3 Years, 80+ Countries: The Solo Traveler's Journey

3 Years, 80+ Countries: The Solo Traveler's Journey

From Whereabouts Tales | Stories of Belonging and Immigrant Experiences by Paul Puscas | Stories of Belonging and Cultural Exploration

March 25, 2026 · 1h 45m · Season 2 · Episode 22

About this episode

Carl shares his transformative three-year journey traveling over 80 countries, discussing the realities of solo travel and the privilege that comes with it.

Good evening, or whenever you're tuning in! I'm thrilled to bring you a truly special episode today, one that moves beyond typical expert advice to deliver a profound experience. I recently stumbled upon Carl's story on Reddit, where his 'Ask Me Anything' post captivated me: 'I'm 33, a man, and I traveled the whole world the last three years (85+ countries).' I knew immediately I had to invite him to share his incredible journey. Carl, an Austrian, embarked on a nearly three-year solo adventure. What struck me first was his refreshing honesty about how he afforded it: openly discussing 'privilege,' meticulous saving for over a decade, and clear priorities (06:11). I particularly resonated with his point about understanding the immense privilege of an Austrian passport and the ease of travel we often take for granted (09:25). His journey wasn't just about seeing places; it was about choosing experiences over possessions, giving up his apartment and belongings – a truly frightening leap of faith (14:13). His impulsive travels through South America, Asia, and Central Asia were filled with natural wonders and cultural immersion. He recounts booking a flight to Rio on a whim (16:55)…

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