Michael Zervos, a 36-year-old filmmaker from Detroit, Michigan, holds the Guinness World Record for visiting all 195 countries in the shortest time – just under 500 days. Of all the countries he visited, three stood out as "true paradises": Samoa, Bhutan, and Lesotho.

In Samoa, Zervos was impressed by the lack of crowds and the stunning natural beauty of the To Sua Ocean Trench. This popular attraction, located on the coast of Upolu Island in the village of Lotofaga, is a 30-meter-deep swimming hole accessible by a wooden ladder. The surrounding pristine forest is ideal for camping and photography. The trench also boasts an underwater cave that connects to the ocean, a thrilling exploration spot for experienced divers.

The To Sua Ocean Trench in Samoa. Photo: CNN

The To Sua Ocean Trench in Samoa. Photo: CNN

Bhutan, Zervos said, is an "oasis of tranquility." The peaceful, slow pace of life in this Buddhist nation gave him a sense of stepping back in time. Visitors can experience activities like archery, savor spicy cuisine made with cheese and chilies, trek through the mountains, and bathe in hot stone baths. The sight of thousands of prayer flags strung across mountain passes adds a spiritual dimension to the experience.

Zervos described Lesotho as a "kingdom in the sky" thanks to its average elevation of over 1,000 meters, fresh air, and friendly people. Situated in Africa, the country captivates visitors with its majestic mountains, rivers, green pastures, and diamond mines. Tourists often visit to admire the Maluti Mountains, enjoy the tranquility, and explore the rich local culture. The people of Lesotho are known for their hospitality, often inviting visitors to enjoy their traditional motoho porridge and participate in traditional arts festivals.

People in Lesotho wearing traditional attire, dancing at a local festival. Photo: Lesotho

People in Lesotho wearing traditional attire, dancing at a local festival. Photo: Lesotho

Beyond these three destinations, Zervos' journey was filled with daily lessons and inspiring stories from the locals he met along the way. He embarked on his adventure on 18/1/2024, selling his house and traveling from the US to Russia, then on to Turkey. He traversed Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Oceania, Central Asia, Europe, South America, and the Caribbean.

Zervos established a rule for his travels: spend at least one night in each country, except for Vatican City due to the lack of hotels. "I didn't want to just break the record," he said, "I wanted to tell stories and meet people." He completed his journey on 30/5/2025, after 499 days.

Back in Detroit and living a "normal" life, Zervos reflects on his trip as "an incredible experience that taught him to appreciate everything."

Michael Zervos, Guinness World Record holder for fastest world trip. Photo: Grek Herald

Michael Zervos, Guinness World Record holder for fastest world trip. Photo: Grek Herald

Zervos isn't the only one with a Guinness World Record for a rapid world tour. Graham Hughes, a 46-year-old adventurer and filmmaker from Liverpool, England, holds the record for the "fastest time to visit all countries using only public transport." Because he relied on taxis, trains, ferries, and avoided airplanes, Hughes's journey took considerably longer: 4 years and 31 days, starting in 2009 and ending in 2013.

Hughes faced numerous challenges: detention in Cape Verde on suspicion of human trafficking, being held in Congo for six days without explanation, and being stranded at sea due to engine failure. Despite these setbacks, Hughes remained remarkably healthy and positive throughout his 4 years, never falling ill, losing belongings, or being assaulted. He stayed with locals, ate street food, and used inexpensive public transportation. "My advice for those who love to travel," Hughes said, "is to always smile and always have a plan B and a plan C to continue your journey." Hughes's motivation was to achieve something unprecedented, proving that one doesn't need to be wealthy to see the world.

Anh Minh (DM, Visit Bhutan)