Hey babes! I’m currently in chilly NYC, checking in to the lovely Akwaaba Luxury Bed and Breakfast Inn situated in the Stuyvesant Heights community of Brooklyn.
Although I’ve visited NYC numerous times before, this time I made a conscious effort to have a memorable experience while also supporting Black-owned businesses in the city.
During my research, I came across Akwaaba Luxury Bed and Breakfast Inns, and I was immediately smitten! The name “Akwaaba” means “welcome” in a language commonly spoken in Ghana, and the owners Monique Greenwood and Glenn Pogue, truly live up to the name by ensuring that their guests feel warmly received.
Monique and Glenn own Akwaaba locations in Brooklyn, the Poconos, and Philadelphia.
This beautifully restored 1860s mansion boasts luxurious amenities, unique decor, and a prime location, making it an ideal place to stay for a weekend in Brooklyn. In this blog post, we will explore the highlights of the Akwaaba Mansion and why it’s the perfect choice for an unforgettable Brooklyn getaway.
Akwaaba Luxury Bed and Breakfast Inn
The Akwaaba Mansion is a beautifully restored Victorian-style mansion located in the historic Stuyvesant Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York.
The mansion is owned by Glenn Pogue and Monique Greenwood, a husband and wife team who left their corporate jobs to pursue their passion for hospitality.
The Akwaaba Mansion features beautifully decorated rooms, each with its own unique character, as well as a number of common areas for guests to relax in. In addition to the accommodations, the mansion also serves a delicious homemade breakfast each morning.
Monique Greenwood is a dynamic entrepreneur who has achieved great success throughout her career. Here are some fun facts about her:
She was born and raised in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY.
Prior to launching her bed and breakfast empire, Greenwood worked as an editor at Essence magazine.
She has written several books, including “Having What Matters: The Black Woman’s Guide to Creating the Life You Really Want” and “The Money $pot: Investing Like a Pro.”
Greenwood has been recognized for her business acumen and community involvement with numerous awards, including the 2019 New York State Senate Women of Distinction Award.
She is a former co-owner of the NBA’s Washington Mystics, and she was the first Black woman to own a Bed & Breakfast inns.
Greenwood is also a philanthropist who supports various charitable organizations and causes, including HBCUs, small businesses, and local community initiatives.
As soon as you check-in at Akwaaba, you’ll immediately notice the stunning restoration that has been done to the house over the years.
With 14-foot ceilings, afrocentric decor, and ornate fireplaces, the Inn is a visual feast for the eyes. Furthermore, for your convenience, it is just a short 15-minute car or subway ride from Manhattan.
The delicious aroma of maple syrup, eggs, and smooth Jazz music on the first floor each morning for breakfast made me feel at ease.
The ambiance reminded me of the southern hospitality that I grew up with at my grandparents’ house in the Carolinas.
Staying at Akwaaba feels like a true home away from home, something that no other entity – be it a hotel or Airbnb – can replicate.
The essence of the Innkeepers’ operations at Akwaaba locations is unparalleled.
Checking in
During my visit I had the pleasure of staying in the Ashante Suite on the second floor of the Inn. With African artifacts beautifully displayed in the bathroom with his and her sinks and a Jacuzzi tub for two.
Akwaaba Mansion’s Special Touches
King-sized bed with carved headboard
Jacuzzi tub for two with shower
Double bathroom sinks
Custom bath amenities and blow dryer
Luxurious robes for lounging
Air conditioning
Clock radio/iPod player
Wireless internet
Rates $205, Mon – Thurs $225, Fri – Sun
Special Packages & Amenities
The hotel offers several special packages to enhance guests’ stays. One popular option is the “Romantic Getaway,” which includes a two-night stay in a luxury room, a bottle of champagne, and a couples’ massage.
The “Girlfriends’ Getaway” package includes a two-night stay in two rooms, a spa basket, and a wine and cheese reception. For those celebrating a special occasion, the “Celebration Package” includes a two-night stay in a luxury room, a bottle of champagne, a celebration cake, and a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant.
The Akwaaba Mansion also offers a variety of add-ons, such as fresh flowers, chocolate-covered strawberries, and in-room massages, to make guests’ stays even more luxurious.
You should definitely check out their package options ranging from bridal to pamper to romantic!
Supporting Black, Female-Owned Businesses in Brooklyn: A Guide
CLICK HERE to discover fun things to see and do in Brooklyn, NYC.
Here’s a list of Black, female-owned places to dine and shop around the Akwaaba Mansion and Brooklyn:
Bed-Vyne Wine & Spirits – Located in Brooklyn, Bed-Vyne is a wine and spirits shop owned by three Black women. They offer a wide selection of wines, spirits, and craft beers.
Brooklyn Tea – A Black-owned tea shop in Brooklyn that offers a variety of teas, as well as tea accessories and gifts.
The Crabby Shack – This Black-owned restaurant in Brooklyn serves up delicious seafood dishes, including crab cakes and shrimp po’ boys.
Peace and Riot – This Brooklyn boutique is owned by a Black woman and offers a variety of stylish clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
Sincerely, Tommy – A women’s boutique in Brooklyn that features clothing, accessories, and lifestyle products from a variety of Black and minority-owned brands.
Sister’s Caribbean Cuisine – This Black-owned restaurant in Brooklyn serves up delicious Caribbean food, including jerk chicken and curry goat.
Sweet Chick – Owned by a Black woman, this Brooklyn restaurant serves up delicious Southern-style chicken and waffles, as well as a variety of other comfort food dishes.
Tsion Cafe – A Black-owned Ethiopian restaurant in Brooklyn that serves up a variety of traditional dishes, as well as coffee and tea.
Weeksville Heritage Center Farmers Market – Located in Brooklyn, this farmers market features a variety of local vendors, including Black-owned businesses offering fresh produce and artisanal foods.
Whipped Urban Dessert Lab – This Black-owned dessert shop in Brooklyn offers a variety of creative and delicious desserts, including their signature “whips” which are like fluffy, flavorful mousse.
These are just a few of the many wonderful Black, female-owned places to dine and shop around the Akwaaba Mansion and Brooklyn.
Final thoughts
My time in NYC was simply amazing, and staying at Akwaaba was one of the highlights of my trip. Not only was I able to support a Black-owned Inn, but I also got to learn the story behind the home and even had the chance to chat with the owner herself – all of which contributed to a truly divine experience.
I highly recommend Akwaaba to families seeking great accommodations with top-notch hospitality, couples looking for a romantic getaway, or locals wanting to enjoy a staycation.
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