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Couple traveled more than 245,000 kilometers in three years, crossed six continents, faced snowstorms, deserts, jungles, and war zones, and achieved a world record by visiting 116 countries in a continuous car journey
James Rogers and Paige Parker traveled more than 245,000 kilometers in a continuous car journey that passed through 116 countries, between January 1, 1999, and January 5, 2002, achieving a world record.
Couple turned road into a global route
The journey began in Iceland, on January 1, 1999, and continued across six continents. The couple wanted to explore as much of the planet as possible at the turn of the millennium, observing people, countries, and what each place had to offer.
The expedition ended on January 5, 2002. Over three years, James and Paige maintained an uninterrupted and self-sufficient journey, always by car, passing through different regions.
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The feat earned the couple the record for the most countries visited in a continuous car journey. In total, 116 countries were reached, in a route that went from Panama to Japan.
Mercedes-Benz was prepared for extremes
To undertake the car journey, James and Paige used a Mercedes-Benz convertible with four-wheel drive. The vehicle was a unique model, designed with a custom-made trailer.
With this setup, they crossed borders, damaged roads, snowstorms, and even war zones. The route also included deserts, jungles, epidemics, and situations that made each day different.
James mentioned that he didn’t set out with the intention of breaking a record. Before this adventure, he had already traveled around the world by motorcycle. Even so, the journey ended up making history.
Route featured memorable foods, encounters, and countries
During the journey, the couple met extraordinary and ordinary people. They also tried many foods, some described as divine and others as terrible.
James summarized the routine by saying that each day was unique and an adventure. Although he found all the countries interesting, he pointed out China as his favorite, due to the changes happening at that time.
The experiences also inspired Paige to write a memoir, titled “Don’t Call Me Mrs. Rogers”. The work was born from the passages and stories accumulated during the years on the road.
Record moved family and friends
James said he doesn’t know how much he and Paige spent during the car trip, because the focus was on the memories. When asked about the amount, he simply said he didn’t count.
Upon learning that he had broken the record, he described the moment as extremely emotional. Friends and family reacted with shock, surprise, and admiration at the achievement.
Advice for those who dream of repeating the feat
James continues to travel the world and has no plans to stop. He also mentioned that he decided to have children, something he had always opposed.
For those thinking of attempting a similar record, the advice is to do your homework. He recommends carrying small notes in US dollars and parking at the police station whenever possible.
For James, traveling the world by car was a huge experience. Driven by the passion to see what happens everywhere, he defined that journey as a dream come true.
With information from Guinness.
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