From Gorilla Trekking To Unexpected Detours: How This 'Serial Traveller' Conquered The Globe

Many dream of travelling the world while maintaining a full-time job, yet this dream rarely becomes a reality for most. However, there are exceptions, and Prasanna Vee is one of them. An American of Indian origin, his insatiable passion for travel has led him to visit over 250 countries and territories worldwide, encompassing all 193 nations recognised by the United Nations.

Vee has been fortunate to live and work in numerous exciting global destinations, including the United States, China, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Germany, and Denmark. OT recently spoke with him to delve deeper into his journeys and experiences in some of the world's most remote locations. Excerpts from the interview here.

Trekking through this dense forest unveils its daunting darkness, justifying its name. Our trek, lasting nearly 8 hours round trip, required navigating thick vegetation with machetes as we pursued an elusive gorilla group. Exhaustion melted away when we encountered a captivating gorilla family up close, including a vigilant silverback, an unforgettable moment we cherished while reliving it at Gorilla Forest Camp. This experience underscored the transformative power of such encounters, etched in memories and photos over drinks, forever changing our perspective on Africa's untamed beauty.

Tired and hungover the following day in Cusco, we stumbled upon a tour operator offering a slim chance to catch the train at Ollantaytambo. We raced against time with a spirited driver, who doubled as a tour guide, navigating winding roads expertly. Miraculously, we reached Ollantaytambo just before the train departed. As we journeyed to Machu Picchu, clouds cleared, unveiling the stunning citadel. This experience taught us the power of adaptability and the joy of embracing unexpected twists.

Congo-Brazzaville surprised us with its modern amenities and vibrant coastal scenes, which differed from our preconceived notions. In East Timor, political complexities have stymied tourism potential despite its natural beauty rivalling popular spots. South Sudan's unique Sub-Saharan vibe impressed us with its warmth and burgeoning expat scene.

My travels have often shattered misconceptions I had absorbed from mainstream media. For instance, my visit to Syria in 2000 revealed a vibrant nightlife, modern youth culture, and rich historical sites that contrasted sharply with media portrayals. Similar eye-opening experiences occurred in China, Iraq, Eritrea, and Uzbekistan. Encountering different perspectives teaches us that our worldview isn't universal and encourages us to appreciate diverse ways of life. Marcel Proust's quote, "Discovery consists not in seeking new lands, but in seeing with new eyes," resonates deeply with my belief that travel enriches our understanding of the world.

I also yearn to explore Egypt's White Desert with its unique chalk rock formations and experience the Arctic charm of Norway's Lofoten Islands bathed in the enchanting glow of the midnight sun. For a deeper immersion in nature, I seek out the raw wilderness of the Amazon Rainforests, contemplating a stay at a remote jungle lodge in Ecuador or Peru. Lastly, I envision unplugged days amidst the pristine white sand beaches of Myanmar's untouched Mergui Archipelago.

However, I've also learned the joy of spontaneity. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences arise from stumbling upon hidden gems not found in any guidebook or article. My unconventional method of exploring destinations by clicking through Google Maps has led to delightful surprises and breathtaking scenery that surpassed all expectations. For instance, during a recent trip to Uttarakhand, we discovered charming cafes, scenic viewpoints, and serene lakes that traditional guides did not highlight. These unexpected finds added a layer of excitement and genuine surprise to our journey, making each moment more magical and memorable. The lack of detailed information heightened our anticipation and made every discovery a delightful adventure.

Until now, these experiences have mostly been shared with family and friends. However, I've realised that the insights gained from extensive global travels deserve a wider audience. This realisation allowed me to compile them into a book, allowing readers to enjoy and learn from my journey firsthand.

By experiencing diverse cultures and witnessing different ways of life, I learned to cherish the comforts and privileges I enjoy. Travel doesn't just broaden horizons; it deepens appreciation for the familiar. It teaches us to notice and celebrate the distinctiveness of our surroundings, fostering gratitude and humility in the process. Without venturing beyond our comfort zones, we risk missing out on understanding and valuing the richness surrounding us at home.