25 Strange Customs and Traditions Around the World

Snow ball fights cannot really compete. Tomatoes are the new weapons of choice. 

A big part of travelling is turning your head. To observe strange customs, to admire people in traditional outfits, to gasp at breathtaking sights or to try to understand why the hell people do what they do. But some strange customs are stranger than others.

The Cities with the Most Airports in the World

Avoid this airplane if you hate Hello Kitty. There are 130 Hello Kitty products on board. 

How many airports does your city have? Not as many as the top city on the list. Unless that, by coincicdence, is where you live. And even if you do, I bet you won't guess how many airports it has.

Beirut - The Nightlife Mecca of the Middle East

Who needs fireworks when you have AK-47s with tracers?

The Middle East isn't usually what comes to mind first when it comes to nightlife. For obvious reasons. But there is usually an exception that proves the rule. It is called Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. I decided to celebrate last New Year's eve here.

The Art of Travelling

In Antarctica. Photo: Lia Miternique.

I don’t like being called a travel expert, despite having visited every country on Earth, all 198 of them. Because travelling is something personal, something that is experienced from within. It will help define you and your understanding of the world and I can never teach you how you should travel. But I can tell you why I find it a purely magical thing.

Why Terrorism Should Not Stop You From Travelling

Don't let terrorists deprive you from the magic of travelling. This sunset is from Marshall Islands.

Bookings are down in cities damaged by terrorist attacks. Naturally so, at first thought. But let not terrorists stop us from roaming this world, seeking experiences and learning to know, understand and appreciate other cultures.    

The 25 Least Visited Countries in the Whole Wide World

Yes, that's it. The world's least visited country. I once ran around it.

I first wrote about the world's 25 least visited countries in 2013, and the post has has been read almost a million times, in addition to have been translated to several languages, republished in many countries, rewritten and plagerised. Two years have passed, and it is time for an update of what I consider the ultimate traveller's bucket list. 

10 reasons why guide books are bad for you

Not my favourite kind of book shop. 

Travel guide books. I hate them. I hate them like garden owners hate smelly little apple stealing brats. Guide books reduce your creativity and destroys impulsiveness.  A lot of people use guide books to plan their holidays to death. All I know is that any such plans must, shall and have to be changed. So why make them in the first place?

So you think you wanna write for garfors.com?

This site had one million hits in 2013, most of them for travel related posts. I regularly receive offers from guest writers, promising me amazing stories in return for money, a link to a website or the possibility to add "published on garfors.com" to their CV. I have turned most down. Why?

Reviews of "198: How I Ran Out of Countries*"

The most common short form review of films, music and litterature in Norway is a die.
To "get a sixer" is the best that can happen. I "got a fiver" in my first Norwegian review. 

I have a new hobby; Collecting reviews and readers' feedback of "198: How I Ran Out of Countries*".

Deliriousness Of Impulsive Travel (DOIT!)

Why fly if you can cargo ship it? En route São Tomé og Príncipe. 

What do you mean you are not impulsive, adventurous, restless or hyperactive? Well, bloody do something about it. Why? Because it is the only real way to travel.

I'll give you a few tips. Inspirational ones. I hope.

The Two Double Landlocked Countries

Utilising local transport in one of the only two landlocked countries in the world. 

There are some claims to fame that are more unusual than others. And we all know that something unusual or unique inevitably ends up on bucket lists around the world.

Hand Luggage Only

None of that luggage is mine. I travel light, even to Tuvalu. The code of their only international airport is FUN. 

My suitcase is smaller than yours! Although it is quite often not even a suitcase but a backpack. In travel, size does matter. The smaller, the better.

Overnight Stay Not Needed

Is an overnight stay needed in order to count a country? In the Karakum
desert in Turkmenistan we eventually went to "bed." In tents. 

I am usually asked how I count having been to a country. The answer is that I must have experienced something and have a story to tell. The follow-up question is amost always the same. 

- Do you count airport transfers? 

These Airlines Fly to Most Countries

BCN: Both Qatar Airways and Emirates are on the list of the most international airlines. But neither top it. 

You can measure the size of an airline in many ways. By number of passengers, number of planes, flown passenger kilometers or through comparing revenues. None of those lists will create huge surprises (see the lists at the bottom of this post). But the biggest airlines do not necessarily fly to the most countries.

Sierra Leone, The Land of the Mountain Lions

The main beach of Freetown. With a beach bar shack. Clothes are drying on the grass. 

Sierra Leone translates as the land of the mountain lion. It sounds beautiful and it is. It sounds scary, but it isn’t. Unless you have a fear of boats.

You will have to board one to get from the only international airport to the capital Freetown or the nearest resort. But first, is this West African country even worth considering as a tourist destination?

Definately! Sierra Leone boasts incredible scenery and the 402 kilometer long coastline includes some of the best and most unspoiled beaches in the world with white sand and blue waters. The climate is friendly to Europeans as you will rarely see temperatures outside the 24-30 degree range.

The country has however long been seen as a no go area for tourists. Understandably enough thanks to a decade long civil war which ended in 2002, cholera outbreaks and an infrastructure unable to cope with tourist expectations. Recent investments by the government and private companies are good news for tourists.

What to do?

'Quality junk' in Freetown. You've got to
love honest marketing. 

Sierra Leone is simply put a fantastic country with locals that do know the meaning of hospitality. An added bonus is their language. They speak English after their years as a British colony. That also explains some area names. Waterloo, Hastings, Man of War Bay, Pirate Bay, White Man’s Bay, New England and Destruction Bay can all be found around Freetown.

The city offers a huge street market and is a great spot to get visas to neighboring countries as the embassies are scattered around a relatively small area. Lumley beach comes with restaurants, nightclubs, bars, hotels and a golf course. There are no familiar chains, although Hilton will open a brand new hotel there in 2014. And when Hilton moves in, others follow.

Of course Sierra Leone is a lot more than Freetown, just be prepared for a trip way off the beaten track where what you usually take for granted is not. Not up for such holidays? Then there’s always paradise, or Banana Islands as it is called in Sierra Leone. There you’ll find a couple of hotels that will arrange for private transport from the airport.

Golden shoes for sale in the market.
Do note the matching car in the background.

In 2010 only 39,000 tourists visited the country. Numbers are increasing, but it will still take many years for it to become a mass market destination. So if the most impressive listing on your travel CV is Paris or Ibiza, you may want to think twice of going there.

Some issues

Electricity is scarce outside the capital, petty crime is not uncommon, many roads are in poor shape, there are few hospitals and many towns and villages do not even have hotels. The latter problem is usually solved by talking to the chief and asking for a guest house. You may technically get to stay there for free as they don’t charge for such, but you should pay a few dollars or so to show respect to the chief and the person or family who puts you up. There will also be begging, but in a more stylish manner than what I have seen elsewhere. A seven year old boy I met has picked up on the art of it. “I like the way you walk,” he told me, expecting a reward for his compliment.

  

Another hurdle to some may be the above mentioned boat trip from Lungi International Airport (FNE) to Freetown. The two are separated by a Tagrin, a rather large bay. You can in theory drive around it, but this will set you back 6-7 hours, and is in reality not done. That leaves four means of crossing the bay, all with a slight risk of your stomach contents becoming fish feed. The waves from the Atlantic Ocean can make the crossing pretty rough.

How to get from the airport

1. The fastest and most comfortable way is to use Hovercraft that will take you to Aberdeen, the pretty side of the capital, in 20 minutes. Do not expect African prices, though. A ticket will set you back 40USD, the same as your second fastest option, Sea Coach. Both of them include a short minibus ride from the airport to the seaside, going through tiny villages on unpaved roads.

Sea Coach in front, Hovercraft in the background. 

2. Sea Coach, is basically what it says. The plastic boat carries 12-15 passengers, depending on the amount of luggage. The two outboard engines each boasting 250 horsepowers will take you across in just over 30 minutes. You will be required to wear a life vest, and the atmosphere may be a little tense, depending on the weather and your fellow passengers. It doesn’t help that one of their boats is named “Good luck.” Sea Coach will also take you to Aberdeen, although a little closer to the centre of Freetown than Hovercraft.

It is especially reassuring that one of the Sea Coaches is named Good Luck. 

Don't expect to be served cocktails on board the hired boat.

3. The most expensive boat crossing is to hire a boat taxi. There will not be any official ones, but if you ask around someone will always be ready to take you across. This is not recommended, as the quality of the boats on offer is questionable and the fact that you will most likely be overcharged. Sometimes you are out of options, though, especially on your way back to the airport.

4. The last and only cheap boat option is the local car ferry which will cost you less than a dollar. There are some caveats though. Firstly, it will not leave until full, as is the case with most regular transport in Africa. That may take 1-7 hours. Secondly, it leaves from the ferry terminal which is 15 kilometers from the airport. A bus, taxi, shared taxi or motorcycle taxi will get you there. The car ferry will take you into downtown Freetown, so it is another 12-15 kilometers to go to Aberdeen, where most of the decent hotels are.

(5. If you have a rich uncle, there is actually also a helicopter stationed at the airport, but it only runs charter trips and will set you back a substantial amount of money if it is even available. A boat-free option, nevertheless.) 

This Is Africa

Taxi, Lungi style. 

 “T.I.A.” You may want to learn the phrase before even stepping on the continent. T.I.A. stands for “This Is Africa” and you will benefit from repeating it to yourself whenever something doesn’t go according to plan. Which means often. Just being able to say “T.I.A.” somehow has a therapeutic effect as it reassures you that the problems you may encounter are normal and not necessarily caused by you. Do note that the acronym occasionally comes with several exclamation marks.

Both Hovercraft and Sea Coach may stop scheduled crossings with no or very little notice. As I found out the hard way. T.I.A. You may want to call or visit the ferry companies way in advance as the official schedules are not necessarily correct. They were not when I was to return, something that left me in a poor bargaining position. I had to cross, the boat owner knew. He asked 200USD, I managed to haggle it down to 130. That was nearer to the value of the boat taking me across the bay than the value of the service. T.I.A. The vessel was not built for such a crossing, but it did the job. I arrived on the other side reasonably dry 45 minutes later, but I was helped ashore 15 kilometers from the airports. A motorcycle taxi transported me the last stretch. T.I.A.

Lungi International Airport. 

Tourism is an area of high priority. Sierra Leone National Tourist Board (www.welcometosierraleone.sl) is working on a seven year plan until 2017 to improve facilities, to enhance sustainable tourism, to market their tourist attractions and to generally improve the image of Sierra Leone as a preferred tourist destination. They are definitely on the right track, but they do still have a long way to go and a lot of ground to cover before Sierra Leone is mentioned in the same sentence as Dominican Republic or Mauritius. That being said, few countries can offer a more unique scenery with everything from mountains and lakes to waterfalls and beaches but you must as a tourist be prepared to go back to basic. Traditional luxury is rare. Breathtaking nature experiences and some peace and quiet still go a long way.

How to get there

British Airways, Air France and Brussel Airlines will take you there on direct flights from the respective three European capitals. You can also travel from neighbouring countries by less known air carriers such as ASKY, Fly540 or Arik Air. 

The World's Most Dangerous Countries

A bombed tank from the war with the Soviet Union is still by the road in Herat, Afghanistan.
This country is however, contrary to common belief, not on the list of the most dangerous countries.  

Where would you not want to go on holiday? To war zones? They actually aren't too bad. Considering. Less people are killed in armed conflict now than ever before in modern history.

As Scarcely Populated As It Gets

The Icelandic coast is wildly worth visiting.

By: Gunnar Garfors. He travelled to 5 continents on June 18 and has been to 190 of the world's 198 countries.

A lot of you out there love to travel to unusual tourist spots, judging by the number of people reading, tweeting and commenting on The 25 Least Visited Countries in the World I recently published. Quite a few comments indicate that some of the countries on that list may be too hard or expensive to get to or too dangerous to go anywhere near.

That calls for another bucket list proposal on the 25 countries where 'no one' lives and why you should still visit. Maldives narrowly misses the list, being number 26 with eight thousand people 'too many' to join it.

25. Iceland. Population: 320,060

Iceland's coast is must-see.

Why so few? 

Would you want to live on an island with fierce and flaming volcanoes, yet so cold it's called Iceland? The country was also discovered by Norwegian vikings and was the last European country to be settled.

Why you may still want to visit

The lava based scenery rising from the storms of the Atlantic is fantastic! So is the food. Just leave your whale meat boycotting plans at home. Whale meat is the healthiest meat on the planet and tastes fantastic when prepared as it is supposed to in one of Reykjavik's gourmet restaurants. You may also try puffin or walrus.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population
1,418.000 tourists, 443% of the population!
As if the US would have 1,390,639,197 tourists per year. That reads 1 billion, 390 millions 639 thousand and 197 and could have helped settle the US debt, although every tourist would still have to cover 11,826 USD to eliminate it. Some smaller countries have even higher percentages, but they have very small populations (less than 100,000 citizens) and are not surrounded by an ocean. I therefore still consider Iceland's tourist numbers more impressive. 

What else

What is the worst liquer you can think of? Make it twice as bad, and you have Brennivín, the national Icelandic liquer that is also known as Black Death. Why it was ever invented? To make hákarl, cured and fermented (more commonly referred to as rotten or putrefied) shark edible. You will drown and mask the shark taste with a shot or five with Brennivín in order to regain consciousness. Do also note that the country has so few people that everyone is listed by their first name in the telephone directory.

24. Belize. Population: 312,971

Why so few? 

Belize has the lowest population density in Central America. Having so few neighbours doesn't attract many new ones, except for John McAfee. Of course it doesn't help when the few neighbours there disappear in mysterious ways, either.

Why you may still want to visit

The Great Blue Hole is one of the world's top diving spots. It is a so-called submarine sinkhole where you can dive with sharks. It's over 300 meters wide and 124 meters deep. Go there early to avoid the wors tourist crowds, though.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population
250,000 tourists, 80% of the population.

What else

Do avoid San Pedro unless your ideal holiday involves queues, mass tourism, overpaying for bar food of questionalble quality and generally being ripped off. 

23. Barbados. Population: 274,200

Why so few? 

One third of the population emigrated to Britain and the US the four decades following WWII. A strict family planning program that resulted in a crude birth rate of 17 per 1,000 inhabitants the first half of the eighties didn't make things much better.

Why you may still want to visit

The tap water in Barbados is fantastic, do drink a lot of it when there! And if you are British and a little hesitant to leave your united kingdom, rest assured, driving is on the left.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population
568,000 tourists, 207% of the population.

What else

There are a lot of old British pensioners here. They are great fun until they suddenly fall asleep around 21:00. Barbados is being nicknamed The Little Britain of the Caribbean. 'Computer says no!'

22. Vanuatu. Population: 258,213

Seen from the seaside of Port Vila, Vanuatu.

Why so few? 

Some tribes there used to eat each other. The last recorded act of cannibalism (and related killing) happened as late as in 1969, according to anthropologists. This has been proven to be a bad way of keeping up your population. 

Why you may still want to visit

They have now stopped eating visitors. 

Tourists annually, in percentage of population
94,000 tourists, 36% of the population.

What else

Port Vila, the capital, is the base for most tourists. It boasts a number of restaurants, cafés, resorts and a souvenir market. It's not the place to hang out for long if you're an individual traveller, although it ought to beat provoking a cannibal to take up his old habit.

21. Samoa. Population: 187,820

Why so few? 

Most Samoans actually live elsewhere. They may have tired from frequent changes. As late as in 2009 the country decided to switch from driving on the right to the left side of the road, in order to promote closer ties with their main trading partners Australia and New Zealand. There still aren't any car ferries between the countries, though. And in 2011 they switched sides of the International Date Line, moving from the east side to the west side of it. That meant they went from being one of the last countries going to bed each day, instead having to adapt to waking up before anyone else. I would have moved too.

Why you may still want to visit

Samoans love song, music and dance and there will be plenty of opportunities to witness musical events. Do not miss the national parks, waterfalls or beaches. A traditional Samoan tattoo, on the other side, is very painful. If pain is not on your bucket list, save that for later.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

127,000 tourists, 68% of the population.

What else

Beware of the frequent earthquakes and typhoons. Robert Louis Stevenson lived through some of them when he lived there for four years in the 1890s. His nickname was allegedly 'Tusitala' which of course means teller of tales. 

20. São Tomé and Príncipe. Population: 187,356

Why so few? 

This island nation in Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic, is very far from anywhere else. It is also the smallest African country, out of 55. It is a poor country that depended on cocoa, a resource that has suffered due to draughts and less than perfect management. 

Why you may still want to visit

The fantastic scenery, the isolated and usually empty beaches and the offshore corals that invite for superb diving. And do not forget Mouth of Hell (Boca do Inferno), a geysir like phenomenon which occurs when seawater enters an underwater cave and then shoots up like fireworks. Claudio Corallo Chocolate factory is also worth a peek, you may be given a tour upon request. Claudio or one of his sons will show you the real chocolate deal. You will never again eat those sugar bars commonly referred to as chocolate and that are too often found in convenience stores around the world.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population
8,000 tourists, 4.3% of the population.

What else

It is the only country in the world where you pay by Dobra. Do remember getting your visa in advance, or you will kindly (at first) be asked to return by the same flight or vessel you arrived by. 

19. Saint Lucia. Population: 166,526

The airport of Castries, the capital, is so close to the beach
that you can check-in, swim and then board your plane.

Why so few? 

They may not be many, but they are well educated. The country boasts the highest ratio of Nobel lauretes in relation to the total population of any country in the world. Sir Arthur Lewis and Derek Walcott won the Nobel Prizes in Economics and Literature, respectively. Both gentlemen were born on January 23 in 1915 and 1930, repectively. Expect a lot of love-making nine months ahead as the locals may try to copy the feat.

Why you may still want to visit

Where else can you find a drive-in volcano?

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

290,000 tourists, 174% of the population.

What else

One of the country's two airports has the best preboarding activity in the world. 

18. Kiribati. 104,573

Kiribati. Photo by Angela K. Kepler. 

Why so few? 

The former part of Britain gained independence in 1979 and is now one of the world's poorest and least developed countries. Their top export articles are fish and dried coconut meat (copra). 

Why you may still want to visit

The cuisine is legendary. Seafood goes without saying. But do not miss out on palu sami and pandanus either. The 33 atolls offer divine diving and other sea related activities, but you may want to bring your own gear.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

4,700 tourists, 4.5% of the population.

What else

Kiribati may actually move soon. Why? If the sea levels rise, there will be very little left of Kiribati in only a few decades. The government has however taken some measures to ensure continued existence. It purchased the 22 square kilometer big Natoavatu Estate on Fiji's second biggest island in 2012 as a backup plan. Going from 811 square kilometers to 2.7% of that may not sound too attractive, but it beats the alternative. 

17. Tonga. Population: 103,981

Niuafou island, Tonga. Image by NASA.

Why so few? 

Tonga is considered the 165th safest investment destination in the world, according to the Euromoney Country Risk ratings of 2011. That has presumably contributed to the departure of half of the Tongans who now live in Australia, New Zealand or the US. The remaining citizens are heavily dependant on remittances from those that left. 

Why you may still want to visit

Tonga is lobster heaven, and you do not want to miss out on a traditional Tongan feast. And, as is the case for most Pacific islands, do not rule out diving, boating or fishing. Kite surfing also comes recommended.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population
45,000 tourists, 43% of the population.

What else

Watch out for sharp corals on the beaches. Tonga has direct flights from Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. The relative high number of visitors ensures a good range of accommodation, from basic budget beds to luxury resorts. 

16. Grenada. Population: 103,328

Why so few? 

The country only measures 344 square kilometers. If you are not into growing spice or welcoming cruise ship tourists, your work possibilities are limited.  

Why you may still want to visit

Even those entering from cruise ships, tourism's parallel to the industrialized revolution (effective but disinfected for charm), go there for a reason. The island nation has a pleasant climate thanks to a cooling wind often passing through. Grenada produly boasts a thriving spice market and surprisingly good restaurants. Not to forget the beaches, the scenery or the night clubs that are located 10 kilometers outside St. John's, the capital.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

112,000 tourists, 108% of the population.

What else

The horseshoe shaped harbour of St. John's is very picturesque and offers cafes, bars and souvenir shops. It is on the other side of the hill from the cruise ship port, so go through the little tunnel or climb up and down the steep but charming streets. The latter is recommended, the view is ace.

15. Federated States of Micronesia. Pop: 101,823

Restaurant with a view, Colonia. 

Why so few? 

It's called Micronesia. Micro means small, everything comes in small numbers. The islands are geographical isolated and come with a poorly developed infrastructure. The economy is based on fishing, farming and some tourism.  

Why you may still want to visit

Micronesia will blow your mind away when it comes to diving and surfing. There is a surfcamp in Pohnpei. Don't expect a crowd.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

26,000 tourists, 25% of the population.

What else

On Yap, one of the islands, you can see Rai stones, or "stone money." These large disks are usually made by calcite, are up to 4 meters diameter and comes with a hole in the middle. There are 6,500 of them, they still come with a value and they are owned by private individuals. Change must be carried in very large pockets.

14. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Pop: 100,892

Mustique Island. Wiki Commons photo. 

Why so few? 

The country has a primarily banana based economy. It's not a republic though, so save your jokes. Tourism is not increasing rapidly, rather the contrary, so the natural beauty found outside the capital can still be enjoyed in relative peace. 

Why you may still want to visit

The clear water, the views and the odd tourists that do not come by cruise ship. Travel independently, preferrably by your own boat to experience total relaxation.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

74,000 tourists, 73% of the population.

What else

The airport is only a couple of kilometers from downtown Kingstown, the capital. There you will find quite a few shops and restaurants. Don't expect a thriving nightlife. 

13. Seychelles. Population: 90,945

Why so few? 

This country is many people's definition of honeymoon hell. If you can avoid those couples, you probably will.

Why you may still want to visit

Newlyweds without much imagination might as well jump on the bandwagon.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

194,000 tourists, 213% of the population.

What else

The further away from the main island you go, the less honeymooners you are likely to run into. When entering, you are likely to be asked for your exact holiday address, so be sure to have booked in advance. You may otherwise find youself calling hotels with custom officers eavesdropping or risk being sent home.  

12. Antigua and Barbuda. Population: 86,295

Why so few?

St. John's, the capital, is zimmer frame heaven. A way too big cruise ship terminal, souvenir shop Mecca and a casino virtually on the quay contributes to this. Would you wanna live here?

Why you may still want to visit

You'll fit straight in if you have a zimmer frame. If not, do avoid the capital. Outside it you can still find your own little piece of paradise.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

241,000 tourists, 279% of the population.

What else

Barbuda, the smaller of the islands, is much less touristy. Go there for spotless beaches and a frigate bird colony. V. C. Bird International (ANU), the international airport in Antigua, is a convenient hub for short flights to neighbouring islands. 

11. Andorra. Population: 78,115

Why so few? 

Most people prefer to live in neigbouring Spain or France. 

Why you may still want to visit

It's duty free heaven, don't come with a full suitcase. The country includes beautiful mountains that offer splendid possibilities for skiing, hiking and trekking. After all, the little country is in the Pyrenees.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

1,948,000 tourists, 2494% of the population!

What else

Don't order seafood in the restaurants. And be aware of limited rum supplies in the bars. 

10. Dominica. Population: 71,293

Atkinson, a village on the east coast of Dominica. 

Why so few? 

Dominica has among the lowest per capita gross domestic product (GDP) of the Eastern Caribbean states. You can legally get a second passport from Dominica, but it will set you back over 100,000 USD, so demand is somewhat limited and doesn't contribute much towards an increased population.

Why you may still want to visit

"The Nature Island of the Caribbean" deserves it's nickname. The magnificent and very varied flora and fauna is much appreciated by the Dominans who protect it all by an extensive natural park system.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

73,000 tourists, 102% of the population.

What else

Dominica’s original name is Wai’tukubuli which means 'tall is her body.' 60% of the needed electricity can be classified as green, as it comes from hydropower. Dominica got it's name from Christopher Columbus. He spotted it on a Sunday (which is dominica in Latin).

9. Marshall Islands. Population: 55,548

Why so few? 

The US performed 67 tests of nuclear bombs here between 1946 and 1958. That includes the biggest nuclear test ever performed, codenamed Castle Bravo, a dry fuel thermonuclear hydrogen bomb. The Atomic Energy Commission regarded Marshall Islands "by far the most contaminated place in the world" in 1956.

Why you may still want to visit

Divers unite. There are over 1,000 different kinds of fish and 250 types of coral around the islands.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

5,000 tourists, 9% of the population.

What else

You will find a great variety on the menu thanks to an abundant selection of fish and fruits. Marshall Islands used to be called the world's "fishiest place." Please ignore any double meanings. 

8. Saint Kitts and Nevis. Population: 51,970

Me on St. Kitts, in front of Nevis. 

Why so few? 

The 261 square kilometers make this the smallest country in Americas. It is also the smallest when it comes to population. The economy relies heavily on tourism and agriculture. 

Why you may still want to visit

Dive, eat and drink. The selection of restaurants is surprisingly big, given the size of the country. Resorts are scattered around the country. St. Kitts is the biggest island, and it receives most of the tourists, Nevis is however also worth visiting for a more relaxing atmosphere.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

98,000 tourists, 189% of the population.

What else

University of Medicine and Health Services on St. Kitts claims to offer US standard educations. It's location certainly attracts students that might otherwise be too tired of school to continue their education. Then again, frequent beach parties can easily contribute to a graduation that is still quite far away.

7. Liechtenstein. Population: 36,476

Why so few? 

A constitutional monarch is Head of State, and the country is very conservative. Women gained the right to vote on July 1, 1984, as the last country in Europe. Narrowly so, though. Only 51.3% of the voting men were in favour of such revolutionary measures. The country has the second lowest unemployment rate in the world (only Monaco's is lower), and is probably eager to keep it that way.

Why you may still want to visit

The country is full of mountains, divided only by the Rhine Valley. Liechtenstein is one of only two double-landlocked countries in the world, meaning you have to travel through at least two countries to get to the sea. The other one is Uzbekistan.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

53,000 tourists, 145% of the population.

What else

Liechtenstein actually has more registered companies than citizens and has traditionally had somewhat relaxed banking systems. No wonder it has a reputation as a haven for money laundering gangs from Russia, Italy and Colombia. 

6. Monaco. Population: 36,371

Why so few? 

It's the most densely populated country in the world. Most people aren't interested in squeezing in. And they probably cannot afford to. The country is bloody expensive and is home to more snobbish people than many 'normal' people can take.

Why you may still want to visit

The strangest Formula 1 race in the world is held her one every year. There is no room for a track, so the cars race through town instead. The harbour is usually full of very expensive yatchs, and the owners will in most cases show off a few brand new cars as well. Add the wealthy population of Monaco's extensive and expensive car park, and you will see more cool cars here than at an average car show in Detroit.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

295,000 tourists, 811% of the population!

What else

Don't forget the gambling. It is never far to cheaper accommodation in France or Italy should you lose your money to better or smarter gamblers than yourself. There are actually budget restaurants and semi-inexpensive hotels in Monaco too. Less fortuned people seem to have a tendency to wanna watch the rich and famous.

5. San Marino. Population: 32,457

Why so few? 

It is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. They may want to remain well placed on that list, so why invite additional citizens?

Why you may still want to visit

San Marino is the oldest republic in the world. Walking around the small streets is nice, and the three towers on top of the mountain is a must-see. The view over Italy is great from up there. In the souvenir shop in the country you may even get an official stamp in your passport. Against a fee, of course.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

156,000 tourists, 481% of the population!

What else

The owner of the nicht club will personally drive you home if you fail to leave voluntarily at closing time. Ask nicely, and he might even give you a T-shirt.

4. Palau. Population: 20,770

Characteristic rock islands, Palau. 

Why so few? 

There isn't all that much to do in Palau when you tire of beaches, fishing and sea related activities. The biggest employer is the government, and the country relies on financial aid from the US.

Why you may still want to visit

The unique rock islands can be seen throughout Palau and will stand out in your photo collection. Diving is fantastic. The island nation is fairly well connected through flights to Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Guam, Yap, Manila and Hong Kong.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

109,000 tourists, 525% of the population!

What else

Their presidential election is at the same day as the American one. So feel free to confuse people through jokes about the presidential candidates the Tuesday following the first Monday in November in election years. In 2012 they weren't called Obama and Romney, but Toribiong and Remengensau. The latter won by 58% of the votes. 

3. Tuvalu. Population: 11,264

Why so few? 

The Pacific island nation is only 26 square kilometers in size and it isn't going to increase anytime soon. Tuvalu will be the first country to disappear should the ocean level rise. 

Why you may still want to visit

You can relatively easy reach the highest summit there. The geographical top point of the country reaches 4.6 meters above sea level. Note to American readers: 4.6 meters equals 15.1 feet.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

1,100 tourists, 9.7% of the population.

What else

Male homosexuality is illegal in Tuvalu, so be aware if travelling as a male couple. 

2. Nauru. Population: 9,945

If you ever decide to run around Nauru virtually on the
Equator, do not start doing so at noon. Friendly advice.   

Why so few? 

Over 90% of the population has no work. There used to be one big employer, Nauru Phosphate Corporation. The open phosphate mine which covers most of the 21 kilometer square kilometer big island is however running out of phosphate, and most workers have been laid off. The two hotels, the internet cafe or the handful of restaurants and shops are not set to hire loads of people anytime soon. The only employer of any size left is the government, but everyone can't be bureaucrats. Luckily, I'd say. Can you imagine the result?

Why you may still want to visit

Less tourists visit Nauru than Somalia, Afghanistan and Liechtenstein. Being the least visited country in the world appeals to many. The people are very friendly and the island is surrounded by your typical Pacific beach.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

200 tourists, 2% of the population.

What else

It is the smallest republic in the world. The only airport there doubles as a road which is part of the 19 kilometers stretch going around the island. Do look out for frigatebirds, on the beaches around Nauru. They are caught by fishermen and kept inside big net cages as a status symbol. Catching them is an ancient tradition. They are then tamed through irresistible fresh tuna. The tamed birds are later used to lure more birds to the captors.  

1. The Vatican. Population: 793

St. Peter Square. Wikipedia Commons photo by François Malan.

Why so few? 

0.44 square kilometers can only accommodate a few. And don't expect the Pope and his people to stay in bunk beds to fit in twice as many. Keep in mind that no one in this country share double beds either as marriage is looked upon as slightly overrated and unnecessary. 

Why you may still want to visit

There are no bars there, no nightclubs and hardly any women. You mean that doesn't appeal to you? There's always neighbouring Rome (totally surrounding The Vatican) where there are plenty of playful neighbourhoods.

Tourists annually, in percentage of population

5,000,000 tourists, 663,910% of the population!
The extremelly low number of inhabitants and the immense popularity of the Vatican Museum makes this a truly unique case and I won't even bother to make the comparison with other countries. See Iceland country number 25, for a more normal, yet still relatively extreme case. 

What else

793 inhabitants matches that of the Canadian village Doaktown in New Brunswick. Ever heard of it? Well, you are excused. The Pope doesn't live nor post Twitter messages in Latin from his Ipad there either. 

Missing any 'countries?'

Some of you may wonder why I haven't included Jan Mayen, Niue or Pitcairn. The latter is one of the most isolated settlement in the world in the world with some 50 souls, but it is a British oversea territory. 1,414 people live on Niue which belongs to New Zealand whereas 18 people, primarily scientists, are based on Norwegian Jan Mayen near Greenland.

The list is based on 198 countries. 193 UN members, UN observers the Vatican and Palestine plus Kosovo, Western Sahara and Taiwan that are all acknowledged by a fair number of countries.

The other end of the list

Most people will know that China is number one, followed by India. But which other countries are among the top ten most populated?

1. China, 1,354,040,000 people.
2. India, 1,210,193,422 people.
3. United States, 315,229,000 people.
4. Indonesia, 237,424,363 people.
5. Brazil, 193,946,886 people.
6. Pakistan, 182,082,000 people.
7. Nigeria, 166,629,000 people.
8. Bangladesh, 152,518,015 people.
9. Russia, 143,369,806 people.
10. Japan, 127,460,000 people.

I will also mention Mexico which is number 11 with 112,336,538. It is the last country to have more than 100 million inhabitants. The Philippines is number 12, but lacks almost 8 million people to join the 100 million club.

You may also want to read The 25 Least Visited Countries in the World and How to visit five continents in one day.

Source: Wikipedia.

The 25 Least Visited Countries in the World

"The Burning Crater" or "The Door to Hell" in Darvaza, Karakum in Turkmenistan. Photo by Marius Arnesen.  

Are you up for going on that unique trip that almost no one has done before you? The problem might just be finding the right destination. The least visited country in the world may not be the one you would think.

Shaven Not Stirred

From the television commercial for Bluebeard's Revenge. 

On June 18th I travelled to 5 continents with filmmaker Adrian Butterworth of Adelia Television. The story was received with interest across the globe and has so far received press coverage in 17 countries on four continents. It will all turn into a documentary film later this year, although a preview has already been made available in English and Norwegian. The preview has been watched by people in over 100 countries on Youtube. 

It has also impressed manufacturers of various travel related gear, such as hand luggage friendly grooming products from Bluebeards Revenge. They provide for high quality shaving experiences, their slogans being Travel Hard Shave Easy and Train Hard Shave Easy. They wanted me to star in a television ad, and gave me an offer I was unable to resist. So I suddenly found myself shaving in front of the camera in a small hotel downtown Caracas, one of the murder capitals of the world. The hotel was well protected though, so I ended up shaven, not stirred. The result can be seen here, on their website.

Five Continents in One Day. Done That.

Adrian Butterworth (left) and Gunnar Garfors in Caracas.

Watch the preview video here.

I just finished one of my crazier ideas. To visit five continents in one day. I arrived in Venezuela, South America at 22:15 local time on June 18. Previously that day I had visited Asia (Istanbul), Africa (Casablanca), Europe (Paris) and North America (Punta Cana).

All in a Monday's work.

The full story will be told in a television documentary or two. Director Adrian Butterworth of Adelia Television travelled with me and can claim the same world first achievement. But now, some sleep.


Read more about the idea and the concept here.

Still fearing a screw up on the last leg.