Festival, Music, Networking, Travel, Wellness Donicia Hodge Festival, Music, Networking, Travel, Wellness Donicia Hodge

Howard Homecoming 2022

I’m convinced that in my next life, I will be attending an HBCU. It doesn’t have to be Howard, but one of the HBCU’s. For someone that did attend a PWI, I will say homecomings are A LOT different than what I experienced at Howard’s homecoming.

H-U! YOU KNOW!

I’m convinced that in my next life, I will be attending an HBCU. It doesn’t have to be Howard, but one of the HBCU’s. For someone that did attend a PWI, I will say homecomings are A LOT different than what I experienced at Howard’s homecoming.

The amount of alumni that come back each year is insane. Their network of alumni’s is something I’ve never witnessed until now. This was their first real homecoming since the pandemic. Last year, I went when the student’s were protesting about bad housing conditions on campus. That within itself, was an experience alone.

Howard’s homecoming showed me such a good time! The amount of Black joy I witnessed that weekend was amazing. I feel like nobody goes to the actual football game. I almost forgot they had a football team. Let’s talk about the tailgating experience. It was packed. It was nice seeing the Divine 9 celebrate with their chapters as well and each sorority and fraternity had their own section at the tailgate, cooking, strolling and just straight vibes. The fashion, the hair, the vibes that everyone had on. Everyone came with a look, ok! The Yard as they say it, was like a fashion show. They had a few Black-owned businesses selling their products, along with some performances from Chloe and Halle and others. Last, but not least, the infamous Swag Surf that happened on The Yard. It was truly a moment that I won’t forget.

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Black-owned, Entrepreneurship, Festival Donicia Hodge Black-owned, Entrepreneurship, Festival Donicia Hodge

Invest Fest 2022 In Atlanta

Invest Fest was literally the Coachella of Financial Literacy. Not only were gem’s dropped during the panels, it was great to see everyone networking and vibing out. Atlanta is really the hub for Black excellence.

Earn Your Leisure hosts and co-founders Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings returned for the second year with Invest Fest at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from August 5-7 and turned the weekend into an uplifting festival that promoted financial empowerment and self-motivation.

Invest Fest was literally the Coachella of Financial Literacy. Not only were gem’s dropped during the panels, it was great to see everyone networking and vibing out. Atlanta is really the hub for Black excellence.

The festival started off with VIP Night with a red carpet, a party filled with food and drinks, and hosted by Terrence J. T-Pain and Queen Naija performed as well later that evening at Guardian Works. Guardian Works is a cute event space located downtown in Atlanta.

The panels included TI, DJ Envy and Dame Dash discussing Business and Entertainment", The Breakfast Club co-host Angela Yee joined Milano Di Rouge founder Milan Harris and Slutty Vegan founder and CEO Pinky Cole to offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a successful, Black women, entrepreneur during the “Women in Business” panel.

The summit ended with rapper Rick Ross performing some of his hits, such as “B.M.F. (Blowin’ Money Fast),” “Aston Martin Music,” and “Nobody,” along with his features on Meek Mill’s “Ima Boss,” Usher’s “New Flame,” and French Montana’s “Pop That” before he made it rain from the ceiling.

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Here's Why You Should Travel To Anguilla

This time I did more touristy things which I was super excited about. I try to make sure I go to different places each time. Read more below and watch my TikTok on how I spent my time in Anguilla and I hope you get some inspiration to book your own trip there!

I made it back to Anguilla to spend time with more family, per usual. I missed the white sandy beaches and blue water. After this pandemic, it was much needed.

My mother turned 60 and since she was born in Antigua, but raised in Anguilla, we decided to have two parties for her. My dad’s side is from Anguilla and it was a blessing to have both sides of the family to be apart of this milestone. I have to give a huge shout out to Milestone Events Anguilla for the birthday decorations. My cousins coordinated logistics since I don’t live here and everything was perfect!

In my previous post, Things To Do In Anguilla , I have a few other places you can check out as well. Keep in mind, Viceroy is now called Four Seasons. Also, check out my Airbnb's in Anguilla blog and I have a few suggestions on where to stay.

This time I did more touristy things which I was super excited about. I try to make sure I go to different places each time. Read more below and watch my TikTok on how I spent my time in Anguilla and I hope you get some inspiration to book your own trip there!

Johnno’s

One of the very first beachfront establishments in Sandy Ground. This restaurant is owned and operated by Johnno Edwards. This friendly beach bar opened in the mid-80's. They have a wide selection from sandwiches to salads to fish meals. It is located near Lit Lounge and Dolce Vita Bar and Restaurant.

Salt Restaurant at Four Seasons

Four Seasons was previously known as Viceroy in my previous blog. If you’re looking for fine dining, then SALT would be it. This restaurant sits at the convergence of Barnes Bay and Meads Bays, offering limitless sea vistas. Salt's dramatic views from its blufftop location provide the perfect backdrop for this signature restaurant and vibrant seafood grill. The best time to go is in the late afternoon to watch the sun go down. Their mixologist offers welcome drinks and the staff were friendly.

Drink: Tranquility; Food: Lobster Mashed Potatoes, Local Crayfish, Crab Rice

Andy’s Restaurant

If you’re looking for local and off- beach places to eat, then Andy’s would be good. It’s located in The Valley. You may drive pass and not even give it a second look, but prices are reasonable and it’s a hidden gem.

Pictured: Caesar Salad

AXA Liquid Glow

I’ve never gone kayaking before and decided to give this a try. I wasn’t too sure if this was a good idea at first, but I didn’t tip over and I did pretty good. LOL Make sure you wear comfortable clothing. I wore water shoes, bathing suit and shorts. You will get wet and little fish will make a special appearance in your kayak. I really enjoyed it at night because the kayak’s are lit. You will have a professional that goes out with the group. Click here for more information: https://anguillakayak.com/

Anguilla Day

Anguilla Day is a public holiday observed on Anguilla on May 30th. It is the National Day of Anguilla, a British Dependent Territory and commemorates the island's determination of independence on May 30th 1967. You can go to Sandy Ground and watch the boat races as pictured or go to boat parties. It’s literally a celebration all day long on the beach.

I Was At The Bar

This bar and night club is located in The Valley. You’ll notice the grafitti artwork in the vibrant lounge. Sometimes they have a DJ and live music, depending on the night. They serve tapas, sushi, and cocktails. You can sit on the patio or inside. I really enjoyed my food and drinks here.

Pictured: Skirt Steak and Coconut Rice

Sharky’s

Sharky’s is a popular restaurant for both locals and tourist. Their infamous lobster and shrimp risotto didn’t disappoint either. You should make reservations since it is always booked.

Drink: Mojito

Tasty’s

Lobster season has officially started and ordering stuffed lobster from Tasty’s was only right. It was a chef’s special and it didn’t disappoint. They even served Johnny cakes or some say, ‘bake’ as a thank you for us coming to dine there. This is also another popular location for dining on the island.

Pelican Bar

This is located in Island Harbor. This is actually next door from where I went night kayaking. You can swim or take a boat to Sicily Island which is close by as well in the same location. This bar is reasonably priced and the servings are a good amount. This is one of my cousin’s favorite local spots and we went a few times since he knows the owner, Everette.

Drink: Rum Punch

Lit Lounge

This lounge is located in Sandy Ground, not too far from Johnno’s and Dolce Vita along the shore. If you’re looking for good vibes, then this would be good for you. It’s very popular for locals and tourists. I went a few times for breakfast fete and parties. On Anguilla Day, they have a party since the boats dock right in front of the lounge.

Dolce Vita Beach Restaurant and Bar

If you’re looking for a nice Italian meal, then this would be it. This italian restaurant is also located in Sandy Ground next to Lit Lounge and Johnno’s. They serve large portions and you’ll definitely be bringing some of your food home.

Pictured: Crayfish Pasta

The Cap Shack- Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel

Belmond Cap Juluca spans the entire stretch of Maunday's Bay. Cap Shack is a casual beach bar on the sand with a food truck off to the side. They have a DJ and this location is nice for a day outing. You can go to the beach and eat there. We also rode bikes around the Belmond Hotel or you can get a ride in their golf carts since the resort is huge.

Jackfruit BBQ and sweet potato fries at Cap Shack

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