Dorothy Smith, a 102-year-old adventurer, has fulfilled a lifelong dream by visiting all seven continents. With the support of Ammar Kandil and Staffan Taylor, the creators behind the “Yes Theory” YouTube channel, Smith’s dream of exploring the world came true, with Australia being the final stop on her travel bucket list.
Kandil and Taylor, who were filming a story at the Redwoods Retirement Village in California, met Smith and were inspired by her passion for travel. Upon learning that Australia was the last continent she hoped to visit, they made it their mission to help her reach this goal.
“Travel is important to me because it’s a big world, and each country is different and has something different to offer,” Smith shared during an interview with Destination NSW. “I want to see them all and I don’t want to miss anything.”
Together with Destination NSW and Qantas, Kandil and Taylor created a special itinerary for Smith, helping her journey to Sydney come to life. Last week, she flew from the US with her daughter Adrienne, joined by Kandil and Taylor. Smith traveled in business class aboard a Qantas flight, where she was honored by the pilots and crew before takeoff.
Upon arriving in Australia, Smith enjoyed a Sydney Harbour cruise, visited the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo to see iconic animals like koalas and kangaroos, and explored famous landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House, Bondi Beach, the Botanic Gardens, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Reflecting on her experience, Smith said, “The people are charming, the food is good, the scenery is just wonderful, and even the weather is nice. However, I was expecting more wild plains with grasses growing on them.”
Her journey was captured by Kandil and Taylor, and a video documenting her adventure has already gained over 470,000 views on YouTube. Smith’s inspiring story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and embark on new adventures.
