Traveling as a Black person comes with unique experiences—some destinations feel welcoming and inclusive, while others present challenges like microaggressions, stares, or outright discrimination. Based on my own travels, I’ve rated these countries based on how Black-friendly they are, considering factors like safety, inclusivity, and local attitu
1. Thailand – A Welcoming Destination
Rating: 9/10
Thailand is one of the most welcoming places I’ve traveled to as a Black traveler. The locals are generally friendly, and I never felt out of place. The country thrives on tourism, so people are used to seeing diverse visitors. I got a few curious stares, but they were more out of fascination than hostility.
Pros:
✔️ Extremely welcoming locals
✔️ Safe for solo Black travelers
✔️ Affordable and accessible beauty/haircare options in major cities
✔️ Vibrant expat and digital nomad community, including Black travelers
Cons:
❌ Some occasional stares, but nothing hostile
❌ Limited Black haircare options in smaller towns
Would I return? Absolutely! Thailand is a great place for Black travelers, whether you’re visiting for a short trip or planning an extended stay.
2. France – A Tale of Two Experiences
Rating: 7/10
France is a mixed bag for Black travelers. While Nice and Provence were friendly and welcoming, Paris was an entirely different experience. In the South of France, I encountered warmth and hospitality, whereas in Paris, racism was more overt, from rude service to microaggressions.
Pros:
✔️ Nice and Provence are friendly and open to diversity
✔️ A large Black population, especially in Paris, so you won’t feel alone
✔️ Plenty of Black-owned businesses and cultural events in major cities
Cons:
❌ Paris can be overtly racist, especially in customer service and nightlife
❌ Microaggressions and stares are common in some areas
Would I return? I’d happily visit Nice and Provence again, but I’d be cautious in Paris.
3. Italy – City-Dependent Experience
Rating: 6.5/10
Italy, like France, varies by location. Milan felt unwelcoming, with an air of elitism and instances of racism. However, places like Positano, Venice, and Capri felt much safer and more open to Black travelers, especially Black women. The farther south you go, the more welcoming it feels.
Pros:
✔️ Positano, Venice, and Capri are safer for Black women
✔️ Italian culture is warm and friendly in tourist-friendly areas
✔️ Great fashion, food, and cultural experiences
Cons:
❌ Milan felt elitist and unwelcoming
❌ Some stares and occasional microaggressions
Would I return? Yes, but I’d stick to the more Black-friendly areas like the Amalfi Coast and Venice.
4. Georgia – Proceed with Caution
Rating: 5/10
Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state) isn’t the most Black-friendly destination. While some locals are hospitable, Black travelers may experience stares, curiosity, and in some cases, outright discrimination. It’s still a developing tourist destination, and diversity is limited.
Pros:
✔️ Affordable cost of travel
✔️ Beautiful landscapes and historical sites
Cons:
❌ Stares and curiosity, especially in rural areas
❌ Limited diversity, which can feel isolating
❌ Language barriers may make things harder for Black travelers
Would I return? Probably not—it’s not outright dangerous, but the lack of diversity and occasional racism made it less enjoyable.
5. Poland – Not Ideal for Black Travelers
Rating: 3/10
Poland was the least Black-friendly country I’ve visited. While there were no outright physical dangers, the stares, microaggressions, and lack of diversity made it an uncomfortable experience. Certain cities might be more open-minded, but overall, it’s not a destination I’d highly recommend for Black travelers.
Pros:
✔️ Interesting history and architecture
✔️ Affordable travel costs
Cons:
❌ Uncomfortable stares and microaggressions
❌ Limited diversity
❌ Racism can be more overt in certain areas
Would I return? No, Poland wasn’t a comfortable experience as a Black traveler.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as a Black person means navigating different cultural attitudes, some more welcoming than others. Based on my experiences, Thailand is the most Black-friendly destination, while Poland ranks the lowest. France and Italy are city-dependent, meaning some areas feel great, while others can be unwelcoming. Georgia falls in between, offering beauty but lacking diversity.
Tips for Black Travelers:
✅ Research Black travel communities for destination-specific advice
✅ Join online groups like “Black in [Country]” to connect with expats and travelers
✅ Stick to cities and regions known for diversity and inclusivity
✅ Always trust your gut—if a place doesn’t feel safe, leave
Where have you traveled as a Black traveler? Would you agree with these rankings? Let’s discuss!
