Bader Al Shuaib, a full-time solo traveler from Kuwait, has set out to explore every sovereign nation on Earth. With over 150 countries under his belt, including visits to all seven continents, Bader’s ultimate ambition is to traverse from the Geographical South Pole to the Geographical North Pole. Having recently returned from Moscow, he shares his travel experiences with The Peninsula, emphasizing his passion for exploration and the unique cultural experiences he encounters along the way.
After completing a Master’s degree in Filmmaking in California, USA, Bader made the decision to pursue his goal of extensive travel. He recalls how his student visa expiration prompted him to officially embark on his journey to visit every country in the world. Since then, Bader has remained dedicated to his goal, maintaining a constant state of travel with occasional pauses for visa applications or passport renewals.
While Bader refrains from singling out a favorite country, he highlights Latin America as holding a special allure for its cultural richness and natural beauty. He suggests Croatia and Slovenia as affordable nature destinations for Arab readers seeking unique experiences. Reflecting on his recent visit to Moscow, Bader finds the city to be increasingly appealing to Gulf tourists, particularly with the introduction of e-visas. He enjoyed exploring the streets, attractions, and culture of Moscow, noting its unique vibes compared to other European cities.
In terms of planning, Bader adopts a flexible yet organized approach, deciding his next destination based on regions and carefully mapping out his travel routes. He adheres to a minimalist philosophy, carrying only essentials like his laptop, smartphone, and passport to ensure seamless travel experiences. When it comes to security, Bader relies on his positive attitude and faith in the goodwill of people, choosing not to let fear overshadow his enjoyment of travel.
As Bader reflects on his travel experiences, he emphasizes the importance of staying open-minded, calm, and humble in the face of diverse cultures and experiences. He shares valuable lessons learned from his journeys, including not rushing to judgment and maintaining a sense of appreciation for the world’s richness and diversity. With these insights in mind, Bader continues his solo travel journey with a sense of openness and curiosity, eager to explore new destinations and connect with people from all walks of life.
