A globe-trotting explorer who has visited every country in the world has revealed his top under-rated destinations, including a hidden gem he describes as “paradise on Earth”.
Michael Zervos recently clinched the Guinness World Record for the fastest time visiting all 195 UN-recognised countries, achieving this remarkable feat in just 499 days and smashing the previous record of 554 days.
The American adventurer has now shared that one particular country took him by surprise with its stunning landscapes, affordable accommodation and natural pools filled with crystal-clear waters, reports The Mirror.
In collaboration with iVisa to share his experiences, Michael said: “Many travellers simply don’t realise how accessible and budget-friendly Samoa actually is. The word ‘paradise’ gets thrown around a lot when describing the Pacific, but Samoa truly matches my idea of paradise on Earth.
“The To Sua Ocean Trench is jaw-dropping. This natural sinkhole is filled with crystal-clear water and one of the most unique swimming spots I’ve ever encountered. Every village participates in an annual beautification competition, ensuring the entire country is immaculately maintained by those who live there. The environment always takes priority here.”
Reaching Samoa from the UK isn’t particularly complex, though it does require considerable time with journeys exceeding 33 hours when accounting for layovers and connecting services.
One of the most straightforward routes involves flying from London to Auckland or Fiji, from where direct services to Faleolo in Samoa are available.
Samoa wasn’t the sole destination that caught Michael’s attention regarding nations yet to experience mass tourism.
Additional locations included Madagascar, which he characterised as “like stepping into a lost world”, Lesotho which he describes as “raw, friendly and ridiculously scenic”, Bhutan that’s “unlike anywhere else”, and Suriname “where nature reigns” with landscapes that “feel totally wild and untouched”.
Meanwhile, Eritrea, which receives approximately just 150,000 visitors annually, represented another less-frequented location that Michael believes deserves a place on travellers’ wish lists.
“The safety and the lack of tourists make it feel like a rare and authentic discovery in a world where most places have already been explored,” he explained.
He was particularly taken with his journeys throughout Pakistan, commenting: “Peshawar, with its bustling bazaars, intricately carved wooden doors, and centuries-old architecture is a dream for photographers and filmmakers – without the overwhelming crowds of Delhi or Mumbai. The people, the food, the landscapes, and the sheer affordability make Pakistan a must-visit for adventurers and filmmakers. I can’t wait to return.”
