Counting Countries | Travel The Entire World

Download Episode! At the age of 24, Eric visited his last UN country beating Guinness World Record Holder, James Asquith.   Eric grew up in northern California, the son of Vietnamese immigrants.  He had the opportunity of international travel with his family growing up.  But his travel began in earnest when he went backpacking in East and Southeast Asia when he was just 18.  He was inspired to visit every country in the world and attempt to break the world record for three reasons.  First, Eric was inspired by world traveler and former guest, Gunnar Garfors.  Second, Eric learned about James Asquith, the Guinness World Record Holder at the time, the youngest person to travel to every country in the world.  But the final catalyst was a meeting with his college professor who encouraged him to see the world when he was young. Eric at times threw caution into the wind when pursuing his quest.  He couchsurfed in Libya, while local militias learned of his presence.  He had a very challenging time in West Africa.