Black In Tulum: A Woman-Founded Travel Collective of Over 20,000 Members

Nubia Younge, who describes herself as a quintessential global connector, embarked on a life-changing journey in 2016 and began documenting her adventures through a blog coined ‘Chronicles Abroad.’ Her exploration began in Thailand, but after some time, Nubia found herself in Mexico, captivated by the town of Tulum.

Reflecting on her journey, Nubia fondly recalls that Tulum chose her, rather than her actively choosing Tulum. Inspired by Nipsey Hussle’s ‘Victory Lap,’ a record highlighting Nipsey’s exploration of ancient Mayan ruins, Nubia’s curiosity was piqued, leading her to plan a visit. What was initially intended as a short stay turned into months, and eventually, years.

Mexico became Nubia’s home and, as she connected with other nomads and tourists around Mexico, she felt inspired to host a community brunch. One modest brunch gathering of 25 people has now blossomed into a thriving community of over 23,000 members. Black In Tulum, as it is now known, organizes weekly events, offers vital travel information, and provides event planning services.

Nubia says members have come up to her to say, “This is my first time out of the country and I came to ‘Black In Tulum’ because I knew that when I got to Mexico, I had people there.” She emphasizes the importance of community and believes it is important for people to see that they are not alone. And as the brand has grown, so too have their collaborations, with new venues being opened to accommodate the expanding community.

Black In Tulum represents a multifaceted experience that extends far beyond beaches and nightlife. It establishes an invaluable support system for black travelers seeking solace and connection. As remote work gains momentum and the traditional boundaries of the workplace dissolve, the concept of location independence emerges as a viable and enticing option. Furthermore, the current socio-political climate in the United States, characterized by systemic injustices and a deteriorating quality of life, propels the necessity for a sanctuary like Black In Tulum.

Black In Tulum has now evolved into Black In Travel, expanding its reach beyond a single location. Dedicated to fostering a vibrant and trustworthy travel community for black travelers around the world, Nubia plans to continue forging partnerships with local businesses in various destinations to curate safe spaces. Additionally, Nubia has crafted the ‘Novice to Nomad’ program, guiding students through coursework designed to prepare them for leaving the U.S. and embracing life abroad.

Black In Travel not only addresses the immediate needs of black travelers but also lays the groundwork for a long-term movement by reimagining the travel experience and championing the rights, voices, and aspirations of the black community.