4 down 1 to go, it feels surreal sat here and realizing I am just about to accomplish my goal. In 2 days time I will be 30 and also embarking on my 30th country visit. When I set out to do this challenge, I didn’t know if I would accomplish it or not. One thing I did know was I had the determination to do this challenge and give it my absolute ALL. I last share an update with you on June 7th, exactly one month before my 30th. By June 7th the score was 2 down 3 to go at the same time I knew already what the other 3 countries were.
30 Countries Before 30: 4 down 1 to go
When people ask me how I managed to travel so often I tell them because I made traveling my priority. But also that my current circumstances (no family or kids) allow me to travel at will. This very blog is a big influence on my traveling life because what I make from it I use to go traveling. I am forever grateful that a part time hobby turned small business gives me so much back. It wasn’t the original plan to make money from the blog but it’s one I fell into and glad I did.
Now let’s do a mini recap of the four countries I managed to explore in the last 4 weeks. Where possible I have linked to the full post on each individual country.
Four {4} Switzerland – Basel & Lucern
The final weekend in June so me head to Basel, Switzerland for a mini getaway. As I am never one to waste an opportunity I made sure to add in another city into the mix, Lucern. But what was also special about this visit is I was able to hop into Germany and France too. In Basel you find a tr-point where all the three countries meet and whilst it’s nothing spectacular it’s just nice to visit. It was nice to say I just spent an afternoon in three cities in three different countries.
Three {3} Romania – Bucharest & Transylvania
Third weekend in June I found myself heading off to Bucharest in Romania. You see due to all the stress I had that time I completely forgot about this trip. I had so much to catch up on and I had an exam to revise and take on the day I was flying out. Thankfully I passed the exam and went off to have an amazing time solo traveling. Again I don’t like to waste an opportunity so I managed to squeeze in a trip to Transylvania before I left. It was an incredible experience one that I highly recommend.
Related: 10 places to visit in Bucharest
Two {2} Indonesia – Bali
Day 1 in June I embarked on what I considered my pre-birthday treat to myself. I had wanted to be in Bali on or around my birthday but work commitments stopped me from doing that. So I did the next next thing and celebrated early with a friend and it was a mixture of emotions. I did and experienced so many things I wouldn’t have otherwise done like ride an elephant. It is still surreal to me that I managed to do all that when on a good day you would never see me trying.
One {1} Qatar – Doha
Related: Five Things to know before visiting Doha
When I think about the people I have surrounding me I dropped to my knees and thank the heavens. I have known this friend in Doha for over 10 years, we talk on and off but never met until April this year. As life would have it, my friend was on business whilst I was attending a wedding in Zambia. Of all the cities in Zambia we managed to find ourselves in the same one and met up. Didn’t think we would be meeting so soon but on my way to Bali, my stopover was Doha for 10 hours. I was able to explore this incredible city because my friend made it possible and I am forever grateful.
I know I have said it too many times in this post but it still feels surreal to me, 4 down 1 to go. How many people can say they have visited 30 countries on or before there thirties? I know a couple but that’s it and I feel totally humbled and blessed to be able to say exactly that. So here is to 4 down 1 to go and enjoying the one that makes it the thirtieth.
ElizOF says
Good for you and kudos for meeting this goal. Travel is addictive and I can assure you that you will continue to explore the globe and stay excited about it. Asia has to be next for you and, of course, Australia. 🙂
lexhan says
big list, i have not been to any country except the one i am from and which i currently live in, i envy your list and hope you have fun while you visit all as you have planned. good luck
Denice Joyce Diaz says
Oh wow! You’re so lucky to have the opportunity to travel at your age. Will watch out for your final post – when you have completed your personal challenge. 🙂
Karate and Caviar says
Travelling is so amazing for putting your own home place in perspective and also to open up your own personal horizon. I love exploring new places and cultures so much! Awesome that you are ticking off your bucket list so well!
Blair Villanueva says
It is great that you see age as an great opportunity to have fun and explore the world. Am excited to read your next post, that you’ve completed your quest.
Sarah Bailey says
It is so exciting that you are almost at your goal and how amazing that you have seen 30 countries Enjoy your last visit and your birthday.
Yonca Nihal says
Travelling all around the world is totally amazing! Good luck and have fun on your next trip!
Ana De Jesus says
I think it is amazing that you have traveled so extensively. If you could pick a favourite country where would it be and why?
Shannon Graham says
It’s totally true, that if you want to accomplish something, it has to be your main focus. That is one amazing accomplishment!
Muna Kenny says
I need to step up my traveling game! You are lucky girl, these places look awesome. I have never been to Bali, I only dream about it 🙂
John Dale Obedoza says
Have you been to the Philippines? You should try to visit Palawan if you ever get the chance.
Queen Dee says
wow that’s so amazing. You have soooo encouraged me to step my travel game up. I don’t have any excuses not to.
Corinne & Kirsty says
OMG! I am jealous! You’re going everywhere! Such an amazing adventure! best of luck for the next step! xx corinne
KokosSecrets says
wow you have traveled a lot I’m so jealous of you!! I would start my journey later this year.
Betsy Smith says
Wow! I’m so jealous that you’re on this amazing journey! As much as I love my life I would love to travel more… the hubby and I have been planning a trip to Greece for three years and it still is on the distant horizon. I’ll definitely be following along to see your last country!
Heather Johnson says
I would love to travel internationally someday. So far I have only visited my own country. Then again, the United States is huge compared to many places, and I have so much more to visit.
Idiot chronicles says
You’ve traveled around the world and still going strong.. Thats Commendable..
Kachee || KacheeTee.com says
You go girl! You madeeeee it! Can’t wait to have that interview with you! Whooop.
KacheeTee.com
Anosa says
Thanks girl, I have finally made it and so glad.
Excited about the interview