Black travelers, download these apps before venturing abroad
To have peace of mind while exploring abroad is a top priority for Black travelers. Past generations saw the creation of The Green Book, created during the Jim Crow era, to maneuver through the states safely. Now, with the progression of technology, there’s an app for that.
This year’s Black Travel Expo presented some of the most trusted apps and websites that provide vital information regarding safety, attractions, and connections for Black travelers. Travel Weekly shared an overview of the four standouts.
XPat App
The XPat App is one of the largest online communities of Black expats, casual travelers and students studying abroad. Shar Wynter, CEO of the XPat App, shared the importance of the digital connection.
“’Where can we find each other?’ ‘What are the best spots to eat in?’ ‘The best clubs to go to?’ ‘How do I find a dentist, a barber or a hair stylist?’ These are the things that, once you’re living in a country, you really need access to someone reputable and credible,” Wynter said.
In a past interview with Travel Noire, the Washington, D.C. native stated that she created the app in 2021 after traveling abroad and realizing she had trouble finding places where she could “exist and be herself.”
Green Book Global
Green Book Global is a modern digital take on the pioneering “The Negro Motorist Green Book.”
CEO and founder Lawrence Phillips created an app and website where Black travelers can “review and rate destinations based on experiences they’ve had there.” Like the original Green Book, this helps inform other Black travelers interested in visiting these destinations.
“But most importantly, [it’s about] what it’s like traveling while Black there,” Phillips added. “We’re not discouraging or encouraging you to go to a place. We want to give you the information so you can make a well-informed decision if you want to go or not.”
Official Black Wall Street
The Official Black Wall Street app and website help connect travelers with Black-owned businesses they should patronize.
Mandy Bowman created the app to make it easier to keep the circulation of Black dollars flowing, even when traveling abroad.
“Our users get notifications of nearby businesses when they are traveling, and it adds an additional level of comfort and safety to know that there are locations where you can find people who look like you or can be helpful allies,” Bowman said.
ZaNiheza
As a native of Rwanda, Charles Shima wanted to create a way for travelers to find native cultural activities when they visited Africa. His goal was to “dispel the often negative portrayal of Africa as a continent of war, famine, poverty and disease.” He wanted to show travelers the true beauty of the continent.
His app and website ZaNiheza helps travelers of all backgrounds find local Black-owned tour operators and activity providers in African countries that go beyond the wildlife safari experience. With the app’s assistance, travelers can book tours and activities in popular destinations like Tanzania, South Africa, Rwanda, Mauritania and Nigeria.
“ZaNiheza is bringing those local tour companies online and giving them the technology they need and the marketing and visibility they need.” Shima said. “I’m focusing on finding those authentic, untouched [tours]. Nobody else is doing this, and it’s such an untapped part of the market.”
Martie Bowser is a journalist and public relations professional in Charlotte, NC. She enjoys amplifying the voices of POC and women that fill a void within their community. Her favorite things to cover include “person of interest” pieces, small business highlights, pop culture commentary, entertainment features, and everything about Beyoncé. Her bylines can be found in Blavity, Black Excellence, Signature Bride, Black Wall Street Times, and HipHop Weekly. Martie can be reached via email at martiebowser@detourxp.com.