How a 79-Year-Old Woman Visited Every Country in the World

Luisa Yu stands out as an extraordinary example of an active retiree. At the age of 79, she has accomplished the remarkable feat of visiting every country in the world, a journey that many aspire to but few achieve. Her adventurous spirit and commitment to exploration not only inspire those around her but also challenge the conventional perceptions of aging and retirement. Luisa embodies the idea that life’s adventures can continue well into one’s later years, reinforcing the belief that it is never too late to pursue one’s dreams.

79-year-old woman visited country world, Photo by defense.gov, CC LICENSES

Yu had travelled many countries.

Yu, who was born in China and moved to the Philippines when she was 10, started her globetrotting journey in 1973, when she joined a group tour to Europe. She was hooked by the thrill of seeing new places, meeting new people, and learning new cultures. Since then, she has traveled to 193 countries, spanning all seven continents, and has collected countless memories and souvenirs along the way.

Yu’s travels have taken her to some of the most remote and exotic destinations on the planet, such as Antarctica, Bhutan, North Korea, and Somalia. She has witnessed historical events, such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, the end of apartheid in South Africa, and the opening of Myanmar. She has also encountered many challenges, such as visa issues, language barriers, health problems, and security risks.

“Meet the 79-year-old woman who traveled to every country” shared by YouTube channel: Good Morning America

Yu always found a way to overcome the obstacles and enjoy the adventure.

But Yu never let anything stop her from pursuing her passion. She always found a way to overcome the obstacles and enjoy the adventure. She traveled solo or with friends, joined organized tours or arranged her own itinerary, stayed in luxury hotels or budget hostels, depending on the situation. She also learned to adapt to different cultures and customs, respect local people and their beliefs, and appreciate the diversity and beauty of the world.

Yu’s last country to visit was South Sudan, which became independent in 2011. She finally completed her goal in 2023, after 50 years of traveling. She celebrated the milestone with a cake and champagne, surrounded by fellow travelers and locals. She said she felt happy and grateful for the opportunity to see the world and fulfill her dream.

Yu said she has no plans to stop traveling, even though she has visited every country. She said there are still many places she wants to revisit or explore more deeply, such as China, India, and Brazil. She also wants to share her experiences and inspire others to travel, especially young people. She said traveling is the best education and the best way to understand oneself and others.

Close-up of Globe — Photo by NastyaSensei on Pexels

Yu encourages aspiring travelers to embark on their journeys promptly, emphasizing the importance of experiencing diverse cultures and landscapes. She asserts that travel extends beyond mere sightseeing; it encompasses the emotions felt, the connections forged, and the moments savored. According to Yu, engaging in travel is one of life’s most rewarding and enriching pursuits, fostering personal growth and a broader understanding of the world.