Interview with Ashley Hubbard from “A Southern Gypsy”

My guest for this month is none other than Ashley Hubbard, the unconventional and adventurous girl whom most of us know from our Facebook groups, the editor, writer and photographer of the blog “A Southern Gypsy.”

Tell us a little about yourself: Who are you? Where are you from?

My name is Ashley. I’m 29 years old and from Nashville, Tennessee. I grew up in Tennessee, went to college and got a degree in Psychology, Criminology and Sociology of which I have not used. I’ve lived in South Carolina, Washington (state) and Tennessee and I’ve traveled all over Europe, United States, Canada and Asia. My boyfriend and I also own a moving company that is a year old and a lot of our time is devoted to that and balancing that life with our travel dreams.

What is your blog about and how did you start blogging?

My blog, A Southern Gypsy, is a little over two years old. I started it as just a general travel blog with no real genre in mind but over time, it’s mainly turned into a blog about outdoor, adventure and wildlife travel. I also write a lot about food experiences and Nashville – as it’s my hometown and current city. I started blogging in October 2013 when I decided it was time for me to do something different with my life.

Do you feel that blogging takes time away from your social and/or family life?

Yes, but not as much as it used to. I used to be glued to my blog and social media. I would literally do nothing else (besides things for the blog – travel, events, etc.). I’ve gotten a lot better about that though – I don’t stress myself over finishing a deadline (self set one, not actual deadlines for sponsors, etc).

What is your travel style? Luxury, backpacking, or maybe something in-between?

Either backpacking/budget or something in between. I love the outdoors so I’m all for camping instead of a fancy hotel. I’m all for hostels to save money. I tend to spend my money on food/experiences more than lodging.

What is the one thing that is too large or impractical to travel with that you wish you could take with you when you travel?

My dog. We have a very large, very adorable Norwegian red-nose pitbull who I would take with me EVERYWHERE if I could. He does go on some trips but obviously not all of them.

How important is comfort for you when you travel? If you had a limited budget for a trip, would you rather spend it to book a better hotel, or use it for shopping, restaurants, or activities?

I always spend money on food and activities. Cheap (not crappy, but cheap) lodging – hostels, camping, AirBnB, etc.

Which country would you want to live in if you had to leave the country you are currently living in?

At the moment, I could see myself living in England (London), Thailand, or New Zealand. London and Thailand because they are two of my favorite places but very different and New Zealand because I’ve never been there but I think I’ll fall in love once I do go.

What is the most adventurous thing you have ever done?

That’s a hard one and I’m having a hard time deciding what to put but I JUST booked my day for skydiving. This will be my first time and I’m half-excited and half-terrified. I would also say quitting my job and trying to do my own thing has been it’s own adventure.

What is your greatest passion?

Traveling in every sense of the word. Whether it’s a long-term trip that lets you truly immerse yourself in the culture, a trip to Disney World, or exploring your own hometown. Just anything that includes experiencing new things, cultures, food, ways of life – just anything to do with traveling. Other passions would include photography, writing and animals.

You can follow Ashley on: