“The Ibn Battuta of our time” tells Osraty: I completed my journey across Eurasia with only 300 euros!

Whoever realizes the true benefits of travel can never remain in one place. Traveling is the best recharge for the soul, the most generous gift for knowledge, and the finest trainer for reflection. With these words, Ahmed Magdy—a young Egyptian doctor in his twenties—began his conversation with us. He is the physician-adventurer whom the press has dubbed the Ibn Battuta of our time. After previously distinguishing himself with his journey across Asia, where he visited 15 cities, he now returns with a new chapter: nearly 15 European cities explored at a cost of only 300 euros! Osraty sat down with the young doctor to learn more about the details of this remarkable journey.

My goal is to visit most continents before turning thirty

In Austria: “To exercise is to live.”

To begin with… how did the idea come to you? And why did you choose the title 200 Days in Eurasia?

During one of my TV interviews about my Triple Asia Journey—where I visited 15 cities across Asia—the presenter asked me: “Will this turn into a book in the future?” I replied, “God willing.” Later, I traveled to several other countries, and each time I traveled, I kept thinking about how best to achieve this dream and bring it to life. One day, while studying a world map, my eyes fell upon a region called Eurasia, which spans both Europe and Asia. I began counting the cities and countries I had visited across both continents, along with the days I had spent. That’s when the idea began to crystallize in my mind: a book titled 200 Days in Eurasia.

He added: This journey was an important step toward fulfilling that dream. Thank God, I was able to visit around 18 European cities by land, exploring nearly 25 landmarks—all at a total cost of just 300 euros!

Why do you travel?

I travel to prove, practically, that every young person can achieve their dreams through travel—that they can explore the countries they wish to see on a very modest budget. I’ve demonstrated this through my journeys, which I always make sure to undertake at the lowest possible cost. Afterward, I share my experiences so others can replicate them if they wish. I travel because I learned from my teacher that “seeing something once is better than hearing about it a thousand times.” I travel to realize how much there is to see—and how much more I still need to see.

A car as both shelter and transport

From the outset, my goal was to explore Europe at the lowest possible cost. I thought of doing what I had done in Asia: plan early, book early, and rely on friends in different countries for help with accommodation. I found three travel companions, and we decided to rent a car and split the cost. Car rentals in Europe are not very expensive, and at night the car served as our shelter. As for food, I brought mine from Egypt: bread, fava beans, and tuna—enough for the number of days I would spend abroad—so I didn’t need to buy meals or spend extra money.

Memorable encounters

In Switzerland, I was struck by the honesty system of local huts selling products with no vendors. In Austria, a 72-year-old woman told me: “When we stop exercising, we stop living.” In Italy’s Cortina, I discovered the cleanest air in the country and hiked the Dolomites. In Romania, I explored Dracula’s Castle and the vast Peles Castle with its 168 themed rooms. Each country offered lessons and unforgettable experiences—from breathtaking nature to deep cultural encounters.

Adventures and thrills

I kept a list of daring experiences—like flying with a birdlike harness between mountain peaks in Switzerland, or reaching Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. Each challenge mixed fear and excitement, teaching me resilience.

Lessons from the journey

Any young person can travel Europe on a modest budget if they are willing to endure the cold, lack of sleep, and simple food. Travel is both a gift and a test. My next goal is to complete the full 200 days of Eurasia so I can publish my book, combining photography, low-cost travel guidance, and life lessons for readers to journey with me.

Science as the driving force

For me, travel is always motivated by knowledge. Science and work are inseparable, and my love for learning fuels my journeys. Medicine requires continuous learning, and travel inspires me to renew knowledge, discover cultures, and learn from successful experiences worldwide. Travel is not mere leisure—it is a human journey, complementing my passion for medicine and enriching both my personal and professional life.