2 Kids from the D
StayNoir started as many of the most remarkable journeys do - by chance. In this case the chance was when StayNoir's owners, both avid travelers in their own right, met while living in two separate states with thousands of miles between. Most would be inclined to interchangeably meet in the other's locale. However, travelers see almost every prospective trip as an opportunity to satisfy their wanderlust, and that they did. Over the course of seven years the two have traveled together to over six foreign countries and too many domestic cities and states to count, including a cross-country road trip to boot.
Each journey has been one of discovery of the culture, the history, and the people of the places they have visited, but also of themselves as individuals and as friends.
As two Detroit natives from modest, working class roots, frequent travel was something that didn't fit into their lives until adulthood. Even then, as parents and busy professionals, they had to learn ways to make time for travel and make it affordable without sacrificing elevated travel experiences that match their discerning tastes. StayNoir was born out of a desire to share what they have learned about seeing the world and provide resources for others to have their own remarkable journeys.
Since the days of the "Green Book" Black travelers have pooled together information and resources to traverse the United States' interstate highways and backroads to avoid sundown towns, find hotels and restaurants that would receive them, and avoid the dangers of "traveling while Black". Though we are now more able to traverse the U.S. and world with more abandon, there are still obstacles that can make travel daunting for Black folks. The 21st century Black traveler still often wonders if their destination will welcome and treat them kindly or if they will see reflections of themselves in the people they meet and things they do while there. Also, let's face it, travel is expensive, so Black people want what everyone else does - remarkable accommodations and memorable experiences that won't "break the bank". StayNoir exists to provide just that.
Our Why
Co-Owners
Kendra Hearn
