Greece 2021 by Travel Divas®

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[blak ɡərl ˈmajik] noun Black girl magic (n.) is that undeniable, can’t-put-your-finger-on-it spark that makes everything a Black woman does the epitome of excellence. From the way we walk, the way we talk, the way we show up and show out, it’s a little bit of sugar, spice and everything nice.

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Magic THE BLACK GIRL

MOVEMENT

lack girl magic is the way we exude excellence on a daily basis no matter what challenges we face. It’s the way we are always at the top of our game. It’s the way our skin shines in the sun, the way we care for each other and the unspoken way we communicate. And here at Travel Divas, we believe travel should bring out the best of that magic. You see, we’re here to help you sprinkle your Black girl magic all over the globe through carefully curated, luxurious experiences designed to bring out your sparkle. Over the last 12 years, more than 11,000 travelers have trusted us to do exactly that. Whether it’s dropping it low at an all-white party or sunbathing while sipping mimosas, we know Black girl magic just gets better with every new experience. With every excursion, there’s an opportunity to expand your horizons and your cultural knowledge. And an opportunity to see beyond

the desk, beyond the 9-5 and beyond the daily hustle and grind. Here at Travel Divas, our only goal is to imbue your experiences with magical memories that will last a lifetime, infusing you with everlasting self-care vibes, sisterhood and upscale adventure. We can talk about it for days,

but we think pictures say more than a thousand words. Take a look at the Black girl magic that’s forever present in every Travel Divas trip. SHANTERRIA EARLEY Creator & Founder of Travel Divas

Shanterria Earley www.thetraveldivas.com

Itinerary Greece

DAY 1

THURSDAY AUGUST 5, 2021 Depart for Greece.

DAY 2 FRIDAY AUGUST 6, 2021 Arrive in Athens, the classical capital of Greece; transfer to your hotel. This afternoon you have a city tour. The 4

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tour begins with a panoramic drive through the city center of Athens. View Panathenian Stadium, the Presidential Residence, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. Continue on to visit the Acropolis, the ancient architectural masterpiece built during the Golden Age of Athens.

Finally, visit the new Acropolis Museum, the striking modern building built at the base of the monument where many of the original statues from the Acropolis are now displayed. Tonight, Shades of Blue Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. Dress in your best blue attire. Overnight: Athens

DAY 3

SATURDAY AUGUST 7, 2021 Fly to Santorini. Today, transfer to the airport for your flight to Santorini. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the island. Be sure to walk the streets of bustling Fira, the island's iconic capital city, a vision of pristine whitewashed buildings. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. Overnight: Santorini

DAY 4

SUNDAY AUGUST 8, 2021 Full Day Tour in Santorini. Today spend an unforgettable day of relaxation sailing around the blue waters of Santorini. From the beautiful port of Vlychada, cruise to the famous Red Beach for a swimming stop.

Continue sailing past the White Beach and the Venetian lighthouse before stopping for a freshly prepared lunch of Greek specialties with wine, beer, and soft drinks. Enjoy one final swimming stop in the hot springs before docking in picturesque Oia. Departs at 10:00 am. Pick-up from hotel approximately 3060 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at the hotel. Approximate tour duration is 5 hours. In the afternoon, dress in your best sundress with a

floppy hat for your wine and cheese tasting. Explore the magic world of Therian volcanic wines. Savor delicious Cycladic cheese and other local specialties as you learn about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varieties. Overnight: Santorini

DAY 5

MONDAY AUGUST 9, 2021 Full Day at leisure in Santorini Today is free at leisure. Overnight: Santorini

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DAY 6

TUESDAY AUGUST 10, 2021 Ferry to Mykonos. Today, transfer to the port for your ferry (tourist class) to Mykonos with its bright whitewashed houses, picturesque windmills, worldclass restaurants and trendy boutiques. Time on your own to enjoy the energetic ambiance. Find a 6

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table at a harborside taverna and savor the bustle of Cycladic island life and the gorgeous views. Overnight: Mykonos

DAY 7

WEDNESDAY AUGUST 11, 2021 Full Day in Mykonos. Today is free to relax at one of the many golden sandy beaches, or wander

along the narrow streets of the Old Town and Little Venice where houses and cafes have been built directly at water level. From there, admire the views of the famous windmills, where the grain used to be milled for bread flour. Leave time to shop at one of the many unique boutiques, or relax at a terrace bar. Overnight: Mykonos

DAY 8

THURSDAY AUGUST 12, 2021 Morning tour to Delos with afternoon free in Mykonos. This morning tour to the splendid archaeological site of the nearby island of Delos, once the religious center of the Aegean and Cyclades. According to myth, Latonna gave birth here to Apollo, the Greek sun god, and to Artemis, the huntress and goddess of marriage and fertility. In Delos, view the Sacred Harbor and the regal Sacred Way, flanked by stone lions leading to the temples dedicated to Apollo and Artemis

and visit the museum housing some of the impressive archaeological artifacts found on the island. The afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: Mykonos

DAY 9

FRIDAY AUGUST 13, 2021 Flight to Athens.

In the early afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Athens. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in the classical city of Athens. Overnight: Athens

DAY 10

SATURDAY AUGUST 14, 2021 Depart. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.

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Meet Your Host & Join Facebook Group THE. COUNT. DOWN. IS. ON. In just a few days, you’ll be off-work, clocked out of the hustle and clocked into some serious fun. You’re going to meet so many amazing women, and we wanted to give you a head start on that by extending our virtual hands and inviting you to our Greece only Facebook group.

WANDA Anderson Thomas

Inside, you’ll get the chance to connect with your fellow travel divas, drool over the itinerary (again, don’t worry – we’re not judging), meet your hostess and get daily tips so you’ll #stayready.

Join the Facebook group here

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O N LY

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Divani Palace Acropolis Divani Palace Acropolis is your home away from home from the very first moment. Minutes away and mainly walking distance from all major sightseeing points and 10

museums this is the ideal location from where to start exploring the amazing city of Athens. The Divani Palace Acropolis Hotel is locat-

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ed in the historical heart of Athens just steps away from Acropolis, the Parthenon and the old town of Plaka. In this hotel, one is right in the most fascinating part of

this ancient city. Guests can reach many sights on foot, but they can also explore the city on the metro through the nearby Acropolis station (200m). Your journey into the past of Athens begins in the hotel basement with a part of the ancient city walls, built under Themistocles, a prominent Athenian general in Ancient

Greece. Then wander around Plaka, the old town, visit the Acropolis, its museum, the remarkable Herodion amphitheater, and take a look at the colorful flea market in Monastiraki. When located at Divani Palace Acropolis Hotel everything is at your feet!

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Costa Grand Resort & Spa

Santorini

Newest five star hotel is Costa Grand Resort & Spa It is in a summer city of its own. Everyone seeks real summer fun and pleasure under the sun. Perfectly located in the cosmopolitan black sandy beach of Kamari, offers you the ultimate feeling of barefoot luxury right on the beach.

Costa Grand Resort & Spa is the only resort located right on the black sand beach in the famous and cosmopolitan village of Kamari. A picture-perfect town on the east coast of Santorini , Kamari village promises stylish beach days and a range of nighttime activities.

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Petinos Mykonos Beach Hotel A BEACHFRONT FANTASY IN MYKONOS Nestled on the idyllic beach of Platis Gialos and nearby Mykonos Town, Petinos Beach Hotel is an exclusive beachfront retreat offering you luxury rooms and suites in modern Cycladic style, high quality facilities, and impeccable services. Petinos Beach Hotel is a favorite place in Mykonos for relaxing holidays by the sea, and within the hotel’s premises, you will find a sensational pool area, a modern fitness room, two charming restaurants, a lively bar, as well as sumptuous hammam and sauna facilities. Furthermore, our accommodating team will always be at your disposal to take care of your needs and fulfill your desires, ensuring a carefree holiday experience in Mykonos and a memorable stay at Petinos Beach Hotel!

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SAFE TRAVELS

GREECE TR AVEL PROTOCOL S

All travelers are subject to random COVID-19 tests upon arrival. Those testing positive will be required to self-quarantine for at least 10 days at a government-designated facility, and undergo another COVID-19 test. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state. STEP ONE: All travelers are required to present a negative COVID-19 test result on arrival issued no more than 72 hours before arrival, or a vaccination certificate issued by an appropriate authority. Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/ Oxford, Novavax, Johnson +

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Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, and Sinopharm. Certificates must include the critical information, including the traveler’s name which must match the name on the passport, and be written in English. STEP TWO: All travelers are required to complete an online Passenger Locator Form at least 24 hours prior to arrival. The form can be uploaded here using a browser other than Internet Explorer. Once completed, the online form will generate a QR code which must be presented on arrival. WEBSITE: https://travel.gov. gr/#/user/login Health And Safety | Arrival and Departure ARRIVAL: At your destination: On arrival, all passengers will be requested to sign the attached Supplemental Covid Release form before the tour starts. DEPARTURE: Prior to Returning to the United States Travelers must have an original printed or electronic negative COVID-19 viral test result (NAAT: RT-PCR, RT-LAMP, TMA, NEAR, HDA, or Antigen: Rapid). The test must be performed a maximum of 3 days before the first scheduled departure time in the flight itinerary. This requirement applies to all travelers, including US citizens, residents, and transit travelers, as well as

travelers who have been vaccinated. IMPORTANT NOTE: We have arranged testing in Mykonos 3 days prior to your departure. The cost of the test is $160 USD and you are responsible to pay for this. You can use cash or credit card.

REQUIREMENTS FOR VISITORS SUMMARY Before arrival:  Tourists must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) no later than 24 hours in advance. https://travel.gov.gr/#/user/ login Prior to departure, all travelers must ensure that they carry an acceptable form of certification of their health condition. Acceptable documents include:  A negative PCR molecular test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry.  A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.  A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.  Proof that the traveler was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an

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antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. All certificates must include the critical information (i.e. number of doses and their respective dates) in English, German French, Italian, Spanish, Russian and the person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognized travel document. All travelers returning to the United States by air must provide a negative, viral COVID-19 test result taken no more than 3 days prior to departure. (Viral tests include a NAAT/PCR test or an antigen test.) Your Responsibilities All of our guests are expected to follow the hygiene practices recommended by the CDC. Wear masks when required, wash hands regularly and maintain social distance where possible. Fully Vaccinated Travelers Must provide proof of vaccination. All travelers must also complete an online ‘Passenger Locator Form’ within 24 hours prior to arrival. Non-Vaccinated Travelers Require a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to travel; or a negative Antigen test taken within 24 hours prior to travel. All travelers must also complete an online ‘Passenger Locator Form’ within 24 hours prior to arrival.

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Greece TOP 9 EXCURSIONS IN

1. Meteora Day Trip by Train from Athens Travel by train through the beautiful countryside on a full-day tour from Athens to the Meteora monasteries. Your driver meets your train in the town of Kalambaka and take you to the medieval monastery complex, which sits perched high atop sandstone cliffs and is honored by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It’s a wonderful way to experience one of Greece’s most breathtaking and off-thebeaten-path cultural treasures. Day trip from Athens to the UNESCO-listed Meteora monasteries. Reach the dramatic monastery complex with the help of an expert escort. Learn about the history of these unique, 14th-century monasteries. Enjoy free time to dine and explore in the town of Kalambaka.

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2. Dinner in the Sky Athens Eat dinner in a revolving restaurant suspended in the sky during this thrilling experience in Athens. From a bird's eye view at 165 feet (50 meters) in the air, get views of the city of Athens lit up at night, including the illuminated Acropolis, as the table slowly rotates. With 22 dining companions, feast on a 6-course meal of modern and traditional Greek dishes with unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks. Choose between Sunset Dinner or City Lights Dinner. Aerial dining experience at a rotating table high above Athens. Get fantastic aerial views and photo ops. 6-course Greek meal, including unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks. Choose between Sunset Dinner or City Lights Dinner options.

3. Acropolis Wine Tasting Taste Greek wine in a setting beneath the UNESCO-listed Acropolis of Athens. In a small group that’s limited to just ten people, get the lowdown on the Greek wine regions and grapes, and hear tales of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine and fertility. Listen to your wine expert guide to learn more as you sip each wine, and pair them with Greek cheese and cold cuts.

Sip quality Greek wine near the acropolis, the iconic monument of Athens. Sample wine made with the main Greek grapes and learn about the flavors. Savor traditional Greek snacks, carefully selected to complement the wine. Enjoy greater interaction with your guide and group during a small-group tour.

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4. Santorini Volcano Tour Many visitors to Santorini stick to the main island and never make it to the impressive volcano jutting out from across the caldera - but a much greater number of in-the-know visitors make the journey during peak season, meaning that seats on cruises often sell out weeks or months ahead of time. There are no water taxis or ferries to the volcano, either, so a tour is really the only way to visit. Don’t miss out on your chance to sail into the caldera, walk along the volcano ridge, and learn all about the volcano’s history and geology.    

Perfect for time-pressed visitors: see the caldera and volcano in half a day. Take the chance to soak in the mineral springs at Palea Kamen.i Avoid FOMO: don’t miss out on seeing the caldera up close. Break off and discover the volcano yourself or walk and talk with your guide.

5. Horse Riding to Black Sandy Beach It's best feature is the white & brown cliffs that encircle it. They have been naturally sculptured by the waves and the wind over the years and they create one of the most unreal sceneries that you will explore with the horse.

6. Santorini Jet Ski Safari If you’re bored of lazy days by the water, mix things up with this high-speed Jet Ski adventure. Set off from Perissa Beach and cruise along Santorini’s south coast, and — if you opt for a longer tour — past the towering cliffs of the caldera toward Nea Kameni volcano. Pause to swim and snorkel along the way. Enjoy an adrenaline-filled adventure around Santorini’s stunning coast. Explore underwater — snorkeling equipment is provided. No experience necessary — a guide will show you how to drive the Jet Ski. Choose a tour length (1.5–3.5 hours) that suits you.

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7. Olive Oil Tasting in Mykonos You will enjoy an olive oil tasting workshop with the view of Sacred Delos Island. During this workshop you will learn: everything about: The basic principles of olive oil tasting and sensory evaluation. The most important Greek olive varieties. How to taste award-winning EVOO's from every corner of Greece but also olive oils with negative attributes, so you can learn to recognize the differences. How to select an olive oil from the shelves and also which are the

characteristics you must look for in an Extra Virgin Olive Oil. How to pair different olive oils with specific foods. All the benefits of Greek olive oil for your health, beauty & well-being. The basic principles of the Mediterranean Diet.

After you have learned to recognize different types of olive oil, your daily life will change dramatically. Learning how to taste will enhance your olive oil experience for life and you will gain a new appreciation for an everyday cooking staple.

8. Mykonos Watersports: Parasailing Prepare for a fun man-kite flight under the parasail wing, and enjoy a spectacular view too! Available Solo, Double, or Triple version.

9. Sunset at the Top of Mykonos Enjoy the best view on the entire island from the top of Mykonos, the highest mountain with Prophet Elias Church. Enjoy the amazing sunset. Visit the Armenisti Lighthouse, one of the highlights of the island. Note that a 20-minute trek with medium difficulty is involved, so please bring trekking shoes and hat.

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O F

KRISTALL CLARKE CHISLEY Made it back to the states! I had a fantastic time in Dubai with you all. Looking forward to reunion! Shanterria thank you, as always, for creating such an amazing experience! You know that I love you. Until next time Divassss…

T R A V E L

D I V A

MONIQUE CARTER

HERLYNTHIA DURHAM

I have taken three trips with Travel Divas. Organized, which is very important to me. The hosts are fun and engaging. You meet new people from all over who you will keep in touch with after the trip. And…I love Shanterria Earley! She’s the bomb!

I’ve had an amazing time. This has been the best birthday ever!!! I’ve met some beautiful divas on this journey and EVERYTHING was BEYOND my expectations. Thank you Stan Earley, Shanterria Earley and Mehul Bulsara for an AMAZING job coordinating my dream vacation. And a special thank you Shanterria, for following your dream and making other’s dreams come true!! See you in Milan!!!

HOLLY LAWRENCE ALL OF THIS!!! I love TD and Shanterria Earley is the sweetest, most personable and professional owner!!

VERONICA COCKRELL As I return home from such an amazing trip with TRAVEL DIVAS AND A TRAVLE DUDE..just want to say I’m grateful for such a wonderful experience. These past two years have been life changing for me. Meeting extraordinary women and men, going to places I never dream of going with the safety of a tour guide that protects and directs you with an interpreter when needed for other languages… So I stand with and behind MY TRAVEL GROUP/AGENCY FOR BEING NUMBER ONE IN MY BOOK of life changing experiences for me. Thanks Travel Divas! Thanks Shanterria Earley and staff. Love you guys to pieces. #truedivasrepresentalldayeveryday okkkkk!!!!

GLORIA THOMAS I’ve taken 4 trips with the Divas, I was on the first international trip to Dubai, and it was an amazing experience! Shanterria Earley and her staff are there for you! Everything is well organized, they are professionals and friendly, they pay attention to detail, go out of their way to be helpful and to make you feel safe. You can tell wherever you go, that Shanterria, has built a very good reputation and rapport with the host country. When we travel together, we become a close knit community, a sense of family and friends. When we go our separate ways, upon returning we have made life long lasting memories and had amazing experiences, and for some, our dreams have been realized! Some of us stay in touch with each other and become roommates n the next trip. I know I have, stayed in touch with several Divas that I now consider my friends! I can’t say enough good things about my experience with the Divas! Shanterria is a BEAST! The BESTEST! I have also been traveled to South Africa, Egypt, and Japan, all amazing!

Straw hat: Sun protectant yet stylish

Braided bag: Style on 100

GRECIAN Linen stripped pants: Flowy classy style

ISLAND VIBES

Multicolor necklace: Colors that go with everything

Linen shirt: Cool, versatile and stylish

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Round sunglasses: Round sunnies for everything

Gold hoops: Gold hoops go with everything

Flowered swimsuit: Pool and resort swim ready

Gold cuff: Never leave your wrist bare

SHOP NOW Lace up sandals: Grecian style footwear

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Escapes Travel

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BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY!

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A ROMAN Holiday Fit for the History Books

There is much talk about this city – and as one of the most visited locations in the world, the talk is still very much warranted. Welcome to Rome – the heart and soul of the ancient Mediterranean empire. For many of us, we learned about the wonders

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of Rome throughout our time in school: its glorious emperors, its delectable food and its historic landmarks. This ancient Italian city still has a romantic charm, with cobblestone streets and millennia-old attractions. Everything you have heard about Rome is true – and our 2022

excursion to this famous city will show you why. From gelatos to wine tasting to the colosseum, these are a just a few of the Roman wonders you’ll be privy to when you join us for this late summer 2022 trip:

During this excursion, you’ll do exactly that.

Ancient Roman Temple of Shopping It would be impossible to leave Rome without experiencing what it was like to shop in their ancient marketplaces and this place is no exception. These excavated ruins turn the average shopping trip into a history lesson that jumps off the page and into reality.

Thermal Baths & Hot Springs Soak away the stresses of a long airplane ride and melt away the tension from your everyday life when you take a dip in Rome’s thermal baths and hot springs. A soothing ailment and unexpected treat for the hardworking Black woman who needs to recharge, with multiple natural springs sprinkled throughout the city.

Villa Borghese Gardens The third largest public park in Roma, the Villa Borghese Gardens is considered the green lung of Rome. One of the most extensive gardens, it was developed over four hundred years ago by a cardinal who wanted to transform his vineyard into a public garden.

The Colosseum Need we say more about this massive marvel? Just as stunning in person as in the pictures, this ancient landmark still stands after thousands of years.

Treat yourself to a summer Roman holiday and live out history today with a curated travel experience from Travel Divas.

It is striking to see its structure, and even more so to walk the same walls as the gladiators.

Local Wine Tasting, Aperitivos, Dinner & Gelato A trip to Italy would be incomplete without several moments to wine down and sip decadent, local wines, snack on the freshest aperitivos and treat yourself to true, authentic Italian gelato.

Wanderlust and history blend together for an unforgettable summer holiday in Rome. Visit us here www.thetraveldivas.com/trip/ rome-glam-2022/ for details on excursions, accommodations, dates and more.

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TRAVEL REMINDERS

YOUR PASSPORT Guess who’s about to jet set to a magical destination in the next few weeks? YOU! Now, here’s the thing … flying requires this major document known as your passport. So, if you haven’t already, find your passport this week and do these things: Double check to make sure the name on your passport matches

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the name on your reservations with Travel Divas. Check the expiration date – make sure it doesn’t expire 6 months before your travel return date Snap a pic of your passport and email it yourself. Photocopy your passport and keep a copy in your luggage. Get ready!

Listen, no one wants to lose their passport. And you definitely don’t want to spend hours on end at the U.S. Embassy trying to get a new one. But in the event that happens, doing these steps will make it easy for the U.S. Embassy to replace it. Trust us when we say, a travel diva always stays ready so she doesn’t have to get ready.

Greece

PACKING GUIDE

U LT I M AT E PAC K I N G L I S T F O R T R AV EL D I VA S

PERSONAL DOCUMENTS

■ Valid Passport ■ A photocopy of your passport in your luggage ■ Email a copy of your passport to yourself ■ Travel Documents or Paid in Full Invoice ■ Negative COVID-19 test results ■ Prescribed medications in original containers (your name on your prescription and your passport should match) ■ Travel Insurance Policy ■ Cash

CARRY ON BAG

■ Toiletries of 3 ounces or less ■ One full outfit with undies ■ Mobile Phone/Tablet ■ Charger for Mobile Phone and Tablet ■ Headphones/ Ear Buds ■ Neck Pillow ■ Gum/Mints ■ Nuts/Granola Bar/Chocolate ■ Magazine/Book ■ Large Scarf to double as a blanket ■ Slippers for when you need to walk to restroom while on the plane ■ Face and Feminine Wipes ■ Jewelry

ACCESSORIES

■ Floppy Hat ■ Sunglasses ■ Hand Fan ■ Travel Adapter ■ Power Bank ■ Sunscreen ■ Beach Bag ■ Ziploc bag to collect sand and/or to place wet items ■ Camera and batteries ■ Writing Journals ■ Crossbody Purse/ Fanny Pack ■ Back Pack ■ Hand Sanitizer ■ Face Masks

CHECKED LUGGAGE

■ Shoes including sandals, flip flops, wedges and sneakers ■ Undies, bras and socks ■ Hair Bonnet/Shower Cap ■ Colorful, cotton trendy tops (3) ■ Capris or Pants (3) ■ Maxi dresses (5) ■ Swim cover up (1) ■ Red Swimwear (1) ■ Large Scarves/Shawls (3) ■ All-White Outfit (1) ■ T-shirt/shorts for morning workouts www.thetraveldivas.com

MAKING

to be done for you.

You’ll Be Healthier

A PRIORITY IS AN ACT OF LOVE

Constantly putting others before you is stressful. That alone can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. If you’re not getting a good night’s rest regularly and eating well, you’re also bound to see negative effects to your overall health. Taking time to see to it that you’re taking good care of your body and mind is self-care that is necessary.

You’ll Feel Happier

You’ll simply feel happier when you start to do the things you enjoy and make a concerted effort to prioritize yourself. While caring for others and being generous can bring satisfaction, focusing exclusively on others is apt to burn you out. Making sure your wants and needs are met will lead to contentment. In order to achieve true life satisfaction, you need to address all aspects of it. This includes focusing on yourself.

You’ll Have More to Give

Putting yourself first is crucial when it comes to self-care. You have to be able and willing to believe that you deserve to consider your own needs, feelings, interests and comfort if you’re going to truly excel at taking care of yourself. It truly is not selfish to prioritize yourself. In fact, making you a priority is an act of love. It’s good for you and for others when you take the time to engage in self-care. Let me show you what I mean.

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You’ll Be More Confident

When you make yourself a priority, you’ll slowly begin to see that what you want matters. This is something you may be resistant to at first, especially if you’ve been taught to always put others first. It’s hard to step out of the role of caregiver or people pleaser. The more you do it, the easier it will be to see your own value. You’ll become more confident in yourself and your ability to do what needs

Finally, the truth is, you’ll simply have more energy to give to others and to pay attention to their needs when you’re caring for yourself. Think of the advice flight attendants give to put on your own oxygen mask before attending to those around you. It’s like that. You can’t properly give of yourself to others if you aren’t addressing your own needs. These are just some of the many advantages that come with prioritizing yourself. It’s not selfish. Doing so will help you to be a better person who has more energy to devote to the important people in your life.

Wanna make sure you’re catching flights, sunshine and good vibes … and not a cold or some other fun-killing illness? We put together a few tips to help you stay healthy while traveling. Getting sick is SO not the vibe. Here are a few ways you can stay healthy: GET YOUR BEAUTY SLEEP: Sleep is how we replenish our bodies, so prioritize your rest ahead, during and after the trip. PACE YOURSELF: It’s easy to let the excitement get to you, but

don’t overdo it trying to go on every tour offered throughout your vaca. Rest as need be. BREATHE: Girlfriend, travel anxiety is R.E.A.L. If you find yourself feeling anxious, take a deep breath, hold it and then exhale – then repeat a few times more.

destination. PUT ON THAT SPF: While it’s true Black doesn’t crack, it can still burn. Bring a hat, scarf, sunglasses and SPF because sunburn is not where the fun resides.

EXERCISE: Move your bawdy, sis! Just 30 minutes will do wonders – even if it’s just a brisk walk.

Also, if you’re currently under the care of a physician, advise them you’re traveling and see if they have any additional medical advice for you.

EAT BREAKFAST: It’s the most important meal of the day for a reason. Divas prep their day by fueling their body with breakfast.

Keep up with your prescribed medicine while traveling and account for any delays you may have.

HYDRATE: Drink that water! Aim for at least 8 cups (maybe more if you’re active or in a hot place). SANITIZE: Unfortunately, germs are everywhere. Ugh, we know. So, before you put any food in your mood, wash your hands and hand sanitize.

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TAKE YOUR VITAMINS: Keep your immune system boosted and grab some extra Vitamin C for your luggage. Take it everyday while you’re out sprinkling your Black girl magic all over your new www.thetraveldivas.com

H O W

T O

S U R V I V E

LONG FLIGHTS

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GIRL, GET SOME SLEEP We know this one’s hard, but pack several days before by creating a packing list, getting some exercise, drinking some soothing teas, AND then slip under the covers at a decent time to get a full night’s sleep the night before. STAY HYDRATED Water is the source of life. It’ll keep your body running on 100 and help your blood flow.

STAY ENTERTAINED Download the whole season of Bridgerton (or the latest Netflix series), bring books you’ve been dying to finish and download all your fav Apple Music & Spotify playlists so you can podcast and jam on the plane.

STAY AWAY FROM THE ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE Sis, we know it might be tempting, but both caffeine and alcohol dehydrate you and decrease your blood circulation. No go's for a smooth-sailing flight.

STAY FLY AND PACK AN AIRPLANE KIT Get out your favorite eye mask, lotion with SPF and hand cream (no, the plane windows do not block UV rays and yes, you can damage your skin being closer to the sun at 20,000 feet up), face cream and hand sanitizer; as well as a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss.

STAY ON YOUR DESTINATION’S TIME ZONE As soon as you get on the plane, switch your clock to your getaway’s time zone and try to sleep during the night time of that destination. STAY MAGICAL Black girl magic can’t be bought, but you can sure bring some of that spirit on the plane with you.

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Magic

LITERARY

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ong flights are the PERFECT time to catch up on all those books you said you were gonna read but were too busy making professional and life miracles happen. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of inspiring, dope reads to keep your vibes high, your calm in check and your Black girl magic swirling in the air:  Well-Read Black Girl by Glory Edim  Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual by Luvvie Ajayi  The Promised Land by Forever President Barack Obama Just As I Am by Cicely Tyson  Our Time is Now by Stacey Abrams  Life after Death by Sista Souljah  Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick by Zora Neale Hurston  The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennet  This is Major by Shayla Lawson  So We Can Glow by Leesa CrossSmith We’d give you the tea on each one, but there are too many good things to say. These are just a few of our favorite reads, but feel free to download them as audiobooks if that’s your style.