Thanks for watching and for your comments! I’ve realized that I accidentally showed the Guinea Bissau flag instead of Guinea - my bad! Have a lovely Sunday and I’ll see you guys next week 🙏
I'm sorry about your stay in Guyana. My family is Guyanese and I would suggest you do things outside of Georgetown. There is a Kaieteur Falls which is the world's largest single drop waterfall. The Mainstay which is a resort type area near a lake. I would recommend taking the ferry boat into Essequibo and go into the smaller villages like Aberdeen or Queenstown the areas are less dangerous and the people are friendlier. I would give Guyana another chance and go to other places outside of Georgetown. My family and their neighbors are friendly and welcoming.
Okay, so I'm from South Africa and about taking that photo of a child in Chad. Do not take photos of children here in Africa without permission because people will assume that you are a kidnapper. In school, we are taught that if a stranger takes a photo of you, they are most likely a kidnapper and to report them. EDIT: for those in the comments you do not understand how this leads to trafficking. A kidnapper takes a photo of the child and then later kidnaps the photographed child. If the kidnapper is approached by the police, the kidnapper can say, "I have pictures of this child on my phone, this is my child.". EDIT 2: you guys in the comments put too much faith in the police.
The fact he went from criticizing Dijibouti for being inconvenient and expensive to causally talking about being almost murdered twice in Chad is hilarious.
North Korean trips are meticulously crafted by the WPK to give the best possible optics to any foreign tourists so I wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t have any “bad” experiences.
North Korea is well controlled place. it is highly unlikely that any foreign tourists will encounter any criminals in the street. just make sure to not piss off the regime.
Usually, when I look at the travel videos on UA-cam, creators seem to be overly positive to the point that it can look very fake. That's why I love this kind of videos. They bring your channel more down to earth and at least try to address problems that locals and tourists encounter.
True. I actually find negative videos more useful. i can disagree with the perspective, but it gives me something to work with. MAybe the hotel was too lound for a honeymoon, but perfect for my girls weekend. Negative review provide more to go on.
My dad was working in Djibouti in the late '60s (a military contract) and couldn't wait to get out of there. Said it was creepy, full of spies, thuggish-looking guys in dark glasses sitting at bars and restaurants, just eyeing everyone. He was in many African countries for work, was also in Chad and Mauritania. Both strict Muslim countries. He kind of enjoyed Mauritania, but Chad was a very rough one. Having been in 11 African countries and about 60 others, he was hard to scare, so it's interesting that two he never wanted to go back to were Djibouti and Chad.
I have spoken with many people who have been stationed on the American base in Djibouti, they say its hot as hell, smells bad, and the insects are the worst.
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc”Travel is subjective”; they are just sharing their personal experience and are not sharing some kind of incorrect narrative since these experiences happened.
My husband works abroad, usually in Africa, and his least favorite place was Chad. He quite enjoyed CAR, even with all its problems, so Chad must be a special kind of difficult.
Just getting to Chad seems like a pain in the ass. You need a complicated visa and then when you get there, you aren't allowed to take any photos outside unless you have a photo permit. That being said, I still want to go.
Much respect dude. Even though your life was in danger at these places you gave a respectful opinion. I learn a lot from your videos and I have become less ignorant. Thank you good sir. Safe travels.
People in the comments saying "you can't base your whole opinion on the country because of few bad experiences", sure you can. The first impression is everything, and it definitely impacts how you see a country. If you have a great experience the first time, you'll probably be more open to visiting again than if you had a shitty experience. And just because you liked a certain country, doesn't mean everyone else will. I've been to 20+ countries and the one I disliked the most was Czech Republic. There isn't enough money in the world to make me visit that country again. On the other hand, it is many people's favourite destination. I think it's even Drew's favourite.
@@islmhhh4987 many things: people, mentality, food, way of life, etc. And I've been to at least 15 places, from big cities to very remote villages and even lived with the locals, so I really got to learn all aspects of the country. The first time I visited I've been to only a few cities, and wasn't impressed. So I thought, I should return and visit some non touristic destinations and see if my mind would change. But in the end I was even more disappointed, and wished I trusted my initial instinct.
@@islmhhh4987 i mean western and eastern europe only share one thing in common, they are both called european country....thats all.....lol its like russia and UK both have caucasians.......nothing more
As a Guyanese American - I would highly recommend anyone visiting Guyana to go eco-tourism versus city tourism. Kaieteur Falls is truly breathtaking and the countryside is way safer than the capital by far. Not much to do in the countryside for a tourist but the ecotourism (waterfall, river tours, rainforest tours) are actually breathtaking. Fruits are amazing here as well but totally agree, the city sucks.
Agreed! Georgetown is the worst part of Guyana. I spent a year in Guyana as a teenager (volunteering) and absolutely loved it. The interior is amazing and the people are so friendly. Not to mention the food.... God I miss that. I gained a lot of weight.
This might sound weird but honestly 3:22 (dirty toilet warning) got me thinking Drew should make a video about his craziest/worst bathroom experiences across the world…I feel like that’s something most of us take for granted but there can be some baaaad places to go
Being an American, almost a brown colored Native American, I visited Djibiuti, Eritrea, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Somaliland among other African countries. I can fully undertand Drew's issue with some of the countries he stated so candidly. However, I had one advantage over Drew and that is the color of my skin. On top of that, anyone finding out that I am Native American (they call us Red Indians there) they just call their friends saying hey come come meet the first "real American red Indian". They will touch me wanna offer me drinks etc. Very hspitable. The same thing happened to me in Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Somaliland (all in the horn of Africa). I loved being there. I agree with Drew that the most expensive African country is none other than Djibouti.
@@drewbinsky Drew please revisit Guyana if you can. Your ranking wasn't fair compared to these other countries and Guyana has made strides to become safer and better overall. It's worth connecting with Guyanese youtubers so they can show you the Guyana that you didn't experience. Also, if you do go do some eco tourism. That's like what 99% of tourists go to Guyana for. You can play golf in America or Saudi Arabia but you can't see the Amazon up close in many countries or kaieteur falls.
Not only that you know your country best. Ppl living in a country know best how bad it is......despite the good. We know if we are welcoming or not, dangerous or not. Facts don't have feelings. Our country is beautiful but in the past years there had been scattered incidents of tourist murders. The crime rate is high here, the citizen are relatively safe but how safe? Not that safe. Especially women. I honestly believe we have a cult or at least a serial killer. Women of a certain age range keep disappearing or turning up dead. That's just facts. It's beautiful but who wanna risk their life? Not as bad as these places for sure.
Drew is heavily biased and honestly shows a level of detachment from reality that borders on sheer psychopathy. I respect his negative view on politics, because honestly most share the general grievances, but him being surprised of being caught trying to enter North Korea from Russia may be the dumbest thing I've seen a human do. His top 5 would likely include Russia and North Korea. Not to mention being surprised Chadians would be offended when trying to sneak a shot at a child without permission.
Damn, wasn't expecting to see Guyana on there! I won't argue that Georgetown is extremely sketchy -- I was almost robbed in broad daylight there. But Guyanese people have some of the best parties in the world and the rainforests are beautiful. Complicated place for sure, but I liked it in the end
THIS WHY IM SO LUCKY LIVE IN INDIA 🤗🇮🇳 THE CLEANEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD , WE GIVE RESPECT TO ALL WOMEN THEY CAN WALK SAFELY ALONE AT NIGHT AND WE HAVE CLEAN FOOD AND TOILET EVERYWHERE 🇮🇳🤗🚽, I KNOW MANY POOR PEOPLE JEALOUS WITH SUPER RICH CLEAN INDIA 🤗🇮🇳🤗🇮🇳🤗🇮🇳🤗🇮🇳🤗
@@indiasuperclean6969 are you talking about the country where in some parts now they are banning women from wearing headscarves is it the country where if you belong to certain so called castes your not allowed to.do certain jobs? Is it also the country which says it's the biggest democracy yet you can be killed for eating beef! Don't make me laugh India is the most racist country on earth and if you try and deny it then explain what this silly caste system is and how that is not racism.
Thank you for making this video. I’m beginning a life of travel in three weeks and watch a lot of channels of travelers. Very few talk about the negative experiences and so I appreciate your honest and constructive manner in describing your experiences. I’m glad I found your channel!
Drew I suggest you go outside of Georgetown and go into the smaller areas. You have one of the world largest free drop waterfalls, amazing food, and great national park. The people of Guyana are friendly and welcoming and VERY diverse just explore more than just Georgetown. I'm sorry that was your first impression of the country my family is Guyanese by the way and lives further out in the country.
You can get all the nature in other bordering countries. Guyanese are some of the most hostile and aggressive people around, maybe only second to Jamaicans. I'd never go back.
I spent a few months in Guyana 30 years ago. It was the strangest but also the most amazing experience ever. Yes it a bit rough around the edges, but the country is beautiful and the people very friendly.
I love this type of video! Seems like all youtubers get heavily criticized by people if they say anything the least little bit negative and the viewers often cant tell if you're having a bad time because of the way it's edited. Taking off the rose colored glasses is a breath of fresh air
But he should know that some mosques are forbidden to non-Muslims not just in Brunei but all over Muslim countries. If it is not listed as a touristic place he cannot enter.
I lived in Guinea for 2 years, working for the French government in the late 2000s. I had PTSD for years (and I also went through a coup). For what I can see in your video things got even worse in he capital, that's pretty sad. That being said, there are some AMAZING places if you are ready to travel within the country. It's worth it. First, near Conakry, you have he Kindia waterfalls. Ask a local in Kindia to take you there. They aren't big but it's a very pleasant place. Then I'd recommend spending a few days around Labé. It's located in the centre North of the country. There you have many things to see. There is a huge waterfall about an hour from the city, near a hydraulic dam. You'll have to bride the army to get there but they were always happy to take me each time I would work in this region. It's amazing. Then an hour or 2 North of Labé you have another waterfall with plenty of natural pools to swim in (check for snakes though). The beauty of this place was outstanding. Then, near the city of Kankan you can drive towards the Mali border until you reach the bridge over the Niger River. The views were amazing there, I feel like I was in the Lion King. In the South, they have a forest near the town of Lola where you can see Apes. It's an international reserve and people working there will guide you. Another incredible Waterfalls were near Mamou, Tinkisso. Those were actually properly maintained for local tourists Conakry is one of the worst city on Earth and I would never go back. But Guinea has so so so much potential it is insane. It could be one of the most amazing country if they had proper leaders. The beauty is everywhere outside the capital and would be worth an entire trip. Bests!
Nice notes but last comment is a bit discusting. Their leader has been France for centuries untill today which is responsible for misery while looting the state. In Niger France looted uranium to run own power system. Leaving 85% of Niger without electricity. To be rude and disrespectfull towards white looters it normal thing.
Don't apologize about your experiences, you have the right to like or dislike your personal feelings about anything you've experienced. You've not lied about anything.
@@peregrino9154WOW GUY IT'S ALMOST LIKE HE'S BEING POLITE for fuck's sake you people and thinking everyone is 'trying not to offend someone'. When I was growing up it was literally just called manners.
Hi Drew. My husband and I love your channel. I was a US Peace Corps Volunteer in Guyana and lived in Georgetown for 2 years. At the start of your vid I told my husband about visiting Paramaribo for NYE one year and meeting a group of Dutch tourists who said they had a terrible time in GT. I asked them to come back so that I could show them a good time. Really changed their mind about Georgetown. There’s a lively nightlife and restaurant scene and the people are lovely. Not to mention, as all the other comments have - the nature in the rural areas and Amazon river are spectacular. If you decide to go back, I could put you in touch with dozens of people in a heartbeat who would take you in and show you a good time. Because that’s what Guyanese people are about! A good time with a bit of rum. Cheers to you!
I would wonder then why the hotel people did not advise him about the local night live, as it would be natural to want to help tourists have a good time, if you are on the tourist business. There must be something they have in mind in order to lock him up in the room.
I remember getting yelled at by a guard in Japan. I was interrupting a Buddhist precession, had my earphones in...my bad, didn't hear the gongs and the guard scared the shit out of me. He came and made sure I was OK, and he asked if anyone told me that the temple was still in use and not only a market. Embarrassing but an ultimately lovely experience.
@@Macbobob Thats why I said “atleast when it comes to in public”. I understand basically all east asians can be quite the opposite in their own home, but as for in public, they tend to be very well mannered
I spent two weeks in Guyana in 2020. I agree Georgetown is sketchy. But I am surprised you did not take a trip to the interior. We took a small plane to Kaetur and Orinduik Falls as part of a tour and it was amazing. Also Georgetown has some great spicy food. It became a joke - even the hamburgers were spicy. And the multiple Church’s Chicken outlets were very unexpected. There is also great rum made there (Demarara). I am glad I went.
I had a really bad experience in Venezuela, getting robbed at gunpoint and being next to a woman who had her cell phone stolen out of her hands in broad daylight. When you listed it as a favorite country I was surprised. But then when you listed your least favorite countries you hit on it- there are lots of things that can make or break your experience. I never actually traveled outside of Caracas when I was in Venezuela, so probably missed out on a lot of really cool experiences.
Venezuela was GREAT back in the late 80's and very early 90's. I am not much on the big cities but even enjoyed my time in Caracas and Maracaibo. You could not pay me enough to go there today. It is a shame.
I have been to both Djibouti and Brunei and had great experiences in both of them. We did not get thrown out of the mosque in Brunei. Went to the nightmarket in the evening and had a fantastic meal. Made a small city boat tour. Major areas in Brunei are built on poles in the water. Visited the national park mentioned in the video which was great. Waded through a pool with a waterfall which had a lot of those small fishes that you find in spa's that eat the dead skin from your feet. Smoking was banned in Brunei. Never seen so many smokers in my life. Whenever you went to the back side of a building people were standing there smoking. Djibouti was rougher. We stayed in Sheraton. Basically us and 150 military personell from all over the world. If you looked into their rooms they where basically communication centers. Radio equipment and screens everywhere. We mainly walked around but also found a local taxidriver who had one of the most pimped cars I ever seen. The car itself was shit, sounded like a lawnmower, but it had colored lights everywhere. The president held some speach in the city center and during that time there was a lot of police/military but at other times it was not bad at all. This was back in the days when NATO was hunting for Somali pirates. That joint force was deployed from Djibouti. Also had some of the best meals in Djibouti fresh fish grilled in some kind of clay fire pit. Served with lime and a piece of delicious bread. I do not think I would go to Chad or Guinea. A little bit to unsafe already on paper. Guyana surprises me. I would not have considered it unsafe before watching this video.
There are things he hasn't represented correctly about Islamic culture which will change his views on that shit culture like the harrasment and threats exmuslim face, the threats to critics of their religious identities that can result in killings, honor killings because of previous Islamic practices like stoning if married women commit adultery etc so yeah he's not fair but since it's subjective he might not have experienced such horrors in Pakistan and mantelpiece backwards Islamic nations, why am i right, because i live here and nota. Muslim anymore seeing all that goes here
Idk if you still care but, I can assume that whoever kicked the guy out of the mosque is a teenage boy. Because from what I experienced as a Bruneian myself, some of them are the most rude ones, they're jerks/bullies and judgemental asf. BUT, keep in mind, with that being said, most adult men and women (anyone who are mentally mature) are super kind and friendly :)
Really, so why is he taking pictures and videos of children? the children can't consent. Pass 630 it was terrible a detailed video of the face of a kid in the hands of his or her mother. He is lucky that people did not react as Americans will do if they find an African in the USA taking pictures and videos of children. Also going to Muslim countries and taking continuos videos is not proper. he is not the worse, but he is not the best either.
Thank you for being honest Drew, no sense going someplace unsafe & unwelcoming. Plenty of tourists get killed while traveling & now we better know which places to avoid.
@@Alex_Gordon same! Central Africa is very dangerous. Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Angola, and South Africa are best for sub Saharan Africa.
Visit Iran 🇮🇷, the people are extremely hospitable and you will most likely not get pickpocketed/robbed. If you follow the government's rules you should have no problem. The landscapes are beautiful, history is rich, and there's very nice ancient architecture (like Persepolis). Drew has a video on it, I recommend you check it out.
Idk if you still care but, I can assume that whoever kicked the guy out of the mosque is a teenage boy. Because from what I experienced as a Bruneian myself, some of them are the most rude ones, they're jerks/bullies and judgemental asf. BUT, keep in mind, with that being said, most adult men and women (anyone who are mentally mature) are super kind and friendly :)
As someone from Suriname 🇸🇷 I Gata say I was shocked to see Guyana because in my country we always seem to think Guyana is a better and richer version of us
Who thinks that lol?I don't know which Surinamese you've met. Surinamese has always been wealthier on average than Guyana, and people always voiced that opinion. I haven't met a Surinamese in my life yet that says GT is safer and wealthier than Suriname; Suriname is also one of the safest countries in South America. Only the past two years Guyana's economy is booming, because of oil. Funny thing is that the Guyanese still speak of Suriname being better, on social media and in their news.
@@fouadd6775 Well...larger economy...but not per se better; and like I said that's only the past 2 years for them because of oil (and drew went there around 2016). Before their oil boom Suriname did score better overall and Suriname overall is still more developed now (better roads, one of the best ports in the Caribbean, a larger airport etc.). People overall have a higher living standard in Suriname even though there is a recession. For example companies Guyana are only now investing in spin-offs for the economy with their oil boom, companies Suriname are making the same investments, so they are ready when the boom arrives. Guyana wasn't ready and the Americans and Trini's took everything first. The fact that Suriname is doing investments before the oil boom, shows that overall there is more wealth, Guyana didn't have that when their oil boom didn't start yet. So just because the oil boom has started doesn't mean people are immediately richer and things are more developed. They're also investing in infrastructure in the past two years. Just search up some GT video's, you'll know what drew was talking about. However Guyana deserves everything good that's coming their way with the oil-boom!
@@hashimelmi69 which explains how dangerous these countries are(No offense to good Muslims but African countries have a large problem with non Islamics
my old soccer coaches were all from haiti, very nice people. My best coach is a very big part in helping kids in haiti, i hope to go one day and help them. What’s wrong with haiti?
I had a very bad experience back in Senegal .Here's how it went : I was taking some pictures of local artwork and taking selfies with my food (which was too bad) when suddenly a hand came on my shoulder and a chill ran down my spine . I saw 2 men who were panting and were asking me for help in a language I didn't understand . They asked me for 350 € and were forcing me to take a pistol . When I was giving them money a policemen appeared of nowhere and took me to police station . Luckily I was saved by a local guide . I think that the cop just wanted his bribe . I understand bribery is a huge problem in Africa but the continent in itself is very unique and fascinating . I am now planning to West North Africa and hope so we will be successful in our journey .🤞😄☺️🤞
Unfortunately a lot of countries in Africa suffer with severe poverty and lack of basic necessities like clean water and healthcare. Then if you're expecting a good tourist experience it's really not realistic. If people are barely struggling to live then a tourist isn't going to experience much better. Prayers going out to my African bothers and sisters. They are going through tough times.
@@dot6614 of course that's why I said a lot of countries in Africa not all. Even then in the poor and dangerous places in the continent of Africa, like Mali and Nigeria there are tons of natural beauty and friendly people but it's the danger of gangs and kidnapping that scares many tourists away. I myself would love to visit countries like Nigeria and Botswana. They could be safer then we know but for now maybe it's not the best idea.
I really don't have it in me to travel anymore. I'm getting too old and set in my ways but I do love to watch these travel vlogs. I can safely and comfortably experience (vicariously) the highs and lows of countries I will never visit. I'm okay with that but I'm grateful to people like Drew who take us along on their journey.
It doesn't sit well with me to get old and not really experience the world, I'm 36 now and have been only been to 4 countries outside the US and I wish I could spend my whole life travelling, anyways everyone is different and some people are very happy to spend their whole life in one place.
@@JonathanAlmgren'm 32 have never been outside Iran 😢 Though luckily my country is huge and so diverse in every aspect that I could spend more than a lifetime exploring it. Only if it wasn't ruled by selfish idiots...
Your channel and Yes Theory are my favorite. I'm Venezuelan and appreciate you keeping your videos informative and down to earth. You show the point of view of a citizen rather than a privileged tourist. Thank you.
This is an interesting list, but I’m glad you mentioned it’s subjective. Traveling is all about taking the good with the bad, and I’m glad you used this video to address that.
For sure it’s subjective but his approach is logical and balanced. He’s also been to every country in the world, so as far as subjective goes. Doesn’t get much better than this.
I love the concept for this video. I encourage you to use more blunt honesty about a country even if it’s negative. I wish more travel youtubers would just get down to brass tacks and be like “this country is a mess and a future failed state or food is bad, or the local people have a corrupt moral spirit” or something. So many travel youtubers have toxic positivity or just out right lies so it feels fake.
I think most people could make an educated guess about certain countries especially very poor or war torn that they might not be like staying on a resort in Mexico.
I visited Brunei in 2013 as a solo tourist and had a great time, actually. Hiking in Temburong National Park was cool (towering termite mounts the size of tree stumps), and I didn't get kicked out of the grand mosque at all, in fact I visited twice. The stilt house villages were wicked cool to wander around. But after they brought in Sharia law a few years later, it makes it less appealing to go back.
How have you not gotten sick from visiting all these countries? Your immune system must be amazing! I would have been terrified in Chad I don't think I would have stayed calm especially if my phone had died. Did you have an emergency charger on hand or how did you find your way back with all that danger and chaos? I always carry a battery charger with me. The stories and info you share from travel is amazing!!
I'm an American. I do like traveling abroad, but my experience is just in Latin America and Europe. How can I put it ? You just don't go around taking pictures of other people's children. Not at Mall of America. Not in Manhattan. Not on a beach in California. Not in Chad. Or anywhere else. As a traveler, I love taking pictures. Landscapes. Nature. Architecture. Pictures out the bus window. Food. View out the window of the hotel room. I don't take pictures of local kids, or at least try not to. Photographing the cats in Parque Kennedy in Lima meant I had to do some cropping because I wanted pictures of the cats, not the kids..
Yea... No one should take pictures of others children's... without permission.! I mean imagine.. a grownup stranger taking pictures of your children's out of nowhere.. That's a red flag for Me.!
I very much agree. I don't understand why anyone would take a picture a of a child, with or without permission of the parent. It's just weird. Maybe it's because I'm a teacher and I'm very protective of young people against a world full of creeps. Just enjoy your time in the country without taking videos of pictures of kids. It's not fair on them at all.
Hi Drew, I'm so sorry for your bad experience at our mosque in Brunei. That should not happened, so disrespectful to shout or be aggressive in a mosque. But I disagree that there's not much place to hang around, no public transportation make it harder to move around here. Love your videos and travel. Cheers
How is that no public transportation the king of your country is the richest people on the planet but he doesn’t have money for infrastructure for his own country, seems he predicts Islam but he sells alcohol on his hotel’s around the world what a filthy man with two faces 😏
@@Indian-CanadianCountryBall no you don't I've seen Muslims who were forced to say a prayer when they tried to visit a temple...also stop advertising your religion
So sad to see Guyana on here Guyana is such a beautiful country, but you haven't experienced the richness and the beauty if you were only exposed to Georgetown. There so much more to offer, so much more to see and experience. The food, the people, the culture 🇬🇾❤️
Guyana is wrecked by brain drain and thieving government after government. Interior is pretty, but still dangerous: I’ve been threatened death in Lethem, stolen from, afraid for my female companions in the iwokrama checkpoints. There is a reason so much shadiness happens there, there in reality is very little law. Do what you want, bribe someone, it doesn’t matter. I still visit, but wouldn’t recommend it for anyone without connections, as it stands.
Actually, it is helpful when you make a video like this. Knowing that some countries do not care for outsiders, and/or a country is expensive and there is nothing to see or do provides very useful information for travelers.
As a woman who has traveled alone all over the place, my least favorite countries are the ones where I have the least freedom of movement based on cultural attitudes towards women. Of course I dress to blend in, learn the language and customs, and so on, but sadly there are some places where I can't move around because it will endanger me and put locals in the awkward position of trying to help without getting into trouble.
I have also travelled as a solo female but have only been to a couple of countries in East Asia, which are considered some of the safest in the world. I would love to see other places, but so many places just aren't safe for anyone, let alone females. I am hoping to make trips to some of the more controversial countries, like Egypt and Turkey, but I will need to bring a male with me to feel safer.
Experience: 12 countries in Europe Least favorite: Belgium Reason: Been there for only one day and my belongings were all stolen😂Brussel Zuid is a tough place
I think that one of the most important things for a country to thrive is safety, not only for the locals but for everyone on their soil because tourism brings prosperity, and many countries need to improve that because "No safety no party".
True, and it is especially disconcerting that this happened mostly in Africa where (by large) culturally a visitor should be afforded very special treatment.
I was surprised Guyana was so difficult. For no apparent reason, I've accumulated 2 or 3 Guyanese friends over the years who are very talented people. They do struggle there. The infrastructure is just not developed despite efforts. It frustrates those who are trying to develop viable industry and education. The culture is an interesting blend due to the blend of indigenous, Asian, Southeast Asian, Caribbean and Europeans. They are proud of their cuisine which mixes Caribbean, Indian and even Chinese influences. But the country has not flourished.
I’m really surprised by Guyana making the list. I have traveled there many times including taking a group of students there and have never found it to feel unsafe. Even at the market. The rainforests is amazing and I took a small plane into the hinterlands to Kaieteur Falls which was stunning. I love your videos - I just finished a year circumnavigating the globe and wish I had discovered your channel before I left. Great stuff!
Hi Drew, I’ve been following your journey for almost four years and I really do like your videos. I'm from Chad and I'm so sorry you had a bad time in Chad. I Hope your next visit will be different.
He wouldn't want to go a second time. Who tf wants to go to Chad anyway I've never heard of a person say they want to go to Chad for vacation. No offence but some countries are just bland and boring
@@munty9266 show some respect, imagine said that about your home... It's a beautiful country, Drew was just unlucky with the bike situation. Some the kindest people Ive met
Thanks for having the courage to make and post this video! This is one of the few 'real' videos on UA-cam since most UA-camrs only show the positive things in life and edit out the negatives.
For a few years of my childhood my family was in Guinea, I also went back after high school for a small one month visit. I really can't think of much that I would recommend to a tourist! Ha. But we are still connected with a wonderful tribe that lives very remotely. When I went after high school we landed in Senegal and drove across the border into Guinea and in Guinea we found the local police station (where we get our passports stamped) had been burned down by a riot. Then we went to find gas and found the gas station was also burned! A Few things I remembered enjoying other than the friendship of the tribe we know, are - Mafé (a peanut sauce dish), the mangoes!, The comical knock-off Chinese goods in the markets (adodas instead of adidas for example) , Chocolecca! (A peanut based chocolate spread), making things out of termite clay as a kid, and swimming or fishing in the river in the rainy season! The difference between the rainy season and the dry season is unreal!
Love the video drew, I hope you will visit Australia again one day. Would be great for you to visit the aboriginal communities and experience Indigenous Australian culture.
You've been to every country and have always been respectful and given people the benefit of the doubt so you have every right to give your opinion on the less welcoming countries.
Only 16 countries for me so far, and only here to say you are savvy and inspirational, Drew. Deserving of far more subs in this category. I am relocating/ex-patting to Costa Rica to land and home I bought there, and going in January to settle in. Travelling the world first, led to this kind of life altering decision and I wish everyone could do what your shirt says and "Just go!" My only real bad experiences where in a chinese casino in Macau where I believe I had the attention of a local mafioso and in bogota colombia, where I was jumped on christmas eve on a busy pedestrian area and had to fight five young guys, which I won barely and escaped from, but still. Be careful in Bogota, even in a crowd on one of the most celebrated holidays of the year.
I love Costa Rica. My dad used to have a house in Nosara. I’ve been several times to Nosara but have also been to San Jose and La Fortuna. Nosara is an amazing little surf town and I would love to go back someday.
I went to bogota in 2018 and the hostel owner told us to not got 4 blocks to the east, north, south, and west, and to never under any circumstances take out our phones because we would be targeted by pickpockets. I was only there for 5 days and luckily knew someone from there so it was a pleasant place to be but yes we knew of people who got mugged trying to go up an unofficial path of montseratte
It’s not Brunei technically, but right next tour as part of Sarawak is the Gunung Mulu national park (of Malaysia). It’s absolutely stunning and unique. If you’re looking for more to do on the island, I highly recommend it. Totally different than your experience with Brunei
i just got back from Mulu so i can testify that Mulu indeed is amazing! I just did beginner trekking and caving, one of the most stunning experience i had. Cant imagine how spectacular it is for folks that did Pinnacles and more advanced caving in Mulu.
Thanks for sharing! Really interesting insights. I was surprised to see Brunei on the list. I visited for a couple of days in 2017 and had an amazing time. A really unique country with kind people, great food, beautiful architecture and also a lot of nature to see i.e river tours, hikes and more. Would definitely visit again!
Keep in mind, from what I experienced as a Bruneian myself, some teenage boys are soooo rude, theyre jerks. I can assumed the one that whoever kicked the guy out of the mosque is a teenage boy. BUT, with that being said, adult men (or anyone who is mature/an adult) are very friendly and kind :)
As a woman, I could relate to your experiences. I’m always very careful when I travel to out of the way places and travel with someone else. And never go out at night.
@@cyancyborg1477 I’m not diluting anything - odd comment, if you care for your safety as a solo female traveller you likely stay away from the aforementioned regions. And if travelling there - never do so solo as a safety precaution.
Hey Drew, love your channel just a quick question you’ve already traveled the entire world, so have you ever considered maybe doing a United States series? Where you go to every single state?
This was an important one to make, even given your reservations. And yes, there are wonderful people in every country -- as we all know -- and you are absolutely right that each trip is just a snapshot of one person's experience in one place at one moment. Thank you.
I LOVED 💚 Guyana! 💚 I spent 6 weeks in the Jungle with locals, sleeping in a hammock, and 3 days in Georgetown. Yes, the city is dangerous; but just like anywhere else, keep your wits about you and you should be ok. 🤠🤙 Get out and Explore, and Find More!!
Surprised to see Guyana on this list. I had the same experience in Georgetown, so sure no nightlife, but I still found it interesting walking around in the daytime. Also, I had come from the Brazilian border and the drive was really beautiful. For part of it, our bus went on a raft across a river in the rainforest. I regretted not making it to Kaietur Falls so Guyana was actually on my list of countries I would like to go back to. I had heard really good things about Guinea, too, from a friend who spent time there, so maybe it was just really bad timing to go during a coup (and it looked like the rainy season too.) I am also curious to find certain countries absent that seemed obvious inclusions on this list. (North Korea, Turkmenistan, Saudi Arabia) What was it that saved these countries from this list?
I am thankful of ANY heads up on countries not to go to. None of the ones mentioned would be my choice to visit but thank you for your opinion. Now i will watch your favorites too. I have done China, Vietnam and Hong Kong. All were impressive to me. Hong Kong was easier the move around and I enjoyed going there. Vietnam was fun... I am planning another trip there. I was in Hanoi, Ha Long Bay... I want to check out Dalat and Ho Chi Minh City. Philipines is still on bucket list too. Cebu and Baguio are places of interest for me. 😊
Hey man! Just want to say try Brunei 🇧🇳 a second chance, heck better if you go between the border between Brunei and Malaysia, you will love the wildlife there
It can be hard to judge a country based on the capital as well. I lived for 8 months in Madagascar. And coastal Madagascar is a night and day difference to Antananarivo. In poor countries, the capital city is really a concentration of their poverty and problems and tourists can have issues there if they don’t have good local collections. Those guinean roads reminded me a lot of Madagascar. It can take 3-4 days to travel from Ft Dauphin in the south to the capitol Antananarivo because of the poor road conditions. Lots of cars get stuck. Lots of rickety ferries in between rivers.
Absolutely true. I live in Kampala, Uganda… and I don’t love Kampala. However Uganda itself is absolutely beautiful and has so much to offer as a country, travel wise.
Chad is actually a country that's high on my bucket list since it has some of the most interesting features of the Sahara desert such as the Ennedi Plateau and the Lakes of Ounianga. Joining a desert tour there would no doubt be an unforgettable experience.
Hi! I am from Chad 🇹🇩. It’s very unfortunate that all this happened to you. But this doesn’t define the entire country. I strongly recommend you plan out your trip better before visiting any country in Africa or even the world. These type of videos are very dishonest and misleading, I’m not underrating for unfortunates adventure in Chad. But I just want to make it clear that this is not Chad. You found yourself in a rough neighborhood with the wrong people.
And for the record, people aren’t rude or mean in Chad. That’s just not true. You can’t label an entire country population based on your misadventure. Once again, Please learn about a country culture, plan and get reliable contact before visiting any country in Africa or anywhere in the world.
@@raihanaabakar923 his information is 100% perfectly reliable. You cannot question it. WHY? Because this video was HIS OPINION, and his information is simply HIS opinion about his least favourite countries. Another man or woman's least favourites are likely to be different.
I haven’t visited all the countries in the world but my worst experience was in chile🇨🇱 . I was surprised by how expensive it is, I felt really unsafe in Santiago. Going through the border with Argentina was a nightmare.
My uncle is from Guyana and I lived there for 7months...this was a number of years ago and I pray it's changed but it was very unsafe for foreigners. I travelled everywhere with my phone to my ear to deter people. I was kidnapped by a taxi driver, trapped in a general store by "interested men", a friend from church invited me over and her son came out of a room nearly naked and tried to molest me, I could not walk down the street without being catcalled by every watching male. There were numerous times I had to stay overnight in friends homes in a locked room and the man of the house would stay up all night keeping guard. There are more Guyanese living abroad than in the country. There were only a handful of people I would trust. One friend I was really close to has relocated her family to the US.
I knew lots pf Guyanese in college (there was one Indo Guyanese girl who I had a crush on). There are lots here in NYC, especially in Queens, and they're very intelligent and hardworking people, shame the country has so many problems, it has a lot of resources too. It seems the best and brightest leave.
Unfortunately, it hasn’t changed much. Education and self-awareness go hand in hand for the men, unfortunately. And sometimes even that is too much to expect. Even as a local, it’s appalling every single day that they act so disgustingly without fail. Word of advice? Don’t trust the men, regardless of how friendly they appear to be. Some older women might be spiteful and bitter too. Best to stick around people you know you can trust.
@@TheRunning2049you’re Guyanese? When you say the older women are spiteful and bitter, are you saying you’ve encountered this as a foreigner or after knowing them personally (Aunty family members/ friends of the family)?
My man Drew's been everywhere except Botswana 🇧🇼 😭 We don't bite man, come to the longest running Democracy in Africa. The biggest 'war' we've ever had would probably be with customer service 😪
In the 1960s most places were pretty welcoming, that has now changed, from Venice where in the 1960s you might see 40 people on St Mark's Square you now see 4000. The locals have pretty much all moved out and what you're left with is a very unwelcoming competitive grasping for the tourist dollar. In 1983; I went to Sri Lanka for 12 days seemingly the typical duration of the holiday there; but left after four days as most people did in that period; again grasping snarling locals who had no interest in you other than what they could get out of you "right-now" (including hotel staff in five-star hotels). And it is the same in a thousand places. Before going anywhere read the travelogues.... (Ex British Airways "Comet-4B crew" now 78 years). Very best wishes all.
Peace Corps dude here, I try to stay away from tourist areas, learn basic local language (it’s hard but is worth more than you can imagine), and stick with market women, for the most part they have your back wherever you go, they’ll tell you where to go, when to go, and who to avoid…as long as you buy something from their shop. It’s fun, it’s life, and I miss it everyday.
Hi Drew, You’re absolutely right about travel being subjective depending on where you go and what you do, I’ve been to Chad 3 times, the last time in Feb-March 2022 and would consider it one of my favourite countries. I’m glad to see that you are open to returning there, the first thing, I have to say is next time make sure you get out of N’Djamena, to see what the country has to offer. NDJ isn’t devoid of interest, if you go back there, make sure you time your stay, so that you can visit the horse races that happen on Sundays, I have yet to do this, but I’ve seen photos from people who have been and it certainly looks interesting. The Chari River always has lots of water birds and remarkably still a few hippos, NDJ must be one of very few capital cities that has wild hippos. Chad is essentially still a military dictatorship, so you need to be a bit cautious about taking photos in NDJ, generally in Nation Square you should be okay, but don’t get carried away, at least in areas where there lots of soldiers or cops around, as they’re not too used to tourists. If you've only seen NDJ and you had a bad time, you’re bound to wonder why bother going to Chad, the answer to that question is. To visit Zakouma National Park, is the best protected park in Central Africa, teaming with large wildlife, huge herds of buffaloes, giraffes and antelopes and good number of lions, along side huge flocks of water birds and Red-billed Queleas the world’s most abundant wild bird. The Park is managed in partnership with the government, by the South African NGO African Parks, back around the turn of the century there were 4,000+ elephants, by 2010 when African Parks arrived, there were only about 420 left, now there are over 630 and none have been poached since 2016. The park is in my view probably the safest place in the whole country, and I would rank Zakouma alongside some of the top national parks in Africa and most of the time you won’t see another tourist. The Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, is a vast protected area in the southern Sahara also managed by African Parks, the reserve protects one of most remarkable desert landscapes in the world, the scenery is stunning, with amazing mountains, rock formations, and natural arches, Aloba Arch is one of the highest natural arches in the world, almost every cave and rock overhang is an art gallery, covered in ancient paintings. The Guelta d’Archei is a beautiful canyon, with a river in the bottom, that is home to a very few last surviving crocodiles, if you’re lucky with the time of your visit, (I wasn’t), the Guelta can be full of camels brought in to drink, which makes for an even more incredible experience. The desert is also littered with destroyed Russian made Libyan armoured vehicles, dating from the Toyota War, camping in deserts is always good, the view of the stars at night is phenomenal, and you won’t likely see any other tourists. Ouadi Rimé Ouadi Achim Game Reserve, this vast reserve in the centre of the country is looked after by the Sahara Conservation Fund, the reserve is now home to reintroduced herds of Scimitar-horned Oryx and Addax, the former species was extinct in the wild, the latter nearly so, it is now a great wildlife destination, if you want to see endangered Saharan wildlife, that you won’t see in the true wild anywhere else. You can also visit the famous Gerewol to see the Woodabe men dressed in all their finery and make up, I have not done this but it looks like an amazing experience. You do have to be aware visiting Chad, that is a country that you are generally advised not to visit, as it does have a lot of problems, but I’ve never felt unsafe there, all the places I’ve mentioned are I believe normally entirely safe. There are places that you should definitely not visit, the Lake Chad area on the border with Cameroon and Nigeria is not safe, the Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram operates in this area and they do cross into Chad, they have largely been replaced by their offshoot Islamic State West Africa Province, but you do not want to encounter either group. I also don’t think you should visit Tibesti an amazing mountainous area of desert on the Libyan border, various rebel groups based in Libya operate in the Tibesti Mountains, you could be kidnapped or worse. What I would also say, is Chad really isn’t country, where you can just fly in, find a hotel in NDJ and then take it from there, travelling to any of the places I’ve mentioned entirely independently on your own, would be very difficult. If you hired a car and a driver, they could take you to Zakouma and you can stay at Tinga Lodge, but it’s really a two-day drive and people normally camp on route. Flying to the park is far quicker and easier but expensive, once you're at Tinga they take you out on game drives, in proper open safari vehicles of the type used in Southern Africa. Going to Ennedi is an expedition, whether you fly in or drive, you have to camp out in the desert, so you need to go with a company that organises Ennedi safaris, and will set up a camp for you and keep you fed and watered and drive you to the sites, as they are miles apart, my time in the desert was with Eyte Voyages. Just thought I'd post all this, in case you do decide to reconsider going to the country, hopefully if more people go, they will get a bit more used to tourists.
@@TJDawgs72 Wholly unnecessary comments like yours, are why I don't comment that much on UA-cam, but since 46 people have liked my comment, I'd say the answer to your question is yes and leave it there.
Whole lotta yapping to cope with the fact that Africa as a whole sucks in backwards and outdated cultural norms, infrastructure, convenience, civility, crime rates, food and water quality, and every other thing you can possibly think of. It's because of Africans, not anyone else.
Thanks for watching and for your comments! I’ve realized that I accidentally showed the Guinea Bissau flag instead of Guinea - my bad! Have a lovely Sunday and I’ll see you guys next week 🙏
Np drew, everyone make mistake sometimes. :)
I'm sorry about your stay in Guyana. My family is Guyanese and I would suggest you do things outside of Georgetown. There is a Kaieteur Falls which is the world's largest single drop waterfall. The Mainstay which is a resort type area near a lake. I would recommend taking the ferry boat into Essequibo and go into the smaller villages like Aberdeen or Queenstown the areas are less dangerous and the people are friendlier. I would give Guyana another chance and go to other places outside of Georgetown. My family and their neighbors are friendly and welcoming.
Thanks bro
Why You're Not In Portugal
Love you sir
Okay, so I'm from South Africa and about taking that photo of a child in Chad. Do not take photos of children here in Africa without permission because people will assume that you are a kidnapper. In school, we are taught that if a stranger takes a photo of you, they are most likely a kidnapper and to report them.
EDIT: for those in the comments you do not understand how this leads to trafficking. A kidnapper takes a photo of the child and then later kidnaps the photographed child. If the kidnapper is approached by the police, the kidnapper can say, "I have pictures of this child on my phone, this is my child.".
EDIT 2: you guys in the comments put too much faith in the police.
I'm shocked at the fact that one of the most dangerous countries in the world is also one of the most visited countries in the world aka South Africa
@@V_For_Vigilante 10 secs ago…
@@V_For_Vigilante its not that dangerous to be honest, know where you are safe and go places in groups and you should be more than fine
Anywhere in the world you shouldn't take photos of someone without permission
@@V_For_Vigilante nice to know they treat potential kidnappers the way they deserve though
Timestamps::
0:17 Djibouti
2:05 Chad
3:51 Guinea
5:40 Brunei
6:53 Guyana
rip mainly africa
I wish my country india was there. North india looks worse than Somalia.
@@xitlaltepec ...
Should be Israel in the list too
@@atimans309 drew ain't a Muslim you know
The fact he went from criticizing Dijibouti for being inconvenient and expensive to causally talking about being almost murdered twice in Chad is hilarious.
How is that hilarious!?!!? That shit is real, bro. No cap
@@cmichelle6888I think it's the fact that he ranked Dijibouti lower than Chad despite that
there are no chads in Chad
They look equally terrible to me
I don’t like him he a lerv
It’s crazy he had a better time in North Korea than some of these countries
😂
North Korean trips are meticulously crafted by the WPK to give the best possible optics to any foreign tourists so I wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t have any “bad” experiences.
Bro don't follow the media, probably NK has many things to offer and people are super friendly and generous.
@@selimbalti4527He thinks he has surpassed western propaganda only to go and eat Northcorean propaganda lulz
North Korea is well controlled place.
it is highly unlikely that any foreign tourists will encounter any criminals in the street.
just make sure to not piss off the regime.
Usually, when I look at the travel videos on UA-cam, creators seem to be overly positive to the point that it can look very fake. That's why I love this kind of videos. They bring your channel more down to earth and at least try to address problems that locals and tourists encounter.
🙏🙏
True. I actually find negative videos more useful. i can disagree with the perspective, but it gives me something to work with. MAybe the hotel was too lound for a honeymoon, but perfect for my girls weekend. Negative review provide more to go on.
Exactly. So many travel channels just make everything seem so diluted and "perfect". Nice to see some honest content.
@Pínned-by Drew Binsky hmm
@Pínned-by Drew Binsky sus
My dad was working in Djibouti in the late '60s (a military contract) and couldn't wait to get out of there. Said it was creepy, full of spies, thuggish-looking guys in dark glasses sitting at bars and restaurants, just eyeing everyone. He was in many African countries for work, was also in Chad and Mauritania. Both strict Muslim countries. He kind of enjoyed Mauritania, but Chad was a very rough one. Having been in 11 African countries and about 60 others, he was hard to scare, so it's interesting that two he never wanted to go back to were Djibouti and Chad.
Thanks for sharing this interesting story of ur father
I have spoken with many people who have been stationed on the American base in Djibouti, they say its hot as hell, smells bad, and the insects are the worst.
Nice to hear some blunt, politically incorrect narratives from you and Mr. Binsky.
@@user-k4d-e59mo28oc”Travel is subjective”; they are just sharing their personal experience and are not sharing some kind of incorrect narrative since these experiences happened.
its a silo for agents causing and maintaining African destablization
My husband works abroad, usually in Africa, and his least favorite place was Chad. He quite enjoyed CAR, even with all its problems, so Chad must be a special kind of difficult.
what is CAR ?
@@prajkta123 central african republic :)
CAR is a horrible place he just got lucky
Just getting to Chad seems like a pain in the ass. You need a complicated visa and then when you get there, you aren't allowed to take any photos outside unless you have a photo permit. That being said, I still want to go.
Because are gigachad
Much respect dude. Even though your life was in danger at these places you gave a respectful opinion. I learn a lot from your videos and I have become less ignorant. Thank you good sir. Safe travels.
People in the comments saying "you can't base your whole opinion on the country because of few bad experiences", sure you can. The first impression is everything, and it definitely impacts how you see a country. If you have a great experience the first time, you'll probably be more open to visiting again than if you had a shitty experience. And just because you liked a certain country, doesn't mean everyone else will.
I've been to 20+ countries and the one I disliked the most was Czech Republic. There isn't enough money in the world to make me visit that country again. On the other hand, it is many people's favourite destination. I think it's even Drew's favourite.
I'm really curious what made you dislike Czech Republic. One might think it's a nice european country, what could go wrong
@@islmhhh4987 many things: people, mentality, food, way of life, etc. And I've been to at least 15 places, from big cities to very remote villages and even lived with the locals, so I really got to learn all aspects of the country.
The first time I visited I've been to only a few cities, and wasn't impressed. So I thought, I should return and visit some non touristic destinations and see if my mind would change. But in the end I was even more disappointed, and wished I trusted my initial instinct.
as someone who travelled before, I totally agree with you
@@dawnriddler what was wrong with the people, food, mentality, and way of life?
@@islmhhh4987 i mean western and eastern europe only share one thing in common, they are both called european country....thats all.....lol
its like russia and UK both have caucasians.......nothing more
As a Guyanese American - I would highly recommend anyone visiting Guyana to go eco-tourism versus city tourism. Kaieteur Falls is truly breathtaking and the countryside is way safer than the capital by far. Not much to do in the countryside for a tourist but the ecotourism (waterfall, river tours, rainforest tours) are actually breathtaking. Fruits are amazing here as well but totally agree, the city sucks.
Agreed! Georgetown is the worst part of Guyana. I spent a year in Guyana as a teenager (volunteering) and absolutely loved it. The interior is amazing and the people are so friendly. Not to mention the food.... God I miss that. I gained a lot of weight.
I want to go to Guyana because its one of the most forested countries and I want to go in the middle of nowhere in a forest lol
I just wanted some of the chili peppers from Guyana . Some of the best ones in the world are there.
Do many wisky bottle in Guyana’s shops I love Jhony walker
There are hundreds of waterfalls around the world without having to subject oneself to travel in Africa.
This might sound weird but honestly 3:22 (dirty toilet warning) got me thinking Drew should make a video about his craziest/worst bathroom experiences across the world…I feel like that’s something most of us take for granted but there can be some baaaad places to go
I’d love to but I don’t have footage
@@drewbinsky make footage bro
give us a warning bro please, we tryna eat and you jumpscare us with this
@@cheesesssessses2222 I was about to dive into my chocolate lava cake and all of a sudden I’m looking at a shit stained toilet
Taco Bell and Chipotle are tied for number one
Thanks, Dude! Too few people are honest about WHY places are sketchy. Good Luck in Future journeys!
Being an American, almost a brown colored Native American, I visited Djibiuti, Eritrea, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Somaliland among other African countries. I can fully undertand Drew's issue with some of the countries he stated so candidly. However, I had one advantage over Drew and that is the color of my skin. On top of that, anyone finding out that I am Native American (they call us Red Indians there) they just call their friends saying hey come come meet the first "real American red Indian". They will touch me wanna offer me drinks etc. Very hspitable. The same thing happened to me in Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Somaliland (all in the horn of Africa). I loved being there. I agree with Drew that the most expensive African country is none other than Djibouti.
Somaliland isn’t a country
Djibouti is expensive cos of the limited accessibility or visa? The cost of living there seem low
@@hwar21 bro 😭
@@jasg771 I think the foreign military presence makes it expensive
@Solas no
No one wants his country to be on this list. But with the love I have seen him show to not popular countries, I will trust him on this list
I appreciate it!
@@drewbinsky Drew please revisit Guyana if you can. Your ranking wasn't fair compared to these other countries and Guyana has made strides to become safer and better overall. It's worth connecting with Guyanese youtubers so they can show you the Guyana that you didn't experience. Also, if you do go do some eco tourism. That's like what 99% of tourists go to Guyana for. You can play golf in America or Saudi Arabia but you can't see the Amazon up close in many countries or kaieteur falls.
@drew is generally so positive, so when he's critical, I take him seriously. The guy has really inspired me to be more adventurous in my travelling.
Not only that you know your country best. Ppl living in a country know best how bad it is......despite the good. We know if we are welcoming or not, dangerous or not. Facts don't have feelings. Our country is beautiful but in the past years there had been scattered incidents of tourist murders. The crime rate is high here, the citizen are relatively safe but how safe? Not that safe. Especially women. I honestly believe we have a cult or at least a serial killer. Women of a certain age range keep disappearing or turning up dead. That's just facts. It's beautiful but who wanna risk their life? Not as bad as these places for sure.
Drew is heavily biased and honestly shows a level of detachment from reality that borders on sheer psychopathy. I respect his negative view on politics, because honestly most share the general grievances, but him being surprised of being caught trying to enter North Korea from Russia may be the dumbest thing I've seen a human do. His top 5 would likely include Russia and North Korea. Not to mention being surprised Chadians would be offended when trying to sneak a shot at a child without permission.
Damn, wasn't expecting to see Guyana on there! I won't argue that Georgetown is extremely sketchy -- I was almost robbed in broad daylight there. But Guyanese people have some of the best parties in the world and the rainforests are beautiful. Complicated place for sure, but I liked it in the end
THIS WHY IM SO LUCKY LIVE IN INDIA 🤗🇮🇳 THE CLEANEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD , WE GIVE RESPECT TO ALL WOMEN THEY CAN WALK SAFELY ALONE AT NIGHT AND WE HAVE CLEAN FOOD AND TOILET EVERYWHERE 🇮🇳🤗🚽, I KNOW MANY POOR PEOPLE JEALOUS WITH SUPER RICH CLEAN INDIA 🤗🇮🇳🤗🇮🇳🤗🇮🇳🤗🇮🇳🤗
@@indiasuperclean6969 lol
@@mvnhiimself4858 h
@@indiasuperclean6969 yeah we ain’t gonna talk about that
@@indiasuperclean6969 are you talking about the country where in some parts now they are banning women from wearing headscarves is it the country where if you belong to certain so called castes your not allowed to.do certain jobs? Is it also the country which says it's the biggest democracy yet you can be killed for eating beef! Don't make me laugh India is the most racist country on earth and if you try and deny it then explain what this silly caste system is and how that is not racism.
Thank you for making this video. I’m beginning a life of travel in three weeks and watch a lot of channels of travelers. Very few talk about the negative experiences and so I appreciate your honest and constructive manner in describing your experiences. I’m glad I found your channel!
Drew I suggest you go outside of Georgetown and go into the smaller areas. You have one of the world largest free drop waterfalls, amazing food, and great national park. The people of Guyana are friendly and welcoming and VERY diverse just explore more than just Georgetown. I'm sorry that was your first impression of the country my family is Guyanese by the way and lives further out in the country.
I LOVE GUYANA, I love Corriverton on the border with Suriname
You can get all the nature in other bordering countries. Guyanese are some of the most hostile and aggressive people around, maybe only second to Jamaicans. I'd never go back.
We went to Guyana and agree with Drew- theres just nothing to do in terms of tourism and its too dangerous to enjoy it otherwise.
It was the best, the worst thing is Venezuela who want our half of our country
@@zamfeerhattim9581 lol becuase you stole it
I honestly would like to hear you do a top 10 or 15. Keep going, i want all the good gossip 🍿🍿
lmao
surprised India’s not on this list
So glad you made this video! Thank you for sharing real experiences, the good & the bad
I spent a few months in Guyana 30 years ago. It was the strangest but also the most amazing experience ever. Yes it a bit rough around the edges, but the country is beautiful and the people very friendly.
I love this type of video! Seems like all youtubers get heavily criticized by people if they say anything the least little bit negative and the viewers often cant tell if you're having a bad time because of the way it's edited. Taking off the rose colored glasses is a breath of fresh air
Thanks And I agree !! Not all travel is rainbows and ponies !
@@drewbinsky Agree 100% I am glad your channel isn’t a sugarcoating channel.
As a bruneian, I'm so sorry you had to be treated like that and we will make sure all tourists enjoy their time here.
But he should know that some mosques are forbidden to non-Muslims not just in Brunei but all over Muslim countries. If it is not listed as a touristic place he cannot enter.
Sometimes one single bad experience in the country can sour your opinion.
Besides the gay or lesbian tourists, though they are unlikely visit Brunei anyway.
can I come dressed as Santa?
@@danmburu9203 lmao yes of course
I lived in Guinea for 2 years, working for the French government in the late 2000s. I had PTSD for years (and I also went through a coup). For what I can see in your video things got even worse in he capital, that's pretty sad. That being said, there are some AMAZING places if you are ready to travel within the country. It's worth it. First, near Conakry, you have he Kindia waterfalls. Ask a local in Kindia to take you there. They aren't big but it's a very pleasant place.
Then I'd recommend spending a few days around Labé. It's located in the centre North of the country. There you have many things to see. There is a huge waterfall about an hour from the city, near a hydraulic dam. You'll have to bride the army to get there but they were always happy to take me each time I would work in this region. It's amazing. Then an hour or 2 North of Labé you have another waterfall with plenty of natural pools to swim in (check for snakes though). The beauty of this place was outstanding.
Then, near the city of Kankan you can drive towards the Mali border until you reach the bridge over the Niger River. The views were amazing there, I feel like I was in the Lion King.
In the South, they have a forest near the town of Lola where you can see Apes. It's an international reserve and people working there will guide you.
Another incredible Waterfalls were near Mamou, Tinkisso. Those were actually properly maintained for local tourists
Conakry is one of the worst city on Earth and I would never go back. But Guinea has so so so much potential it is insane. It could be one of the most amazing country if they had proper leaders. The beauty is everywhere outside the capital and would be worth an entire trip.
Bests!
Nice notes but last comment is a bit discusting. Their leader has been France for centuries untill today which is responsible for misery while looting the state. In Niger France looted uranium to run own power system. Leaving 85% of Niger without electricity. To be rude and disrespectfull towards white looters it normal thing.
Nobody asked.
@@dimitar297 except Drew literally asked for recommendations and reasons to go back to these places 💀
@dimitar297 💀NPC
@@dimitar297are you serious, he is sharing some of his valuable experiences in life. How many countries have you been?
How lovely are you, Drew! You hesitate to badmouth any country and I respect that!
Don't apologize about your experiences, you have the right to like or dislike your personal feelings about anything you've experienced. You've not lied about anything.
It's part of the generation he's in. They're so used to apologizing for having an opinion that might offend someone.
@@peregrino9154 You sund like another conservative nutcase.
@@peregrino9154WOW GUY IT'S ALMOST LIKE HE'S BEING POLITE for fuck's sake you people and thinking everyone is 'trying not to offend someone'. When I was growing up it was literally just called manners.
Hi Drew. My husband and I love your channel. I was a US Peace Corps Volunteer in Guyana and lived in Georgetown for 2 years. At the start of your vid I told my husband about visiting Paramaribo for NYE one year and meeting a group of Dutch tourists who said they had a terrible time in GT. I asked them to come back so that I could show them a good time. Really changed their mind about Georgetown. There’s a lively nightlife and restaurant scene and the people are lovely. Not to mention, as all the other comments have - the nature in the rural areas and Amazon river are spectacular. If you decide to go back, I could put you in touch with dozens of people in a heartbeat who would take you in and show you a good time. Because that’s what Guyanese people are about! A good time with a bit of rum. Cheers to you!
Every one of these "Guyana is good if you're really drunk or get far enough away from people."
Tina ❤️💕♥️
@@promontorium Basically they're telling you to come with a mental illness. Not good people.
I would wonder then why the hotel people did not advise him about the local night live, as it would be natural to want to help tourists have a good time, if you are on the tourist business. There must be something they have in mind in order to lock him up in the room.
Peace corps people always know the ins and outs of these countries.
I remember getting yelled at by a guard in Japan. I was interrupting a Buddhist precession, had my earphones in...my bad, didn't hear the gongs and the guard scared the shit out of me. He came and made sure I was OK, and he asked if anyone told me that the temple was still in use and not only a market. Embarrassing but an ultimately lovely experience.
You know things are serious when Japanese people are yelling at you! 😁
@@adamweishaupt2846Forreal💀💀 Japanese and south Koreans have to be some of the most mellow people on earth, atleast when it comes to in public
@@jaelonwillis2336 Koreans? Mellow?😅
@@dottieland7061 try working in customer service in Tokyo and you'll have another opinion about Japaneses....
@@Macbobob Thats why I said “atleast when it comes to in public”. I understand basically all east asians can be quite the opposite in their own home, but as for in public, they tend to be very well mannered
Thank you for the videos. Be very cautious of where you go. Our luck could run out one day
I spent two weeks in Guyana in 2020. I agree Georgetown is sketchy. But I am surprised you did not take a trip to the interior. We took a small plane to Kaetur and Orinduik Falls as part of a tour and it was amazing. Also Georgetown has some great spicy food. It became a joke - even the hamburgers were spicy. And the multiple Church’s Chicken outlets were very unexpected. There is also great rum made there (Demarara). I am glad I went.
You’re the reason I want to travel the world, Drew. Thank you for being such an inspiration to me!
This video is one reason I really don't. I'm Bosnian, so I can 100% confirm that most of the world is incredibly rough and dangerous.
@@DaDa-kf4vp Egypt was an eye opener. I would like to travel more, but idk where I'd like to go next.
Travelling the world is not as always nice as it seems. I'm a traveller.
Facts going to all 197 countries for me is a huge milestone i love everyone and there culture cant wait i still have 196 to go but im only 19
It is easier to travel around the world when you're white.
I had a really bad experience in Venezuela, getting robbed at gunpoint and being next to a woman who had her cell phone stolen out of her hands in broad daylight. When you listed it as a favorite country I was surprised. But then when you listed your least favorite countries you hit on it- there are lots of things that can make or break your experience. I never actually traveled outside of Caracas when I was in Venezuela, so probably missed out on a lot of really cool experiences.
Scary, it sucks that happened to you. :(
Venezuela was GREAT back in the late 80's and very early 90's. I am not much on the big cities but even enjoyed my time in Caracas and Maracaibo. You could not pay me enough to go there today. It is a shame.
@@hdcordes6299 wow
Venezuela is mad different today's standards
@@mrkilo-g8794 didnt the economy collapse? very sad indeed.
I have been to both Djibouti and Brunei and had great experiences in both of them. We did not get thrown out of the mosque in Brunei. Went to the nightmarket in the evening and had a fantastic meal. Made a small city boat tour. Major areas in Brunei are built on poles in the water. Visited the national park mentioned in the video which was great. Waded through a pool with a waterfall which had a lot of those small fishes that you find in spa's that eat the dead skin from your feet. Smoking was banned in Brunei. Never seen so many smokers in my life. Whenever you went to the back side of a building people were standing there smoking. Djibouti was rougher. We stayed in Sheraton. Basically us and 150 military personell from all over the world. If you looked into their rooms they where basically communication centers. Radio equipment and screens everywhere. We mainly walked around but also found a local taxidriver who had one of the most pimped cars I ever seen. The car itself was shit, sounded like a lawnmower, but it had colored lights everywhere. The president held some speach in the city center and during that time there was a lot of police/military but at other times it was not bad at all. This was back in the days when NATO was hunting for Somali pirates. That joint force was deployed from Djibouti. Also had some of the best meals in Djibouti fresh fish grilled in some kind of clay fire pit. Served with lime and a piece of delicious bread. I do not think I would go to Chad or Guinea. A little bit to unsafe already on paper. Guyana surprises me. I would not have considered it unsafe before watching this video.
This dude is by far the most respectful travel blogger I was expecting some westerner misconceptions but u simply told the truth good man.
There are things he hasn't represented correctly about Islamic culture which will change his views on that shit culture like the harrasment and threats exmuslim face, the threats to critics of their religious identities that can result in killings, honor killings because of previous Islamic practices like stoning if married women commit adultery etc so yeah he's not fair but since it's subjective he might not have experienced such horrors in Pakistan and mantelpiece backwards Islamic nations, why am i right, because i live here and nota. Muslim anymore seeing all that goes here
Agreed. It’s so refreshing
Idk if you still care but, I can assume that whoever kicked the guy out of the mosque is a teenage boy. Because from what I experienced as a Bruneian myself, some of them are the most rude ones, they're jerks/bullies and judgemental asf. BUT, keep in mind, with that being said, most adult men and women (anyone who are mentally mature) are super kind and friendly :)
@@no-one...186 why do they put children in charge of a mosque?
Really, so why is he taking pictures and videos of children? the children can't consent. Pass 630 it was terrible a detailed video of the face of a kid in the hands of his or her mother. He is lucky that people did not react as Americans will do if they find an African in the USA taking pictures and videos of children. Also going to Muslim countries and taking continuos videos is not proper. he is not the worse, but he is not the best either.
Thank you for being honest Drew, no sense going someplace unsafe & unwelcoming. Plenty of tourists get killed while traveling & now we better know which places to avoid.
especially those African countries he mentioned. Geez...seems like hell on earth, to be honest! would never go there in my life
@@Alex_Gordon same! Central Africa is very dangerous. Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Angola, and South Africa are best for sub Saharan Africa.
Visit Iran 🇮🇷, the people are extremely hospitable and you will most likely not get pickpocketed/robbed. If you follow the government's rules you should have no problem. The landscapes are beautiful, history is rich, and there's very nice ancient architecture (like Persepolis). Drew has a video on it, I recommend you check it out.
@@SJ-kz3jy
I would love to go ❤️
Idk if you still care but, I can assume that whoever kicked the guy out of the mosque is a teenage boy. Because from what I experienced as a Bruneian myself, some of them are the most rude ones, they're jerks/bullies and judgemental asf. BUT, keep in mind, with that being said, most adult men and women (anyone who are mentally mature) are super kind and friendly :)
As someone from Suriname 🇸🇷 I Gata say I was shocked to see Guyana because in my country we always seem to think Guyana is a better and richer version of us
in india we love pooping in the open
Who thinks that lol?I don't know which Surinamese you've met. Surinamese has always been wealthier on average than Guyana, and people always voiced that opinion. I haven't met a Surinamese in my life yet that says GT is safer and wealthier than Suriname; Suriname is also one of the safest countries in South America. Only the past two years Guyana's economy is booming, because of oil. Funny thing is that the Guyanese still speak of Suriname being better, on social media and in their news.
@@SheldonY14 I never said anything abt safety Suriname is saver it’s just the Economy thare is a bit better
@@fouadd6775 Well...larger economy...but not per se better; and like I said that's only the past 2 years for them because of oil (and drew went there around 2016). Before their oil boom Suriname did score better overall and Suriname overall is still more developed now (better roads, one of the best ports in the Caribbean, a larger airport etc.). People overall have a higher living standard in Suriname even though there is a recession.
For example companies Guyana are only now investing in spin-offs for the economy with their oil boom, companies Suriname are making the same investments, so they are ready when the boom arrives. Guyana wasn't ready and the Americans and Trini's took everything first. The fact that Suriname is doing investments before the oil boom, shows that overall there is more wealth, Guyana didn't have that when their oil boom didn't start yet.
So just because the oil boom has started doesn't mean people are immediately richer and things are more developed. They're also investing in infrastructure in the past two years. Just search up some GT video's, you'll know what drew was talking about.
However Guyana deserves everything good that's coming their way with the oil-boom!
I never felt unsafe in Suriname. It's one of the friendliest places I have ever visited. That's probably the difference.
Appreciate your honesty, cheers
Small edit to make: Whenever introducing country #3, you showed the flag of Guinea-Bissau instead of Guinea.
Rookie
Wow I’m a geography nerd and didn’t even notice lmao
@@ihonestlydontcare1158 same
Same shit
Not a SMALL edit !!!!
Timestamps:
1. Djibouti - 0:18
2. Chad - 2:05
3. Guinea - 3:51
4. Brunei - 5:39
5. Guyana - 6:53
All muslim countries
@@hashimelmi69 which explains how dangerous these countries are(No offense to good Muslims but African countries have a large problem with non Islamics
Guyana isn't tho
@@hashimelmi69his favorite country is Iran lol
@@JustinRohrerJrIranians bribed him and hoping to get a connection to boss Obama.
The fact that Haiti didn’t even make the list means these are the REAL DEAL
yeh…
my old soccer coaches were all from haiti, very nice people. My best coach is a very big part in helping kids in haiti, i hope to go one day and help them. What’s wrong with haiti?
war, Mud cookies, extreme poverty
@@sorensmith1714 aside from even their President was killed by only a dozen men recently?
nothing is wrong with haiti there nice sure the earthquake thats all one bad thing should not make the country bad
Hello, I just subscribed today to your channel. Thank you for being brave and courageous enough to share your truths.
I had a very bad experience back in Senegal .Here's how it went :
I was taking some pictures of local artwork and taking selfies with my food (which was too bad) when suddenly a hand came on my shoulder and a chill ran down my spine . I saw 2 men who were panting and were asking me for help in a language I didn't understand . They asked me for 350 € and were forcing me to take a pistol . When I was giving them money a policemen appeared of nowhere and took me to police station . Luckily I was saved by a local guide . I think that the cop just wanted his bribe . I understand bribery is a huge problem in Africa but the continent in itself is very unique and fascinating . I am now planning to West North Africa and hope so we will be successful in our journey .🤞😄☺️🤞
That sounds horrible. Sorry this happened to you
North Africa is more well off than most of Africa so you'll enjoy
@@aguy9175 that's why I planned for there
@@ChoiceDK I know but it is what it is
good luck
Unfortunately a lot of countries in Africa suffer with severe poverty and lack of basic necessities like clean water and healthcare. Then if you're expecting a good tourist experience it's really not realistic. If people are barely struggling to live then a tourist isn't going to experience much better. Prayers going out to my African bothers and sisters. They are going through tough times.
Exactly. That's why you don't visit poor countries.
@Josh Shim I was born and raised in the UK but my ethnicity is Pakistani.
@@ns-4438 yes because the people are struggling as it is so why would a tourist expect much.
Lol its not everywhere in Africa. You can go somewhere and still have a good experience
@@dot6614 of course that's why I said a lot of countries in Africa not all. Even then in the poor and dangerous places in the continent of Africa, like Mali and Nigeria there are tons of natural beauty and friendly people but it's the danger of gangs and kidnapping that scares many tourists away. I myself would love to visit countries like Nigeria and Botswana. They could be safer then we know but for now maybe it's not the best idea.
I really don't have it in me to travel anymore. I'm getting too old and set in my ways but I do love to watch these travel vlogs. I can safely and comfortably experience (vicariously) the highs and lows of countries I will never visit. I'm okay with that but I'm grateful to people like Drew who take us along on their journey.
It doesn't sit well with me to get old and not really experience the world, I'm 36 now and have been only been to 4 countries outside the US and I wish I could spend my whole life travelling, anyways everyone is different and some people are very happy to spend their whole life in one place.
@@JonathanAlmgren'm 32 have never been outside Iran 😢
Though luckily my country is huge and so diverse in every aspect that I could spend more than a lifetime exploring it. Only if it wasn't ruled by selfish idiots...
@@sammysuri393 Can't the Iranians do something about your leader? Are you really that helpless? Kick them out. You need people power there.
@@sammysuri393 Very nice people in Iran, but yes your government is very self serving....wait so is ours these days in the U.S. lol
@@sammysuri393Persian food is my favorite! Especially khoreshts and rice with the crunchy bottom, yum! And doogh to drink!
Time stamps:
0:17 Djibouti
2:05 Chad
3:51 Guinea
5:40 Brunei
6:53 Guyana
Your channel and Yes Theory are my favorite. I'm Venezuelan and appreciate you keeping your videos informative and down to earth. You show the point of view of a citizen rather than a privileged tourist. Thank you.
This is an interesting list, but I’m glad you mentioned it’s subjective. Traveling is all about taking the good with the bad, and I’m glad you used this video to address that.
For sure it’s subjective but his approach is logical and balanced. He’s also been to every country in the world, so as far as subjective goes. Doesn’t get much better than this.
I love the concept for this video. I encourage you to use more blunt honesty about a country even if it’s negative. I wish more travel youtubers would just get down to brass tacks and be like
“this country is a mess and a future failed state or food is bad, or the local people have a corrupt moral spirit”
or something. So many travel youtubers have toxic positivity or just out right lies so it feels fake.
i feel like if he said that everyone from those countries would be so extremely offended
I think most people could make an educated guess about certain countries especially very poor or war torn that they might not be like staying on a resort in Mexico.
Also a few single negative experiences can hardly speak for the majority of a country‘s people.
😀👍
Yes!
You don’t have to apologize. You are entitled to your opinion and you are speaking from experience. Thanks for the video.
Your videos are great especially in the lesser known countries. They are real inspiring for travelling there
Thanks Matt!
יי
@@drewbinsky when are u planning to visit nepal? Its been a long time
@@idraw8898 He needs good reason to go back, maybe he'll go to mount Everest someday
@@mattwakefield4147 yea Hope so he will come back
I visited Brunei in 2013 as a solo tourist and had a great time, actually. Hiking in Temburong National Park was cool (towering termite mounts the size of tree stumps), and I didn't get kicked out of the grand mosque at all, in fact I visited twice. The stilt house villages were wicked cool to wander around. But after they brought in Sharia law a few years later, it makes it less appealing to go back.
@ME VLOG it’s only Saudi Arabia and Oman which is an absolute monarchy in the Middle East
Sharia sucks
He probably got kicked out cuz he went during prayer time
There are rules of the mosque।If a stranger enters the time of Namaz without permission, the result is not that good!
@@cowcolalover420 could be
Thanks for showing the negative sides of traveling as it shows a very balanced view.
How have you not gotten sick from visiting all these countries? Your immune system must be amazing! I would have been terrified in Chad I don't think I would have stayed calm especially if my phone had died. Did you have an emergency charger on hand or how did you find your way back with all that danger and chaos? I always carry a battery charger with me. The stories and info you share from travel is amazing!!
He did get sick from food poisoning in India
I'm an American. I do like traveling abroad, but my experience is just in Latin America and Europe.
How can I put it ? You just don't go around taking pictures of other people's children. Not at Mall of America. Not in Manhattan. Not on a beach in California. Not in Chad. Or anywhere else.
As a traveler, I love taking pictures. Landscapes. Nature. Architecture. Pictures out the bus window. Food. View out the window of the hotel room.
I don't take pictures of local kids, or at least try not to. Photographing the cats in Parque Kennedy in Lima meant I had to do some cropping because I wanted pictures of the cats, not the kids..
Bruh stop noying like a little scared child
¿Eres de Miami?
Yea... No one should take pictures of others children's... without permission.!
I mean imagine.. a grownup stranger taking pictures of your children's out of nowhere..
That's a red flag for Me.!
I very much agree. I don't understand why anyone would take a picture a of a child, with or without permission of the parent. It's just weird.
Maybe it's because I'm a teacher and I'm very protective of young people against a world full of creeps.
Just enjoy your time in the country without taking videos of pictures of kids. It's not fair on them at all.
@@mohamoudmohamud3896 Unfortunately people always take pictures of people and kids form the third world.
Such great insight from a world traveller. Taking notes
Hi Drew, I'm so sorry for your bad experience at our mosque in Brunei. That should not happened, so disrespectful to shout or be aggressive in a mosque. But I disagree that there's not much place to hang around, no public transportation make it harder to move around here. Love your videos and travel. Cheers
How is that no public transportation the king of your country is the richest people on the planet but he doesn’t have money for infrastructure for his own country, seems he predicts Islam but he sells alcohol on his hotel’s around the world what a filthy man with two faces 😏
@@Indian-CanadianCountryBall golden temple belongs to Sikhs man, why are you taking the credit?
Entering mas needed you dick chapped 😂😂😂😂😂
@@Imperial791 we are one that's why
@@Indian-CanadianCountryBall no you don't I've seen Muslims who were forced to say a prayer when they tried to visit a temple...also stop advertising your religion
Love that you are honest and really sharing your experience!
So sad to see Guyana on here
Guyana is such a beautiful country, but you haven't experienced the richness and the beauty if you were only exposed to Georgetown. There so much more to offer, so much more to see and experience.
The food, the people, the culture
🇬🇾❤️
I am happy that Suriname is not on the list
The spelling of your surname intrigues me. In India today, it would be called Prasad, but your spelling was more common in the British era.
Guyana is wrecked by brain drain and thieving government after government. Interior is pretty, but still dangerous: I’ve been threatened death in Lethem, stolen from, afraid for my female companions in the iwokrama checkpoints. There is a reason so much shadiness happens there, there in reality is very little law. Do what you want, bribe someone, it doesn’t matter. I still visit, but wouldn’t recommend it for anyone without connections, as it stands.
half of the country isn’t yours, belong to vzla
@@pingopongo21 it is genuinely quite dangerous
Actually, it is helpful when you make a video like this. Knowing that some countries do not care for outsiders, and/or a country is expensive and there is nothing to see or do provides very useful information for travelers.
As a woman who has traveled alone all over the place, my least favorite countries are the ones where I have the least freedom of movement based on cultural attitudes towards women. Of course I dress to blend in, learn the language and customs, and so on, but sadly there are some places where I can't move around because it will endanger me and put locals in the awkward position of trying to help without getting into trouble.
Then the muslim countries
@@alexanderchenf1exactly! As usual.
I have also travelled as a solo female but have only been to a couple of countries in East Asia, which are considered some of the safest in the world. I would love to see other places, but so many places just aren't safe for anyone, let alone females. I am hoping to make trips to some of the more controversial countries, like Egypt and Turkey, but I will need to bring a male with me to feel safer.
Türkiye isn’t terrible, but then again I’m a muzzy
@@nadiadansani2139 Had no issues with Turkey. Cosmopolitan place.
Thanks for the video. It had some very good information.
Experience: 12 countries in Europe
Least favorite: Belgium
Reason: Been there for only one day and my belongings were all stolen😂Brussel Zuid is a tough place
As a dutch I can relate
Molenbeek? I guess hahah
@@locoloca-1234 😂 Somewhere in Anderlecht, near Molenbeek, just outside Brussels south station i think. Are you a local there?☺️
They stole a big amount of money from my husband in Belgium!
@@maxzuul96 same 😂
I think that one of the most important things for a country to thrive is safety, not only for the locals but for everyone on their soil because tourism brings prosperity, and many countries need to improve that because "No safety no party".
True, and it is especially disconcerting that this happened mostly in Africa where (by large) culturally a visitor should be afforded very special treatment.
I was surprised Guyana was so difficult. For no apparent reason, I've accumulated 2 or 3 Guyanese friends over the years who are very talented people. They do struggle there. The infrastructure is just not developed despite efforts. It frustrates those who are trying to develop viable industry and education. The culture is an interesting blend due to the blend of indigenous, Asian, Southeast Asian, Caribbean and Europeans. They are proud of their cuisine which mixes Caribbean, Indian and even Chinese influences. But the country has not flourished.
I have a friend whom Ive seen beautiful videos of Guyana of her in SPAs and having a chill time. So its good to see both sides.
They struck oil recently and things are changing extremely fast
meet 140,000 Guyanese in Little Guyana in Richmond Hill, Queens, New York without the hassle of going to Guyana. 😉
Valuable mechanics. They know how to fix and maintain rare cars.
I’m really surprised by Guyana making the list. I have traveled there many times including taking a group of students there and have never found it to feel unsafe. Even at the market. The rainforests is amazing and I took a small plane into the hinterlands to Kaieteur Falls which was stunning. I love your videos - I just finished a year circumnavigating the globe and wish I had discovered your channel before I left. Great stuff!
I love your honesty. This video is great thank you.
Hi Drew, I’ve been following your journey for almost four years and I really do like your videos. I'm from Chad and I'm so sorry you had a bad time in Chad. I Hope your next visit will be different.
He wouldn't want to go a second time. Who tf wants to go to Chad anyway I've never heard of a person say they want to go to Chad for vacation. No offence but some countries are just bland and boring
@@munty9266 show some respect, imagine said that about your home... It's a beautiful country, Drew was just unlucky with the bike situation. Some the kindest people Ive met
@@lukepapapietro7625are you a giga chad 🇹🇩🗿?
@@lukepapapietro7625WRONG. People of Chad are EXTREMELY rude and hostile towards whites… as are most Africans in Africa.. he should NOT return!!!
@@lukepapapietro7625it’s not beautiful at all it’s dusty and land locked with nothing to see.
Loved how you tried to be as polite as humanely possible 😊
1:16 "ya booty, you booty" man that cracked me up 🤣🤣🤣
Where are you from? "Ya booty" 😄
Good to know... great content and you were very respectful and even offered some positives about your least favorite countries. Kudos to you!
Thanks for having the courage to make and post this video! This is one of the few 'real' videos on UA-cam since most UA-camrs only show the positive things in life and edit out the negatives.
I love your videos, Drew! You are an inspiration as when I’m older I plan to travel!
Thank you so much!
Yeah you have made me want to travel to world someday! I love your videos and all the adventures you take!
FACTS! I also want to visit the world like Drew did! the world is amazing and full of wonders!
For a few years of my childhood my family was in Guinea, I also went back after high school for a small one month visit. I really can't think of much that I would recommend to a tourist! Ha. But we are still connected with a wonderful tribe that lives very remotely. When I went after high school we landed in Senegal and drove across the border into Guinea and in Guinea we found the local police station (where we get our passports stamped) had been burned down by a riot. Then we went to find gas and found the gas station was also burned! A Few things I remembered enjoying other than the friendship of the tribe we know, are - Mafé (a peanut sauce dish), the mangoes!, The comical knock-off Chinese goods in the markets (adodas instead of adidas for example) , Chocolecca! (A peanut based chocolate spread), making things out of termite clay as a kid, and swimming or fishing in the river in the rainy season! The difference between the rainy season and the dry season is unreal!
Thank you for your honesty
Love the video drew, I hope you will visit Australia again one day. Would be great for you to visit the aboriginal communities and experience Indigenous Australian culture.
You've been to every country and have always been respectful and given people the benefit of the doubt so you have every right to give your opinion on the less welcoming countries.
Only 16 countries for me so far, and only here to say you are savvy and inspirational, Drew. Deserving of far more subs in this category. I am relocating/ex-patting to Costa Rica to land and home I bought there, and going in January to settle in. Travelling the world first, led to this kind of life altering decision and I wish everyone could do what your shirt says and "Just go!"
My only real bad experiences where in a chinese casino in Macau where I believe I had the attention of a local mafioso and in bogota colombia, where I was jumped on christmas eve on a busy pedestrian area and had to fight five young guys, which I won barely and escaped from, but still. Be careful in Bogota, even in a crowd on one of the most celebrated holidays of the year.
I love Costa Rica. My dad used to have a house in Nosara. I’ve been several times to Nosara but have also been to San Jose and La Fortuna. Nosara is an amazing little surf town and I would love to go back someday.
I went to bogota in 2018 and the hostel owner told us to not got 4 blocks to the east, north, south, and west, and to never under any circumstances take out our phones because we would be targeted by pickpockets. I was only there for 5 days and luckily knew someone from there so it was a pleasant place to be but yes we knew of people who got mugged trying to go up an unofficial path of montseratte
@@TimeForMe0 Bogota is sketchy central
Late to the party, but I really enjoyed this video, thank you Drew
It’s not Brunei technically, but right next tour as part of Sarawak is the Gunung Mulu national park (of Malaysia). It’s absolutely stunning and unique. If you’re looking for more to do on the island, I highly recommend it. Totally different than your experience with Brunei
i just got back from Mulu so i can testify that Mulu indeed is amazing! I just did beginner trekking and caving, one of the most stunning experience i had. Cant imagine how spectacular it is for folks that did Pinnacles and more advanced caving in Mulu.
Thanks for sharing! Really interesting insights. I was surprised to see Brunei on the list. I visited for a couple of days in 2017 and had an amazing time. A really unique country with kind people, great food, beautiful architecture and also a lot of nature to see i.e river tours, hikes and more. Would definitely visit again!
Keep in mind, from what I experienced as a Bruneian myself, some teenage boys are soooo rude, theyre jerks. I can assumed the one that whoever kicked the guy out of the mosque is a teenage boy. BUT, with that being said, adult men (or anyone who is mature/an adult) are very friendly and kind :)
Muslims, very unfriendly
appreciate this video. too often people are afraid to call out their least favorite things or experiences, even if its useful for others
As a woman, I could relate to your experiences. I’m always very careful when I travel to out of the way places and travel with someone else. And never go out at night.
@@cyancyborg1477Could probably extend that notion to the entirety of Africa and the Middle East.
@@cyancyborg1477 I’m not diluting anything - odd comment, if you care for your safety as a solo female traveller you likely stay away from the aforementioned regions. And if travelling there - never do so solo as a safety precaution.
Thank you for sharing your experience. Save me tons of my time.
I’m glad to see you are still open minded about these places Drew, as I expected you would be. Something you definitely learn from traveling!
he's a Jew Zionist .
Hey Drew, love your channel just a quick question you’ve already traveled the entire world, so have you ever considered maybe doing a United States series? Where you go to every single state?
You are very brave, Drew.
Much respect for what you do
This was an important one to make, even given your reservations.
And yes, there are wonderful people in every country -- as we all know -- and you are absolutely right that each trip is just a snapshot of one person's experience in one place at one moment.
Thank you.
I LOVED 💚 Guyana! 💚 I spent 6 weeks in the Jungle with locals, sleeping in a hammock, and 3 days in Georgetown. Yes, the city is dangerous; but just like anywhere else, keep your wits about you and you should be ok. 🤠🤙 Get out and Explore, and Find More!!
May I know why it is dangerous?
I would also like to inquire as to the danger therein Georgetown.
@@aakashs1806 high crime rate and low development. if you go to the right places and know the right people, it's not too bad of a place to go
I'd rather keep my life
You definitely need a good connect that knows the good places in Guyana.
Surprised to see Guyana on this list. I had the same experience in Georgetown, so sure no nightlife, but I still found it interesting walking around in the daytime. Also, I had come from the Brazilian border and the drive was really beautiful. For part of it, our bus went on a raft across a river in the rainforest. I regretted not making it to Kaietur Falls so Guyana was actually on my list of countries I would like to go back to.
I had heard really good things about Guinea, too, from a friend who spent time there, so maybe it was just really bad timing to go during a coup (and it looked like the rainy season too.)
I am also curious to find certain countries absent that seemed obvious inclusions on this list. (North Korea, Turkmenistan, Saudi Arabia) What was it that saved these countries from this list?
Saudi arabia is one of the safest countries in the world
I think he just found Guyana boring, it looked like a dead 19th century town from the video.
why Saudi Arabia
@@lionman8376 A question that could only be asked by a male.
@@emmaemma2323 bro saudi arabia improved a lot from before but of course western media wont cover it
I am thankful of ANY heads up on countries not to go to. None of the ones mentioned would be my choice to visit but thank you for your opinion. Now i will watch your favorites too. I have done China, Vietnam and Hong Kong. All were impressive to me. Hong Kong was easier the move around and I enjoyed going there. Vietnam was fun... I am planning another trip there. I was in Hanoi, Ha Long Bay... I want to check out Dalat and Ho Chi Minh City. Philipines is still on bucket list too. Cebu and Baguio are places of interest for me. 😊
Hey man! Just want to say try Brunei 🇧🇳 a second chance, heck better if you go between the border between Brunei and Malaysia, you will love the wildlife there
Hell no go cry now
It can be hard to judge a country based on the capital as well. I lived for 8 months in Madagascar. And coastal Madagascar is a night and day difference to Antananarivo. In poor countries, the capital city is really a concentration of their poverty and problems and tourists can have issues there if they don’t have good local collections.
Those guinean roads reminded me a lot of Madagascar. It can take 3-4 days to travel from Ft Dauphin in the south to the capitol Antananarivo because of the poor road conditions. Lots of cars get stuck. Lots of rickety ferries in between rivers.
That is exactly what I was thinking. Get out of the main city and see what happens. Admittedly, during a coup in Senegal, nowhere would be truly safe.
Absolutely true. I live in Kampala, Uganda… and I don’t love Kampala. However Uganda itself is absolutely beautiful and has so much to offer as a country, travel wise.
Chad is actually a country that's high on my bucket list since it has some of the most interesting features of the Sahara desert such as the Ennedi Plateau and the Lakes of Ounianga. Joining a desert tour there would no doubt be an unforgettable experience.
Hi! I am from Chad 🇹🇩. It’s very unfortunate that all this happened to you. But this doesn’t define the entire country. I strongly recommend you plan out your trip better before visiting any country in Africa or even the world.
These type of videos are very dishonest and misleading, I’m not underrating for unfortunates adventure in Chad. But I just want to make it clear that this is not Chad. You found yourself in a rough neighborhood with the wrong people.
And for the record, people aren’t rude or mean in Chad. That’s just not true. You can’t label an entire country population based on your misadventure. Once again, Please learn about a country culture, plan and get reliable contact before visiting any country in Africa or anywhere in the world.
@@raihanaabakar923 Exatcly sister.
@@raihanaabakar923 his information is 100% perfectly reliable. You cannot question it. WHY? Because this video was HIS OPINION, and his information is simply HIS opinion about his least favourite countries. Another man or woman's least favourites are likely to be different.
Don't go to Chad, you will face the bad more than good. People there are not welcoming you
I haven’t visited all the countries in the world but my worst experience was in chile🇨🇱 . I was surprised by how expensive it is, I felt really unsafe in Santiago. Going through the border with Argentina was a nightmare.
My uncle is from Guyana and I lived there for 7months...this was a number of years ago and I pray it's changed but it was very unsafe for foreigners. I travelled everywhere with my phone to my ear to deter people. I was kidnapped by a taxi driver, trapped in a general store by "interested men", a friend from church invited me over and her son came out of a room nearly naked and tried to molest me, I could not walk down the street without being catcalled by every watching male. There were numerous times I had to stay overnight in friends homes in a locked room and the man of the house would stay up all night keeping guard. There are more Guyanese living abroad than in the country. There were only a handful of people I would trust. One friend I was really close to has relocated her family to the US.
I'm glad you got out of that monkey land.
What year was this ?
I knew lots pf Guyanese in college (there was one Indo Guyanese girl who I had a crush on). There are lots here in NYC, especially in Queens, and they're very intelligent and hardworking people, shame the country has so many problems, it has a lot of resources too. It seems the best and brightest leave.
Unfortunately, it hasn’t changed much. Education and self-awareness go hand in hand for the men, unfortunately. And sometimes even that is too much to expect. Even as a local, it’s appalling every single day that they act so disgustingly without fail. Word of advice? Don’t trust the men, regardless of how friendly they appear to be. Some older women might be spiteful and bitter too. Best to stick around people you know you can trust.
@@TheRunning2049you’re Guyanese? When you say the older women are spiteful and bitter, are you saying you’ve encountered this as a foreigner or after knowing them personally (Aunty family members/ friends of the family)?
My man Drew's been everywhere except Botswana 🇧🇼 😭 We don't bite man, come to the longest running Democracy in Africa. The biggest 'war' we've ever had would probably be with customer service 😪
I'm pretty sure he's been to Botswana. He's been to every country in the world
He visited every county in the world including Botswana. Check his old videos
I think Botswana is in his top 10 favourite countries, actually
@@hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh888 not all I think yet ....
Cuz I never saw his video on Bangladesh, im from Bangladesh, I should know if he was here right ??
If I'm not wrong Botswana is doing good in terms of development. Diamonds. 🤑
Am I right?
In the 1960s most places were pretty welcoming, that has now changed, from Venice where in the 1960s you might see 40 people on St Mark's Square you now see 4000. The locals have pretty much all moved out and what you're left with is a very unwelcoming competitive grasping for the tourist dollar. In 1983; I went to Sri Lanka for 12 days seemingly the typical duration of the holiday there; but left after four days as most people did in that period; again grasping snarling locals who had no interest in you other than what they could get out of you "right-now" (including hotel staff in five-star hotels). And it is the same in a thousand places. Before going anywhere read the travelogues.... (Ex British Airways "Comet-4B crew" now 78 years). Very best wishes all.
Peace Corps dude here, I try to stay away from tourist areas, learn basic local language (it’s hard but is worth more than you can imagine), and stick with market women, for the most part they have your back wherever you go, they’ll tell you where to go, when to go, and who to avoid…as long as you buy something from their shop. It’s fun, it’s life, and I miss it everyday.
Hi Drew,
You’re absolutely right about travel being subjective depending on where you go and what you do, I’ve been to Chad 3 times, the last time in Feb-March 2022 and would consider it one of my favourite countries. I’m glad to see that you are open to returning there, the first thing, I have to say is next time make sure you get out of N’Djamena, to see what the country has to offer. NDJ isn’t devoid of interest, if you go back there, make sure you time your stay, so that you can visit the horse races that happen on Sundays, I have yet to do this, but I’ve seen photos from people who have been and it certainly looks interesting. The Chari River always has lots of water birds and remarkably still a few hippos, NDJ must be one of very few capital cities that has wild hippos. Chad is essentially still a military dictatorship, so you need to be a bit cautious about taking photos in NDJ, generally in Nation Square you should be okay, but don’t get carried away, at least in areas where there lots of soldiers or cops around, as they’re not too used to tourists.
If you've only seen NDJ and you had a bad time, you’re bound to wonder why bother going to Chad, the answer to that question is.
To visit
Zakouma National Park, is the best protected park in Central Africa, teaming with large wildlife, huge herds of buffaloes, giraffes and antelopes and good number of lions, along side huge flocks of water birds and Red-billed Queleas the world’s most abundant wild bird. The Park is managed in partnership with the government, by the South African NGO African Parks, back around the turn of the century there were 4,000+ elephants, by 2010 when African Parks arrived, there were only about 420 left, now there are over 630 and none have been poached since 2016. The park is in my view probably the safest place in the whole country, and I would rank Zakouma alongside some of the top national parks in Africa and most of the time you won’t see another tourist.
The Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, is a vast protected area in the southern Sahara also managed by African Parks, the reserve protects one of most remarkable desert landscapes in the world, the scenery is stunning, with amazing mountains, rock formations, and natural arches, Aloba Arch is one of the highest natural arches in the world, almost every cave and rock overhang is an art gallery, covered in ancient paintings. The Guelta d’Archei is a beautiful canyon, with a river in the bottom, that is home to a very few last surviving crocodiles, if you’re lucky with the time of your visit, (I wasn’t), the Guelta can be full of camels brought in to drink, which makes for an even more incredible experience. The desert is also littered with destroyed Russian made Libyan armoured vehicles, dating from the Toyota War, camping in deserts is always good, the view of the stars at night is phenomenal, and you won’t likely see any other tourists.
Ouadi Rimé Ouadi Achim Game Reserve, this vast reserve in the centre of the country is looked after by the Sahara Conservation Fund, the reserve is now home to reintroduced herds of Scimitar-horned Oryx and Addax, the former species was extinct in the wild, the latter nearly so, it is now a great wildlife destination, if you want to see endangered Saharan wildlife, that you won’t see in the true wild anywhere else.
You can also visit the famous Gerewol to see the Woodabe men dressed in all their finery and make up, I have not done this but it looks like an amazing experience.
You do have to be aware visiting Chad, that is a country that you are generally advised not to visit, as it does have a lot of problems, but I’ve never felt unsafe there, all the places I’ve mentioned are I believe normally entirely safe. There are places that you should definitely not visit, the Lake Chad area on the border with Cameroon and Nigeria is not safe, the Nigerian terrorist group Boko Haram operates in this area and they do cross into Chad, they have largely been replaced by their offshoot Islamic State West Africa Province, but you do not want to encounter either group. I also don’t think you should visit Tibesti an amazing mountainous area of desert on the Libyan border, various rebel groups based in Libya operate in the Tibesti Mountains, you could be kidnapped or worse.
What I would also say, is Chad really isn’t country, where you can just fly in, find a hotel in NDJ and then take it from there, travelling to any of the places I’ve mentioned entirely independently on your own, would be very difficult. If you hired a car and a driver, they could take you to Zakouma and you can stay at Tinga Lodge, but it’s really a two-day drive and people normally camp on route. Flying to the park is far quicker and easier but expensive, once you're at Tinga they take you out on game drives, in proper open safari vehicles of the type used in Southern Africa.
Going to Ennedi is an expedition, whether you fly in or drive, you have to camp out in the desert, so you need to go with a company that organises Ennedi safaris, and will set up a camp for you and keep you fed and watered and drive you to the sites, as they are miles apart, my time in the desert was with Eyte Voyages.
Just thought I'd post all this, in case you do decide to reconsider going to the country, hopefully if more people go, they will get a bit more used to tourists.
are you good?
Do you seriously think anybody’s gonna read all of that?
@@TJDawgs72 Wholly unnecessary comments like yours, are why I don't comment that much on UA-cam, but since 46 people have liked my comment, I'd say the answer to your question is yes and leave it there.
Whole lotta yapping to cope with the fact that Africa as a whole sucks in backwards and outdated cultural norms, infrastructure, convenience, civility, crime rates, food and water quality, and every other thing you can possibly think of. It's because of Africans, not anyone else.
Nah, I’m still giving Chad a pass. Ain’t my favorite
Cool, you have inspired many to share their story . Happy orthodox Easter from Russia 🇷🇺
Hope your doing well m8
Vaistinu Vaskrse! 🇷🇸
Haven't been to any of these but I think I'll hold off on any Djibouti, Brunei, Chad, Guyana and Guinea trip for now😅