Vaughn is the co-founder of Nubian Drifter, a travel site that inspires and encourages people to take the leap and explore the world around them.
Name, location and what do you do?
Vaughn. From Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I’m a writer, photographer, blogger & traveler. Occasionally I give speeches about the benefits of travel and understanding and appreciating culture.
Why are you a global nomad?
I love meeting new people and exploring new places. I’m at my best when I’m elsewhere. What’s more, I enjoy talking to others and helping them find their travel comfort zones.
What made you start this venture? Why are you doing this?
I’ve been around the world and everywhere I’ve gone, I noticed a lack of color where travelers were concerned. It troubled me that everyone else was traveling, but a lot of black people were not. I started my blog to be an inspiration to black people and other people of color who might find the act of travel daunting or think it’s beyond their reach.
What do you hope to achieve?
I hope to continue to inspire people to break away from their comfort zones and find bliss in exploring the globe.
How long have you been working on this?
A little over a year.
What is the most interesting discovery you have made since starting this project?
Since starting this project, I’ve been linked up with a host of black travelers who have similar goals as mine; it’s great to know I’m in good company.
Where do you see this project in 10 years?
In 10 years I’d like it (Nubian Drifter) to be bigger than a blog; I’d like to be inspiring people on a much larger platform.
When did you start traveling?
I’ve been traveling around the US since I was born, but internationally, not until the age of 23.
How and why did you travel for the first time?
A good friend of mine moved to Paris on a whim; this completely shook up my thought process and inspired me in a lot of ways. She told me I should come visit. I did. I ended up hopping on a flight to London while in Paris, and so it began.
In what places have you lived and what languages do you speak?
Internationally, I’ve lived in both London and Tokyo. I speak some french. I can get around in Japan/read some labels… English is the only language I’m fluent in, though.
What’s your favorite city so far?
This is difficult! I loved every city I’ve been to for different reasons. But if I had to pick, I’d say London. I think I had the most diverse, interesting life in London, so yeah… that’s my favorite city.
If you could only take one item with you to travel the world (other than your passport), what would it be?
My SLR camera, of course. I need to take photos on my travels. It wouldn’t be right if I didn’t.
Give us your global nomad profile:
window or aisle? window.
boat or plane? plane
train or bus? train
walk or bike? combination of the two
metro or trolley? metro
tropical, temperate, polar? temperate
hotel, hostel or local’s apartment? local’s apartment
must have fashion piece when traveling? handmade bracelets
explore/map or tour guide? explore
