When we first set out to backpack across Vietnam, it felt like a milestone—our first self-planned adventure instead of relying on tour operators after a disastrous package tour experience prior. Our journey began in Hanoi, where we checked into a lively hostel filled with travelers from all around the world.

Up until then, we thought everyone went through the same hassles for international travel — applying for visas, submitting a mountain of documents, waiting anxiously for approval, and worrying about rejection. But when we sat down and chatted with other travelers, we were taken aback. For many of them, traveling meant simply booking a flight tonight and flying out tomorrow without worrying about documents, visas, or any full-on planning. That was the exact moment we understood what passport disparity really meant.

For that very trip, which spanned four countries, we had to prepare:

• All visas secured in advance
• Flight tickets purchased ahead of time
• Accommodations pre-booked and confirmed
• Backup plans in case of rejection

The trip itself lasted one month, but the planning stretched on for months. And there was anxiety: what if the visa is rejected? That would mean not only losing money but also an entire dream trip ruining overnight.

This is the reality of millions of travelers who hold “weaker” passports—where access to global destinations is limited and conditional.

Understanding Passport Disparity

So what makes a passport weak or strong? We all know of this passport as a document which is compulsory to travel to a different country- treaty countries aside. With this document, if you are planning a trip to a new destination outside of your country, is just flight tickets enough to fly? Or do you need a visa? If its required, can it be obtained in the destination port of entry itself or needs to be obtained in advance? Higher the number of countries requiring visa to be obtained in advance, weaker the passport is in terms of mobility score. Today passport holders from Japan, Singapore or Germany can enter effortlessly above 190 countries without a visa, whereas passport holders from countries like Afghanistan, Nepal, Iraq or Syria require extensive visa applications for almost every international trips.

While we, as travelers, may only feel the burden in the extra forms and visa fees, passport disparity is not just about travel inconvenience. A passport’s power is often a reflection of a country’s broader economic strength, political stability, and diplomatic relationships.

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🌍 Top 10 Strongest Passports in 2025

Rank	Country	Visa-Free Access
1	Singapore	195
2	Japan	193
3	South Korea	192
4	Germany	191
4	Finland	191
4	Italy	191
7	Denmark	190
7	Ireland	190
9	France	189
9	Spain	189

Source: Henley Passport Index 2025

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🌐 Bottom 10 Weakest Passports in 2025

Rank	Country	Visa-Free Access
106	Afghanistan	27
105	Syria	31
104	Iraq	33
103	Yemen	33
103	Pakistan	33
102	Somalia	39
101	Nepal	39
100	Libya	40
100	Bangladesh	40
99	North Korea	41

Source: Henley Passport Index 2025

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Reasons for Passport Disparities

So why are some passports so powerful while others limits access to more than 70% of the globe? Lets discuss the main factors that affect passport strength and global mobility scores:

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1. Civil War & Political Instability – How Conflict Weakens a Passport

When a country is in the middle of war, civil unrest, or political instability, its citizens almost always face tighter travel restrictions. Immigration authorities see them as high-risk travelers, more likely to overstay or seek asylum. For example, passport holders from Syria, Yemen, or Afghanistan deal with endless visa applications, background checks, and denials. A passport from a conflict-ridden country ranks much lower on the global mobility index.

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2. Economic Issues – Why Wealthier Nations Travel Freely

The economy of a country plays a direct role in its passport power. Wealthy, stable nations have the resources and influence to negotiate favorable visa-free agreements for their citizens. That’s why countries like Japan, Singapore, and Germany enjoy access to nearly 190+ destinations visa-free. On the flip side, countries with weaker economies often lack diplomatic leverage, leaving their citizens with heavy restrictions and long visa processes.

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3. Diplomatic Relations – Politics Behind Passport Strength

International relations can make or break a passport. If two nations are allies, they usually allow each other’s citizens visa-free entry. But where there are conflicts or political disputes, mobility is restricted. For instance, Iran and North Korea have very limited visa-free access because of ongoing diplomatic conflicts. Strong passports are often the result of strong friendships between countries.

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4. History of Visa Violations – Reputation Matters

Another key factor behind passport disparity is the travel behavior of its citizens. If many travelers from a country are caught overstaying, working illegally, or applying for asylum abroad, other nations tighten entry requirements. This creates a negative cycle—future travelers from that country face stricter rules, even if they have no intention of breaking them. A passport’s “reputation” matters as much as its country’s economy or politics.

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5. Security Concerns – How Threats Limit Mobility

Countries perceived as high-security risks often have stricter visa policies. If a nation is associated with terrorism, organized crime, or high rates of illegal migration, other countries respond by limiting travel access. Passport holders from such nations face additional scrutiny, background checks, and longer processing times.

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6. Geographic Location – Does Where You Are Matter?

Where a country is located can also influence passport strength. Smaller or isolated nations sometimes have fewer bilateral agreements, limiting visa-free travel. Conversely, countries in politically and economically connected regions, like the European Union, enjoy easier cross-border mobility thanks to regional agreements.

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7. Reciprocity Agreements – Travel Freedom Goes Both Ways

Many visa agreements are reciprocal. If a country allows citizens of another nation to enter freely, it can encourage that nation to return the favor. Passport strength can therefore be shaped by how willing a country is to open its borders in exchange for mutual travel access.

How to improve your mobility score

Having a weak passport is frustrating for many reasons but it doesn’t mean you can’t travel—it just means you need a little extra strategy and planning. Over time, there are ways to improve your mobility score and make future trips easier.

1. Get Your Finances in Order

Embassies want to see that you’re stable and that you have strong ties to your home country. That means showing:

• Bank statements with all your income documented
• Regular savings or investments
• Tax returns filed properly
• Assets like property, land, or a business

Basically, you want your application to say: I’m traveling, not migrating.

2. Start with Visa-Friendly Destinations

Instead of going straight for the toughest visas, start with countries that allow easy entry or visas on arrival. Southeast Asia, parts of South America, or the Caribbean are good options. Every successful trip builds your travel history and credibility for harder visas later.

Some examples:

• Southeast Asia: Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam
• South America: Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador
• Caribbean: Barbados, Dominica, Saint Kitts & Nevis

3. Build a Strong Travel Record

Visa officers look at your travel history. If you travel frequently and return home on time, it shows you’re a genuine traveler, not a flight risk. Even short trips count.

4. Aim for Top-Tier Visas

Some visas act like a “key” to other destinations:

• Schengen Visa: Access to 27 European countries
• US B1/B2 Visa: 10-year multiple entries, recognized globally
• UK or Canada Visas: Boost credibility across many applications

A single top-tier visa can open doors to several other countries that normally require pre-approval.

5. Make Use of Special Agreements

Check if your passport has hidden perks. Commonwealth citizens, GCC residents, or African Union passport holders often have easier access to certain regions. Take advantage of these agreements to improve your travel record.

6. Go for Long-Term Visas or Residency

Studying, working, or starting a business in another country can help you gain long-term visas or even permanent residency. Countries like Portugal, Canada, Australia, and the UAE have programs that eventually lead to citizenship, which drastically improves travel freedom.

7. Consider a Second Passport

If possible, explore options for a second passport. You can get one either by:

• Naturalization: Living in a country long enough to qualify for citizenship (e.g., Argentina in 2 years, Portugal in 5)
• Investment Programs: Some countries offer citizenship in exchange for investment (e.g., Malta, St. Kitts & Nevis, Dominica, Turkey)

It’s a bigger investment, but it can change your travel freedom almost overnight.

8. Leverage Invitations, Programs, and Networks

Having a strong reason to travel makes visa approvals easier. Attend international conferences, student exchanges, business programs, or network globally. Corporate sponsorships, research programs, or international organizations can all strengthen your visa applications.

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With some planning, strategy, and persistence, even a weaker passport can start unlocking more of the world. It may take longer, but every stamp, every visa, and every trip builds your freedom step by step.

Humans have always been on the move. Long before we had budget airlines, beach resorts, and Instagram-worthy sunsets, travel wasn’t about luxury — it was about survival.

Our earliest ancestors didn’t wander because they wanted to “find themselves” or chase the perfect photo. They moved because if they didn’t, they’d starve, freeze, or get eaten. If the weather turned harsh, they packed up. If the animals they hunted migrated, they followed. And if a volcano erupted nearby, they didn’t stick around “just to see what happens.” They left.

That instinct to keep moving is baked into our DNA and even now, thousands of years later, it’s still there. The only difference is that instead of chasing mammoths, we’re chasing Wi-Fi, cheap flights, and the best street food in town.

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From Survival to “Ooh, What’s Over There?”

Once humans figured out farming and raising animals, some decided to settle down. They built villages, stayed in one place, and learned to grow their own food, cook them and store them in own ways.

But the restlessness didn’t vanish. Curiosity began to replace survival as the driving force. First it was, “Let’s find better hunting grounds.” Then it became, “I wonder what’s past that mountain?” And before long, humanity had its first explorers, wanderers, and dreamers — the original “gap year” students, except without Google Maps or a return ticket.

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When Walking Became Worship

As societies grew, so did spirituality. And with that came journeys of the soul. Pilgrimages weren’t casual sightseeing trips; they were tests of faith, endurance, and willpower.

From Mecca to Varanasi, Jerusalem to Lhasa, people walked for weeks, months, even years to reach sacred destinations. Along the way, they met strangers, traded languages, shared meals, and swapped stories. These paths became ancient highways of culture, bringing together people from wildly different worlds.

Some of today’s most famous cities grew from these sacred routes — living proof that faith and travel have always been deeply connected.

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Trading More Than Just Goods

Eventually, humans began moving for business as well as belief. The Silk Road, spice routes, and maritime trade networks didn’t just carry gold, textiles, and pepper — they carried ideas.

New recipes, architectural styles, musical traditions, and even philosophies moved from one corner of the world to another. Merchants were the original influencers, sparking trends without hashtags.

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The Messy Side – Conquests and Colonies

Of course, not all human movement was peaceful. Some of it was brutal. Armies marched not for discovery, but for domination.

Figures like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, and the European colonial explorers didn’t just redraw maps — they reshaped cultures, often violently. Yet, even in the wake of conquest, languages blended, cuisines evolved, and new cultural identities emerged. The process was messy, unfair, and often devastating — but it changed the world forever.

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Chasing a Better Life

Migration is one of humanity’s oldest traditions. People have always moved for safety, opportunity, and hope.

In the 19th century, millions crossed oceans during the Industrial Revolution, seeking work and a fresh start. Today, countless people still leave home to escape conflict, economic hardship, or environmental disasters.

These journeys leave lasting imprints — in the flavors of our food, the rhythms of our music, and even the slang in our everyday speech.

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From Steamships to Selfies

The Industrial Revolution didn’t just change how we lived — it changed how we moved. Trains, steamships, cars, and eventually airplanes shrank the planet in ways our ancestors could never have imagined.

What once took months on foot could now be crossed in days or hours. For the first time in history, travel became something people wanted to do, not something they had to do. Tourism was born. Postcards, guidebooks, and the occasional questionable tourist sandal followed soon after.

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The Modern Nomad

Today, travel is easier than ever. Budget flights, high-speed trains, cruise ships, and ride-sharing apps have made even far-flung destinations accessible. And with remote work on the rise, people can now set up “home” anywhere — as long as there’s a power outlet and decent Wi-Fi.

Yet deep down, our reasons for traveling haven’t changed all that much. We still want to discover something new, connect with people, and understand life beyond our own bubble.

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The Journey Never Ends

From ancient migrations to quick weekend getaways, every trip we take is part of humanity’s bigger story — a story of curiosity, resilience, and a refusal to sit still.

We’re walking in the footsteps of those who came before us, and leaving trails for those who will follow. Maybe that’s the real beauty of travel: no matter where we go, we’re part of an endless, shared journey.

So… where’s your next stop?

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Sometimes I sit quietly on a lazy day, letting my thoughts wander back to where it all began. I ask myself, “If I could meet the little girl I once was, would she be proud of me today?”

In kindergarten, our teacher once asked, “What’s your aim in life?” My classmates confidently replied: Doctor. Pilot. Engineer. When it was my turn, I had no idea. I simply glanced around, and repeated someone else’s answer, never from the heart.

The questions repeated multiple times over those years. Each time some rehearsed copied answers, I want to be blah blah blah which I never meant at all!! Because truthfully, I had no clue where my life was headed.

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Childhood in the Suburbs of Kathmandu

I was born and raised in the quieter suburbs of Kathmandu. My little world was limited to where my feet had touched — the streets of Kathmandu and neighboring districts, hillstations surrounding them, occasional trips to my parents’ ancestral home in Nuwakot, and the places I could see from the bus window.

Yet, I was always intrigued by the conversations about “Bidesh” (foreign countries). People spoke of vast seas, snowy mountains, airplanes, and faraway lands and my ears would perk up at every such conversations.

I was clumsy, painfully clumsy. No matter how many times we repeated the dance steps, I could never get them right. I’d topple off my bicycle, trip while playing, and sometimes even while just walking. During hide-and-seek, I was always the first one caught. Honestly, I’ve lost count of how many times my parents had to rush me to the nearest clinic, to get my knees, elbows, or toes dressed frequently.

Still, they loved me with an unwavering patience. Fortunately, my saving grace was that I was a bookworm that earned me brownie points. My landlord family would often pass along their old books, and those pages became my windows to the world. Through those stories, I wandered far beyond the streets of Kathmandu, into places I couldn’t even pronounce yet but longed to see someday.

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The Turning Point – An Atlas and a Wild Plan

I can’t say exactly when my obsession with travel began. Maybe it was in my blood—my parents, despite being daily wage laborers, always made time for small trips. Temple visits, picnics in neighboring districts, movie outings, restaurant dinners, zoo visits—anything that was within their capacity. They didn’t have much, but they understood the value of experiences over possessions.

Or maybe it was the stories of Marco Polo, whose adventures sparked more curiosity and admiration than any other biography I had read until then. The idea that a single person could journey across continents, documenting wonders unknown to most, fascinated me.

Perhaps it was the books I devoured, transporting me to fictional places—Narnia’s snow-laden forests, the bustling streets of London in Dickens’ tales, or the wild adventures of Enid Blyton’s characters.

Or maybe it was that old black-and-white televisionshowing me glimpses of a world outside my little world, documentaries on African safaris, Bollywood movies shot in Swiss Alps, news from across the world particularly from episodes “Bishwa Ghatana”. Every frame of it was the reminder to me“There’s more out there.”

But the real turning point came in grade 6 when our curriculum required an atlas. My father couldn’t get it because atlas was sold out, so I threw a little tantrum until he found one from a different publication.

When I first flipped through its pages, I was disappointed by the boring maps until I noticed the tiny pictures beside them. The bluest lakes. The whitest snow. The greenest forests. The grandest monuments. I was hooked.

Right there on the middle fold, the world map I planned my first “world trip.” I would walk from Nepal to China, cross into Mongolia, then Russia, Europe, the Americas, Latin America, and finally Africa. Weeww what a dream!!! I had no idea about visas, oceans, borders, or the fact that walking to Brazil wasn’t exactly practical. But that was the moment I decided: I will be a traveler.

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Reality Check – Money, Passports, and Paperwork

Of course, the real world turned out to be more complicated. As I grew older, reality hit hard. The world was not as simple as my childhood imagination. It was hugeeee, I couldn’t just hop on to other countries like hiking to a hill station. Travel required money, visas, and endless paperwork. My Nepali passport meant extra proof at embassies and immigration checks. For a while, I suppressed my dreams. But the desire never left.

So, I worked on building the means to make my dream possible.My family supported my dreams and my partner, who I later met, shared my love for travel. We started with small steps by starting our own business in 2015. My first “international” trip was a college trip to India in 2016 where we took most gruelling train rides but that was my first train ride, the biggest roads I had seen, and the bluest sea in Goa. Later, we saved from our first business to take a package trip to the UAE.

From there, we traveled independently for business to China and backpacked across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, staying in hostels and meeting other travelers who inspired us further.

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Slow Travel – Finding Our Rhythm

As our dreams grew, so did our reality checks. Fast-paced itineraries weren’t sustainable. That’s when we discovered slow travel — staying longer, breathing in each place, tasting all kinds of food, and working remotely as we explored.

We spent months in Chiang Mai, lived in Dubai with residency, and eventually settled for a long while in Bali, Indonesia — a place we never wanted to leave. Over the past 8 years, we’ve traveled to more than 35 countries across Europe and Asia, creating stories that I’ll share in my upcoming blogs.

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Looking Ahead

Travel has given me breathtaking moments and messy, frustrating ones too. It’s shaped me in ways I never imagined back in that kindergarten classroom. There have been breathtaking highs and moments where I questioned everything.

But one thing’s certain I wouldn’t change a thing.

If you’ve read this far, thank you for being part of my journey. Your support means the world. In the coming posts, I’ll share travel tips, stories, and reflections from the road. Whether you’re planning your first trip or dreaming from your desk, I hope my journey reminds you that dreams even the naive ones can take you further than you ever imagined.

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I

Ultimate Cairo Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, where history meets modernity in a mesmerizing blend of sights, sounds, and flavors. From ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza to bustling markets and world-class museums, Cairo offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re staying for a few days or planning an extended trip, this guide will help you uncover the best things to do in Cairo, along with travel tips to make your adventure unforgettable.

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The Must-See Historical Landmarks in Cairo

1. Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
   No trip to Cairo is complete without marveling at the last remaining wonder of the ancient world. Allocate at least half a day to explore the iconic Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx. Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for smaller crowds and better light for photos.
2. The Egyptian Museum
   Dive into Egypt’s rich history with a visit to the Egyptian Museum, home to thousands of artifacts, including the treasures of Tutankhamun. With the Grand Egyptian Museum expected to open soon, your experience will be even more spectacular.
3. Saqqara and Dashur
   Just a short drive from Cairo, Saqqara’s Step Pyramid and Dashur’s Bent and Red Pyramids offer a glimpse into the architectural evolution of ancient Egypt. These sites are less crowded, making for a more intimate experience.

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Exploring Cairo’s Cultural Heart

1. Islamic Cairo
   Wander through narrow streets lined with centuries-old mosques and madrassas. Highlights include the Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Rifa’i Mosque, and the Citadel of Saladin, which offers panoramic views of the city.
2. Coptic Cairo
   Discover the rich Christian heritage of Egypt in Coptic Cairo. Visit the Hanging Church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, and the Coptic Museum to explore this historic district’s religious and cultural significance.
3. Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
   Lose yourself in the vibrant maze of this historic market. From handmade crafts and jewelry to spices and souvenirs, Khan el-Khalili is a treasure trove for shoppers and a feast for the senses.

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Hidden Gems Worth Discovering

1. Al-Azhar Park
   Escape the hustle and bustle of Cairo in this beautifully landscaped park, which offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing evening.
2. Zamalek District
   Known for its upscale vibe, Zamalek is ideal for leisurely strolls, trendy cafes, and art galleries.
3. Garbage City and the Cave Church
   Take a guided tour to Manshiyat Naser, also known as Garbage City, to witness a unique aspect of Cairo’s daily life and visit the impressive Cave Church carved into the Mokattam hills.

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Nile River Experiences

A trip to Cairo wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the majestic Nile River.

• Dinner Cruises: Enjoy a night of traditional Egyptian music, belly dancing, and local cuisine on a Nile River dinner cruise.
• Felucca Rides: For a quieter experience, sail the Nile on a traditional wooden boat called a felucca.

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Egyptian Cuisine: A Taste of Tradition

Savor the flavors of Egypt with these must-try dishes:

• Koshari: A hearty mix of rice, lentils, pasta, and tomato sauce.
• Feteer Meshaltet: A flaky layered pastry filled with sweet or savory ingredients.
• Street Food: Try falafel, shawarma, or fresh sugarcane juice from local vendors.

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Cairo Travel Tips

1. Best Time to Visit
   The cooler months between October and April are ideal for exploring Cairo comfortably.
2. Transportation
   Hire a private driver or use rideshare apps like Uber for convenience. Public transport can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.
3. Safety
   • Be cautious of scams, especially around tourist sites.
   • Stick to bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
4. How Many Days to Spend in Cairo
   Opinions vary, but 3–5 days is ideal to cover major attractions without feeling rushed. Allocate more time if you enjoy deep dives into history or want to explore Cairo’s hidden gems.

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Conclusion

Cairo is a city that captivates with its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless adventures. Whether you’re walking among ancient ruins, haggling at a bustling bazaar, or savoring Egyptian delicacies, Cairo promises memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your trip wisely, stay curious, and immerse yourself in the magic of this extraordinary city.

Pack your bags and let Cairo enchant you!

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