A Life of Exploration: The Journey of Luisa Yu
Luisa Yu, a remarkable woman from the Philippines, achieved an extraordinary feat in 2023 by visiting all 193 countries in the world. Her journey, which spanned six decades, came to a close on November 2023 when she completed her final destination, Serbia. This achievement marks not just a personal milestone but also a testament to her lifelong passion for travel and cultural exploration.
Yu’s journey began as a young girl in Leyte, where her fascination with Hollywood and American Western shows on TV sparked a desire to explore beyond her home. This curiosity eventually led her to the United States, where she emigrated in her 20s as an exchange student. This opportunity allowed her to immerse herself in a new culture and develop a deeper appreciation for the world around her.
Over the years, Yu focused her travels primarily on America, but after obtaining her Green Card, she was able to expand her horizons. Determined to make the most of her opportunities, she worked multiple jobs, earned a real estate license, and eventually became a travel agent. These experiences provided her with the means and connections to explore more of the world.
Throughout her travels, Yu has experienced some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. She has hiked the Himalayas, explored the vast plains of Africa, and marveled at the beauty of recent trips to the North Caucasus and the Kalash Festival in Pakistan. Each destination has added to her rich tapestry of experiences and memories.
After completing her journey, Yu took time to reflect on her favorite destinations. While it was difficult for her to choose a single favorite, she expressed that no country could surpass her beloved Philippines. However, she also highlighted Italy as a top choice, praising its beauty, and Thailand for its diverse landscapes.
As she prepares to celebrate her 80th birthday later this year, Yu is filled with gratitude and joy. She shared, “I did fulfill my dream. I was able to buy a house on my own. I was able to travel on my own. I’m just happy. I want to thank all the people that have been so nice and kind to me.”
Her story is not only inspiring but also serves as a reminder of the power of determination and curiosity. It highlights the importance of exploring the world and embracing new cultures.
In a similar vein, another traveler, Luca Pferdmenges, a 23-year-old from Germany, has also made headlines for his own global adventure. Starting at a young age, he traveled extensively across Europe, performing at juggling conventions and developing a love for exploration. When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted his juggling career, he decided to focus on traveling full-time.
Pferdmenges set a goal to visit every country on the planet, and within five years, he had accomplished this feat, having visited all 195 countries. He has since shared his insights on which destinations are overrated and which are hidden gems. He admitted that he wouldn’t recommend small island destinations that offer little beyond beaches and resorts, finding them boring. Additionally, he mentioned that he wasn’t a fan of Egypt due to the constant hassling he experienced during his visit.
Both Luisa Yu and Luca Pferdmenges exemplify the spirit of adventure and the value of exploring the world. Their stories encourage others to pursue their dreams and embrace the unknown, highlighting the endless possibilities that come with travel. Whether it’s discovering new cultures or simply enjoying the beauty of different landscapes, the world offers something for everyone.
