Natalie Preddie
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TV Travel Host 📺 Travel Writer 💻 Boy Mama x 3 👦🏽Mixed Race - She/Her 💃🏽 @breakfasttv @washingtonpost @morninglive @travelleisure @globeandmail @city_tv
Articles by Natalie Preddie
Montreal Is A Black Cultural Capital — If You Know Where To Look
Every summer, the Montreal International Jazz Festival transforms downtown into a sprawling celebration of music. What many visitors miss is that much of the sound and the city around it, has been shaped and sustained by Black Montrealers. From festival programmers to chefs redefining Caribbean cuisine, Black culture isn't simply part of Montreal's story, it's still creating it.
The search for enslaved ancestors often hits a wall. Can new tools break it?
My father left Jamaica at fifteen with little more than fragments of family history: names, places, and stories that didn’t stretch far beyond the island. For years, we’ve tried to trace our lineage further back, searching for the African country our ancestors were taken from. Like many descendants of enslaved people in the Caribbean, we’ve encountered the same barrier: the records were never designed to preserve who our ancestors were. So this year, I tried.
Where Sustainability Meets Sisterhood: Inside Africa's First All-Female Safari Team - ByBlacks.com | #1 online magazine for Black Canadians
And one truth that becomes crystal clear the moment you arrive at Chobe Game Lodge: Some journeys transform not just how you see the world but how you understand what's possible within it. As I step off the solar-powered electric boat that glides silently up the Chobe River at sunset, I'm handed a can of sparkling water. "We'll use these for construction once you're finished," my guide explains with a smile. It's a small detail but it perfectly encapsulates what makes this place extraordinary.
"Beyond the Resort" is rewriting the Caribbean narrative, one story at a time
We’re thrilled to spotlight escapism contributor Natalie Preddie as she launches her new series, Beyond The Resort, that aims to provide an authentic look at the Caribbean. Read her message below. There’s a version of the Caribbean most travelers know well: infinity pools, rum punch on arrival, postcard beaches.
Expert travel guide to the best Caribbean islands Original
With yet another snowstorm keeping Toronto in a deep freeze, Canadians are once again dreaming of sun. But this winter, many are looking beyond the usual U.S. getaways. According to figures released by Statistics Canada in December, outbound visits by Canadian residents to the U.S. have slumped significantly: In the second quarter of 2025, they were down 21.6 per cent year over year. Meanwhile, visits to non-U.S. destinations rose 10.4 per cent year over year.
Expert travel guide to the best Caribbean islands Original
Caribbean islands may look interchangeable at first glance: turquoise water, warm breezes, soft sand. But each place has its own pace, personality and priorities, shaped by geography, history and culture. Choosing where to go isn’t about finding the “best” island; it’s about determining the right fit for you. Over the past five years, I’ve visited more than 16 island destinations for work and for play. Here’s what I’d recommend, depending on your travel style.
Expert travel guide to the best Caribbean islands
Caribbean islands may look interchangeable at first glance: turquoise water, warm breezes, soft sand. But each place has its own pace, personality and priorities, shaped by geography, history and culture. Choosing where to go isn’t about finding the “best” island; it’s about determining the right fit for you. Over the past five years, I’ve visited more than 16 island destinations for work and for play. Here’s what I’d recommend, depending on your travel style.
Where Sustainability Meets Sisterhood: Inside Africa's First All-Female Safari Team - ByBlacks.com | #1 online magazine for Black Canadians
And one truth that becomes crystal clear the moment you arrive at Chobe Game Lodge: Some journeys transform not just how you see the world but how you understand what's possible within it. As I step off the solar-powered electric boat that glides silently up the Chobe River at sunset, I'm handed a can of sparkling water. "We'll use these for construction once you're finished," my guide explains with a smile. It's a small detail, but it perfectly encapsulates what makes this place extraordinary.
6 Black-Owned Caribbean Resorts to Support This Winter
Tourism dollars flowing to Black-owned establishments create jobs, strengthen local economies and build generational wealth within communities. For Jamaica in particular, as the island recovers from Hurricane Melissa, tourism remains vital to economic recovery and growth, making your visit a meaningful contribution to the island's resilience – but ONLY when they're ready to host us.
A Lodge in Uganda Just Reopened With 10 Beautiful Suites and Unparalleled Access to Gorilla Trekking
1 hour ago Ethiopia's long-dormant volcano, Hayli Gubbi, has erupted again after nearly 10,000 years. Located in the Erta Ale Range of the Danakil area , the volcano's plume has reached an altitude of 20,000 feet, as monitoring stations in the nation and across Oman keep a watch on the situation. The eruption …
A Lodge in Uganda Just Reopened With 10 Beautiful Suites and Unparalleled Access to Gorilla Trekking Original
Scenic view of the guest lodges at the Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda. Credit: Willem van den Heever/Abercrombie & Kent Gorilla Forest Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary The lodge's design seamlessly integrates with Bwindi's landscape through banana leaf-woven walls and wooden structures that honor the park's heritage. All ten guest rooms feature identical layouts in earthy shades that prioritize comfort after long trekking days, complemented by mountain views.
ByBlacks.com | #1 online magazine for Black Canadians
But what started as curiosity has evolved into an essential part of my travel ritual, one that has enriched my journeys in ways I never expected. Cultural Connection Beyond the Guidebook There's something magical about learning to prepare a dish the way a family has for generations. In Italy, I made linguini, tiramisu and ravioli from scratch, creating a traditional four-course meal: The simplicity of fresh ingredients speaks volumes when treated with respect.
Review: Secrets Baby Beach Aruba
In some crowded places, one can still find a particular kind of solitude. I discovered it at the new Secrets Baby Beach Aruba, where I spent an entire morning wandering through perfectly landscaped gardens and by sparkling pools, all the while convinced that I had the 304-suite property to myself. It wasn't until dinner that I noticed my fellow travelers — the dining room was suddenly full of faces I'd somehow never seen.
But over the years, I've discovered that Black community exists almost everywhere if you know where to look and how to connect. The key is preparation, intentionality and embracing the power of community networks that truly span the globe. Connect Before You Go The foundation of finding Black community while travelling starts before you board your flight. Social media and dedicated travel groups have revolutionized how we connect with like-minded travellers and locals at our destinations.
Cathay Pacific Business Class: Elegance in the Air
Flying business class often comes with a certain level of expectation: spacious seats, quality amenities, elevated dining, and attentive service. On our recent Cathay Pacific journey from Toronto to Hong Kong, those expectations were met with grace, and in many ways, exceeded. It is undeniable that Cathay Pacific Business Class has an undeniable air of elegance that sets it apart. From airport lounge to airport lounge, the airline delivers a seamless sense of luxury.
Beaches Resorts: Where All Inclusive Actually Means Including Everyone
But after experiencing what Beaches delivers, it's clear why this investment pays off in ways that budget resorts simply can't match. Most resorts love the ‘all-inclusive’ label, but they often hit you with upgrade fees at every turn. Want decent wine? That's extra. Quality dining? You'll need to pay for the premium restaurants. Tips at every turn? Well, that's on you, too. Beaches does away with these entirely. Quality wine, spirits and beer flow freely, no upgrade fees required.
EVA Air Royal Laurel Class: A Seamless Journey from Taipei to Toronto
For most travelers, long-haul flights are simply something to endure, a necessary step between the excitement of departure and the relief of arrival. But every now and then, an airline transforms the journey into an experience. EVA Air’s Royal Laurel Class, flying from Taipei to Toronto, was exactly that. From chic designer touches to a wine list worthy of a fine restaurant, every element felt carefully considered, executed with precision, and infused with warmth.
A traveler's guide to the coastlines, culture, and charm of Canada Original
Canada's vast expanse offers families an unparalleled playground where ancient history meets modern adventure, wilderness meets cosmopolitan culture, and every province holds unique treasures waiting to be discovered. From coast to coast, this remarkable country provides experiences that ignite children's imaginations while creating lasting memories for the entire family. 1.
The Must Have Travel Card for Your Next Girls Trip
In partnership with EQ Bank Picture this: You’re standing inside the elegant boutique of Chanel on 31 Rue Cambon in Paris, eyeing the Petit sac Chanel 25 handbag you’ve been dreaming about since you booked this trip. The sales associate quotes you €5,800 (≈$9,280 CAD), and instead of mentally bracing for that figure to jump once additional foreign transaction fees are added, you simply tap your card and walk out. Revolutionary, right?
Canadians Are Rethinking U.S. Travel Amid Politics, Tariffs, and Border Scrutiny
The once-bustling border crossings between Canada and the United States have seen a slowdown in recent months, as Canadians are increasingly opting to stay home or explore alternative destinations. Growing unease about America's political climate, the rise of invasive border searches, and the weak CAD dollar have all contributed to this growing trend.
Princess Cruises Unveils 2026-2027 Southeast Asia Season Original
Princess Cruises has opened bookings for its 2026-2027 Southeast Asia season. Diamond Princess will be sailing in the region, offering departures from Singapore between November 2026 and March 2027. The 2,670-guest, Japanese-built ship will make 11 total voyages that include stops in 28 destinations in eight countries. Guests will also have an opportunity to visit 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Singapore Botanical Gardens and The Historic Monuments of Ancient Nata.
Once Excluded From Beaches, This Is How L.A.’s Black Surf Community Is Reclaiming the Waves Original
The sun setting over the Venice Beach boardwalk . Photo: Joecho-16/Getty Images One visit to the Venice Beach boardwalk and it's easy to understand the appeal of the Los Angeles coastline. The Pacific Ocean sparkles in the sunshine along stretches of white sand before dazzling oranges, reds, and pinks paint magical sunsets. Here, one can indulge in coastal bicycle rides, beach yoga, and sea moss-infused smoothies. Another big draw to Los Angeles is the booming surf culture.
CHEERS TO THAT
AS I SIPPED a crisp Chilean Sauvignon Blanc, I turned to sommelier Beverly Crandon and asked, “What would you pair with this?” She paused and answered, “Bake dumplings and callaloo,” referring to two Caribbean staples. Although both Crandon and I grew up in Toronto, our parents immigrated from Guyana and Jamaica, respectively. We clinked our glasses at the thought of drinking these wines with the food of our families.
Grenada's Underwater Sculpture Garden Is More Than a Photo-op - It Tells the Nation's Story Original
The sunlight fractures through warm, crystal-clear waters, illuminating the large stone sculpture of a female figure proudly holding a nutmeg above her crowned head. Fish dart all around me as I kick my fins and circle the sculpture, with flashes of color highlighting the magnificent portrait of local folklore. Her hair, although also made of stone, seems to dance and truly takes my breath away. (Well ...
5 Caribbean Islands Perfect for a Warm-weather Getaway
Tranquil beauty, stunning blue waters, delectable island cuisine, stretches of glistening white sand, and lots of sunshine: The Caribbean is home to a handful of vastly beautiful and distinct islands that bring waves of sun-searching travelers from near and far season after season. But while many island travelers think of the Caribbean's individual islands as one homogeneous holiday destination, each island is quite different.
Finding Black Joy in the Deep South
When my father was an eight-year-old in Jamaica, my grandmother opened the newspaper one day to images of children being attacked by dogs and sprayed by firehoses in Kelly Ingram Park during the now famous Children’s Crusade of 1963 in Birmingham, Ala. Under the direction of Southern civil rights leaders, more than 5,000 Black children marched for racial equality in one of the most successful peaceful protests in history.
20 Hotel Pools with the Most Incredible Views
The perfect pool can elevate an already exceptional property. Location, landscaping and, most importantly, unparalleled views create some of the world’s most magnificent poolside experiences. From the U.S. to France to South Africa, these are some of the best hotel pools with views around the world, the perfect destinations to inspire your next getaway. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Monday - February 19, 2024 - Cityline
Hosted by Tracy Moore. It’s all about family with family fun time, family vacation and family feasts! Starting with Chef Chuck Hughes sharing a chicken stew recipe inspired by his grandmother. Then, Travel Expert Natalie Preddie has tips for packing for a cruise vacation, while Julia Grieve takes us back in time to a pre-internet era for some fun ideas for family time that don’t require a Wi-Fi password; plus, Dr. Joey Shulman discusses the healthy benefits of collagen.
The Last U.S. Slave Ship Arrived in Alabama 143 Years Ago — This New Museum Honors the 110 People on Board
The legend of The Clotilda, the last-known U.S. slave ship, shaped Africatown long before “Clotilda: The Exhibition” opened in Mobile, Alabama’s Africatown Heritage House this past summer. From Zora Neale Hurston’s “Barracoon: The Story of The Last Black Cargo,” which is the biography of a Clotilda survivor, to Bob Marley’s song "Buffalo Soldier," lore of the last 110 African slaves on board has haunted Mobile, Alabama, since the ship’s arrival 143 years ago.
The Last U.S. Slave Ship Arrived in Alabama 143 Years Ago - This New Museum Honors the 110 People on Board
The Clotilda, the last known U.S. slave ship, arrived in Mobile, Alabama, in 1860 with 110 enslaved people. Travel journalist Natalie Preddie visits and reports on the opening of "Clotilda: The Exhibition" at the Africatown Heritage House. The legend of The Clotilda, the last-known U.S. slave ship, shaped Africatown long before “Clotilda: The Exhibition” opened in Mobile, Alabama’s Africatown Heritage House this past summer.
6 parent-tested tips for flying with a baby
A parent of three reveals her tricks of the trade. By Natalie PreddieOct 5, 2023 • 4 minutes read Image: tatyana_tomsickova/Getty Images As soon as my three children were able to fly, I strapped them into a baby carrier and hopped on a plane. From our home-base in Toronto, we started small, opting for short flights to nearby provinces to test things out. As young babies, they were a dream. They slept in baby carriers attached to me; I breastfed whenever they were hungry.
Dubai Has Strict Rules Against Drinking, But An Amazing Cocktail Scene
It’s evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda. I close my eyes and savour the fresh, crisp, and invigorating cocktail before reminding myself that I’m enjoying this beverage in a place where drinking alcohol is illegal. In Islam, the main religion of the city, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
Dubai Has Strict Rules Against Drinking, But An Amazing Cocktail Scene
It’s evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda. I close my eyes and savour the fresh, crisp, and invigorating cocktail before reminding myself that I’m enjoying this beverage in a place where drinking alcohol is illegal. In Islam, the main religion of the city, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
Dubai Has Strict Rules Against Drinking, But An Amazing Cocktail Scene
It’s evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda. I close my eyes and savour the fresh, crisp, and invigorating cocktail before reminding myself that I’m enjoying this beverage in a place where drinking alcohol is illegal. In Islam, the main religion of the city, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
Dubai Has Strict Rules Against Drinking, But An Amazing Cocktail Scene
It’s evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda. I close my eyes and savour the fresh, crisp, and invigorating cocktail before reminding myself that I’m enjoying this beverage in a place where drinking alcohol is illegal. In Islam, the main religion of the city, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
Dubai Has Strict Rules Against Drinking, But An Amazing Cocktail Scene
It’s evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda. I close my eyes and savour the fresh, crisp, and invigorating cocktail before reminding myself that I’m enjoying this beverage in a place where drinking alcohol is illegal. In Islam, the main religion of the city, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
This City Has Strict Rules Against Drinking Alcohol — but Its Cocktail Scene Is Thriving
It's evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda. I close my eyes and savour the fresh, crisp, and invigorating cocktail before reminding myself that I'm enjoying this beverage in a place where drinking alcohol is illegal. In Islam, the main religion of the city, consuming alcohol is prohibited.
This City Has Strict Rules Against Drinking Alcohol - but Its Cocktail Scene Is Thriving
The paradox of drinking in Dubai, and how the city's cocktail culture just keeps getting better. Lu ShaoJi/Getty Images It's evening in Dubai: the air is hot, the streets full, and the skyscrapers sparkling. I am at Jun’s Restaurant sipping a Pure Shores cocktail, a delicious combination of tequila, mezcal, pomegranate, elderflower, citrus, and grapefruit soda.
A Motown lover's guide to Detroit
You can feel the lasting impact of R&B and soul artists all over Detroit. Downtown, a colorful mural of a smiling Stevie Wonder – who signed with Motown Records when he was 11 – towers at least four stories high. Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre shines from the Detroit River bank. Live music venues with sparkling marquees dot the wide streets. Within the past few years, there has been a surge of Black-owned restaurants and cocktail bars in the city, breathing new life into the downtown core.
What to Eat, See, and Do When Exploring Toronto’s Little Jamaica Neighborhood
I’ve been visiting Little Jamaica with my Dad since I was a kid, grabbing food and groceries, jamming with his friends in one of the many recording studios, and listening to tales of the area when they were young, new arrivals from Jamaica. I remember the waves, the nods, the energy, connection, and camaraderie as we strolled through Eglinton Avenue West—the area known as Little Jamaica. Since the 1950s, Toronto has been home to a large Jamaican diaspora.
A Motown lover’s guide to Detroit
Guests on a tour walk up to enter the Motown Museum. Most recently, the Motown Museum has seen improvements as part of a $55 million, 40,000-square-foot expansion that offers more new and exciting ways for fans to immerse themselves in everything Motown. (Nick Hagen/For The Washington Post ) You can feel the lasting impact of R&B and soul artists all over Detroit.
A Motown lover's guide to Detroit
You can feel the lasting impact of R&B and soul artists all over Detroit. Downtown, a colorful mural of a smiling Stevie Wonder — who signed with Motown Records when he was 11 — towers at least four stories high. Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre shines from the Detroit River bank. Live music venues with sparkling marquees dot the wide streets. Within the past few years, there has been a surge of Black-owned restaurants and cocktail bars in the city, breathing new life into the downtown core.
A Motown lover's guide to Detroit
"It was demand from our audiences," Motown Museum chief executive and chairwoman Robin Terry said of the expansion. "Not only did we have a small footprint, but we also saw a record number of younger visitors coming in with their kids, [unsettled] by the social unrest and uncertainty in the world.
Detroit guide to Motown history, live music and restaurants
Expansions to the Motown Museum offer a fresh reason to revisit a city steeped in soul Advice by Natalie Preddie July 22, 2023 at 6:00 a.m. EDT The sign outside of Baker's Keyboard Lounge is lit up as night sets in. (Photographs by Nick Hagen for The Washington Post) You can feel the lasting impact of R&B and soul artists all over Detroit. Downtown, a colorful mural of a smiling Stevie Wonder — who signed with Motown Records when he was 11 — towers at least four stories high.
Why The Sustainable Safari Is The Way Forward
The safari has long been a driver for those booking vacations to South Africa and not all safaris are created equal. South African safaris can be divided into two main categories: National Parks and Private Game Reserves. National Parks are managed by the government, and anyone is allowed to enter including private vehicles and day visitors. Private game reserves are owned and managed by the lodges on that property.
The U.S. Is South Africa’s Fastest Growing Market. Here Is Why.
Last month, South African Tourism’s North America team hosted a U.S. Market Access Workshop as part of Africa’s Travel Indaba held at Durban’s Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Center. This insightful 90-minute session offered South African small business enterprises valuable insights into both the American traveler and travel trade landscape.
The Top Hotels in 3 of South Africa’s Most Popular Cities
There are many hotels in South Africa, and it can be tough to decide where to stay. Here are hotels in three of South Africa’s most popular destinations that offer comfort, safety, and exclusivity, with a uniquely South African touch.
THAT MOTOWN SOUND
SINCE THE LEGENDARY Berry Gordy Jr. founded the Motown Record Corporation in 1959, the label’s music has transcended racial and social boundaries. With artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and the Supremes, Motown has been the force behind anthems for equality, protest, and (to quote Martha and the Vandellas) simply dancing in the street.
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