Nadia "Sparkle" Henry
This past March, I had the pleasure of attending the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Amsterdam. It's a unique opportunity to see the latest and greatest in river cruise fleets, network with industry executives, attend educational sessions and enjoy award-winning meals.
While I was interested in the ship details, like ship size, cabin types, onboard activities and excursions, I was also interested in learning about Black history in Amsterdam.
As an African American traveler, I know that many in our community seek experiences that connect us with our history and culture. Not all river cruise companies offer such tours, which is a missed opportunity to attract a significant and growing market segment.
So I went on a quest to find an offering that would resonate with Black clients. I researched and discovered Black Heritage Tours, created by Jennifer Tosch. And indeed, it filled this need, highlighting the rich and often overlooked narratives of Black history in Amsterdam.
Jennifer Tosch, creator of Black Heritage Tours. Photo Credit: Nadia "Sparkle" Henry
Tosch was born in Brooklyn to parents who immigrated to New York in 1963. Her mother was originally from the former Dutch colony of Suriname and had grown up in Amsterdam.
These familial ties inspired Tosch to bridge the gap between Black Americans and Black Dutch history. While a student at the University of California, Berkeley, she chose a study abroad in Amsterdam in part because of her family's roots. She's now been living in Amsterdam for more than a decade.
Tosch ran her first Black Cultural Heritage of Amsterdam tour in 2013. At that time, there were no other tours focusing on this aspect of the past.
A colleague, Ricki Stevenson, of Black Paris Tours, also inspired her. Together, they fostered a movement that highlights the often-overlooked Black historical narratives in Europe.
AmaWaterways offers Black history tours in Paris and Lisbon, and I believe that by including tours like Tosch's in their offerings, river cruise lines can tap into a significant market. The Black travel community is not only growing but also has substantial economic power. The Black dollar represents a positive economic impact across several industries, including travel. By catering to this demographic, river cruise lines can enhance their bottom lines while promoting cultural inclusivity and diversity.
On the tour, I was joined by a diverse group of about 15 other Americans. The experience was enlightening and deeply moving.
A map of some of the spots exploring the Black heritage of Amsterdam. Photo Credit: Nadia "Sparkle" Henry
Tosch is not just a tour guide but also a writer, educator and consultant. She has trained guides either born in the Netherlands or otherwise connected to its heritage, ensuring that each tour is animated and authentic. Her passion and dedication to preserving and sharing the Black history of Amsterdam are evident in every aspect of her tours.
Exploring the Black heritage of Amsterdam with Tosch was more than a tour; it was a journey through history, culture and personal stories that connect us all. I encourage every traveler and industry professional to seek out these unique and meaningful experiences. They are the essence of travel that adds value to our lives and understanding of the world.
As a travel agency owner and advisor, I am committed to ensuring that our itineraries include diverse and inclusive experiences that resonate with all travelers. Every itinerary we offer is supported by immersive research and travel expertise. My commitment to personally visiting and vetting each destination ensures that our group experiences are rich in culture and education.
For river cruise lines, this is a call to action. Embrace the preferences of the Black community, recognize the economic impact of inclusivity and offer experiences that celebrate diverse narratives. The rewards are not just financial but also deeply enriching for the entire travel community.