Vegan travel is often talked about as a checklist — where to eat, what to avoid, how to plan ahead. But in this episode of The World Vegan Travel Podcast, the conversation goes deeper.
In Episode 121, Brighde sits down with Original Simmons, known online as The Original Vegan — a film director, photographer, conscious content creator, vegan chef, and hospitality expert whose relationship with food is rooted in culture, memory, and human connection.
This is not a conversation about rules or restrictions. It’s a story about how food becomes a bridge — between generations, between cultures, and between people meeting each other while traveling the world.
Food Before Labels
Original shares how his early experiences with home‑cooked meals shaped the way he understands veganism today. For him, vegan food isn’t a trend or a category — it’s simply natural food, prepared with intention and love.
Throughout the episode, he gently challenges the idea that veganism has to look a certain way or fit into a narrow image. Instead, he invites listeners to think about what feels most natural — vegetables, grains, spices, and flavors that have existed long before labels ever did.
“When you strip it back, vegan food is just real food. It’s what people have been eating across cultures forever.”
Traveling, Connection, and Being Open
Travel plays a big role in how Original experiences both food and relationships. He speaks openly about meeting people on the road, forming meaningful connections, and letting curiosity — not fear — guide those interactions.
The episode explores the idea that being vegan doesn’t have to limit love, friendship, or joy while traveling. Instead, shared meals often become the starting point for deeper conversations and unexpected connections.
This part of the discussion is thoughtful, honest, and refreshing — especially for vegan travelers who worry that their values might make travel or relationships more complicated than they need to be.
Places & Food Experiences Mentioned
During the episode, Original shares stories from his travels and the food that left a lasting impression:
- New Orleans, USA – discovering bold flavors and soulful cooking
- South Florida, USA – a growing and vibrant vegan food scene
- Dallas, Texas – Hope Boys Vegan Kitchen (known for unforgettable vegan wings)
- St. Petersburg, Florida – House of Vegano
- Thai cuisine influences – inspired by Thai culture and flavor balance
- Caribbean-inspired food – including spots like Impact Island Cafe and Island Wings Company
These experiences highlight how vegan food reflects local culture — not as a replacement, but as an expression of it.
Why This Episode Matters
This conversation reminds us that vegan travel isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence — showing up with openness, respecting culture, and allowing food to tell a story.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan traveler or just starting to explore the world through plant‑based food, this episode offers reassurance: you don’t need to fit a mold to belong.
Listen & Travel With Intention
🎧 Listen to Episode 121 of The World Vegan Travel Podcast to hear the full conversation with The Original Vegan and explore how food, travel, and connection come together beyond the diet.
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves travel, food, and meaningful conversations.
And if you’re dreaming of traveling the world while eating incredible vegan food along the way — come travel with us.
Learn More About What is Discussed on the Podcast
- How vegan food goes beyond labels and becomes a way to connect with culture and people while traveling
- Why “vegan” food is often just natural, familiar food enjoyed across different cultures
- What it’s really like to build friendships and relationships while traveling as a vegan
- How food experiences shape the way we understand places, traditions, and communities
- Practical insights for vegan travelers who want to stay open, curious, and grounded on the road
Other World Vegan Travel Content Connected With This Episode
- Vegan Los Angeles | Italian Dining at Pura Vita
- Vegan Travel in San Diego | Food, Culture & Coastal Adventures
- Vegan Budget Travel with Calen Otto | 200th Episode
