Lucy Hsu, a second-grade teacher based in San Jose, California, has officially traveled to all 193 nations recognized by the United Nations.
Hsu explained that most travel clubs and groups use the number 193 because it aligns with the UN membership. Her journey concluded with a visit to Syria in May 2023, as first reported by NBC Bay Area.
Reflecting on her achievement, Hsu shared the anticipation she felt before entering Syria, a country that had been off-limits to Americans for some time. She expressed excitement and a hint of disbelief, noting the calmness she experienced upon realizing she had reached her goal.
While there is no official tally of individuals who have visited every country, estimates suggest that around 400 people have accomplished this remarkable feat.
Hsu, 42, grew up with limited travel opportunities but developed a passion for travel after obtaining her first passport at 23. She initially traveled through Europe and gradually expanded her journeys, eventually setting a goal to travel every summer.
To keep her travel costs low, Hsu strategically planned her trips, often visiting clustered countries and taking advantage of volunteer exchange programs and homestays through platforms like Workaway. She also shared tips for budget travel, including earning credit card rewards and using low-cost transport
ation.
Hsu emphasized that travel is more attainable than many people think, especially with thorough research and budget-conscious strategies. She aims to inspire others, particularly minority women, to explore the world affordably and safely.
Among her favorite destinations, Hsu highlighted Mongolia for its adventurous spirit and Kenya, where she spent several months with a local family. She emphasized the gratitude and perspective that travel brings, noting how it highlights the abundance in the world.
For safe travel, especially to less touristy places, Hsu stressed the importance of research and relying on trusted networks for recommendations. Despite having visited every nation and Antarctica, Hsu still plans to travel further, including a desire to travel on a cargo ship and explore new regions in familiar countries.
Reflecting on her journey, Hsu laughed, noting that the more she travels, the more she realizes there is still much more to see and learn.