From Nottingham to Nauru: Woman Sells Home to Travel the World and Visit 166 Countries

Lynn Stephenson, a 61-year-old from Carlton, Nottinghamshire, has turned a lifelong passion for travel into an extraordinary global journey.

Having sold her home two years ago, she has used the proceeds to embark on an ambitious mission: to visit every country in the world. With 166 nations already explored, her latest stop will be Nauru in the South Pacific, making it her 167th destination.

Stephenson’s desire to see the world intensified after the Covid-19 lockdown. While she had already visited several countries during her travels over the years, she decided in 2022 to fully commit to her dream.

“I thought my best chance was to sell the house and spend the money wisely on travel,” she said, reflecting on the bold decision to prioritize her wanderlust.

Starting her adventure in Saudi Arabia, Stephenson has since traversed countries as diverse as Nepal, Bhutan, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Taiwan.

She documents her travels through a blog and Instagram, sharing photos and stories of the people, landscapes, and wildlife she encounters. “I think I inspire other people to travel as well, which is lovely,” she said.

Her journey has been marked by remarkable experiences, including swimming alongside manta rays, sea lions, turtles, and even penguins in the Galapagos Islands—a destination she described as “spectacular.”

Initially planning to stay for eight days, she extended her visit to 16 days, captivated by the region’s unique wildlife and natural beauty.

Stephenson has also developed a deep appreciation for the kindness of strangers she has met along the way. “The greatest thing about traveling is discovering the world is full of kind, hospitable people,” she noted.

Among her favorite destinations is Iran, which she visited shortly before the pandemic. “I think it is the most hospitable, wonderful country I have ever been to. The kindness and hospitality I have received have been completely overwhelming.”

Currently in Kiribati, another Pacific island nation, Stephenson is charting her next steps. After Nauru, she plans to head to Australia before exploring Timor-Leste, Brunei, and Bangladesh, which will complete her travels across Asia.

By February, she intends to shift her focus to Africa, starting with visits to Sudan and South Sudan, where she plans to stay with the Mundari tribe.

Despite the scale of her travels, Stephenson has no immediate plans to return to Nottinghamshire or settle down. “I don’t think I’ll ever stop traveling,” she said.

Her story has resonated with followers online, many of whom are inspired by her fearless pursuit of adventure and exploration. Whether snorkeling in tropical waters or experiencing local cultures, Stephenson continues to embrace the world with open arms.

With fewer than 30 countries left to visit, her journey is a testament to the transformative power of travel and the courage to chase dreams, no matter the stage of life.