Headed Back to Martha’s Vineyard
I’m so very fortunate to have the opportunity to head back to Martha’s Vineyard to host the 3rd Annual Black On The Vineyard retreat! The Vineyard is a special location that is both near to my heart and the perfect place for black women to getaway for a couple of days. I started going to Martha’s Vineyard in 2010 and immediately fell in love with the charm, beauty and history of the island. Year after year I returned and with each visit I fell more in love with everything the Vineyard had to offer. Although I can’t exactly put into words how my love affair with MV began, I thought of my top 3 reasons why Martha’s Vineyard is my favorite vacation spot:
The Black History of Oak Bluffs
Oak Bluffs is one of the five towns on the island and holds a rich history for African Americans. This area is home to various landmarks on the African American Heritage Trail. What’s even more amazing is that the house we stay in is located right in the middle of many of the stops on the trail. Walking through the streets is like traveling in a time capsule and being transported back in history. Visiting the sites where our Ancestors worked, worshipped and relaxed is a beautiful reminder of everything we have to be grateful for in this life. Starting every retreat session with a walking tour of the area is my way of honoring the prestigious Black Americans that spent their summers on the Vineyard.
2. The Food
BACK DOOR DONUTS!!!!!!!!!! Call it a Vineyard initiation if you want but I will confidently go on record saying that you can not say you’ve been to Martha’s Vineyard until you’ve spent an evening standing on line in the back parking lot waiting for fresh baked donuts and apple fritters! They are an addictive amazing treat that will change the way you think of donuts!
If sweets aren’t your thing enjoy a lobster roll at Nancy’s or some fresh oysters at The Oyster Bar. The absolute best place on the island for a burger is the Black owned burger bar Fat Ronnie’s. There are at least ten other places for amazing food but I will save those details for my attendees!
3. The Island Vibes
Martha’s Vineyard is the kind of place where the problems of the world don’t exist. I’m not the first person to say it, but you can literally feel the stress melt off you as the ferry pulls up to the shore. There is something about the island breeze that sweeps your worries away…even if it’s only a temporary state. The Vineyard is the perfect place to reconnect with you inner child whether its through bike riding, swimming or eating all the ice cream you can stomach! Martha’s Vineyard possesses this magic that strips away the anxieties of everyday life and reminds you what life is really supposed to be.
So those are my top 3 reasons but they aren’t my only reasons!