Globe-Trotter of the month Corey Wright of USA

By Nicole Brewer

Greetings globe-trotters!! Happy Black History Month and Valentine’s Day no matter your current location across the globe. I’m delighted to present to you this month’s Globe-Trotter of the month from our iluv2globetrot travel community Corey Wright from Georgia.  Corey is an incomparable traveler and friend that Renee and I made during our time trotting in South Korea.  He lives by the philosophy of JETS (Just Enjoy That S***) when it comes to travel and I tend to agree.  We are happy to feature a down to earth and supportive member of iluv2globetrot. Check out the interview below GTs and enjoy.

 

Can you tell the I Luv 2 Globe Trot community a little about yourself (where are you from, what do you do, where are you currently based, hobbies etc).

I was born and raised in southwest GA in a small town called Americus. I am currently a civilian contractor for the DOD, and making my transition back to the states. I enjoy family, good food, exercise, writing and of course travelling.

How many countries have you traveled to?

18 countries and counting!

 

What is your dream destination and why? (think bucket list destinations)

I would like to visit all seven wonders of the world. I’ve only seen two thus far: Chitzhen Itza, and The Colosseum. I plan to check the rest off of my list one day soon.

 

What made you decide to first live an expat lifestyle?

I finished college and was on the verge of re-joining corporate America after working for two years as an intern for a Fortune 500 company. It was a good opportunity and so was the salary, but it just did not excite me. I sat back and asked myself what was it that I really wanted to do. A friend of mine suggested teaching abroad. This was my introduction to the expat life, and I have not looked back since.

 

How do you adjust to living in different locations being with the military?

I have never actually been a service member, but I have worked closely with all branches of the military as a civilain contractor. I think the most important thing to remember is to keep an open mind. There were times when I was not comfortable and out of my element, but if it is good enough for the men and women who protect us, then who am I to complain?

 

Where was your most recent travel destination you trotted to?

I’ve had a few domestic excursions, but I just returned from Europe about three months ago. It was amazing. I spent time in Italy, the UK, Macedonia, and Spain over the course of almost 4 weeks.

 

Which, if any, foreign languages do you speak?

I speak a bit of Korean, and Swahili. Along the way I’ve picked up a few social phrases in other languages. I’ve found that a warm “hello” or “thank you” gets you far when you are away from home.

 

What do you have planned for yourself next? (any projects you’d like to promote, etc). Do you foresee yourself continuing the expat lifestyle for long?

I’ve been away from home the past 10 years. During this time I learned how to go to a different place and make it home, to submerge myself in the uncomfortable and the unknown. The next challenge for me is to adjust being back stateside and living somewhat of a “normal” life. I know for sure that I will continue to travel, but only time will tell if I make the jump to live abroad once more any time soon.

 

What are some words of wisdom you would like to give to future inspiring globe-trotters and expats?

The world is so vast and beautiful. It is our responsibility to continue to explore, learn and grow from what other countries and cultures have to offer. Boldly go and boldly do!

Thanks for the words of travel encouragement Corey. Any additional words of advice you would give GTs? Feel free to comment below in the comments section.