She set off traveling alone aged 13 and now she’s visited nearly every country
She set off traveling alone aged 13 and now she’s visited nearly every country
She set off traveling alone aged 13 – Sophia Lee, a 20-year-old adventurer, embarked on her first solo journey at the age of 13, an experience that ignited a lifelong passion for exploration. What began as a spontaneous decision has since evolved into an ambitious pursuit, bringing her to the brink of a remarkable milestone: becoming the youngest individual to have visited every recognized country in the world. Her current tally of nearly all nations is just a few steps behind the record held by Lexie Alford, who accomplished the feat in 2019 at the age of 21 years and 177 days. Lee’s journey, which started with a single flight to Costa Rica, has since expanded into a global expedition shaped by determination, cultural curiosity, and a deep appreciation for self-discovery.
A Journey Born from a Single Flight
Lee’s initial solo trip to Costa Rica in 2019 was the catalyst for her transformative path. At the time, she had to secure written permission from her parents to fly independently, a requirement that symbolized both her growing independence and the family’s support for her adventurous spirit. Despite her youthful age, Lee was undeterred, attributing her confidence to a legacy of wanderlust instilled by her grandparents, who were Peace Corps volunteers. Their stories of international experiences during her formative years planted the seeds for her own global aspirations, though she never anticipated the scale of her eventual endeavor.
“I think that building that self-confidence at a young age and going to these destinations and meeting with people from other cultures and backgrounds is really one of the best experiences you can have as a young person,” Lee told CNN Travel.
Her confidence was further tested during her time in Costa Rica, where she navigated the Nicoya Peninsula’s rugged terrain and vibrant ecosystems. While the trip itself was seamless, she recalls being subjected to additional security checks at the airport, a moment that sparked her reflection on the perceptions of young travelers. “I think they were concerned that I was running away or something like that,” she said. “Or they weren’t sure what I was doing traveling solo.” These experiences, though minor, underscored the challenges of being a young solo traveler in a world often skeptical of such bold moves.
The Flexibility of Homeschooling
Lee’s educational background played a pivotal role in enabling her global pursuits. Homeschooled from an early age, she developed a unique ability to balance academic responsibilities with her desire to explore. This flexibility allowed her to integrate travel into her routine, whether through volunteering at wildlife sanctuaries or collaborating with social media teams in exchange for lodging and meals. By the time she graduated high school at 16, her focus had shifted from pursuing a film degree to chasing the next horizon. “I went three years without seeing some of my family, and it’s been a year since I’ve seen my parents,” she said, adding that her sister occasionally joins her in accessible destinations to maintain family bonds.
Her determination to break the record was solidified after learning about Alford’s achievement. Initially, Lee doubted the possibility of matching or surpassing it, especially since she was still young enough to legally drink alcohol in Alaska. Yet, her resolve only strengthened as she continued to take on new challenges. By 17, she had officially launched her record attempt, though the journey faced delays due to a family situation that required a temporary pause. This setback, however, only deepened her commitment to completing the mission.
A Global Expedition on a Tight Budget
Lee’s approach to the challenge was methodical and resourceful. She adhered to an “extreme budget” of $100 per country, a strategy that involved meticulous planning and embracing cost-effective travel methods. Overnight buses, shared accommodations, and local experiences became staples of her routine, allowing her to cover vast distances without compromising her financial goals. As her story gained traction, sponsorships and brand partnerships eased her financial strain, but the core of her journey remained rooted in personal growth and cultural exchange.
Her path began in Europe, where she traversed the United Kingdom, Sweden, Finland, and Estonia by ferry, finding the region both accessible and affordable. From there, she ventured into Asia and the Middle East, expanding her horizons with each new destination. The transition from Europe to other continents, however, required a broader mindset. “It’s been a year since I’ve seen my parents,” she noted, highlighting the sacrifices made to pursue her dream. Despite the distance, Lee’s resilience and adaptability have kept her on track, even as she navigates the complexities of public transportation and the need to revisit countries she had already visited.
The Road Ahead and a Legacy of Adventure
Lee’s record attempt, which technically began in 2023, is now in full swing. Since her return from the pause, she has maintained an unbroken streak of travel, immersing herself in diverse cultures and landscapes. Her story is not just about ticking off countries on a list but about the profound impact of each experience. “I think that building that self-confidence at a young age and going to these destinations and meeting with people from other cultures and backgrounds is really one of the best experiences you can have as a young person,” Lee said, a sentiment that resonates with her broader philosophy of exploration.
As she continues her journey, Lee remains focused on the personal and professional growth that comes from each step. Her early experiences, from overcoming social anxiety to navigating the logistical hurdles of a global expedition, have shaped her into a resilient and resourceful traveler. With her 17-year-old determination and a growing network of supporters, she is now closer than ever to shattering the record. Her story serves as an inspiration to young adventurers everywhere, proving that with courage, planning, and a passion for discovery, the world can be a classroom, a challenge, and a dream come true.
Lee’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unexpected paths that can lead to extraordinary achievements. What started as a solo trip to Costa Rica has grown into a global adventure that challenges norms and redefines what it means to explore the world. Her ability to balance personal growth with logistical precision, and her unwavering belief in the value of cultural exchange, has set her apart as a unique figure in the realm of travel. As she approaches her goal, the world watches with interest, eager to see how this young traveler will continue to redefine the boundaries of possibility.
