She set off traveling alone aged 13 and now she’s visited nearly every country
Youngest Traveler to Visit Every Country: Sophia Lee’s Global Journey
She set off traveling alone aged 13 – Sophia Lee, now 20, has embarked on a remarkable journey that began with her first solo trip at age 13. What started as a childhood dream has now transformed into a near-record-breaking feat, as she is only nine countries away from becoming the youngest individual to have visited every UN-recognized nation in the world. Her story, a blend of determination, adventure, and cultural curiosity, has captivated audiences and sparked conversations about the power of early independence and global exploration.
From a Solo Adventure to a Global Ambition
Lee’s passion for travel took root long before she could legally drink alcohol in her home state of Alaska. At just 13, she flew alone to Costa Rica, a decision that required written permission from her parents. Though it was her first time leaving the United States, the experience ignited a lifelong love for traversing borders and immersing herself in new cultures. “I think that building self-confidence at a young age and engaging with people from different backgrounds is one of the most rewarding experiences a teenager can have,” she told CNN Travel. Her initial trip, which included beaches and jungles in Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, became a catalyst for a broader vision of the world.
“I went three years without seeing some of my family, and it’s been a year since I’ve seen my parents,” Lee said, reflecting on the sacrifices required to pursue her ambition.
By the time she reached 17, Lee had already traveled nonstop for years, often relying on public transportation and budget-friendly strategies to fund her adventures. Her journey, however, hasn’t been without hurdles. In 2019, when she first left the U.S., she was subjected to additional security measures at the Costa Rica airport, a moment she recalls as both humbling and memorable. “I think they were concerned I was running away or something like that,” she explained. “Or they weren’t sure what I was doing traveling solo.” These early challenges only reinforced her resolve to push boundaries.
A Family Legacy of Exploration
Lee’s adventurous spirit was nurtured by her family’s history of global engagement. Her grandparents, who served in the Peace Corps, shared tales of their travels that shaped her perspective on the world. “Growing up, I was surrounded by stories of places I’d never seen but could imagine,” she said. This influence, combined with her natural inclination to explore, made her first solo flight feel less daunting. “I wasn’t nervous because I came from a family of globetrotters,” she added, highlighting how her upbringing prepared her for the challenges of independent travel.
Her travels have taken her through diverse landscapes, from the lush forests of Costa Rica to the bustling cities of Europe and the dynamic cultures of Asia. Each destination has offered lessons in adaptability, resilience, and cultural exchange. For example, during her early trips, Lee had to navigate social anxiety by relying on her own problem-solving skills. “Being forced to figure things out on my own made me stronger,” she reflected. This growth has been a defining aspect of her journey, turning initial fears into confidence.
Financial Strategy and Sustained Effort
Lee’s ability to travel extensively is also a testament to her resourcefulness. She often lived on an extreme budget of $100 per country, using overnight buses and shared accommodations to stretch her funds. This frugal approach, while challenging, allowed her to maintain independence and focus on the experiences rather than the logistics. “It taught me to prioritize what truly matters,” she said. However, as her story gained traction, she began to secure sponsorships and brand partnerships, which eased financial pressures and enabled her to continue her quest.
Her motivation to visit every country stems from a desire to connect with the world’s diversity. “Meeting people from different cultures has been one of the most eye-opening parts of my journey,” she shared. This perspective has also inspired her to document her travels, particularly through her work with social media. In addition to teaching yoga in various countries, she has used her platform to share insights and encourage others to embrace adventure. “Traveling alone at a young age is about more than just seeing new places—it’s about discovering who you are in the process,” she emphasized.
The Record and the Road Ahead
Sophia Lee’s efforts have brought her close to surpassing the world record held by Lexie Alford, who achieved the feat in 2019 at the age of 21 years and 177 days. While Lee initially doubted her ability to match Alford’s accomplishment, she remained committed to the goal. “I didn’t really think it was possible at first,” she admitted. “But once I started, I realized there was no turning back.” Her current challenge involves not only visiting all 195 UN-recognized countries but also revisiting the 50 or so she’s already explored to ensure her record is valid.
Though she technically launched her record attempt in 2023, a family situation temporarily disrupted her plans. This pause, however, didn’t deter her. Instead, she used the time to refine her approach, focusing on sustainability and efficiency. In 2024, she resumed her journey, traveling continuously and steadily working toward her objective. “It’s been a mix of excitement and pressure,” she said. “But every step feels worth it.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Lee’s journey has required balancing personal growth with the demands of global exploration. While she often missed family milestones, she found ways to stay connected through video calls and occasional visits. Her sister occasionally joins her in accessible destinations, providing a sense of normalcy amid the chaos of travel. “It’s been a year since I’ve seen my parents, but they’ve been amazing supporters,” she said. This support, along with her own perseverance, has allowed her to thrive in a world that often feels unpredictable.
Her route has also been shaped by practical considerations. She began in Europe, where she found the region to be both affordable and manageable for her budget. From the United Kingdom, she moved through Sweden, Finland, and Estonia via ferry, highlighting the ease of navigating European geography. As she ventured into Asia and the Middle East, the challenges grew more complex, but she approached each destination with the same enthusiasm and determination.
Lee’s story is more than just a list of countries visited—it’s a narrative of transformation. By the time she turned 16, she had graduated from high school early, a decision that allowed her to focus on her travels rather than traditional academic pursuits. “I wanted to keep moving, not just finish school,” she explained. This mindset has driven her to push past personal and logistical limits, ensuring her journey remains a testament to her ambition.
Future Goals and Global Impact
Despite her progress, Lee remains focused on completing the challenge. “There’s still so much to see, and I’m not done yet,” she said. Her ultimate goal is to document her travels in a way that inspires others, especially young people, to pursue their passions. “I hope my story shows that age doesn’t limit what you can achieve,” she added. This message resonates with her followers, many of whom see her as a symbol of courage and curiosity.
As she continues her journey, Lee is mindful of the responsibility that comes with her status as a young globetrotter. “I want to make sure I’m not just ticking off countries—I want to understand the people and the stories behind each place,” she said. This deeper engagement with her destinations reflects her growth beyond the initial thrill of travel. Her experiences have also taught her the importance of community, whether through volunteering at wildlife sanctuaries or collaborating with local schools to share her knowledge.
With each new country, Lee adds another layer to her identity, blending the experiences of her grandparents’ Peace Corps days with her own adventures. Her journey is a reminder that the world is vast and that the path to discovery often begins with a single step. As she nears her goal, her story continues to evolve, proving that young travelers can leave a lasting mark on the globe and on the hearts of those who follow their journey. “This isn’t just about me—it’s about every person who dares to dream beyond their limits,” she concluded.