Rachel Davey and Martina Sebova, two seasoned travelers who have visited over 150 countries, have named Sudan and Iran as the countries with the friendliest people they encountered. Their extensive travels, chronicled on their blog Very Hungry Nomads, have taken them to nearly every nation recognized by the UN. Despite common perceptions of danger associated with these countries, Davey and Sebova found the locals to be exceptionally welcoming and hospitable.
The pair embarked on their global journey from Melbourne in 2018 and have since traversed much of Western Europe, Central Africa, and the Middle East. Their adventures included navigating cultural and legal challenges, particularly as an LGBTQ couple traveling in countries where same-sex relationships are criminalized. Despite these obstacles, they never tried to hide their relationship and maintained their safety without compromising their authenticity.
In addition to Sudan and Iran, another country that left a lasting impression on them was Eritrea, located on the east coast of Africa. The couple’s journey has not been without its hurdles; they faced difficulties in obtaining visas and encountered countries that were hesitant to allow women to travel without a male companion. Nevertheless, their love for travel kept them going, using various forms of transport, including enduring long bus rides across Africa.
Their experiences highlight the contrast between public perception and personal encounters in various countries, demonstrating that kindness and hospitality can be found in unexpected places. As they continue their travels, Davey and Sebova’s stories inspire others to explore the world with an open mind and heart, challenging stereotypes and discovering the true nature of different cultures.
