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

At 13, Sophia Lee Embarked on Solo Travel and Now Approaches the Youngest World Traveler Record

She set off traveling alone aged 13 – Sophia Lee’s passion for exploration began long before she could legally drink alcohol in Alaska. At just 13 years old, she embarked on her first solo journey, a decision that would shape her life and set her on a path to become one of the youngest individuals to visit nearly every UN-recognized country. Today, at 20, she is within nine nations of surpassing the record currently held by Lexie Alford, who accomplished the feat at 21 years and 177 days in 2019. What began as a spontaneous adventure in Costa Rica has since evolved into a global expedition, fueled by her determination and a deep-seated love for cultural exchange.

A Journey Sparked by Family Stories

Lee’s early exposure to travel was influenced by her grandparents, who served in the Peace Corps during the 1980s. Their tales of navigating foreign lands and immersing themselves in diverse communities ignited a sense of curiosity in Lee from a young age. Though she didn’t realize it at the time, her trip to Costa Rica in 2019—when she was granted written permission to fly alone—marked the beginning of a lifelong mission. “I wasn’t scared because my family has always been adventurers,” she explained, highlighting her parents’ support and the legacy of global exploration that surrounded her.

Her confidence grew as she traversed Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, where she embraced the natural beauty of its beaches and jungles. Despite struggling with social anxiety in childhood, Lee found herself increasingly at ease with each new experience. “Being forced to figure things out on my own really helped me step out of my comfort zone,” she reflected. Yet, the journey wasn’t without its hurdles. When she returned home, she was subjected to extra security checks at the airport, a moment that both amused and humbled her. “I think they were worried I was running away or not sure what I was doing,” she said with a laugh, underscoring the perception of her as a young traveler in a world often reserved for adults.

From Yoga to Global Exploration

By the time she turned 16, Lee had already graduated from high school, a milestone that only reinforced her desire to continue moving forward. Instead of pursuing a traditional college path, she leaned into her interests, training as a yoga instructor. This skill became a valuable asset, allowing her to fund her travels through teaching and social media work. “I’d offer yoga classes or help manage online accounts in exchange for room and board,” she said, describing how she balanced her education with her nomadic lifestyle. Her homeschooling also played a critical role, giving her the flexibility to plan trips around her academic needs.

After her initial foray into international travel, Lee set her sights on a more ambitious goal: visiting every country in the world. When she learned about Alford’s record, she was initially skeptical. “I didn’t really think it was possible,” she admitted, though the idea kept her motivated. She began volunteering with wildlife sanctuaries and schools, using these experiences to refine her approach. Eventually, she reached out to Guinness World Records to formalize her attempt. The organization required her to travel with a tracking device, submit GPS data, and ensure her journey was completed via public transportation. Additionally, she had to revisit the 50 or so countries she’d already visited, a challenge she embraced with resolve.

Lee’s record attempt officially began in 2023 when she was 17, but it was interrupted by a personal family situation that necessitated a temporary pause. By 2024, she was back on the road, determined to complete her mission. “I went three years without seeing some of my family, and it’s been over a year since I last saw my parents,” she shared, emphasizing the sacrifices required. Her sister occasionally joins her, making short trips to visit her in countries that are more accessible by air, a small but meaningful connection to home.

Strategies for Sustainable Travel

Europe became Lee’s first major testing ground, where she settled into the rhythm of budget travel. Starting in the United Kingdom, she made her way through Sweden, Finland, and Estonia, relying on ferries to connect destinations. “Europe was the easiest and most affordable place to begin,” she said, noting the region’s relatively low costs and well-established public transport networks. Her initial budget of $100 per country—often stretching her resources by taking overnight buses and sharing accommodations—helped her stay grounded. However, as her story gained traction, she secured sponsorships and brand partnerships, which eased financial strain and allowed her to travel more comfortably.

From Europe, Lee ventured into Asia and the Middle East, where she encountered new challenges. The continent’s vast size and diverse cultures required meticulous planning, but she adapted quickly. “Every country taught me something different,” she said, reflecting on the lessons learned along the way. Her ability to navigate unfamiliar environments while staying within a tight budget showcased her resourcefulness. Despite the obstacles, she remained steadfast in her pursuit, driven by the belief that travel is one of the most transformative experiences a young person can have.

Lee’s journey has not only been about ticking off destinations but also about personal growth. She credits the act of traveling alone for building her self-confidence and broadening her worldview. “Meeting people from different backgrounds and cultures has been life-changing,” she said. Her story is a testament to the power of early curiosity and the importance of pursuing dreams, even when they seem out of reach. As she continues her quest, she hopes to inspire others to embrace the unknown and find their own paths to global discovery.

A Young Explorer’s Vision

While Lee is focused on completing her record, she also envisions a future beyond the list of countries. “I want to keep exploring, but I also hope to share my story with more people,” she said. Her travels have already sparked conversations about the value of solo exploration, especially for young individuals. “It’s about proving that age isn’t a barrier to adventure,” she added. With her determination and adaptability, Lee is not only chasing a record but also creating a legacy of courage and independence for others to follow.

As she prepares for the final stretch of her journey, Lee remains committed to her mission. The road ahead is long, but she approaches it with the same spirit that carried her through her first solo trip at 13. “I’ve always believed that the world is worth exploring, no matter how young you are,” she said, a sentiment that encapsulates the essence of her remarkable story. Her journey serves as a reminder that the boundaries of possibility are often defined by the courage to step beyond them.