50 Reasons to Love the World - 2021

New year, new hope

It goes without saying that the world was turned upside-down last year as we faced a global pandemic, racial reckoning and the continued effects of climate change. However, we at BBC Travel believe the dawn of 2021 brings with it a new sense of hope and possibility – as well as a heightened sense of connection to each other and the world around us.

Even as we were – and still are – unable to travel in the way we did before the pandemic, people from different cultures in every continent have continued to thrive in their personal corners of the planet, bringing joy, passion and inspiration to their communities. They've preserved local traditions, made strides to protect the Earth, and used their creative talents to expand and evolve their cultures.

With BBC Travel's 50 Reasons to Love the World in 2021, we hope to share that joy with you, and through their extraordinary stories, inspire you to fall in love with the world all over again. After all, it's the only one we have.

– The BBC Travel Editors

We asked 50 remarkable people – both known voices and unsung heroes – the question, "Why do you love the world?" Read on to see what they had to say…

-49-

Because when working and singing alongside the fäbod (Swedish summer farm) women, I felt such a profound connection to them both as a part of our past and present, I just knew that I had to carry on their kulning legacy.” – Jennie Tiderman-Österberg, singer

Read Tiderman-Österberg's story

-47-

Because Trinidad’s rich dramatic history and culture stems from European and African roots [and] gives me inspiration with minimum detail, and so I never get tired of writing,” – Luis Martinez, porter and poet

Read Martinez's story

-46-

Because I've been making char kway teow for more than 60 years, people come from all over the world to taste it. I'm so proud knowing they've travelled to my hometown of Penang for my food. Even though we don't speak the same language, when I see them finishing their plate, I know they are happy." – Tan Chooi Hong (Uncle Tan), street food cook

Read Tan's story

-42-

Because I feel honoured to still be fit and healthy enough to look after the many gods here in Hong Kong’s Waterfall Bay Park and receive their blessings, day in, day out. There is no place more magical for me and I feel privileged to worship here.” – Wong Wing-pong, statue caretaker

Read Wong's story

-39-

Because I got to visit the tiny stone villages of Slovenia’s magical Kras region, which I wouldn’t have considered going to if I hadn’t needed to stay in my country. I’m grateful that I had a chance to see the region’s beautiful colours – oranges, violets and greens – and unique landscape, which feels kind of Mediterranean but looks out to the Alps.” – Ana Roš, chef

Read Roš's story

-35-

“Because while I’m out shrimp fishing, Belgium’s North Sea allows me and my horse to feel calm, peaceful and at one with nature. I’m also happy to preserve and share this very important cultural tradition.” – Nele Bekaert, horse fisherwoman

Read Bekaert's story

-34-

“Because the more we protect the environment [around Piplantri, India], the more it will reciprocate. Those who work with nature don't worry too much. Nature gives me strength; our daughters and this work gives us strength.” – Shyam Sunder Paliwal, eco-feminist

Read Paliwal's story

We will be publishing new Reasons to Love the World in the coming months, so check back weekly for the latest updates.