Bangkok, Thailand, hosted a historic gathering at this year’s Extraordinary Travel Festival (ETF), breaking a world record by assembling the largest number of dedicated global travelers ever documented. The event, held from November 15 to 17, 2024, welcomed 250 travelers, including 31 individuals who have completed the remarkable feat of visiting all 193 UN-recognized countries.
This distinguished group of adventurers includes Harry Mitsidis and Slawek Mutari, two of only four people to have circumnavigated the globe twice, marking their participation as especially significant. Other notable attendees were David Langan (Ireland), Jim Loudin (USA), Randy “The Sultan” Williams (USA & Slowjamastan), Thomas Casswell (Sweden), and Anders Larsson (Sweden), among many others from across the globe.
The festival not only celebrated an exceptional milestone but also highlighted the diverse and far-reaching scope of global exploration. Over 55 percent of attendees have explored more than 100 countries, underscoring the immense dedication to travel shared by this group. Representing six continents, the participants ranged in age from 22 to 80, showcasing travel’s universal appeal across generations and cultures.
Ric Gazarian, an award-winning travel photographer and influencer, lauded both the festival and the vibrant city of Bangkok for providing a unique platform for networking among the world’s foremost explorers. “This festival offers invaluable opportunities to connect with accomplished travelers and showcase destinations to those who truly understand the art of exploration,” Gazarian remarked.
The ETF was an immersive experience, offering a space for these seasoned travelers to exchange insights, stories, and strategies. It also served as a reminder of the global enthusiasm for exploration, with a focus on the shared spirit of adventure that continues to inspire people worldwide.
As the second ETF in Bangkok’s history concluded, it reaffirmed the city’s place as a premier destination for global tourism and a gathering point for those who have made exploration a lifelong pursuit.
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