Chicago Native Aims for Global Exploration: A Journey to All 195 Countries
A man with a mission has set out to accomplish his goal of visiting all 195 countries in the world.
Connor Michalek is a 33-year-old blogger originally from Chicago, Illinois, who, at the age of 18, took a break from college to travel.
His story begins with an unexpected twist. While studying economics at Texas Christian University, Michalek decided to break away from textbooks and embark on adventures instead. He shared that his journey initiated with a three-month trip to Bolivia, where he lived with local families. This immersion in Bolivian culture ignited a flame within him, leading him to embrace life beyond borders.
In those three months, Michalek didn’t just travel; he created life-long connections through homestays and Spanish classes, while also contributing his time to volunteer efforts. These experiences fueled his wanderlust, prompting him to pursue fuller horizons. His endeavor was not just about seeing new places; it became a pathway to understanding diverse cultures.
After losing his job in late 2022, Michalek faced a turning point. Instead of dwelling on his circumstances, he decided to fully embrace the call of the world. “I flew into Morocco as it was a starting point where I could travel east around the world,” he mentioned, showing how opportunity often springs from unpredictability.
The road led him through Mauritania, Senegal, and on to Tunisia, before transitioning into Europe. Michalek’s strategy was simple yet effective; he saved diligently and sold valued possessions to finance his journey. As he tread the path of discovery, he encountered obstacles along the way. “In Senegal, we had problems at border control, but that was the only incident we ever had that was a problem for us,” he reflected, maintaining an optimistic outlook despite the hurdles.
His travels have taken him through 55 countries and 22 of those are in Africa alone, a continent he has grown to adore. In Malawi, he met resilient individuals who, despite facing hardships, thrived with a rich cultural heritage. “The depth of its culture, with traditions and celebrations that go back centuries, is something you can feel in every place you visit,” he conveyed, illustrating how travel can be an enlightening experience.
Next on the horizon is French Polynesia, followed by an adventure to Austria, where he plans to spend time with his partner’s family. Michalek’s insight into life is profoundly inspiring. He believes youth is a gateway for exploration, stating, “When you’re young, you’re open, curious and still figuring out who you are.” His journey reflects not just a physical quest, but a quest for self-discovery. He inspires fellow wanderers with, “If travel is something you’ve been dreaming about, make it happen now. The world has so much to teach us, and every experience, every challenge, every friendship you make along the way will be something you carry for the rest of your life.”
With a heart willing to embrace the unknown, Connor Michalek continues to explore the world. His journey has taken him through unique landscapes and rich cultures, reminding us all that stepping out of our comfort zones can lead to the most memorable adventures. In a world teeming with wonders waiting to be experienced, Michalek’s story is a compelling reminder that the art of travel lies not just in the destinations reached but in the lives touched along the way.
