Magdy Eissa, a 45-year-old Egyptian man, has set a new world record by visiting the new seven wonders of the world in just 6 days, 11 hours, and 52 minutes, using only public transport. Eissa’s remarkable achievement was recognised by Guinness World Records, which shared a video on Instagram featuring highlights from his whirlwind tour.
Eissa’s journey began with the Great Wall of China, followed by the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, and the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. He then traveled to the Colosseum in Rome, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, and Machu Picchu in Peru. His tour concluded at the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza in Mexico.
This incredible feat surpassed the previous record set by Englishman Jamie McDonald last year. It took Eissa almost one and a half years to meticulously plan his tour. “I had to navigate a complex web of flights, trains, buses, subways, and walking between transportation hubs and the Wonders,” Eissa told Guinness World Records. “A single disruption could derail the entire itinerary and result in a flight back home,” he added.
Eissa faced several challenges during his adventure. He missed his usual bus to Petra because he overslept and had to find an alternative public bus, a difficult task as the site is primarily accessible through private tour services and taxis. He also nearly missed his flight from Peru to Mexico, but airline staff reopened the check-in counter after he explained that he was attempting to break a world record.
Eissa says visiting the new seven wonders of the world was his childhood dream. He celebrated his personal accomplishment with pride. “Beyond the personal satisfaction, this challenge also allowed me to momentarily let go of the daily stresses and pressures of normal life. The frenetic pace and problem-solving required throughout the record attempt served as an effective outlet to vent and decompress,” Eissa said.
Eissa’s journey shows his determination and meticulous planning, but also serves as an inspiration to those who dream of achieving the extraordinary. His record-setting tour demonstrates that with dedication and perseverance, even the most ambitious goals are attainable.
