Meet Nubia Younge | Founder & CEO of Black In Travel and Black In Tulum

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nubia Younge and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nubia, how does your business help the community?
Travel isn’t just about snapping pictures for the ’Gram, It’s about creating experiences that matter. Black In Tulum isn’t just a community; it’s a movement where BIPOC travelers feel seen, celebrated, and completely at home. I’m out here building bridges, not the kind you drive over, but the kind that connect hearts and cultures. I organize events, retreats, and experiences that bring people together, promote wellness, and support personal growth, particularly for women of color. I also collaborate with many local businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs in Tulum to keep the economy thriving. When we win, everyone wins. My mission is simple: make the world a little more inclusive, one passport stamp at a time.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What truly sets Black In Tulum apart is the community we’ve built. Our Facebook and WhatsApp chats are a vibrant, safe space where BIPOC travelers can connect prior to their trip to Tulum, share resources and give reviews post vacation. Many solo travelers connect with one another outside of the group chat and land in Mexico feeling like they belong, because of the community we’ve built. I’m beyond proud of how this idea turned into a global movement, reshaping how people of color experience the world. But let me keep it real, it wasn’t all Instagram worthy photos, tacos and margaritas. Building this brand while living abroad tested my limits. Were there cultural barriers? Yep. Financial headaches? Oh, for sure. Moments of “I’m done with this ish!” Absolutely. But my “why” was too strong to quit. Seeing the ripple effect of Black In Tulum, being the gateway for other “Black In” groups popping up worldwide, is the reminder that I needed to show me that my work matters. I’ve learned that passion and purpose are the ultimate power duo. So if you take one thing from my story, let it be this: we belong everywhere and trust me, I’m here to make sure we show up in style!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my bestie came to Tulum, you already know it’s about to be an epic week. We’d start by checking into the coziest boutique villa with all the boho vibes. For dinner? Loco Tulum, because their Mediterranean fusion game is unmatched. During the day, we’d hop on ATVs and explore the streets of Tulum like the adventurers we are, stopping for tacos at Tempura Catch or the best Thai fusion at Asian Bodega. Of course, no Tulum trip is complete without cenotes, so we’d swim at Dos Ojos and climb the Coba Ruins for the history and views. Evenings are all about Black In Tulum events for the best music, energy, and vibes on vibes. On nights when Black In Tulum isn’t turning up, we’d hit up Palma Central for salsa dancing, live music, and food trucks under the stars. Balance is key, so we’d mix in some luxurious spa days, boutique shopping, and lazy beach sessions to recharge. Oh, I would be remised not to mention: Black Card Elite—Black In Tulum’s Concierge service would handle the entire itinerary, so all we’d have to do is show up and slay!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Black In Tulum is nothing without the incredible people who breathe life into it. To every single person who’s pulled up to our events, hyped us up on social media, or shared a kind word, Thank You! You’re the real MVPs. We’re not just a community; we’re a vibe, a family, and the FIRST BIPOC collective in Mexico to celebrate culture and connection on this level. Together, we’ve built something extraordinary and you all have made this dream bigger than I ever imagined! I’ll keep showing up for you, just like you’ve shown up for me. Shoutouts to the dreamers, the doers, and everyone who believed in the magic of Black In Tulum, you’re my everything!

Website: https://www.blackintravel.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackntulum

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/blackintravel

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BlackInTulum/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/blackintravel

Other: Nubia Younge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamnubiayounge
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nubiayounge
Website: https://www.nubiayounge.com