Luisa Yu, a 79-year-old resident from Miami, recently accomplished her lifelong dream of traveling around the world. She traveled to 193 countries, with Serbia being her last one this year. Born in the Philippines and moved to Miami over 50 years ago, Yu has always loved her new home and still does.
Yu’s love of travel started in her early 20s when she set out to explore the United States, traveling to nearly 45 states. Over the years, she has visited many countries and met countless people. Her friendships with people of different ages throughout her years of traveling resulted in her being affectionately called “Mama.”
At the request of many friends she met while traveling, Yu made her final trip to Serbia, where she was met with cheers and applause upon arriving at the airport. Although she is unable to choose her favorite country, Italy, the Philippines, and Thailand are amongst her favorites. Her advice to potential travelers is “Don’t be afraid, just go. Don’t wait for anybody because if you wait it will never happen.”
Yu has received two 2022 awards related to travel which she believes has allowed her to fulfill her dream. She says she has been able to purchase a home and travel on her own. As she sets to turn 80 in a few months, Yu expresses contentment with what she has accomplished in life and gratitude towards those who have been kind to her