This 79-Year-Old World Traveler Will Make You Rethink Everything

Have you ever felt like it’s too late to chase your dreams or explore the world? In a world where youth is often glorified, it’s easy to underestimate the capability and potential of older individuals. But age should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s passions and discovering the world’s wonders. In a world where youth is often glorified, it’s easy to underestimate the capability and potential of older individuals. Age is just a number and this 79-year-old world traveler is living proof of that. Prepare to be inspired!

Who Is the 79-Year-Old World Traveler?

Luisa Yu, a resident of Miami, Florida, realized her lifelong dream of visiting every country in the world. Her world tour concluded in Serbia this year, and for more than 50 years, she has traveled to a total of 193 countries. She embarked on this journey in her early 20s. Then Yu, who has lived in the USA for over 50 years, started by exploring different states within the country. Her remarkable journey has spanned decades, creating countless memories and connections with people along the way.

Luisa Yu, affectionately called “Mama” by fellow travelers and locals due to being the oldest among them, shared with NBC6 that she has formed numerous connections and travel partnerships with people from around the world during her extensive travels.

The 79-Year-Old World Traveler Even Received Recognition

Luisa Yu, who recently completed her world tour at the age of 79, has been recognized with the Nomad Mania Travel Award 2022 as the ‘Most Positive Traveler.’ Nomad Mania, a non-profit organization promoting travel for those with limited resources, honored Yu for her positive impact. Additionally, she received the Global Explorer and Most Adventure Explorer Award from the Philippines. Although unable to pick a favorite country, Yu has a special fondness for her home nation, the Philippines, with Thailand and Italy also holding significance.

As she approaches her 80th birthday, Yu expresses pride in fulfilling her dream, including buying a house and traveling independently. She extends gratitude to all the kind people she encountered during her remarkable journey. She had previously stated: “I did fulfill my dream. I was able to buy a house on my own. I was able to travel on my own… I’m just happy. I want to thank all the people who have been so nice and kind to me.”

How Her Last Destination Was Chosen

Luisa Yu’s friends, whom she made during her extensive travels, persuaded her to choose Serbia as the final country on her list. They organized a celebratory party for her arrival, with people clapping and cheering as she exited the airport. While Yu finds it challenging to pick a favorite country, some of her top choices include Italy, the Philippines, and Thailand.

Best of it all? Luisa Yu’s advice for aspiring travelers is straightforward: “Don’t be afraid, just go. Don’t wait for anybody, because if you wait, it will never happen.”

Would you want to be the next 79-year-old world traveler?

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