One of my favorite places on the planet is Martha’s Vineyard.

Me and a couple of friends (hey Linda and Meri!) booked an AirBnB, packed up a car (with lots of delicious groceries and wine) last fall and drove to The Vineyard.  I love going to places that don’t require an airport. It’s so cool because driving to the vineyard requires driving onto a ferry to get there. It was a bit off season so it wasn’t crowded and we were able to secure a cozy spot with an outdoor fire pit in THE Oak Bluffs. We were walking distance to the restaurants, shops and the famous Inkwell – the name of the popular beach frequented by African Americans beginning in the late nineteenth century. The strand was pejoratively called “The Inkwell” by nearby whites in reference to the skin color of the beach-goers.  It is the most famous of beaches across the U.S. to transform this odious nickname into an emblem of pride. Simply amazing. It was truly an honor to experience the Inkwell.

It was so wonderful to have a fun break with friends. There is no need to plans for weeks or months. Sometimes you just need to reach out to your friends, book a spot and go. Martha’s Vineyard is a small, beautiful slice of peace for so many of us. The restaurants (best lobster rolls ever), the shopping and cultural offerings are top tier … and you never know who you will run into. The first time I went to the vineyard (by a super bizarre twist of events) my friends and I (hey Mel, Marsha, Melvin and crew!) we were on a golf course with THE President Barack Obama and Chris Paul (gorgeous and talented NBA basketball player). Definitely a highlight in my life. It’s a historic and artful place in New England, filled with beautiful Black people from everywhere (visit during the summer and enjoy the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival). You will love it – the locals are super friendly (but please respect their town!). And lastly, the gorgeous house in the pics below belonged to author Dorothy West – one of my favorites and the author of my favorite book, The Wedding. Our AirBnb was right around the corner from her home. I was inspired – you will be as well.  If you go or have been, share your Vineyard story! 

Check out The Best Things to Do on Martha’s Vineyard.