Photo source: Trip Advisor
When you think of Hotels, you think of convenience, and comfort, with a mix of class. Although Philadelphia has these in abundance, there are times when one would prefer to add in some sense of familiarity or simply want to support specific business owners.
Philadelphia has a strong hospitality industry that has been reported to support over 124,000 jobs. I don’t know about you, but I got curious and decided to check for any Black-owned Hotels in Philadelphia.
Is the industry already saturated with Black hotel owners? Or should more African Americans look to join the $12 billion regional sector? Find the answers to these questions in today’s post.
Yowie (Hotel & Shop)
Photo Source: Yowie
Address: 226 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147, USA
Website: Hello Yowie
Yowie starts this list of Black-owned hotels in Philadelphia. Starting as a storefront, the business branched into the hospitality industry by providing interior design consulting services for hospitality clients.
Founded by Shannon Maldonado, Yowie recently got listed among The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year by Travel and Leisure. The boutique hotel features unique and local artworks and items. These things are available for sale and you can even customize them to your taste.
The establishment prides itself on working with and featuring independent labels, artists, and upcoming designers. It gives these people a platform to reach the one and I agree it is an amazing thing. Fortunately, the hotel follows the same principle.
Photo Source: Yowie
Yowie’s unique perspective presents customers with a place with lovely hospitality that is filled with things you can purchase. Imagine seeing any item you would like to buy get featured in a real living space, that is what you get with Yowie.
For those with a different taste, you can find several culinary options in the Korean, Indian, and Mexican restaurants located about a minute’s walk from the hotel. One can also find a tattoo shop and art gallery in the vicinity.
Akwaaba Philadelphia
Photo Source: Akwaaba
Address: 3709 Baring St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
Website: Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast
Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast comes next on this list with a different approach. The establishment first took off in Brooklyn, New York back in 1995. After opening in up to three other cities, Akwaaba expanded into Philadelphia in 2018.
Located in the university section of the city, the hotel offers a historic mansion in the style of the 1800s. Apart from its impressive look and architecture, Akwaaba features a delicious breakfast, afternoon refreshments, and a personal concierge to arrange tours and restaurant reservations.
Photo Source: Akwaaba
The rooms are spacious and come with private baths. For those who enjoy books, the hotel has an extensive library and is situated close to the university. In my opinion, these features make Akwaaba a wonderful choice for anyone visiting the city and interested in its history.
With Akwaaba Beds and Breakfast Philadelphia, you get 25 years of hospitality that will leave you looking forward to your next time.
Fun Fact: Akwaaba means “Welcome” in the Ghanaian language.
Do We Need More Black-owned Hotels in Philadelphia?
If you have checked for Black-owned hotels before, you will agree with me that they are few and quite challenging to find. This fact alone should show the need for more members of the community in the hospitality industry.
To be fair, venturing into any industry has its share of challenges. Anyone looking to do such will need to do the right research prior. This also includes checking out the success and failure stories of those who have done it in the past.
Fortunately, the market is huge and society has become more appreciative of cultures, uniqueness, and diversity. Now is the best time to join the industry.
