As an avid adventurer, the question of “What is your favorite country to visit?” is always a challenging one to answer. There are so many factors that shape a travel experience, from culture and food to scenery and vibes. However, when reflecting on my extensive travels to popular destinations like Turkey, Nepal, South Africa, and Indonesia, I find myself drawn to the places I expected to visit only once but ended up wanting to return to. These unexpected gems have left a lasting impression on me and continue to beckon me back.
One such unexpected gem was Rwanda, a country I visited primarily for primate trekking but was pleasantly surprised by its natural beauty. The closure of the Burundi border gave me the opportunity to explore beyond my initial plans and discover the stunning tea plantations, lush landscapes of a thousand hills, and the rhythmic singing fishermen of Lake Kivu. The country’s reconciliation efforts after the 1994 genocide are commendable, with genocide memorials that provide a somber yet transparent look at its difficult history. My close encounter with a mischievous golden monkey in Volcanoes National Park and the breathtaking sunset at the “Edge of the World” are moments that have etched themselves into my memory.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia surprised me with its diverse landscapes and rich history. From the dramatic cliffs of the “Edge of the World” to the fertile green valley of Wadi Al Disah, Saudi Arabia offered me a glimpse into its lesser-known natural wonders. Exploring the ancient Nabatean site of Hegra illuminated by candlelight and experiencing the warm hospitality of a Bedouin camp were highlights of my journey. The authenticity of the experiences and the lack of mass tourism made me feel truly welcomed in this unique destination.
Montenegro, often overshadowed by its neighbor Croatia, captured my heart with its picturesque landscapes and historic charm. Cycling through this hidden gem of a country, I discovered turquoise waters, mountain vistas, and Orthodox churches that date back centuries. The UNESCO-honored Bay of Kotor, with its old town and fortress overlooking the Adriatic Sea, felt like stepping back in time. The serenity of the peninsular village of Sveti Stefan left a lasting impression, calling me back to its rustic beauty.
Antarctica, the White Continent, offered me a once-in-a-lifetime experience of pure and untouched wilderness. As one of the first visitors of the season, I witnessed the pristine beauty of endless white landscapes and fiery orange sunsets. Exploring the remote corners of Antarctica on foot and by kayak, I encountered a world untouched by human hands for months. The warmth and hospitality of the researchers at the Polish research base on King George Island showcased the camaraderie and spirit of exploration that defines this icy realm.
Vanuatu, one of the least visited countries in the world, beckoned me with its remote beauty and tribal traditions. Despite the challenges of its voluntary national airline liquidation, Vanuatu’s natural wonders are unparalleled. The active volcano Mount Yasur, with its fiery lava displays, and the crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life are a testament to the country’s unique allure. Witnessing the land-diving ritual on Pentecost Island, the original bungee jumping, was a cultural immersion like no other, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions of this Melanesian archipelago.
My explorations of these unexpected gems have broadened my perspective on travel and the world. Each destination has left an indelible mark on my soul, sparking a desire to return and unravel more of their mysteries. As a world wanderer, the allure of the unknown and the unexpected continues to drive me to seek out new adventures and experiences in the far corners of the globe.