Compass
As Donald Trump’s re-election prompts deep reflection among many Black Americans. A growing number are exploring life outside the U.S. Over the past few weeks, friends and family have reached out, expressing a genuine interest in relocation. As co-founders of World Footprints, Ian and I have spent decades traveling the world, sharing stories of culturally rich destinations that offer beauty and belonging. For those preparing to take this leap, we’ve created a list of seven welcoming, safe countries for Black Americans, including tips on residency and local considerations to make the transition easier.
Historic Brattonsville in South Carolina’s Olde English District is a little-known historic village with a big story. Its history began in the 1760s when three Bratton brothers settled here. The Brattons became wealthy slave owners. The village features over 30 structures, an 800 acre plantation, and a Revolutionary War battlefield site.
A picturesque four-season getaway, Manchester, Vermont (pop 4,500) typifies classic Vermont small-town charm. It possesses an edge that moves it beyond historic architecture in a beautiful mountain setting. All within close proximity, there’s way more to do here than meets the eye. You'll find luxe resort options, fine and healthy dining, wellness offerings, world-class art, beguiling American history, and a new way to interpret off-roading.
The re-election of Donald Trump could bring significant changes to travel trends, both domestically and internationally. With political divides shaping travel behavior, potential policy shifts, and evolving international perceptions, U.S. travelers may encounter new dynamics under a second Trump administration. Here’s how his second term could influence American travel at home and abroad.
Vivian Lee Battle Sims may not be a widely known name, but her impact on Pulaski, Tennessee, is profound. At 96, this retired educator and community activist has redefined the legacy of a town once infamous as the birthplace of the Ku Klux Klan. Through her vision and personal funds, Sims commissioned the Resurrection of Valor, a statue honoring the United States Colored Troops (USCT) who fought for the Union during the Civil War.
This time last year, we were wandering Rome’s winding cobblestone streets, navigating narrow alleys and bustling piazzas, searching for a glimpse of the iconic Trevi Fountain.
‘Philotimo’ dates back millennia, and although can’t be translated into a single word in the English language to this day, is packed with meaning, often illustrated through honourable, respectful and humble acts towards others, no matter who they are, or where they come from.
The air is filled with swirling snow as my Nordic ski instructor, a slender mature woman named Debra, shows me how to stay upright on skis that are much skinnier than the regular downhill skis I’ve tried before. Before me, snow-cloaked pine trees and a groomed trail shimmer under the backdrop of the towering mountains of Big White Ski Resort in Kelowna, British Columbia.
Deep in Green Spain, on a quiet, residential street in Palas de Rei, a narrow stone block stands tall, engraved with a blue square and yellow seashell — the telltale sign of Spain’s Camino de Santiago. Here, the well-trafficked pilgrimage route intersects with a stone farmhouse, robust herb garden, and outdoor tienda. These components form the Milhulloa Coop, where pilgrims can purchase — or make — herb-based toiletries, cosmetics, and even a drink, all without veering off-course.
In Orlando’s Mills 50 neighborhood, Filipino restaurant Kaya — which means “capable” — rarely uses an ingredient just once. The bar repurposes the fatty excess of pork belly to fat wash bourbon for cocktails, while the kitchen utilizes vegetable trimmings for vinegars. It’s this resourcefulness that earned Kaya one of Florida’s first-ever Michelin Green Stars this spring, alongside Miami's Los Félix and Krüs Kitchen.
Somewhat of an enigma, George Eastman moved the photography world ahead with amazing inventions. He was a philanthropist, second only to Rockefeller and Carnegie. Yet, the artifacts in his museum include the mounted head of an elephant he traveled to Africa to kill. Even his death by suicide seems odd—although his death certificate adds additional information. He left a note saying, “To my friends, my work is done—Why wait?”
It is a bright spring day in the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires. The usual mix of cars, buses, taxis, and delivery vans comprise the heavy traffic. Just people going about their business along Avenida Bullrich. On one side of the road, elegant apartment buildings crowd behind the elevated train tracks. On the other side, behind the railings, a different story emerges. Here, soaring minarets dominate the skyline, and open space and silence abound.
