Where to travel in Europe and beyond, according to the world’s most travelled people
Where to Travel in Europe and Beyond, According to the World’s Most Traveled People
Where to travel in Europe and beyond - With the proliferation of low-cost airlines and the trend of remote work, many individuals have become extensively travelled. Yet, a distinct subset of adventurers has emerged—those who have crossed every nation’s borders, creating a global network of experienced travellers. This group is recognized through a specialized platform called Most Traveled People, launched in 2005 by Charles Veley. The initiative offers a way to document and celebrate journeys, featuring various categories such as capitals, regions, eateries, and dive spots. For those who have completed the daunting task of visiting all countries, the title of “UN Grandmaster” is awarded, marking them as elite explorers.
Achieving the Title of UN Grandmaster
Becoming a UN Grandmaster requires a rigorous verification process. Applicants must demonstrate their travel credentials by providing proof of visits to 25 of the most difficult countries to access, such as Syria, Kiribati, and North Korea, as well as 25 randomly selected nations. While passport stamps are the primary form of validation, other evidence is accepted, including geotagged photographs of landmarks or signs. For those who travelled before smartphones or digital cameras were common, alternative methods like interviews may be required to confirm their experiences. A mere layover in an airport is not sufficient to count as a visit.
Currently, 122 individuals have officially earned the “UN Grandmaster” designation. These verified globetrotters recently gathered in Portugal for a meet-up, where they shared insights about their preferred destinations. Following the event, Euronews Travel conducted interviews to uncover their top recommendations, revealing a clear consensus on Europe’s most beloved country.
Europe’s Most Admired Destinations
Italy dominated the rankings as the most cherished country in Europe, with over half of the surveyed UN Grandmasters selecting it as their top choice. Its capital, Rome, also made a strong impression, securing fourth place in the list of favorite cities. Florence came in tenth, further underscoring Italy’s appeal. Beyond its cities, the nation was praised for its culinary excellence, earning the title of best food destination worldwide, not just in Europe. Naples, in particular, was highlighted as a standout foodie city.
“Italy has an amazing culture and cuisine that is decidedly different in each region. Outside of the big cities, there are endless places to discover, each with its own unique wine, cheese, pasta dish, and more.”
Other European favorites followed closely behind, with France in second, Spain in third, Portugal in fourth, and Greece in fifth. For those seeking lesser-known gems, Albania stood out as the most underrated country in Europe, trailed by Romania. The Balkans as a region also received recognition, with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, and Montenegro vying for the title of most underrated. In the underrated cities category, Belgrade and Sarajevo were frequently mentioned, while Slovenia’s Ljubljana emerged as the top underrated city.
Global Picks and Hidden Treasures
While Japan has seen a surge in popularity, it only ranked second on the list of favorite countries among the most travelled people. Iran, however, was named the most underrated nation globally. “Iran is one of those countries that is so often viewed only through the prism of politics that much of its extraordinary civilisation becomes invisible to the outside world,” said one Grandmaster. “Yet behind decades of headlines lies a nation with one of the oldest continuous cultures on earth—a land of poets, philosophers, empires, gardens, mosques, bazaars, and some of the warmest hospitality a traveller can experience.”
Iran’s appeal lies in its layered history, from the grandeur of the Achaemenid Empire and Persepolis to the sophistication of Persian literature and science. The country’s architectural marvels, such as Isfahan’s mosques and bridges, and its desert caravanserais of the Silk Road, also contributed to its allure. Yemen, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Papua New Guinea were listed as the next most underrated countries, adding diversity to the rankings.
UNESCO Sites and Unforgettable Experiences
Euronews also asked the most travelled people about their favorite UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While well-known locations like Angkor Wat, Petra, and the Great Wall of China remained popular, some less familiar sites captured attention. The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia made it into the top five, showcasing the region’s spiritual and architectural significance. In the top 10, the stone palaces and temples of Nan Madol in Micronesia stood out, offering a glimpse into a unique cultural heritage.
For those looking for singular experiences, Venezuela’s Canaima National Park was recommended as a must-see destination. Home to the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall, Angel Falls, the park is a natural wonder that embodies the country’s untamed beauty. The Grandmasters emphasized that such places are essential for travel enthusiasts seeking more than just conventional highlights. “To travel through Iran is to walk through layers of history stretching back thousands of years,” one respondent added, underscoring the depth of cultural and historical experiences that define the most travelled people’s preferences.
The Future of Global Travel
As the world becomes more connected, the ranks of the most travelled people continue to grow. Their insights reflect a blend of tradition and discovery, highlighting both the iconic and the obscure. Italy’s prominence in the European rankings underscores its timeless appeal, while Iran’s rise as an underrated destination signals a shift in how global travel is perceived. For those still exploring the globe, the recommendations from these elite travellers serve as a guide to the most rewarding journeys.
Most Traveled People’s community thrives on the shared passion for exploration and the desire to connect with diverse cultures. Whether it’s savoring the flavors of Naples, admiring the architecture of Isfahan, or hiking through the landscapes of Canaima, these recommendations encapsulate the essence of travel as a transformative experience. As more individuals embrace the idea of global exploration, the platform’s role in validating and celebrating these journeys becomes increasingly vital. The top 10 list for favorite countries included Italy in third place, with China and Brazil completing the top three. This diversity in choices highlights the vast array of experiences available to those who dare to travel far and wide.
Ultimately, the most travelled people’s preferences reveal a balance between the familiar and the extraordinary. Europe remains a stronghold for their top choices, but the inclusion of countries like Iran and Albania suggests that the true essence of travel lies in uncovering hidden stories and uncharted paths. The UNESCO sites and unique attractions further demonstrate that the world is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. For anyone seeking to expand their horizons, the insights of these verified globetrotters offer a compelling roadmap to the most memorable destinations on Earth.