UMVA has learned that a man from Toronto has achieved the incredible feat of visiting every one of the 193 United Nations member states, a journey that spanned nearly 15 years and took him to some of the world's most fascinating destinations.
Dillon DeCoteau, a technical consultant, completed his journey when he travelled to war-torn Sudan last April, a trip that was verified by travel-tracking platforms. His adventures took him to over 200 countries and territories, and he's now setting his sights on visiting all non-UN countries and territories, as well as revisiting some of his favorite destinations.
DeCoteau's love affair with travel began in 2010 when he decided to use up his one million travel rewards points on a solo trip to Hong Kong, Thailand, China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. From there, he was hooked, and his travels took him on a journey of discovery, learning, and connection with people around the world.
So, how does DeCoteau plan his trips? He starts by looking at a world map and identifying a region that contains several countries he has yet to visit and that are geographically close to one another. He then creates an itinerary that allows him to visit as many of those countries as possible within the available timeframe.
For DeCoteau, the joy of travel comes from exploring new countries, connecting with local people, and experiencing different cultures. He recalls some of his most enjoyable experiences being in countries frequently portrayed by the media as unsafe or best avoided, such as Afghanistan and Iraq, where he encountered warm and hospitable people.
DeCoteau's travels weren't without challenges, however. He faced difficulties obtaining a visa for Sudan, which involved a significant amount of bureaucracy and took two months to approve. He also encountered situations where officials expected unofficial payments, and he had to navigate language barriers.
Despite these challenges, DeCoteau's experiences were largely positive, and he found that people were generally welcoming and willing to help, even when there was a language barrier. He advises travelers to do their research before traveling, learn about local customs, and remain flexible, as not everything will go according to plan.
As for his favorite destination, DeCoteau finds it hard to choose, but his top three would be Andorra, San Marino, and Azerbaijan. He loves Andorra's breathtaking mountain scenery, San Marino's medieval walled city, and Azerbaijan's blend of old and new.
DeCoteau's advice to those who might hesitate at planning a trip on their own is simple: take the leap. The world is far less intimidating and far more fascinating than many people imagine, and the rewards of exploring it can be an enriching experience.
Looking ahead, DeCoteau is currently developing an itinerary that includes French Guiana, Bonaire, and, if conditions permit, a return visit to Venezuela. His passion for travel remains as strong as ever, and he's excited to see where his next adventure takes him.
