After Drew Binsky quit his teaching job in 2015, he turned his suitcase into a full-time office. Year by year, he ticked off every country in the world and filmed the highs and lows for millions of YouTube followers. Along the way, he learned a truth most seasoned travelers know. Not every stamp comes with a postcard moment.
Recently, Binsky shared his pick for a city he never wants to revisit. He named Conakry, the capital of Guinea.
First, he described the tension he felt almost immediately. Within minutes of arriving, he said police stopped his group. Then he said they hit checkpoint after checkpoint while armed officers lined the streets. He also claimed a local official alerted authorities to them, which left their driver negotiating on the spot. According to Binsky, the driver paid a small cash bribe to keep the car moving.
Next, he talked about the atmosphere. He said the city smelled strongly of sewage and trash. He also said he generally tolerates rough conditions, yet Conakry stood out to him as especially difficult. Then he added another complaint. He claimed a man forced him out of a restaurant without explanation. As a result, he said the city felt unsafe and unwelcoming.
Still, he noted one bright spot. He said a visit to a local mosque offered a calmer, kinder moment.
In the end, Binsky framed Conakry as a reminder. Travel can broaden you. However, it can also challenge you. And sometimes, the best souvenir is the lesson.
