She set off traveling alone aged 13 and now she’s visited nearly every country

Young Explorer on the Verge of a Global Record

She set off traveling alone aged 13 – Sophia Lee, a 20-year-old adventurer, is nearing a milestone that could redefine what it means to be a young traveler. Her journey began at age 13 with a solo trip that ignited a lifelong passion for exploration. Now, she is just nine countries away from surpassing the record held by Lexie Alford, who completed the feat in 2019 at 21 years and 177 days. Lee’s story is one of courage, adaptability, and a commitment to pushing boundaries, both personal and geographical.

From Solo Journey to Global Ambition

Lee’s first solo venture took her to Costa Rica, a Central American nation that became the starting point of her extraordinary travels. At the time, she had no idea that this trip would lead to a lifelong mission to visit every UN-recognized country. The experience, however, left an indelible mark. “I think that building self-confidence at a young age and engaging with people from different cultures is one of the best things you can do,” she shared with CNN Travel. Her parents granted her permission to fly alone, a decision that marked the beginning of her independence and a global perspective.

While her solo adventure in Costa Rica was smooth, it wasn’t the only challenge she faced. Lee, who struggled with social anxiety during her childhood, found the process of navigating unfamiliar environments both daunting and empowering. In Nosara, a coastal region of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, she immersed herself in the natural beauty of the area, from its pristine beaches to its lush jungles. The act of solving problems on her own—whether booking accommodations or navigating local customs—helped her grow more confident with each step. Yet, the trip wasn’t without its unique hurdles. She recalled being subjected to extra security checks at the airport, a precaution that made her feel like she was being judged as a “runaway.” “They weren’t sure what I was doing,” she said, “or maybe they were concerned I’d never return.”

Family Roots and Educational Flexibility

Lee’s love for travel is deeply rooted in her family history. Her grandparents, who served in the Peace Corps, shared stories of their experiences abroad, sparking her curiosity about the world. “Growing up, I always wanted to see what they saw,” she said. This upbringing, combined with her homeschooling, gave her the freedom to structure her life around exploration. Unlike traditional students, she could prioritize travel without the constraints of a rigid school schedule.

By the time she was 16, Lee had already graduated from high school and was contemplating a career in film. But her heart remained set on continuing her travels. “I wanted to keep moving,” she explained. Her decision to pursue this path over formal education reflected her belief in the value of experiential learning. She trained as a yoga instructor in the same year, using her skills to fund her adventures or exchange for lodging and meals in various countries. This blend of passion and practicality allowed her to travel extensively while managing her finances.

Ambition and the Guinness World Records Challenge

Lee’s aspirations took a new direction when she learned of Lexie Alford’s record. She realized that if she wanted to challenge it, she needed to act quickly. “I didn’t really think it was possible,” she admitted. Still, the idea of completing the journey within her lifetime kept her motivated. To officially attempt the record, she had to meet strict criteria set by Guinness World Records. These included using public transportation, maintaining a tracking device, and submitting GPS data. Additionally, she was required to revisit the 50 countries she had already visited to ensure accuracy.

After securing approval, Lee launched her record attempt in Europe. Her first stop was the United Kingdom, where she explored cities like London and Edinburgh. From there, she moved to Sweden, then Finland, and Estonia, all by ferry. Europe proved to be her most accessible region, offering affordable travel options and a manageable pace for her budget. “It was the easiest and most affordable way to start,” she noted. But as her journey progressed, she had to adapt to more challenging terrains and cultures.

Her financial strategy was ambitious: an “extreme budget” of $100 per country. This meant relying on overnight buses, camping in hostels, and sometimes working remotely to cover expenses. However, as her story gained traction, she began receiving sponsorships and partnerships from brands, easing the financial burden. “It’s amazing how much support people can offer when they see what you’re trying to do,” she said. These collaborations allowed her to maintain her pace without compromising the authenticity of her travels.

Resilience Through Setbacks

Lee’s journey wasn’t without interruptions. When she first began the record attempt in 2023 at 17, a family situation forced her to pause. She spent three years without seeing her loved ones, a sacrifice she described as both bittersweet and necessary. “It’s been a year since I’ve seen my parents,” she shared, highlighting the emotional toll of her quest. Despite this, her sister occasionally joins her in easily accessible destinations, offering a brief respite from the solitude.

Undeterred by the setback, Lee resumed her travels in 2024. Since then, she has been moving continuously, logging hundreds of hours on buses, trains, and boats. Her determination has led her to remote regions and bustling cities alike, each offering new lessons and experiences. “Traveling alone taught me how to be resourceful,” she reflected. “It also showed me the importance of human connection.”

As she works toward her goal, Lee remains committed to her philosophy of exploration. “Every country has a story, and every journey adds to mine,” she said. Her achievements have inspired a new generation of travelers, proving that age is no barrier to adventure. Whether she breaks the record or not, her story is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the courage it takes to embrace the unknown.

Legacy of a Young Global Nomad

Lee’s adventures have not only challenged records but also redefined the possibilities of youth and travel. Her ability to balance personal growth with global exploration sets her apart. From the initial solo trip to Costa Rica to her ongoing quest to visit every country, she has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Her story is a reminder that the world is vast, and the journey to understand it begins with a single step.

“I think that building 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.

With each destination, Lee continues to expand her horizons, embracing the challenges that come with being a young traveler. Her path is unique, yet it resonates with the universal desire to explore, learn, and grow. As she moves closer to her goal, the world watches with anticipation, inspired by the courage of a 20-year-old who is rewriting the rules of adventure.