13 | Orest Zub: Chasing the World's Hardest-to-Reach Places

In this special episode of the Nomad Summit Podcast, Christoph Huebner sits down in person with Ukrainian traveler and NomadMania managing partner, Orest Zub. The setting? A sailboat in Croatia, after several days at sea together, heading toward one of the most remote and rarely visited islands in the Adriatic.

Orest shares how his passion for exploration evolved into a leadership role in one of the world’s most respected platforms for extreme travelers. This is a conversation about adventure, community, and seeing the world in ways most people never will.

Meet Orest Zub: From Ukraine to the World

Orest grew up in Ukraine and started traveling extensively in 2012, long before the term “digital nomad” became mainstream. He has now visited 149 countries and spends at least half the year outside his home country. Alongside his wife Marta, he has built a lifestyle that combines remote work with the constant pursuit of new horizons.

What is NomadMania?

NomadMania is a platform for extreme travelers – those who go beyond the typical tourist circuit to visit every country and the most remote places on Earth. It features a gamified system where members can track countries, regions, and over 1,600 “DARE” locations, which stands for Distinct, Alternative, Remote, Extreme. These destinations are often politically complex, geographically isolated, or simply very hard to reach.

The Adventure to Palagruža

This episode was recorded during a sailing trip to Palagruža, a rocky island in the middle of the Adriatic Sea, closer to Italy than the mainland of Croatia. It has only a lighthouse and no permanent residents. Out of more than 40,000 NomadMania members, fewer than 50 have been there. Orest and Christoph share the experience of anchoring overnight, visiting the lighthouse, meeting its keepers, and climbing right up to the light itself – a rare and memorable travel moment.

Traveling to the World’s Hardest-to-Reach Places

NomadMania organizes events and group trips to unique locations, including politically sensitive areas. For example, they have taken groups to Uzbek enclaves inside Kyrgyzstan – areas rarely visited by foreigners due to border restrictions and logistical challenges. By working with local authorities and communities, these trips not only create unforgettable experiences but also promote cross-cultural understanding.

More Than Travel: Creating Impact

Beyond adventures, NomadMania runs a scholarship program for students from developing countries who have never traveled abroad. The program funds their first international trip and encourages them to share their experiences with their peers, creating a ripple effect of curiosity and opportunity.

A Community-Driven App for Travelers

NomadMania’s app allows users to map the countries and regions they’ve visited, discover new destinations, and even see other travelers’ real-time locations. This feature is especially valuable in remote places, where meeting a fellow traveler can be both surprising and inspiring.

Orest Zub’s Travel Philosophy

When asked to name his favorite place, Orest compares travel to watching great movies. Each destination, like a great film, leaves a powerful impression in the moment – but the goal isn’t to rank them. It’s to be fully present, enjoy the experience, and look forward to the next journey.

Why This Conversation Matters for Digital Nomads

Orest’s story and NomadMania’s mission resonate strongly with the digital nomad community. They’re both about pushing boundaries, connecting with like-minded adventurers, and seeing the world in ways that change you. For nomads seeking inspiration, this episode is an invitation to look beyond the usual destinations and embrace the challenge of the unknown.

Key Takeaways

• Orest Zub’s journey from Ukraine to visiting nearly 150 countries.
• How NomadMania connects extreme travelers worldwide.
• What “DARE” locations are and why they matter.
• The story of sailing to Palagruža, a rarely visited island in Croatia.
• Organizing group trips to politically complex or geographically isolated places.
• NomadMania’s scholarship program for first-time international travelers.
• How the NomadMania app fosters community through mapping and location sharing.
• The importance of living in the moment while traveling.