Luisa Yu: 80-Year-Old Filipina Travelled 193 Countries in the World

At 80 years old, Luisa Yu has done what most travellers can only dream of—she has visited several countries all over the world. Originally from the Philippines, Yu’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She is now one of only two Filipinos recognised by Nomad Mania as a "UN Master," a title given to those who have travelled to all 193 UN-recognised countries. Even after reaching this incredible milestone at 79, she continues to travel, proving that age is no barrier to adventure.

Image credit: Luisa Yu | Official Facebook Page

Also read: Riza Rasco Completes 203 Countries with North Korea as Her Final Stop

A lifelong dream fueled by cinema

Yu’s love for travel started at a young age. Growing up in Leyte, Philippines, she was captivated by the scenic backdrops in movies, particularly American Westerns. These cinematic landscapes sparked her curiosity about the world, igniting a lifelong desire to explore different cultures and destinations.

Her journey began in her early twenties when she moved to the United States as an exchange student to study medical technology. Limited by visa restrictions, she initially travelled across the U.S. using Greyhound buses, seizing every opportunity to explore new places. This early exposure to travel only deepened her passion, pushing her to dream bigger and explore beyond borders once she had the opportunity.

Overcoming challenges to travel the world

Image credit: Luisa Yu | Official Instagram

For Yu, travelling the world was no simple task. She dedicated years to hard work, balancing multiple jobs to fund her adventures while also raising her daughter. With the financial demands of travel, she had to be strategic, making sacrifices and meticulously planning each trip to turn her dreams into reality.

To support her travels, she earned a real estate licence and later became a part-time travel agent. This career shift gave her the flexibility and resources to see the world. By working in the travel industry, she gained insider knowledge and access to travel deals that helped her make her dreams a reality.

Her relentless determination took her across Europe, the bustling cities of Asia, the wild terrains of Africa, and even the remote corners of the Middle East. She visited places many consider dangerous, including Somalia and Iran, embracing the challenge with unwavering courage. Her travels took her to both famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path destinations, immersing herself in the cultures of the places she visited.

Completing the ultimate bucket list

Image credit: Luisa Yu | Official Instagram

On November 9, 2023, at 79 years old, Yu achieved her ultimate travel milestone—visiting Serbia, her 193rd and final country. Her friends, recognising the significance of the moment, organised a surprise celebration to mark the occasion. With this, she became one of the rare few to have officially travelled to every country on the planet.

A message to Filipino travellers

Beyond just ticking off destinations, her story is a testament to resilience and determination. She believes that, despite cultural differences, people around the world share similar dreams and aspirations. Her journey reinforces the idea that travel is not just about seeing new places—it’s about understanding different ways of life and broadening perspectives.

For fellow Filipinos who aspire to travel, Yu’s message is simple: Take the leap! Many may think that global travel is only for the privileged, but Yu’s story proves otherwise.

Also read: 10 Safest Destinations Filipina Solo Travellers Should Add to Their List

The takeaway: Travel knows no age limit

Yu’s remarkable journey is a reminder that travel has no expiration date. Whether you are in your twenties or your seventies, it is never too late to chase your dreams. Now at 80, she continues to travel, exploring new destinations and inspiring others along the way. Her story challenges the notion that age or background should limit one’s aspirations.

So, for those with a case of wanderlust, perhaps it is time to take inspiration from Luisa Yu and start planning that next big adventure. Who knows? Maybe one day, you will have your own incredible journey to share with the world.