In celebration of Black History Month 2015, Cultural Xplorer is continuing with the annual series of Black History Month interviews highlighting bloggers and travelers of color.

This interview series was created to eradicate the long-standing myth that African-Americans and people of color do not travel.

This series features a number of interviews from both men and women of color from around the world who are passionate about traveling and sharing their stories through their writing and through travel videos.

This interview features Erick Prince-Heggans of the travel blog Minority Nomad.

As a cultural explorer and minority traveler, Erick has been traveling for over 15 years, has lived in over 9 countries, and has visited over 70 countries.

Erick on Traveling

How were you exposed to traveling?

I joined the military after high school. I know that may be cliché but it was what I needed to take care of my family. Best decision I ever made. I joined prior to Sept 11th. Once that happened I was overseas more than I was in the US.

What motivated you to make travel a part of your life?

Discovery. I learned more about myself by traveling alone than I ever did at home. You seriously don’t know a thing about yourself until you’re removed from the familiar and environment you control. During my time in the military, I seriously started questioning human nature. Travel has renewed my faith in the goodness of people.

What is your most memorable travel experience to date?

Yikes. Too many to choose one. Maybe being stripped naked in from of a crowd of people or having an amazing conversation with a Russian dock worker who didn’t speak English.

How many places have you traveled to so far?

71 countries and counting. I’ve been stuck at 71 for almost a year so time to switch it up.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned on the road?

Because someone’s way of life is different doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Before condemning another’s actions first understand the motivations behind said action.

What has been your biggest challenge on the road and how did you overcome it?

Being away from the family I care about. I take comfort in the knowledge what I’m trying to do will make the world better for them. Also having them travel with me when possible.

Erick on Blogging

When did you decide that you wanted to become a travel blogger?

I didn’t. Heck, I still don’t. lol. I just find it’s the medium people prefer me to use to deliver my message. I’m not a big fan of blogging actually. I prefer talking to writing which is why I just launched a new Vlog on Youtube.

What makes your blog unique in comparison to other travel blogs?

In addition to my focus on minority travel, I tend to point out the reality of travel. I’m a bit older than many bloggers but not too much older. Us 30 something travelers are a unique group. We’re old enough not to do stupid shit but young enough to still have fun. Well usually. Exceptions to every rule. lol

Who is your target audience?

Minority Travelers or anyone interested in what it’s like traveling the world as an African American man. It really is a unique experience.

Erick on Life

Favorite travel (or life) quote:

This is my motto. “You have to die from something. Might as well be living”. That’s mine so don’t steal it. lol

What is something that your readers do not know about you?

I hate beaches. Also, I can ballroom dance. I have a mean Foxtrot and Waltz.

What do your future travel plans for 2015 include?

My first safari in Tanzania and diving trip in Malaysia. I also working on meeting an indigenous black community in Malaysia and living with a Romani community in Eastern Europe to document the marginalization of both.

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Interested in finding out more about Erick and his travels around the world?

Website: Minority Nomad | Instagram: @minoritynomad | Twitter: @minoritynomad | Facebook: Minority Nomad