April 26th 2024.
Recently, a Black woman caught the attention of social media for the unique safety measure she took before embarking on a solo trip to Mexico. Ashanti Tuggles, a hairstylist, shared photos of her cousin's hair with an AirTag sewn into her braids, ensuring that she could be tracked during her travels.
Tuggles explained on Facebook that her cousin had decided to take a solo trip to Mexico for her 21st birthday, and Tuggles wanted to make sure she was safe. The post quickly went viral, with many applauding the idea and expressing their own concerns about safety while traveling.
Unfortunately, safety is a major concern for women, especially when traveling alone to a foreign country. While Mexico is a popular destination for solo female travelers, it can be a different experience for Black women due to fears of racism and harassment. This added layer of concern can make the thought of solo travel daunting for Black women.
But as one Instagram user pointed out when Tuggles' post was shared on The Neighborhood Talk, Black women are always at risk, no matter where they go. So it's important to take whatever precautions necessary to ensure a safe return home.
This concern for safety was heightened following the tragic death of Shanquella Robinson, a 25-year-old from North Carolina who died while on a trip to Mexico in 2022. While her companions claimed she died of alcohol poisoning, an autopsy revealed that she actually suffered a severe spinal cord injury and a broken neck. Despite the efforts of her family, no federal charges were filed, leaving them still seeking justice.
For Black women who are interested in solo travel, global traveler Latrice, who has visited 12 countries and lived in three as an expat, has some helpful tips. First, it's important to avoid letting the public or strangers know that you're traveling alone. Additionally, it's crucial not to drink too much to the point of being unaware of your surroundings. And lastly, doing research about your destination beforehand and learning some basic phrases can help you navigate the country more confidently.
In the end, it's important for all women to prioritize their safety while traveling, and to do whatever it takes to ensure a safe return home. As actress Tracee Ellis Ross shared in her new travel series on Roku Originals, exploring the world can be an amazing and fulfilling experience, but it's important to always be prepared and aware.
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