The True Story of Karl Bushby’s Walk Around the World

Parts of eastern Russia weren’t open to travelers, especially not solo foreigners on foot—border zones required permits and often armed escorts. Karl had to walk under the supervision of local authorities, some of whom were friendly, while others were skeptical.

In military areas, soldiers trailed him or waited at checkpoints, rifles slung, questions ready. He kept his head down, answered respectfully, and walked. Every interaction carried risk. One wrong phrase, one misunderstood answer, could mean expulsion. Still, he remained focused on the line he was drawing across the globe, one village at a time.