My travels in the 2000s
Focus on Asia and Africa – 41 countries visited
2000s travel was my most productive period, combining two long journeys with many shorter trips.
At the turn of the century, I was finishing my second long trip, Asian Big Tour. Digital cameras began replacing their analog predecessors, while the internet and email started to take over from paper-based sources and communication.
My travels in the 2000s focused on Asia and Africa, which I explored during two major overland journeys: the Asian Big Tour (1999-2000) and the African Big Tour (2004-05).
In 2009, for the first time, I made a list of the countries I had visited and began exploring new ones more systematically. I realized that my original interest in specific cultures, regions, or landmarks had grown into a broader desire to discover the fascinating sides of the unknown world.
From backpacking to business travelling
After years of backpacking a new kind of travelling appeared in my life – business travelling. Throughout my professional career, I have had numerous opportunities to travel internationally for business purposes. While I was generally familiar with most of the countries I visited for work, the notable exceptions were Equatorial Guinea and El Salvador.
During business traveling, my style significantly differs from that of a backpacker. I typically reside in luxury hotels located in prime areas of major cities, dine at high-end restaurants, and utilize taxis or private vehicles for transportation.
The trips are usually short, primarily centered around business meetings and executive meal gatherings, during which substantial amounts of gourmet food and premium beverages are consumed. Initially my dress code was very formal; however, over the years it has gradually shifted to more casual.
It’s quite difficult, if not impossible, to balance professional obligations with sightseeing, especially in the way I like to travel. I have experienced only a limited number of business trips where I was able to remain after meetings to explore the area. El Salvador was one such case. I left my suits, ties and polished shoes in a hotel, packed my rucksack, took a local bus, and went off to the countryside.
My 2000s travel adventures ended with visits to 41 new countries, a total similar to other decades.
Countries visited in 2000s – 41
