The Red Journal | Nov/Dec 2022

THE RED JOURNAL

2022 HOLIDAY EDITION

FROM THE CEO

From

one Travel Diva to another, Happy Holidays!

I hope this message finds you well as you’re wrapping up your year and catching up with friends and fam.

Even though I’m pumped to see what 2023 has in store for me and all the Travel Divas, I’m so thankful for all the wonderful experiences 2022 brought my way. And I’m especially grateful that I got to travel with so many of you this past year.

Although I’ve been in the travel game for over 15 years, seeing the smiles on your faces while exploring new destinations, learning about different cultures, and making new friends never gets old.

This year, we did that in a MAJOR way with so many trips and Travel Divas served. We were even included on the Inc. 5000 2022 list, and I’m so grateful that the waves we’re making in the travel industry are extending into the whole business world.

Now, it wouldn’t have been possible without you! All the reviews you post about Travel Divas, the times you send your loved ones our way, and your continued support have helped us to grow, and the entire team is beyond thankful.

Between all the parties, gift exchanges, and Hallmark movies, we hope you give yourself the gift of self-care. You deserve it.

And your Travel Divas fam will be waiting for you in the new year with plenty more trips and adventures!

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season,

Shanterria

OUR NEW VIP TRAVEL PROGRAM

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Our VIP Travel Program rewards you for things you already do (like taking trips with us) in unique, exciting ways. And the more you travel, the better the perks get! Each tier comes with its own set of benefits. Girlfriend, participation in the VIP Travel Program is automatically triggered if you’ve booked or taken a trip in the last 12 months.

Meet your At Your Service Manager, Stephanie Harris.

Stephanie Harris considers herself a citizen of the world. As a multidestination traveler, Stephanie had developed an appreciation of multiple cultures and blended her 40-year sales and marketing experiences into massive opportunities to create luxury travel experiences. As a 15-year veteran of the cruise industry, Stephanie has extensive knowledge of brand loyalty and the cultural amenities required to solidify a strong community of travelers.

STEPHANIE HARRIS

BEYOND THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT

AMSTERDAM ADVENTURES

Amsterdam might be best known for its Red Light District, but there’s so much more to it than that! See, Amsterdam is a vibrant city, brimming with a lively culture that’s waiting for you to take it all in. On every corner, there’s something to marvel at – whether that’s incredible architecture, amazing street food, or world-famous museums. This city is a true stunner!

We love seeing the delight and surprise on our Divas’ faces when they book Amsterdam vacation packages with us. And we want you to feel the same way.

So, buckle in and find out the low-down of what’s included when we hit the “Venice of the North.”

Now, are you as excited as we are? If the answer is “YES!”, click here to book your spot today!

The RITZ-CARLTON

TURKS & CAICOS IS DIVA-APPROVED

When you decide to sprinkle your Black girl magic in the gorgeous, breathtakingly blue waters of Turks & Caicos, there’s only one place that’s fit for a Diva to rest her head:

The Ritz-Carlton, Turks & Caicos! This luxury resort is really “that girl” when it comes to opulence, abundance, and living the good life.

And that’s why it’s the top-tier choice for accommodations when you travel to this jewel-like string of tropical islands.

So if you’re ready for a Caribbean getaway that’s worth the hype, click here and don’t miss our next Turks & Caicos trip!

CLICK OR SCAN: JOIN US

TRAVEL HOT LIST

+ FRANCE

Say bonjour to the good life in France: this romantic country boasts endless luxurious and VIP experiences meant for the classiest Rich Aunties out there.

Come glam it up with us as you sip delectable French wines, sample fresh croissants, make your own eau de cologne, and frolic in the fields where Veuve Clicquot is made.

Whether Paris is the vibe or Champagne is more your prerogative, click here to find your perfect Rich Auntie adventure in France.

+ ANTIGUA

Don’t you deserve to be pampered and catered to? If you don’t love on and spoil yourself, who will? (Travel Divas, of course!)

Normalize luxury in your life by upgrading to the Chairman Over the Water Bungalow in Antigua. Oh, it’s a vibe!

TRAVEL HOT LIST

+ DUBAI

There are few places in the world that exude wealth, luxury, and abundance with such fervor that you cannot help but believe you stepped into a real-life fairytale – that is, until you pamper, indulge, and treat yourself to Dubai.

Live your best life!

+ ROME, ITALY

Home to the ancient empire, Rome is so legendary we learn about it in grade school. Now’s your chance to visit its Mediterranean atmosphere and wellpreserved architecture in real life.

Of course, we’ll be putting our Diva spin on the trip!

From a tour of the iconic Colosseum to a walking tour with a private fashion expert, wine tastings, and sightseeing, we’ll give a new meaning to the saying, “when in Rome!”

+ ST. THOMAS

Give yourself a break from hard work after Labor Day – all at the Ritz Carlton. With luxe accommodations, white sandy beaches, foot massages, and champagne on deck … what more could a hardworking Travel Diva like yourself ask for?

GIFTS FOR RICH Aunties

Ne-Yo said it best – “I love her ‘cause she got her own.” But what do you get her when her birthday or the holidays roll around?

If you have a bougie auntie in your life, a gift card to Applebee’s just isn’t gonna cut it. She treats herself to the best and you want to do the same!

But you might be stumped on what you could possibly give to the woman who has it all. Don’t worry … we’ve got you covered.

See, we’re kinda the authority on all things rich, bougie and fabulous. So here are 5 gifts for people who have everything to help you win over the rich auntie in your life.

(And if you’re the rich auntie in your fam or friend group, you can use this list to create your own wish list! You’re welcome.)

HOME HOLIDAYSfor the

Welcome home, diva.

If the call to the motherland’s been too strong to ignore, know it’s a part of what makes us as Black women so damn magical. No matter where we are, no matter how much time separates us, no matter what we do – our magic is always right at our fingertips.

If you’re ready to unleash your inner Black Panther during the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever movie premiere on November 11th, complement it with a diva-ready trip prepared for you.

FOR AN EPIC NEW YEAR’S EVE STAYCATION

Let’s be honest: As fun as New Year’s Eve parties are, they’re lowkey exhausting. Hitting the town in your heels and talking over loud music gets old really quickly.

So, if you plan on spending NYE at home or treating yourself to a staycation, we don’t blame you!

Read on for the 5 essentials you need for a great New Year’s Eve at home or on a staycation!

Is traveling more one of your New Year’s resolutions? We got you covered, sis! Click here to check out our 2023 trips.

LAST-MINUTE HOLIDAY VACATION SPOTS Top 6 Favorite

Stress of the holidays got you ready to just pack it up and head for the hills? Been there. Even if you started planning your trip late, there are plenty of fabulous destinations you can travel to this holiday season that won’t break the bank.

Here are our top 6 all-time favorite holiday vacation spots for lastminute trips!

+ MIAMI

GIRL, GET SOME SLEEP

STAY HYDRATED

— LOVE — REAL DIVAS FOOTBALL

Everyone’s on the pumpkin spice latte vibes, but here at Travel Divas we’re only thinking about 2 things: travel and football! While you’re waiting for the next big game to start, now is the time to plan your next big trip. We’ll book it all for you – and you can bet wherever you decide to go, there will be TVs in every luxurious room so you never miss a kick-off! Click here to browse our collection of Black girl magic getaways.

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS

LIKE A DIVA 2023 Cabo IN

Skip the Secret Santa party, girlfriend – for Christmas 2023, we’re trading the snow for the warm sands of Cabo!

Now, before you get too excited, Black girl magic is a requirement for this trip.

Yeah, we said it. It’s required. You see, we all have a spark as Black women. And it’s easy for everyday life to dim that light. We’re not having that!

Give yourself the gift of rejuvenation when you celebrate Christmas with us in Cabo in December 2023. Click here to book your trip now before all the reservations are sold out!

HOLIDAY glam

CAN YOU HELP A divaOUT?

We surely can. Remember this…we take care of all the details. Booking the flights, reservations, excursions, you name it. We help you find a roommate (and hopefully help you start a lifelong friendship). Plus, there are payment plans available so you can slowly but surely look forward to jetting the heck out of here without breaking the bank. See how we can be of service to you, girlfriend!

This year flew by, and it’s already Christmastime! Now at Travel Divas, you know we put a little twist on everything. And that includes Christmas tunes! We filled our playlist with soulful renditions of classics and original songs by some of the greatest artists of all time.

See which Christmas songs are our holiday playlist must-haves!

favorite HOLIDAY RECIPES STAFF

TRIP HOST APRIL NORMAN

SEAFOOD GUMBO

· 3 cups flour

· Old Bay seasoning

· Tony Saccharine

· Garlic, minced

· Onions, diced

· Bell peppers, diced

· Okra (optional): I don’t like Okra in my gumbo so I don’t use it.

· Gizzards, 4-5 packs

· Frozen chicken wings, 1 large bag or 2 small bags

· Shrimp, 2-3 lbs. raw (large)

· Mussels, 1 bag (optional)

· Crab legs, 2-3 lbs. cut up into finger-size pieces

· Craw fish, one bag pre-shelled (optional): I usually get it if I can find it. Wal-Mart carries bags of shelled crawfish.

· Shrimp broth: Take the tails or shells of shrimp and slow boil for 30 minutes. This will give you 2-3 cups of shrimp broth.

· Chicarroh sausage, 2-3 packs cut into bite-size pieces

· Andouille sausage, 2 packs cut into bite-size pieces

· Bay leaves

LATONYA CARTER MUSHROOM BROWN RICE

· 2 cups uncooked long grain rice

· 1/2 stick butter

· 1 onion, chopped

· 16 oz. chopped broccoli frozen/raw

· 1/3 cup milk

· 1 can cream of chicken soup

· 1 can cream of mushroom soup

· 1 block Velveeta cheese

· 1/2 bag mixed shredded cheese

TRIP HOST TRIP HOST

LISA BURNS

JAMAICAN EGG NOG

· Wray & Nephew White rum

· 3 medium eggs

· 1/2 cup granulated sugar

· 11/2 cups Grace Evaporated Milk (important to use Grace brand)

· 4 tablespoons white rum

· 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

· 1 tablespoon vanilla essence

BL CK FRIDAY

In the words of the queen Diva herself, Beyoncé, we don’t think you’re ready for this. You see, this right here only happens once every 365 days. The countdown for our Black Friday Sale begins. It’s something so exclusive and so dope we literally can’t offer it any other time of the year. Sign up so your glamorous, magical self can be notified, girlfriend!

Hey Diva!

1

GIRL MAGIC

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Y’all got cute to go to the living room – I’m getting cute to go to the airport. Bye! ��

It’s always “When are you getting married?” and never “I got you a Delta gift card.” ��

Me and travel go together like cornbread and collard greens ��

Another drama-free Thanksgiving out the country and out the way ��✈️

Can’t wait to be the bougie auntie who only flies in for holidays ��

Imma let winter finish, but Christmas in Cabo is looking like the move. ��

I’m drinking this pumpkin spice latte, but deep down I really want a fruity drink with a lil’ umbrella in it ��

Heard it’s snowing at home … Can’t relate. I’m in the tropics with @traveldivas ��

Bought myself another trip across the world with @ traveldivas for Christmas �� Thank you, me!

Due to getting myself a 5-star @traveldivas vacation, the rest of you will be receiving thoughts and prayers from me for Christmas

The only white I’ll be seeing this Christmas is at the @ traveldivas VIP all-white reception dinner ��

Is it just me or are they playing the Christmas music extra early this year? �� That can only mean 1 thing: time to start planning my 2023 trips!

Whew chile, Christmas vacay drained me. Time to book a @traveldivas trip to recover Lunch on a yacht on NYE? I’m down! ��

New year, new passport stamps, same magical Black girl ✨ �� Cheers to my best life!

Catching flights AND feelings this New Year! ��

Happy Anniversary , TRAVEL DIVAS!