In 2020, there was a myriad of challenges, besides the struggles of an ongoing pandemic as if that wasn’t enough. Especially in the United States of America, where police brutality and racial injustice disappointedly remained rampant, despite the health crisis. Although, as we realistically restart drawing of future travels with a better vaccine rollout plan under the new Biden/Harris administration, there are a few places worth visiting to reset your mind and body. Included in the list was Belize, Costa Rica, Haiti and Senegal. Below, find Travel Noire’s account of why Black travelers can connect with their history in Belize this year.
Belize
There’s significant Black history in Belize that often is forgotten. The Central American country has a culture rooted strongly in African tradition, primarily as a result of slavery. According to research from Hampton University, Belize has the highest percentage population of African descent of any Central American nation.
Photo by Duarte Dellarole
Drums of our Fathers in Dangriga, Belize. Photo by Duarte Dellarole
The Garifuna people of Belize are known for sticking together to resist slavery and fighting fiercely against their lands’ conversion into slave plantations. Garifuna culture is so significant that UNESCO named it a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2001. African rooted traditions are said to be better preserved in Belize than in any other part of Central America. All in all, it is a great place for Black travelers to become inspired in 2021.
Read the full list in its entirety on Travel Noire here.
