel
• 13 Simple Ways To Meet People While Traveling Solo
• 9 Ways to Find Insanely Cheap Flight Deals
• Here’s What Really Went Down on my Solo Trip Through Latin America After Quitting my Job 

Thanks for reading!

Share any questions or concerns below! Have you already taken your first solo trip? Are you worried about enjoying nightlife?

This is a collaboration with Teva. All opinions are my own. 

The post Traveling Southeast Asia With Teva | The Perfect Travel Sandal? appeared first on Showit Blog.