Sophia Lee, 21, from the United States, harbored a dream of setting a world record since childhood. After a solo trip to Costa Rica at 13, she decided to pursue the goal of visiting every country globally. At 14, Lee learned about the Guinness World Record for the youngest person to visit all 195 UN-recognized countries. This goal resonated with her love for challenges and passion for travel.

For many years, Lee continued her solo journeys but did not formally pursue the record. It was at 17, after visiting over 50 countries, that she decided to embark on the endeavor seriously. Lee realized that setting a record was not simply about visiting a country.

Guinness requires participants to provide documentation proving their presence at each destination and to prepare a dossier in advance. This meant Lee had to revisit many countries to compile her records.

Sophia Lee collects "evidence" in each country she visits. Photo: sophialeetravel

By mid-July, Lee had visited 189 of the 195 UN-recognized countries. She expects to complete the remaining six destinations by early august at the latest, including Mali, Chad, and Venezuela, along with three other nations.

Lee stated that the most difficult-to-access countries were saved for the final leg due to complex visa procedures, high costs, and potential security risks.

According to Guinness rules, participants only need to set foot in a country to qualify for the record. However, Lee set a higher standard for herself. On each trip, she strives to have a "meaningful experience," such as enjoying local cuisine, conversing with residents, or visiting a significant natural, historical, or cultural landmark.

Among the 189 countries she has visited, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan left the deepest impressions on Lee.

The 21-year-old traveler in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Photo: sophialeetravel

Spending almost her entire teenage years traveling meant she missed many typical experiences, such as proms, graduations, or family birthdays. In return, Lee gained friends across the globe.

"I have friends in India, Ghana, and many other countries; connecting with people from different cultures is a wonderful experience," she said.

Drawing from her years of solo travel experience, Lee believes the world is much safer than many people imagine.

"The more you travel, the more you realize that every country and culture has many kind, hospitable people," she commented.

If she completes the remaining six countries as planned, Lee will become the youngest person to have visited all 195 UN-recognized countries, according to Guinness standards.

By Mai Phuong (based on People, AOL)