In a recent intimate interview with Mel Ottenberg, Editor In Chief, for the spring 2024 issue of Interview Magazine, Rihanna sheds some light on her life as of late. Ottenberg was her longtime fashion stylist and collaborator between 2011 and 2018. His insight on her personal style and personality shine through in the interview as the two catch up on old times and what is to come for Rih.
With striking religious imagery, entrancing glossy looks and rugged powdery visions of anti-glamorous beauty, the editorial shoot surely turns necks. In true badgal fashion, her cover star images sparked both international curiosity and controversy. While the mogul talked about motherhood, love with ASAP Rocky, exciting ideas for visuals and a potential music release, she also touched on travel.
She has jetted across the world and developed stellar makeup, skincare, the iconic Fenty Eau de Parfum and an inclusive lingerie collection. Rihanna has seemingly been on top of the world since her businesses Savage X Fenty and FEИTY Beauty became an online Roman Empire. Her businesses and musical career have established her as an international force to be reckoned with. She has brought a seat to the metaphorical table for WOC in the global beauty industry.
Rihanna’s overall demeanor as a Black woman who is not afraid to ask for what she wants in her art and lifestyle is aspirational. So, it is no surprise that pictures of Rihanna’s international journeys over the years have been #travelgoals for many WOC. Most recently, she has gone viral for her favorite travel destination selections which she made very clear in her confessional interview with Ottenberg. Avid travelers and fans of the star may be surprised to see what destinations feel most like home for her. We have assembled our recommendations for each of Rihanna’s top ranked favorite places to travel in the world.
Los Angeles
Rihanna resides in Los Angeles in the United States. LA has become a stable home front for the star and her family with stylish beau, Rocky. As she has built her family in recent years, she has chilled out and prioritized private connection with loved ones. The business owner has been less involved with the party scene so she has settled into the City of Angels.
Although some of her favorite things from the city include access to good teachers and even her treasured gynecologist, there is one place she frequents. She has countless paparazzi pictures exiting a famous restaurant in Los Angeles. The Giorgio Baldi, which is a family owned restaurant in the Los Angeles area.
But there is plenty more to see and experience in LA. Travelers often appreciate LA for its hustle and bustle so it is definitely a place with plenty going on. There are many immersive art tours, exciting attractions and fun experiences for travelers to enjoy. Go to the Giorgio Baldi (otherwise known as II Ristorante di Giorgio Baldi) and try out Rihanna’s order. Or visit some of the other popular restaurants of LA. Some of the most popular things in LA are Hollywood Universal Studios, Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the iconic Hollywood sign.
New York
Rihanna’s streak of spontaneity and excitement matches the vibe of one of her other favorite places, New York. As the mogul commented, “New York is great for adventure, for the grit, for fashion”. The day to day of the city offers so much. There is simply so much to do in the city that never sleeps that the possibilities feel endless. New York has plenty of unique tourism sites. Even on a single street travelers can experience a lot. For example, a traveler can taste some of the best local cuisine, see stunning views of the cityscape and enjoy exciting nightlife.
The electrifying commotion of New York City is a great reason travelers should visit. The city is almost a necessary bucket list destination, especially for travelers that like to get active. Espeically since they will be doing plenty of walking regardless of if they stay in central areas or not. But if they prefer they can use ride share apps or simply call a cab. A few of the most popular tourist sites are Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Barbados
Barbados is where the public facing star can be who she truly is, Robyn Rihanna Fenty. The small Caribbean island holds a special space in her heart. So it is clearly Rihanna’s top ranked favorite place. In fact, she still retains her citizenship despite her travels all around the world. She was declared a national hero when the country officially became a republic. She is known to frequent the island during vacations. And who can blame her since Barbados has some of the best beaches in the word.
For travelers interested in visiting Barbados, the island will welcome them with open arms. If planning a trip to enjoy the tropical weather, tourists should be sure to visit between December and April. This time period has the least amount of rain and temperatures of around 70 to 80 degrees. Fans can even see Rihanna’s childhood home, which has been available for short stays before.
