Have you enjoyed glamour, luxury, or gracious hospitality while traveling? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
As Black women, we often juggle multiple hats— caregivers, mothers, wives, career women and more— but when did you last take a moment just for you? Let me be the first to say, it’s time to invest in yourself and experience the luxurious getaway you truly deserve. As a professional Black woman (lawyer and journalist), I make time to treat myself to at least one over-the-top escape a year. Why? Well, the better question is, why not?
In conjunction with the Black Travel Alliance, a fall 2024 study conducted by MMGY Global revealed that Black travelers alone spent $145 billion on domestic travel in 2023. The study also found that 87% of the Black travelers surveyed expressed a willingness to pay for premium travel upgrades, including hotel accommodations.
Whether it’s high-thread-count sheets that cradle you into a REM cycle, relaxing spa treatments that leave you in a deep state of zen, or views that take your breath away, these hotels aren’t just about opulence—they’re about honoring your worth.
Four Seasons Minneapolis- Minneapolis, Minnesota
Price: Starting from $495 per night
The Four Seasons Minneapolis was a property that drew me in by surprise. It was my first Four Seasons stay and my first time in the city. Upon arrival, I was immediately welcomed with a glass of bubbly, making me feel like a true VIP. The concierge was attentive to my needs and ensured that I had a pleasant stay; I almost forgot that other folks were staying there, too. As far as must-do on-site experiences, the Sunday brunch experience is a feast fit for royalty, which you are. A spa day is also a must.
Luckily, this hotel is only steps away from some of Minneapolis’ top restaurants and shopping. Have the complimentary hotel car take you to the North Loop neighborhood and spend a day perusing the shops and stopping for local fare. Oh, and don’t miss the giant Prince mural on the 424 Building on Washington Avenue.
NOBU Hotel - Atlanta, Georgia
Price: Starting from $230 per night
Though most know this brand for the restaurants, the hotels are just as amazing. As soon as you walk in, you’re offered a cup of refreshing traditional Japanese tea, and you’re met with the most amazing scent filling the air— the hotel’s signature of lemon and ginger. The rooms are outfitted in calming, neutral tones with wood accents throughout.
This location is in the upscale Buckhead neighborhood and is steps away from all the designer shopping you desire at Phipps Plaza. Beyond grabbing a table for dinner at the adjoining restaurant by the same name, I also suggest tapping into your inner adrenaline junkie with the Porsche driving experience, which is about 20 minutes away by car.
Related: Dream. Plan. Go. AARP can help you find everything you need to have an amazing travel experience
Excellence Coral Playa Mujeres- Cancun, Mexico
Price: Starting from $858 per night
Officially opened in February 2025, this stunning beachfront property was the perfect spot for a girls’ trip with my best friend of over 25 years. Not only is it all-inclusive, but it’s also for adults only, which means we could lap in luxury kid-free. We decided to splurge by upgrading to the Excellence Club. This meant exclusive access to a private on-site lounge and added perks like premium liquors, exclusive restaurants, and a swanky speakeasy on the property.
Regarding the property, words (or pictures) don’t do it justice. There were more than two dozen dining options and bars, so throughout our 4-day, 3-night stay, we did a mini food tour sampling everything from Greek to traditional Mexican cuisines. The on-site spa— Miilé— further enhanced our luxe escape with perfectly pressured full-body massages. If you venture off the grounds, I suggest booking a catamaran experience so you and your best friend can take in the calming Caribbean waters from a different vantage point.
Rock House Resort- Providenciales, Turks & Caicos Islands
Price: Starting from $720 per night
I was in awe of how the Rock House team managed to perfectly marry the feel of the Amalfi Coast with the tranquility of Turks & Caicos. Built into the cliffs of Providenciales, this property leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing a luxe feel. Spend your days lazing on the jetty, an extended wooden deck built over the sea (which also doubles as a dining spot when requested), or marvel at the aquamarine-hued waters from the comfort of your room.
There are two restaurants on-site, but I also highly suggest venturing to other spots on the island. Some of my favorites are Grace’s Cottage for the garlicky mussels, Infiniti Restaurant and Bar for the champagne miso cod (also home to the Caribbean’s longest bar) and Conch Shack for an authentic island lunch on the beach.
Conrad Abu Dhabi - Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Price: Starting from $175 per night
If you know like I know, the United Arab Emirates does not hold back when it comes to over-the-top accommodations. Though there are many favorites, one of my favorites is the Conrad Abu Dhabi. Towering above the city’s picturesque Arabian Gulf— which doubles as a gorgeous private beachfront— you feel as though you are on top of the world. Inside is a lavish spa with a rejuvenating and authentic Hammam experience. Of course, there’s also world-class dining through the hotel’s SUSHISAMBA restaurant, which draws inspiration from Japanese, Brazilian and Peruvian cuisine.
While you likely won’t want to leave this property, no visit to the United Arab Emirates is complete without a trip to a local souk to buy viral Arabian perfume scents and gold jewelry. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll also want to stock up on a few bars of the ongoing internet craze— Dubai chocolate.
Have you enjoyed glamour, luxury, or gracious hospitality while traveling? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
