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Annette Richmond on Where to Go Next, How to Travel Well, and Why Size-Inclusive Luxury Travel Is the Future
Travel has always been one of my deepest luxuries — not because of where I’ve gone, but because of how it widens my world.
From Brazil to Egypt to Switzerland to the South of France to Mayan Ruins and more, movement has been a teacher. It reminds you that your life is so much bigger than your routines, and that discovery often begins the moment you leave what’s familiar- even if it’s for 48 hours.
That shared ethos of being a global citizen is what drew me to Annette Richmond — founder of Fat Girls Traveling and Fat Camp — whose work has inspired me a great deal in my own life- and hundreds of thousands of women across the world as well.
When I asked Annette why she created Fat Girls Traveling, her answer was as practical as it was political.
“I noticed that not only were plus-size women missing from travel ads and marketing, but our needs weren’t being considered by travel companies,”
“Size restrictions weren’t listed and figuring out the activity level and accessibility limitations took a lot of investigation.”
What began as a gap in representation quickly became a movement. “If my travel needs weren’t being met, I knew the same was true for my community, so I launched Fat Girls Traveling Tours.”
Today, her company blends accessibility and travel novelty, offering considered and curated group trips and custom travel planning that removes the anxiety so many plus size travelers have before boarding the flight.
That curation extends all the way to where to go.
Annette and the team at FGT have just unveiled their 2026 travel offerings—beautifully curated group trips designed for all sizes and all genders, with select experiences created specifically for plus-size travelers and others centered on women and femme-identified folks. Explore more.
Annette’s Moodboard + Picks for 2026:
Scotland
Edinburgh, Scotland is high on her list: “If you like architecture, history, and food add it to your list,” she says, noting that while there are stairs, the city is deeply rewarding.
FARO
Faro, Portugal was a surprise love — flat, affordable, and perfect for shoulder season. “The prices were incredible but the local seafood and wine were even better.”
BACALAR
And then there’s Bacalar, Mexico, her personal favorite for a retreat-style getaway: “Be prepared to relax because there’s not much to do besides enjoy the warm water and delicious food… if you enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or boat days, Bacalar is a must.”
Of course, traveling beautifully also means traveling wisely.
When I asked Annette for essentials, she was direct.
“Don’t bring your own seatbelt extender,” she warned. “If something happens, airlines aren’t liable because personal extenders aren’t FAA-approved. Always ask for one when you board.”
Obvious to some but not all (i’m in the “all category”) Annette says Comfort is non-negotiable: broken-in walking shoes, compression socks for long flights, and anti-chafe products like Megababe all make the list.
She also swears by Bev-ledge, a tray-table alternative for travelers whose bodies don’t fit airline design standards. “I can store my phone, drinks, and earplugs and enjoy my inflight meal comfortably.” It’s these kinds of details that turn stress into ease.
Annette’s travel philosophy is deeply shaped by her life abroad.
Based in Mexico for nearly five years after living in Asia, she’s embraced a slower, more grounded way of moving through the world.
“I prefer to call myself an immigrant instead of an expat,” she says. “They’re technically the same thing — one word is just more villainized and political.” Tropical weather, beach days, and yes, the occasional power outage have become part of her rhythm, and she’s currently working toward Mexican residency.
For her, travel isn’t something you do — it’s who you are.
And if you’re prone to being anxiety rattled when you think about going somewhere new, Annette has advice for that too. “Start walking today if you’re going on a vacation this year,” she suggests. “Vacations involve more movement than we think.”
She also encourages joining travel groups, asking questions, finding a friend — even if it’s someone you meet through a workshop, Bumble for Friends, or a local meetup once you arrive. “Getting your questions answered should help alleviate some of your anxiety.”
With Fat Girls Traveling’s Group Tours, Fat Camp and travel planning from Annette Richmond- this is your sign that the world is ready for you.
Until next time,
Aria
*This post was originally written and released by Aria Sa’id for The Curvy Fashionista