Meet Luisa Yu, a truly extraordinary retiree who, at 79 years old, has achieved something most only dream of: visiting every country on the planet. Her incredible journey is a powerful reminder that age is just a number and that a passion for exploration can thrive at any stage of life, inspiring us all to chase our own adventures.
Yu had travelled many countries.
Born in China and later moving to the Philippines at age 10, Luisa’s incredible globetrotting adventure began in 1973 with a group tour to Europe. That initial taste of new horizons ignited a lifelong passion for discovering new places, meeting diverse people, and immersing herself in different cultures, leading her to visit 193 countries across all seven continents and collect a treasure trove of memories.
Luisa’s remarkable travels have led her to some of the most unique and far-flung corners of our world, including remote destinations like Antarctica, the mystical kingdom of Bhutan, the intriguing North Korea, and the vibrant landscapes of Somalia. Along her path, she’s had the privilege of witnessing pivotal historical moments firsthand, from the momentous fall of the Berlin Wall and the dawn of a new era in South Africa with the end of apartheid, to the significant opening of Myanmar, all while navigating the inevitable challenges of visas, language barriers, health concerns, and security.
Yu always found a way to overcome the obstacles and enjoy the adventure.
Despite the hurdles, Luisa’s unwavering spirit and deep passion for discovery never faltered; she consistently found ingenious ways to overcome every obstacle and fully embrace each adventure. Whether traveling solo or with companions, opting for organized tours or crafting her own unique itineraries, and choosing between luxurious accommodations or humble hostels, Luisa demonstrated an incredible adaptability, learning to respect diverse customs and beliefs while cherishing the world’s rich tapestry of cultures.
The culmination of her extraordinary 50-year quest was South Sudan, the world’s newest nation at the time of her visit, which she finally reached in 2023. Marking this incredible milestone, she joyfully celebrated with a cake and champagne amidst fellow travelers and welcoming locals, expressing profound happiness and gratitude for the chance to have explored the globe and realized her lifelong dream.
Even after achieving her goal of visiting every country, Luisa has no intention of slowing down, eager to revisit cherished places like China, India, and Brazil for deeper exploration. She’s also passionate about sharing her incredible journey and inspiring others, particularly younger generations, believing that travel is not just a pastime but the ultimate form of education and self-discovery.
Luisa passionately urges aspiring travelers to begin their own adventures without delay, highlighting the immense value of experiencing the world’s diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. She eloquently explains that travel transcends mere sightseeing, encompassing the profound emotions felt, the meaningful connections forged, and the cherished moments savored, ultimately offering one of life’s most rewarding and enriching pursuits that cultivate personal growth and a deeper global understanding.
