Mike Swigunski, an “eight-figure entrepreneur” and TEDx speaker, has visited more than 100 countries and has named his top five – and one is a “fairy tale city”
A globe-trotting entrepreneur who’s visited over 100 countries has revealed his top five favourite destinations — including one he describes as a “fairy tale city.” Mike Swigunski, an “eight-figure entrepreneur” and TEDx speaker with extensive travel experience, posed an intriguing question to his 5,000-plus YouTube followers.
He asked where they’d choose if restricted to visiting just five countries for the rest of their lives — a “fun” mental exercise he’d previously explored with several mates.
He then revealed his personal favourites, with selections stretching from the Americas through Europe and extending to Asia.
His choices included a country “full of pristine beaches” and a more unexpected choice offering “just about every landscape imaginable”.
Thailand
Mike said: “One of my favourite countries in the world is full of pristine beaches, has some of the best food of any country I’ve ever been to, and costs a fraction of the price — even 13 times cheaper than the United States.”
He explained that Thailand would be high on his list, citing the “great” climate, the cost of living, the “super high quality” of food, and accommodation that’s available for a “fraction of the price.”
When it comes to local attractions, Mike said he’s a fan of the beaches, forests, the country’s “super rich” history, and — once again — the food.
The Czech Republic
Mike said: “One of my favourite countries — and more importantly, favourite cities — is actually the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen in my life.”
He was describing Prague, the Czech capital. He portrayed it as a “fairy tale city” featuring well-preserved medieval architecture and specifically praised the “iconic” Charles Bridge.
Mike also lavished praise on other regions of the country, including the historic town of Český Krumlov. Regarding cuisine, he enjoys Czech goulash and svíčková (a beef dish served in a creamy sauce).
Italy
Mike said: “Another one of my favourite countries is good at just about everything — from food, drinks, culture, history, experiences. They have great beaches, beautiful mountains, and an amazing transport system.”
He spoke about his extensive travels across “50 different cities and locations” in Italy over a span of 15 years, highlighting the ancient ruins of Rome, the iconic canals of Venice, and the breathtaking Renaissance art found in Florence.
He praised Italy as a visual and culinary delight, lauding its “world-renowned” wines, cheeses, pasta, and pizzas, and noted how each region offers a unique taste of Italian culture.
Georgia
He was equally enthusiastic about Georgia, describing it as a country with “just about every landscape imaginable” and calling it a “hidden gem” rich in history, with warm people and “stunning” vistas.
He singled out Georgian delicacies such as khachapuri, a cheese-stuffed bread, and khinkali, meat-filled dumplings, as culinary highlights.
USA
Finally, he selected his home country, the US, as one of the nations he’d choose if he were only allowed five to visit for the rest of his life, mentioning that it’s where he has “so many” friends and family members.
He explained that he cherishes his time in the US because he can spend time with some of his “favourite people” in the world, adding that having the US on his list is “absolutely essential.”