Bangkok, Thailand, November 30, 2024 / TRAVELINDEX / Fewer people have visited all the countries of the world than outer space. The Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok marked a historic milestone, bringing together 250 travel enthusiasts. Among them were an unprecedented 31 individuals who had accomplished the remarkable feat of visiting all 193 UN member states. This gathering set a new world record: it is the largest documented meeting of travelers who have completed this extraordinary task.

This group was joined by Harry Mitsidis and Slawek Mutari, two of the four famous people who have visited every country in the world TWICE. Other participants of the “Extraordinary Travel Festival” were (from left to right in the picture): David Langan (Ireland), Jim Loudin (USA), Luisa Yu (USA), Randy “The Sultan” Williams (USA & Slovakia), Thomas Casswell (Sweden), Anders Larsson (Sweden), Christer Danielsson (Sweden), Jian Kang (China/Sweden), Chris Sutherland (New Zealand), Boris Kester (Netherlands), Stefan Krasowski (USA), Slawek Mutari (Poland/Kenya), Bengt Hildebrand (Sweden), Konstantin Liorek (Ukraine), Matt McCaughey (USA), Charles Veley (USA), Per Besson (USA), Evelthon Vassiliou (Cyprus), Christian Fleischer (USA), Hayley Kennedy (Great Britain), Harry Mitsidis (Great Britain/Greece), Lucy Shoe (USA), David Yang (USA), Flavio Ferrari Zumbini (Italy), Phillips Connor (Singapore) and Damian Stack (Ireland).

Thor “Once Upon A Saga” Pedersen (Denmark), Maurizio Giuliano (Italy), Joel Oleson (USA) and Joao Paulo Peixoto (Portugal) were also present at the Extraordinary Travel Festival in Bangkok (but not visible in the photo).

In addition to their extensive travel experience, the ETF participants brought diverse backgrounds. Over 55% had visited more than 100 countries, demonstrating their extraordinary wanderlust. Representing six continents and ranging in age from 22 to 80, the group illustrated the universal and timeless fascination of travel.

Award-winning travel photographer, podcaster, blogger, and filmmaker Ric Gazarian praised the Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF) and its host city, Bangkok, Thailand, as a resounding success. Held from November 15-17, 2024, Bangkok hosted the second ETF, bringing together the world's most passionate and experienced travelers for three days to share experiences, insights, and strategies. The event celebrated the spirit of adventure and exploration and provided a platform for speakers and attendees, including 31 individuals who have traveled to all 193 sovereign states of the world—a feat accomplished by fewer than 400 people worldwide.

“This travel festival offers the opportunity to connect with the world’s most experienced and discerning travelers and showcase your destination or brand,” Gazarian added. Tourism associations, tour operators, and travel providers wishing to connect with or facilitate bookings with this exceptional group of travelers can also inquire about sponsorship opportunities.

If you have any questions, please visit www.extraordinarytravelfest.com