Can't Travel Far? These Airbnbs Will Give You The Staycation You Crave
If you're a nomad who loves to travel, COVID-19 has surely thrown you for more than a loop. Either you've had to cancel trips you'd planned months ago, or you've spent hours on the phone with airlines and third-party travel sites trying to get refunds. You might have even had to re-up on the airline credits and miles to reschedule that baecation or girls' trip for next year.
Things may seem like they're going back to some semblance of normal---borders are re-opening and travel restrictions are being lifted---but some of us wanderlusters are still proceeding with caution. If you're looking for a quick change of scenery and don't plan to take any flights any time soon, here are 10 great Airbnbs that are perfect for a staycation to remember.
10. New Orleans: Vibrant Art Space
Image via Airbnb
This is a colorful, brightly lit spot that comes equipped with ample outdoor garden space for lounging, vibrant artwork in the indoor seating area, and a rainfall showerhead in the full bathroom. It's also touted as a short drive to local must-see places and has a "homey" feel.
9.East Point, GA: Grown & Sexy Tree House
Image via Airbnb
A tree house with grown-folk amenities including Wifi, a full kitchen, and garden seating? Who wouldn't love that? Vaulted ceilings and modern touches provide a nice contrast to the vibe of the outdoors. This spot even offers hot tub access and places to sit and take in the simplicity of nature.
8.Joshua Tree, California: Desert Vibes
Image via Airbnb
Three good signs of a great experience: It's managed by a superhost, has almost a perfect 5-star rating, and has multiple detailed, positive reviews. This desert retreat embodies bohemian minimalist chic and has 2 full bathrooms. Take a trip to Joshua Tree National Park for sightseeing or hiking, or simply enjoy the peace of a sunset right at home.
7.Nashville: Country Slick
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Hosted by Sonder Stays, this listing has modern and airy decor, an outdoor terrace, and a Bocce ball court. It also offers the convenience of self-check-in (so no face-to-face meetings or missed coordination). Nashville is near several black history landmarks and sites including the National Museum of African American Music.
6.Austin, Texas: Lone Star Adventure
Image via Airbnb
This home features a stone fireplace and a patio where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. You can bike and hike at nearby trails in the city. If you're looking for something other than nature to take in, explore the local black history landmarks or support black-owned restaurants and food trucks in the city center.
5.Phoenix: Global Oasis
Image via Airbnb
A private pool, ceiling-to-floor windows, and global-inspired art make this quite the top pick for Arizona. It's casual but offers a resort feel, and guests have said it's a great spot to venture out to nearby attractions like Echo Canyon Trailhead.
4.Park City, Utah: Sleek Luxury
Image via Airbnb
If you want to go full luxury, this bungalow might be the perfect fit. You can enjoy the rustic-glam decor that includes an Apple TV, a Sonos sound system, spa-like bathroom details, an open floor plan, and an outdoor deck. You can also request extras including a helicopter charter and chef services.
3.Atlanta: Barn Chic
Image via Airbnb
This listing gives new meaning to rustic living, and you might even forget you're actually staying inside a barn. There's a hot tub and fire pit, and the hosts even offer chef services by request.
2.Bentonville, Arkansas: Ozarks Beauty
Image via Airbnb
Since this home boasts amenities including a 60-inch TV, a master suite with private backyard access, and a bed that has massage features, you might never want to leave the house during your stay. But if you do decide to go outside, you can visit nearby Beaver Lake or other beautiful parts of the Ozarks, a beautiful natural treasure of mountain trails, hot springs, and rivers.
1.Tampa, Florida: Riverside Fun
Image via Airbnb
You've got a screened-in porch with a hammock where you can lay and enjoy a water view. Guests have enjoyed canoeing literally steps away from the property and if you're a fan of breweries, there are several good ones nearby. You can also check out to Busch Gardens or several local beaches (social distancing in practice, of course).
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ItGirl 100 Honors Black Women Who Create Culture & Put On For Their Cities
As they say, create the change you want to see in this world, besties. That’s why xoNecole linked up with Hyundai for the inaugural ItGirl 100 List, a celebration of 100 Genzennial women who aren’t afraid to pull up their own seats to the table. Across regions and industries, these women embody the essence of discovering self-value through purpose, honey! They're fierce, they’re ultra-creative, and we know they make their cities proud.
VIEW THE FULL ITGIRL 100 LIST HERE.
Don’t forget to also check out the ItGirl Directory, featuring 50 Black-woman-owned marketing and branding agencies, photographers and videographers, publicists, and more.
THE ITGIRL MEMO
I. An ItGirl puts on for her city and masters her self-worth through purpose.
II. An ItGirl celebrates all the things that make her unique.
III. An ItGirl empowers others to become the best versions of themselves.
IV. An ItGirl leads by example, inspiring others through her actions and integrity.
V. An ItGirl paves the way for authenticity and diversity in all aspects of life.
VI. An ItGirl uses the power of her voice to advocate for positive change in the world.
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Rihanna Talks Shedding Expectations And Finding Balance As A Mother
Since becoming a mother in 2022, Rihanna has defined parenthood by her terms and hopes to pass that sense of autonomy on to her children.
For Vogue China’s April cover story, Rihanna shared her perspective on raising her two sons with A$AP Rocky, and how she hopes to preserve her children’s uniqueness, devoid of societal expectations.
"The most beautiful thing...is that [children] come into the world with their own individuality and sincerity, without any logic or conformity,” she told the publication. “Which usually makes you feel that you must fit into a certain group."
The “Work” artist, known for her trendsetting style and captivating persona, expressed her desire to support children in fully embracing their individuality and encouraging them to be whoever they want to be. "It's really beautiful to see and I want to continue to help them navigate that and make sure that they know they can be whoever they want to be,” she says.
She continues, “They should embrace it completely, because it's beautiful, and it's unique. I love them just that way."
From shattering music charts to shaking up the beauty industry, Rihanna has forged a path that has since created the “dream” life we see today. One that she says has made her parents proud of.
“I’m living my dream,” she continued. “My parents were very proud of that because they just wanted me to be happy and successful. So, I think the key thing is to find some kind of balance. Yes, balance is important. Do this and you get the best of both worlds. You can write your own life the way you want, and it will be beautiful. Sometimes, you just need to let go of everyone’s expectations and start living your own story.”
Rihanna, who shares sons, RZA, 23 months, and Riot, 8 months, with rapper A$AP Rocky, recently shared her vision for expanding her family in the future in Interview Magazine.
When stylist Mel Ottenberg asked about the number of additional children she hoped to have, Rihanna replied, "As many as God wants me to have.”
"I don't know what God wants, but I would go for more than two. I would try for my girl,” she adds. “But of course, if it's another boy, it's another boy."
Featured image by Neil MockfordWireImage