Hey, travel lover! Welcome to Asali Origins, where our passion for exploring the world meets a deep appreciation for Black culture. We're so glad you're here!

Our roots

My journey into the beautiful world of travel started, as so many good stories do, with the elders. As a little girl my Great Aunt Millie sparked my interest with her globe-trotting tales. I was fascinated by items from faraway places displayed in her home and the gifts she brought back. My uncle was another early inspiration, captivating me with photos of his safari tours, ski trips, and Olympic Games experiences. The worlds I discovered in books and the family encyclopedia set fueled my curiosity about other countries even more.

Our vision

Later, when I finally began my own worldwide escapades, enthusiastically collecting travel gear, I couldn't help but notice something missing. Everywhere I looked, travel products displayed landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Big Ben. And while those are magnificent, I found myself asking, "Where are our landmarks? Where's the representation for Africa, the Caribbean, or Afro-Latin America?" 

Sometimes, yeah, I'd see the Egyptian pyramids or the Sphinx, but often, the whole continent of Africa was reduced to giraffes, elephants, and lions. Beautiful, yes, but certainly not a full picture of our rich, diverse heritage and breathtaking architectural achievements. And my West Indian/Caribbean heritage – completely absent from any travel items.

I remember sharing my frustrations with a businesswoman, a sista who understood the nuances of our experiences. And her words, y'all, they hit me right in the soul: "When you don't see something, build it yourself." 

And just like that, the mission was crystal clear. Asali Origins was born.

Our mission

At Asali Origins, we aspire to bring more of our world to your world. We’re talking 365 days a year elevating and celebrating the places where Black people live, thrive, and build incredible cultures across the entire diaspora.

Come journey with us. Let's explore, let's learn, and let's proudly celebrate the beauty and significance of these often-overlooked contributions to the world of travel. 

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Favorite Travel Resources

Asali Traveler Shop: A curated collection of excursions from a Viator partner. Level up your vacation with organized tours. Book now.