The Philippine Global Explorers (PGE), represented by eight of its members led by Chairman Riza Rasco, proudly participated in the Extraordinary Travel Festival II, held from November 15th to 17th at the Ambassador Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. This biennial gathering brought together over 250 of the world’s most passionate and experienced travelers, including 31 of the elite 300+ individuals who have visited all 193 UN countries.
Among the event’s highlights was the presence of Luisa Yu, an 80-year-old PGE member who is the second Filipino—and the oldest—to achieve the remarkable feat of visiting all 193 UN countries. Luisa captivated the audience as a guest speaker in a special Q&A session, where she shared insights into balancing her love for travel with a fulfilling career and parenthood.
The festival featured a star-studded lineup of notable speakers, including:
- Thor Pedersen of Once Upon a Saga, who recounted his epic 10-year journey to every country in the world without air travel.
- Renee Bruns, a Guinness World Record holder who has traveled to 120+ countries and all seven continents as a wheelchair user.
- Randy Williams, known as the Sultan of Slowjamastan, who shared stories about his micronation in California, USA.
- Harry Mitsidis, founder of Nomadmania, who discussed the complexities of dark tourism and ethical travel.
- Raiiq Ridwan, a UK-based Bangladeshi doctor, who spoke about traveling with a low passport index.
- Joe Cummings, the renowned author of the Lonely Planet Thailand guidebook, who reminisced about his role as an unofficial travel ambassador for Thailand.
Other distinguished attendees included Stefan Krasowski, founder of Every Passport Stamp, and Charles Veley, founder of Most Traveled People. The event also hosted travel sponsors, breakout sessions on destinations, and networking opportunities for travel-related topics.
The festival wasn’t just about sharing stories—it was also a celebration of global cultures. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted a spectacular welcome gala at the Hyatt Regency Bangkok’s Spectrum Lounge rooftop bar, featuring performances of traditional Thai dances, a Muay Thai martial arts demonstration, and stunning views of Bangkok’s nighttime skyline.
In addition to PGE, other travel groups in attendance included the Danish Travel Club, Swedish Club 100, and the Singapore Travel Club, further emphasizing the global spirit of the event.
This marks the second time PGE members have participated in the Extraordinary Travel Festival, following their involvement in the inaugural event held two years ago in Yerevan, Georgia.
The festival was organized by award-winning travel photographer, filmmaker, and blogger Ric Gazarian (@GlobalGaz, Counting Countries), in collaboration with TAT.
More highlights of the ETF in Bangkok, Thailand:
About the Author:
Raoul Bernal
PGE Official Member. Follow his adventure on Instagram – @raoulbernal
