The Red Journal | Winter 2023

FROM THE CEO

Happy New Year, girlfriend!

I’m pouring a glass of champagne and clinking my glass next to yours as we bring in another year.

Now, I know last year we found magic, solace and rejuvenation in travel. Here at Travel Divas, the entire team and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We are filled to the brim and overflowing with gratitude for your continued support and loyalty.

We are 1,000% committed to providing hardworking Black women just like you a safe space to explore the world, learn about new cultures and refill their cup with the joys of travel, unforgettable memories and new friendships.

In 2023, you can rest assured that whether it’s your first or your latest ride with us, we’ll envelop you in the kind of luxury, comfort and relaxation you deserve. We are going BIG.

Come sprinkle your Black girl magic with us. You are the CEO of your life!

Wishing you a Happy New Year,

Shanterria

TRAVEL DIVAS VIP TRAVEL PROGRAM

Introducing the Travel Divas VIP Travel Program! The VIP Travel Program is our new loyalty program that’s launching soon. It’s designed to reward our most loyal Divas. Is that you?

What Is the VIP Travel Program? The more trips you go on with Travel Divas, the higher your tier will be. There are 3 tiers – Gold, Platinum, and Diamond – and your tier depends on how many trips you complete. Don’t worry, we’ll keep track for you. The more you travel, the more perks you get. Your VIP status is determined by the number of trips you have completed with us since 2017.

+ GOLD

Our first tier is for Divas who have completed 3-5 trips with us.

+ PLATINUM

Platinum Divas have been on 6-9 trips with us. Y’all are the true Travel Divas veterans!

+ DIAMOND

Our OG Travel Divas are part of our Diamond tier with 10 or more trips completed. Diamond members are Travel Divas royalty and we treat them as such!

Meet

Your 'At Your Service' Manager, Stephanie Harris

As a multi-destination traveler, her international travels have taken her across Europe, Mexico, Canada, South America, Cuba, and the Caribbean. Stephanie has extensive knowledge of brand loyalty and the cultural amenities required to solidify a strong community of travelers. Make sure to gallivant over to the Facebook Group and say hello.

ROXIE'S BUCKET LIST

Roxie here. I know you’re out there doing magical things and finding new pins to put up on your virtual travel bucket list vision board. You’ve probably got the fanciest locations, the quintessential hole-inthe-wall local restaurants (those are the best, by the way) and a list of must-do excursions for each location on your list.

Sis, you are in for a juicy surprise.

We can’t wait to share details with you soon for our Travel Vision Board Party!

You can cross off all your bucket list destinations — whether it’s Tokyo, Rome, Hawaii, Thailand, London or more — and don’t worry about doing a thing except packing your bags and your passport.

You know I would never leave you hanging.

Personally, these are my 2023 Bucket List Trips. Catch that tea, Rich Auntie!

TREATING YOU LIKE THE SAINT YOU ARE

ST. THOMAS

Okay, can we just keep it all the way 100?

There’s just no way a Diva like you would pass up the chance to experience the finest luxuries the Caribbean has to offer.

There’s no way you’d blow past 5-star accommodations at the Ritz-Carlton St. Thomas, airport transfers and a built-in friend group you didn’t have to corral yourself.

And there’s definitely no way you’d miss the opportunity to let the sun caress your melanated skin as you lose yourself in the most radiant, mesmerizing sunset ever.

We’re wrong, right?

Because your ocean-view room with a balcony, marble bathrooms, lavish amenities and exclusive Travel Divas gifts are just a click away. Caribbean luxury, baby!

TRAVEL DIVAS LIBRARY

BLACK AUTHORS

TRAVEL TRENDS

We don’t base our trips on trends. We base them on what you need to thrive and live your best life. As a Travel Diva, we aren’t going to keep our pretty little heads stuck underneath our Fascinator Hats. We are going to wave them high as the true Rich Auntie we are. With that said, have a peek at the Travel Trends for 2023. We are sure to have an escape to match you with a trend and a trip. Join us!

+ SPLIT TRIPS

Sometimes people want to have a myriad of experiences and feel the need to explore two hotels on one visit. Gallivant to Israel with us.

+ LUXURY TRAVEL

Travelers want to enjoy authentic cultural experiences, embrace timehonored traditions and dive into rich history. Our inaugural Ethiopia escape is for you. As a result of the pandemic, divas are reuniting with their girlfriends and making their mental and physical health a priority. Wind down with us at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas.

+ WELLNESS TRAVEL

TRAVEL DIVAS, Bring Your Bae

We’re here for your boo thangs, too! You see, one of the most frequently asked questions we get is, “Can I bring my boo?” or “My husband wants to come… are men allowed?”

And the answer is yes, girlfriend!

You see, here at Travel Divas, we want you to forget about the stresses of your daily life and the hustle and bustle that’s required of so many Black women at work and at home.

While your happy place may be exploring a foreign city and meeting new folks, this doesn’t mean it can’t be with bae at your side.

In fact, we know just how powerful, lifechanging and relationship-strengthening traveling together can be for a power couple.

That’s why we have the best vacation for you and your beloved. Black love, darlin’: Maldives 2024.

OUR FAVORITE BRUNCHES

— AROUND THE WORLD —

There’s truly nothing like eating brunch – spending time with the family, looking your best, and sprinkling your Black girl magic someplace else other than your house. That’s why we’ve gathered together a few spots for you to jet set to around the world, all so you can experience elevated bougie brunches with a dash of wanderlust and a sprinkle of Black girl magic.

Here are a few spots…

+ CHILLIN' IN CABO

Ready to tantalize your tastebuds in Los Cabos? Rock out to the sound of the ocean while sipping on (and spilling) tea, lapping up mimosas, and eating brunch with the girlfriends at the Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos.

No questions asked…this seaside escape is perfect for sprinkling your Black girl magic.

+ DO IT UP IN DUBAI

If there’s one place that knows how to party, it’s Dubai. And let’s not even get started on the delicious brunch that is to die for. Are you ready for a bougie brunch at one of the city’s most luxurious, upscale, and festive hotels?

COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERISM EVENTS

MLK DAY

JANUARY

16, 2023

We honor his life and legacy every day! May we always strive to be a catalyst for change and raise up our next woman and man. What do you do to celebrate or give tribute on Martin Luther King Day? Let us know in the Facebook Group.

TRAVEL in style

Let’s be honest, Travel Diva, a woman like you needs some planning and pampering. You’ve been working hard and now you want to be treated like the diva you are.

You want to be wrapped in luxury, dipped out in abundance and dripping with wealth. Even on vacay. Now, we know you’re no stranger to the bougie jet-setting lifestyle, so you already know how to prepare for a week of Caribbean sunshine and crystal blue waters. But we figured we’d drop a list of 8 Vacations You Didn't Know You Needed to make your trip even more luxurious and carefree. Will we see you, Sis?

YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU NEEDED

BUTTAH BODY TRIO

10 OF ROXIE’S FAVORITE

Valentine's

Hey there, Black Girl Magic embodied! It’s Roxie again!

I hope your magic meter isn’t filled up yet because I’ve been traveling around the world and collecting all types of original, luxurious and rejuvenating items that I know you’re going to love.

(If you ask me, all those make great gifts, but my list of 10 favorite things will blow anyone –including you – away!)

Here’s to a little Valentine’s Day joy. Check out some of my favorite things!

Which item are you going to treat yourself to? Go ahead – pick one (or more, I won’t judge!).

And while you’re at it, get all-youneed travel tips, tidbits, and gift guides like this when you sign up for the Travel Divas newsletter.

BUTTAH SKIN

Are you ready to pack your bags girlfriend and get your passport? Because it’s time to jet set out the country!

First off, give yourself an ENTIRE round of applause and pat on the back while we throw some virtual confetti your way, because this is by no means a

small accomplishment to apply for your passport.

So, Diva what do you need to do to obtain it?

Check out our quick list below. For more details visit the U.S. Department of State — Bureau of Consular Affairs for step-bystep instructions

Selfies — TRAVEL —

Mardi Gras FLASHBACK: THETHROUGH YEARS

OUR FAVORITE NEW ORLEANS RESTAURANTS

If there’s Black girl magic to be found anywhere, it’s definitely in New Orleans.

From fashion to music to culture, NOLA has always been a magnet for Black excellence in every facet of life. It’s one of our all-time favorite destinations

here at Travel Divas.

But nothing, and we mean nothing except our mama’s cooking beats the food in New Orleans.

That’s why we’ve compiled a quick list of Black-owned restaurants you don’t want

to miss. (There are too many good ones to list ‘em all).

At these establishments, you’ll find extra helpings of excellence, culture and of course, outrageously delicious food. Grab a friend and bring your appetite!

1

TRAVEL Trivia

Bon voyage, ladies! Another Travel Divas crew is ready to set it off. �� Just catching our breath from running these trips. Roxie here and I have some tea for you!

It is Travel Trivia time. Answer all six questions below by posting

your answers in the Travel Divas®️ — Travel + Lifestyle Facebook Group.

The first person to identify all the correct answers will win a mystery surprise from our Travel Divas Store. Ciao, baby! CLICK

2

3

Which destination is Travel Divas traveling to in 2023 that doesn’t require a passport?

What islands are located 4° and 10° south of the equator?

I am known as the “Rose Red City.” Who am I?

4

5

Portuguese is the official language. What destination are we going to in 2024?

The tallest building in the world is located here. Where is it?

6

Diva, I am hot. I am cold. Take me there. Where are we going?

BEST COUNTRIES TO COMBINE

FOR AN ULTIMATE VACATION

Oh, you fancy, huh? Listen, sometimes white sand beaches and lush tropical rainforests are exactly what you need to recharge your Black girl magic meter. But other times you need something more.

Something a lil’ extravagant. Something fancy. Something bougie. That’s exactly why we’ve planned and recommended the two best countries combined for an ultimate vacation. Screaming vacay vibes!

+ SINGAPORE & MALAYSIA

In October 2024, we'll hit up not 1, but 2 of Asia’s hottest vacation spots! See how the movie, “Crazy Rich Asians”, comes alive in one of the world’s richest, most luxurious countries: Singapore. Then hop over to Malaysia and dine in the world-famous revolving restaurant at KL Tower.

+ FLORENCE & TUSCANY

You won’t BELIEVE all the ways you’ll be spoiled – we’re talking wine country tours, gelato classes and so much more! Luxury is your middle name, diva.

CATCH THIS TEA!

WHAT IS GLOBAL ENTRY

AND WHY DO YOU NEED IT?

Braids done. Sweats on. Shades on. Global Entry on. TSA on. Byeeeee. ��

Is that you, diva? If not check out our highlights for the Global Entry Program.

+ WHAT IS GLOBAL ENTRY?

Global Entry is essentially a way to not stand in the customs line when coming back into the U.S. Travelers who have gone through the Global Entry application and screening process are able to enter the U.S. after a quick check-in at an electronic kiosk. There are no customs lines, and no paperwork (it's an environmentally-friendly system!), and you end up reunited with your luggage and family faster as a result of Global Entry.

+ BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS

Your time is valuable. As a pre-screened Global Entry member, you arrive in the United States, check in at the Global Entry kiosk and you're on your way. So what are you waiting for?

+ HOW TO GET GLOBAL ENTRY

The first step is to create a Trusted Traveler Programs account on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website. Once you're logged in, fill out the Global Entry application and pay the associated fee. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will review your application and conduct a background check once you've submitted it, and if it's conditionally approved, you'll make an in-person interview appointment at a U.S. Global Entry Enrollment Center.

WHY JOIN?

• No processing lines

No paperwork

Access to expedited entry benefits in other countries • Available at major U.S. airports • Reduced wait times • TSA PreCheck® Eligibility

BLACK HISTO

Black History Month has to be more than a running list of “Did you know?” fun facts. There is no human history without Black history.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. didn’t live his life in black and white. His life was lived in color.

For Black History Month, we choose to celebrate figures— both current and historical— who have inspired us in some significant way.

It’s our small way of shining a light on those who made us who we are and paying homage to both the widely known and smaller-profile giants of Black history. Take a trip down memory lane with us on some of our past jaunts to honor and engage with Black history.

+ BESSIE COLEMAN

Coleman is is the first African-American woman and first Native American to hold a pilot license. She received her international pilot's license on June 15, 1921, from the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. Coleman's dream was to own a plane and to open her own flight school.

RY Tribute

+ VALERIE THOMAS

Seen any 3D movies lately? A black woman: Valerie Thomas, physicist, inventor, and NASA data analyst. When she wasn’t busy managing the Landsat program, which has produced millions of images of Earth, she was inventing the technology which went on to become the premise for more advanced TV screens and modern 3D technology. In 1980, Thomas patented her illusion transmitter.

TAKE A WINTER VACATION

Oooh! Do you feel that bit of chill from the winter creeping into your bones? Now, we sure love a winter wonderland situation, but there’s nothing like feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin…even in the dead of winter. The winter months can be long, dark and cold. Get cozy in St. Thomas with great weather, delicious food and a wealth of fun.

If you are tired of being stuck in the house, St. Thomas has all the bells and whistles to have a luxuriously getaway at the Ritz Carlton. Plus, no passport required! Spread your Black Girl Magic here.

ST. THOMAS

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Things to Do

IN THAILAND, DUBAI AND MEXICO

Look, laying up at home and having a break is the ultimate recharge, but even Divas need a little excitement! If you’re down for a bit of adventure, take a breathtaking, unforgettable excursion in Thailand, Dubai or Mexico you won’t want to miss. Things to do? We got you, diva!

‘Cause you didn’t come all the way to travel internationally and stay inside, right?

+ PHI PHI ISLANDS ADVENTURE DAY TRIP

The Phi Phi archipelago is a mustvisit while in Phuket, and this speedboat trip whisks you around the islands in one day. Swim over the coral reefs of Pileh Lagoon, have lunch at Phi Phi Leh, snorkel at Bamboo Island, and visit Monkey Beach and Maya Bay, immortalized in "The Beach."

+ FLYING DRESS PHOTOSHOOT IN DUBAI

Dubai's picture-perfect scenery makes for the ideal setting for breathtaking photographs where you play a starring role. You can create the modeling experience of your dreams by dressing in the haute couture of your choice.

Enjoy private transportation to the desert and the luxury photo shoot with long trail flying dresses.

+ HALF-DAY ATV OUTDOOR EXPERIENCE

Get your adrenaline pumping on this half-day adventure packed with exciting activities.

Offroad driving, cave rappelling, and ziplining. Hit the dirt roads on the best vehicle made for this purpose.

SUPER BOWL LVII

There’s nothing like throwing on our cutest team gear and packing up the truck for a tailgate or plopping down in front of the TV with some snacks. You see, the thing about being Divas is that we’re multidimensional.

We can pop champagne on a yacht in the Mediterranean one day and turn to ESPN to watch our team take the W the next.

While there’s nothing like taking off to a foreign country, laying up in the lap of luxury and creating lifelong friendships as you collect passport stamps, football is a real close second!

Now, the game is fun enough. But the food? Between wings, dips, sliders and more, Sunday night football is almost as good as Sunday dinner. And you know a Diva’s gotta eat!

Let’s not even get into the eye candy that’s on the field

or the arguments between family and friends on who’s going to win.

Whether you’re a huge football fan or this is your first time thinking about it, trust us, you’re not gonna wanna miss Super Bowl LVII. Especially since it’ll culminate with a half-time show from Miss Black Girl Magic herself, Rihanna! Let’s just hope she drops the new album, too.

The game will kick off on Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

Click here to browse our collection of Black girl magic getaways.

Galentine's Plans

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and no matter if you are single or happily in love, we should always take some time to appreciate the love of our friends.

If there’s one thing a Diva does, it’s ensuring she has a good time no matter what the occasion.

On February 13th, also known as Galentine’s Day, girlfriends all over the world dress up in red and pink, wear fabulous heels, dine on amazing food, and drink fabulous wine!

We have curated a list of Galentine’s Day fun for you. Galentine’s traditions to inspire you to celebrate the favorite ladies in your life. Better yet, check out our inaugural girlfriend's getaway in 2024.

5Things

EVERY TRAVEL DIVA SHOULD HAVE

+ THE ULTIMATE CHAI LOVER'S GIFT SET

THE CHAI BOX TORY BURCH

We all know that chai is the ultimate cozy and delicious drink for the holiday season. Your sisters deserve some too, and this set of four hand-blended teas comes with plenty to share.

It’s no secret – we know there’s no way a trip to the mall could turn up all the items you need – especially ones that are up to your standards. So, we set out on a little mission of our own to find the ultimate items every diva who is a traveler need. And when we say we found some fire stuff, we mean it! Let’s take a look at what we’ve got: There’s something about a classic, elegant purse. Everyone needs one…at home and on the road.

ELEANOR PURSE

+ WATERPROOF TRENCH COAT

WANTDO

No matter the weather, you want your style to be on point when you’re out and about. We’re in love with the red, but we bet you and the lucky one you’re buying this for could rock any color.

+ 62"

PHONE TRIPOD ACCESSORY KIT

Traveling solo is amazing…until you need a photographer to get that Instaworthy shot. With this tripod and accessory kit, you can be your own photographer anywhere, anytime.

+ MOISSANITE DIAMOND STUD EARRINGS

Now, what outfit is complete with the ear bling? Whether you’re hitting up the holiday party or running around town, these earrings are the perfect way to finish off your look.

Who said tight wallets have to mean wack vacations? Not us. Bake this moment into your travel budget, and if you’re feeling extra generous with yourself, follow these tips for your Travel Divas Getaway.

You see, the luxe life is available no matter what your budget level. Sure, 2022 might not be your time to live like Rihanna in the south of France, but that doesn’t mean you can’t

enjoy some magical moments while preserving your hard-earned coin.

We get it – you’re an all-around boss. And that means making the most of your money. And here at Travel Divas, we’re all about that too. That’s why we put together a list of balling-on-a-budget tips so you can still travel like a diva, save your coin, and have a dope vacation...with us of course!

$HOW TO SAVE FOR TRIPS FINANCES & BUDGETS FOR TRAVELERS

Have a separate bank account for your travel savings

Have a certain amount that goes into a separate bank account that you don’t touch

Collect Avios points

Do both bougie and budget

Download the Tiqets app:

The Tiqets app is a free app that’s great for discounted tours and entry to many popular tourist sites.

Start tracking your spending

Make extra money on the side

Start a Vacation Savings Fund

We’ve got vacation options to choose from no matter the time of year, so save your coin, diva.

Roommate Matching PROGRAM

Whether you dream of Dubai, wish for clear waters in Turks & Caicos or crave luxury and high tea in London, you can still cross off destinations from your bucket list while making new friends with our “roommate match” option. Ready to submerge yourself in the excitement of a Travel Divas experience BUT solo travel really isn’t your thing? Or

maybe you’re ready to ball on a budget and having a roommate is the perfect way to book your dream trip (without breaking the bank)?

Whatever the scenario, we got you covered with our FREE Roommate Matching Program.

Reality is … many of our Divas have made lifelong friendships with new, like-minded women because they took a chance

on themselves and didn’t wait to travel because their friends couldn’t.

You see, we do all the work, research, booking and taking care of you so you can fly solo with confidence. After all, girlfriend, your dreams can’t wait for anyone!

Catch our “hanging with your girlfriend” vibes through our Roommate Matching Service

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Self-

Self-care is important for black women for a number of reasons. As black women, we are viewed as the backbone of society, the caretakers.

We are told to put everyone and everything else before ourselves

without a second thought.

Self-care is a way of saying “I matter too”. It is a way of honoring yourself and your needs.

Self-care can help to improve your physical, mental, and

IDEAS

emotional health. Self-care should be an important part of every black woman’s life.

Check out our diva list of 20 ways to practice self-care for yourself. You deserve it.

1. Wake up five minutes early and stretch or do some deep breathing exercises.

2. Make your bed as soon as you get out of it.

3. Drink a glass of water right when you wake up. Add lemon, cucumber, or mint to your water for an extra boost!

4. Take a quick 5-minute walk around your neighborhood. Or go for a 30-minute walk outside in nature. 5. Make a healthy breakfast for yourself. Something as simple as eggs & toast can make a big difference! 7. Play some of your favorite music and dance around your house for a few minutes. 8. Drink some fresh cold-pressed juice or smoothie. 9. Do a 30-minute yoga session. 10. Give yourself a 30-minute hand or foot massage with some lotion or oil. 11. Take a relaxing bath with some Epsom salts and essential oils. 12. Watch a Black sitcom or a TV show that makes you feel good while providing plenty of laughter. 13. Get your hair done at a salon or do your own hair at home. 14. Enjoy a brunch date with a friend and then plan to do another activity you both enjoy. 15. Go to your local library and check out some books on self-care or black history. 16. Attend a self-care workshop or retreat geared towards black women. 17. Give yourself an at-home facial using all-natural products. 18. Go on a solo date to your favorite restaurant or cafe and savor every bite of your meal. 19. Request PTO and plan a weekend trip or staycation to relax and recharge. 20. Take an exercise class like Zumba, kickboxing, or dance class.

Sign up to get more tips on self-care and self-love. We're your biggest cheerleaders, Sis!

EMIRATES AIRLINES

LUXURY, NO MATTER WHAT CLASS YOU’RE IN

Roxie here. So, I’m sure as lovers of luxury and fine experiences, you’ve heard all about flying Emirates Airlines.

Now, I’ve jet-setted worldwide, but there truly is no other onboard experience like Emirates. I’d even go as far as to say it’s like the Travel Divas of flying!

No matter if you’ve hit the jackpot and are flying first-class or if you’re crossing the seven seas with your girlfriends in economy, trust me when I say getting to Dubai with Emirates will be just as glamorous and fun as when you get there.

Step onboard and peek inside the experience:

• Indulge in champagne and cake and celebrate your newly minted Travel Diva status as you sip on a glass of Moet et Chandon or Rosé while you dig into a decadent chocolate cake

•  Watch the most Diva-esque flight attendants with their red and beige outfits serve you delicious, award-winning inflight meals that actually make you look forward to airplane food

• Catch up on all your favorite shows with more than 4,500 channels (yes! THAT many!) on some of the largest screens you’ll ever see in the air

•  If you’re flying first class, lay up in a private suite or lay down in a flat bed in business class

• Lounge with your fellow Divas in the Emirates airport lounges

• Rest assured you’re in safe hands with the utmost, cleanest service

Now, I don’t know about you, but this makes the long journey to sprinkle your Black girl magic in Dubai that much more magical. So, what do you do once you get there? Check out our list of Dubai trips.

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