A dedicated secondary school teacher and avid explorer, Imran Fazil is on the verge of completing an ambitious journey that will take him to all seven continents. After visiting six continents, Fazil plans to step foot on Antarctica this year, fulfilling a personal goal that has taken years to accomplish. His travels have taken him across deserts, rainforests, megacities, and mountain ranges, allowing him to experience the world in a unique way.
Fazil, who hails from Bradford, England, has ventured to a remarkable 51 countries and prioritizes experiences over luxury. He has cultivated a travel style that favors hiking trails, scenic drives, and local museums, rather than indulgence in five-star accommodations or gourmet dining. “The memory is worth more than comfort,” he explains, emphasizing how this approach enables him to travel more frequently.
His expedition to Antarctica begins in Argentina, from where he will set out on an expedition cruise departing from Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The journey across the Drake Passage will lead him to the icy landscapes of the white continent. “I’m excited to see the enormous icebergs, the wildlife, the dramatic landscapes,” Fazil shares. He looks forward to experiencing natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and the aurora australis, which can only be found in such untouched places.
This upcoming trip represents the culmination of a decade of meticulously planned travel. Fazil has managed to weave short trips into his everyday life rather than disappearing for extended periods. This method has allowed him to explore a broader range of destinations than what traditional long holidays might offer.
Among the continents he has explored, Asia resonates with him the most. He describes it as “the most blissful and diverse,” highlighting its vast landscapes and rich cultural heritage. His favorite country is Japan, where the juxtaposition of futuristic cities and ancient traditions creates a unique and enriching experience. The blend of natural beauty with a culture rooted in respect and hospitality has left a lasting impression on him.
Traveling has also broadened Fazil’s understanding of faith, gratitude, and perspective. “It’s opened my eyes to different cultures and expanded my horizons,” he remarks. He believes that travel instills a sense of wonder and gratitude, an outlook he encapsulates with the phrase “Alhamdulillah.”
In his travels, Fazil has checked off six of the world’s seven New Wonders, including the Colosseum, Christ the Redeemer, Machu Picchu, Chichén Itzá, Petra, and the Great Wall of China. After completing his journey to Antarctica, he hopes to visit the Taj Mahal, marking the end of a personal chapter of exploration that has transformed his worldview.
Fazil’s guiding principle reflects a sentiment attributed to St. Augustine: “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” For him, only one page remains to turn—an icy, frozen chapter in the vast narrative of his travels.
