DAY 1: Arriving in Mongolia's Capital City (most polluted city in world)

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia's Capital City is unexpected. Sponsor: Go to ground.news/In... to prioritize local perspectives over sensational news. Subscribe through my link for 40% off unlimited access this month.
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[@IndigoTraveller]

Great to be back, thank you for watching! Sponsor: Go to ground.news/Indigo to prioritize local perspectives over sensational news. Subscribe through my link for 40% off unlimited access this month. I hope this video brings you some value and I look forward to releasing more videos soon. Nick🤍

[@caleb.e7880]

Welcome back, My boy.

[@jobarbery3373]

Good to have you back , great content

[@DanielC__]

Were you been? We missed you

[@travellerlorenz]

Nick ❤

[@IceLynne]

Everywhere around the globe that western style living and political views are found, the people are far from happy. These people in the city are nothing like the Mongolians that live the traditional way of life out in the country, they're very happy people. I'm sick to death of western culture and how it dominates the globe ☹

[@oh2sail]

As a 68 year old woman 2 years ago I traveled alone to Mongolia, not on a tour, but going from one Airbnb nomadic family to another. Yes! They’re on Airbnb. It was dirty, marvelous, difficult, fascinating, and I loved every minute of it. I had no translator, we just used sign language. I will guess that 99 percent of Americans would have hated the experience. (Let’s face it… their toilets are boards over open cesspits.) I was thrown into small gers that I shared with all family members and whoever else showed up at the door, since they love visiting each other. I’ve traveled to 25 countries, and I can say that the Mongolian people are the most absurdly kind people that I have ever met. They also have a wicked sense of humor. And they cheat at card games. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

[@innominatum9906]

Huge respect to you for going all alone - it really teaches you something about who you really are when youre all by yourself - although with seemingly amazing hospitality from the mongolians 🥰

[@DaiMoscv]

@oh2sail I'm thrilled to hear that your overall experience was positive. Unfortunately, the bathroom situation is indeed poorly managed in the rural areas since Mongolia is a vast country and most nomadic households are not connected to the central pipes. I didn't know that people were renting gers on Airbnb and I personally didn't like the part you stayed with other people, personally I would prefer another ger for myself since I paid for it. But then again if you want to experience their day to day life I guess it's fine.

[@splash4891]

thanks for sharing/your post, not only were they very kind but I am willing to bet, they were also very generous

[@Viktorsty]

I went there last month and I can't say I loved the experience but it was new and beautiful to me. It was totally fascinating to see how Mongolians take their tradition very seriously in the countrysides. The countrysides also had many kind ppl too. The city of mongolia was fine but I got ripped off and racially cursed at many times lol. If I ever get the chance, I'd definitely visit the countryside once more

[@janesmith9024]

Good for you. That sounds amazing.

[@nezukosimp9762]

When the world needed him most he returned

[@IndigoTraveller]

Haha great to be back!

[@EpicHashTime]

@@IndigoTraveller Man is the Batman of KZbin

[@mrlolmaster1019]

who Chingis Khan???

[@shwetankp3872]

​@@mrlolmaster1019probably your Dad 😂😂

[@rusty5078]

Did u just compare him to Jesus? 😂

[@nokizzy_keith]

I loved living in Mongolia. When I found out I was getting deployed to the capital city I was so excited. Wonderful people and so much to do. I hope to visit back there again soon.

[@narc170]

Vistited Ulanbataar and Mongolia in 2014. Spent 4 weeks there and had the best time. Seems like nothing changed with the pollution problem i am afraid. Hope it will br better in the future. Greetings from Germany. Mongolia and its people will always be in my heart..i hope i will come back in the future.

[@MultiHeheboy]

For pollution problem we recently discovered that we have a significant natural gas reserve. Russia and China also have large reserves, so it's not surprising that we found some here as well. However, it's only recently been factored into our plans. Since Russia wouldn't buy our gas and China likely wouldn't either, the investments for domestic use alone are currently low, making it a lower priority. This might change depending on Russia's situation, and we may need to become energy independent from them at the very least could at least heat the city with gas at some point.

[@Kikakeks]

Me too. I’ve been there for about three weeks, volunteering at an orphanage outside of Ulan-Bataar and visiting some touristic places, as well as the black market. Even got some original Kurt Cobain chucks there for around 10 dollars. I really wanna go there again when my son is a bit older. Really loved it there.

[@cashewnuttel9054]

My Allah... that city is something I normally see in Cities Skylines videos.

[@AltanzulBn-1017]

Im Mongolian but thank u. Also I do agree. Its hard to walk to school everywhere breathing this BC its especially in the morning. And again thank for ur support.❤

[@boanzhou-tj8tm]

​@@MultiHeheboy你们国家😂😂😂应该和中国合并你们那土地不适合居住，内蒙古才适合居住有冬天没那么冷草原和土地也比你们好的多😊😊😊😊

[@Dorjgo]

I had the privilege of visiting Mongolia a few years ago, where I engaged in volunteer work in the ger district. The warmth and friendliness of the people left a lasting impression on me. Mongolia is a country still undergoing significant development, especially when considering that much of its urban infrastructure was established around 1960. There remains considerable potential for growth and progress. I look forward to returning to this beautiful country next year to further explore its unique landscapes and culture. Grom Boston

[@tulgabayarkhuu512]

We have a vast land, with 95% of it being uninhabited. However, due to the economic issues more than half of Mongolia's population lives in the capital city Ulaanbaatar. Since you mentioned a lot about pollution, I have to clarify that air pollution only gets worse in winter time in Ulaanbaatar city because its residents burn a raw coal to avoid freezing. Except for that its all good, if you ever want to experience beautiful, vast nature, Mongolia would be the best choice.

[@mukkaar]

Yep, air is also usually more dry in winter, and pollution can float freely in air for longer.

[@Austine1452]

tell that to all the children with lung and heart issues due to that coal burning

[@bluewizzard8843]

But why??? A jurt a few animals and it would be a dream of a life. Of course it would be hard, but it would also be free and the children wouldn't need to suffer and die because of the destrasteous living conditions in the capital. I don't get it.

[@Smokaaaaaaaaaa]

uhhhh no thanks

[@LilhiroK]

@@Smokaaaaaaaaaayou should broaden your horizons and look up better videos than these of Mongolia.

[@romyman9]

No matter how depressed an area or a city is, you'll always find a random brand new Land Cruiser somewhere lol Edit: I'm not just saying this about Mongolia; you'll see one in the background almost no matter where Nick goes lol

[@tnolan3176]

Couldnt believe there was a H2 Hummer driving down the road !!

[@dexterrr9163]

mongolians spent most of their money to buy vehicles. It still baffles me how you can find equal numbers of new landcruisers to the 10-15 year old prius

[@EddieGillies-lj8dp]

​@tnolan3176 Some Mongolians have more money than wealthy Westerners. H2 have been around in UB for 20 years. Along with Mercs, Porsches, Bentley, and Ferrari. Not common, but they are there.

[@zahidkhurshid6234]

Land cruiser is the king of the road

[@electricmachinesub]

Монголия занимает первое место в мире по количеству новых проданных Toyota-Landcruiser-300 в пересчёте на душу населения

[@risinbison1106]

I used to work for a major agricultural products producer so I would go to some interesting places for business. Ulan Bator itself is a dirty, dysfunctional mess but to the west is beyond amazing. The beauty of this country is breathtaking, you just have to get out of the capital. Probably the most friendly people I’ve met in my life.

[@cameronjones305]

You gotta go out to where practically no one lives and nothing is

[@davkaaa]

Winter months yes, you are right. When too cold and no wind it is really bad, high pollution. When it's windy much better. However Mongolia has the best air rest of the year, it has amazing smell specially summer time. I hope my beautiful country will develop more and government will do best. I still love my Country and my city. I am happy that our people are really friendly, open minded and optimistic always 😊

[@paschaluzoma1429]

are they really friendly to blacks/africans,honest answer please

[@enkh_kkkk6834]

@@paschaluzoma1429its a country with barely any discrimination (unless teens) ppl js stare at foreigners but most dont care

[@paschaluzoma1429]

@@enkh_kkkk6834 state fact and stop the political speech

[@1..-...--.-.-.--.-----..-]

​@@paschaluzoma1429 the adults are kind and so are most of the teenagers but some of the edgy teenagers will probably say the n word.if youre black

[@paschaluzoma1429]

@@1..-...--.-.-.--.-----..- noted

[@doomera5911]

You're truly an documentarian and filmmaker not just a "travel vlogger". You're not showing superficial stuff and you're not an exaggerated person who takes center stage that most travel vloggers try to do. You talk to people, find out their struggles living in their country, joy and you intrigue others

[@axelstudio42]

And a liar

[@UurdChuluutNegen]

To be fair most vloggers are there to enjoy their travel and concentrate on positives not to do documentary about futile existence of human nature and the negatives lmao. It's just perspectives not a lie.

[@esosaiyamu2581]

Too much negativity on here. He should show us Europe and America

[@krislorenz4809]

Go to others​ to bore them idiot@@esosaiyamu2581

[@joshuafalken3312]

UB's problem is it is in a valley. In winter the pollution gets trapped due to temperature inversion and no wind. The polluted air cools and falls before reaching the edge of valley. I've lived in UB since 2011, my wife is Mongolian. The air is bad by any measure, but was worse 10-15 years ago. Thousands of apartment blocks have been built over that time, but the population has increased a lot too. During summer, the air is clean. I've also lived in India and UB is not as bad as Delhi, Kolkata or many Indian cities. P.S Mongolia and the people are great. I married one ;-)

[@Entername1111]

Lovely 🥰

[@eXit-ubermensch]

Thanks for giving her the green card

[@joshuafalken3312]

​@@eXit-ubermensch I'm not American and not woke.

[@cornbread4everyone555]

Yes being a valley is its problem lol reeeeeeee

[@nikkigallagher163]

Your explanation of how UB is built in a valley puts things in perspective when it comes to pollution. Is it actually as cold as this guy says, or is he just used to warmer temperatures? I think the gers/yurts look very practical

[@damontsolmon]

Stunning landscapes, beautiful views, camping in nature with a campfire, fun horse riding experiences, focus on interacting and doing activities in nature with the group (days without internet). This adventure heals very well !

[@khaltartogtuun6837]

The primary factor contributing to the continuous increase in Ulaanbaatar's population is the migration of herders from rural areas. Initially, they acquire a vehicle and construct a fenced residence in the suburbs. Once they secure employment and begin to earn an income, they plan to build an additional house equipped with coal heating. Some individuals may obtain lucrative job opportunities or establish their own businesses, allowing them to purchase an apartment in a newly constructed building. Even after acquiring a new home, they typically retain their original fenced property, offering it to relatives who arrive from the countryside for accommodation.

[@SalemTechsperts]

Glad to see you back to making videos man. Genuinely one of the best channels on KZbin. Wishing you good health.

[@IndigoTraveller]

Much appreciated!

[@Tr1angle_lol]

Tiny raccoon finger guy?

[@caleb.e7880]

Welcome Back, Indigo Traveller.

[@IndigoTraveller]

Cheers Caleb

[@aniraaandtsoomoo]

@@IndigoTraveller Go to india. YOU CAN FIND MOST POLLUTED CITIES THERE.

[@chitrasharma4842]

​@@aniraaandtsoomooHe could also experience Indian hospitality

[@JuniorJr...]

Although Ulaanbaatar often ranks as one of the most polluted cities, calling it the "most polluted capital in the world" is an oversimplification. Pollution levels can vary throughout the year and might be very high compared to other capitals, especially in winter. However, cities like Delhi and Lahore also have serious pollution issues. So, saying it's the most polluted capital might not fully capture the situation, as it depends on the time and how pollution is measured.

[@Quarequieus]

Is Lahore a capital of something?

[@nostalgic90s54]

Delhis pollutions happens because of neighbouring states

[@stuartatkins5425]

Mongolia may have lots of problems but at least it seems its citizens are able to speak freely about their problems and that bodes well for their ability to solve their problems as nation in the future. A really interesting video about a country most of us will never have the chance or ability to visit.

[@IndigoTraveller]

Indeed, was nice to see open a free speech. Thanks for watching.

[@VerkaterterStiefel]

35 years of democracy - a success stories now being threatened by the two neighbours

[@eliotness4029]

mongols never were slaves in history. as germans or british

[@VARMOT123]

Yeag mongolia,japan,south korea,india are the only 4 partially free and above countries in most of asia

[@miaowang6250]

You only have free speech to blame other country, try blame Jewish online. You do think you have “free speech” on everything? Poor guy with a brain been washed

[@8889]

I'm really glad you recovered well from your illnesses. Me, alongside all your viewers appreciate you so much. Thank you for creating content for us it's really eye opening to see and explore the world through your lens.

[@jamesshirley7194]

Thanks!

[@karolgrzeszczak4951]

He’s alive! Thankful to see you putting up content again. Thought something bad happened to you in your travels. Cheers.

[@ReelBlessed]

Had a chance to visit Mongolia for about 3 weeks back in 2015. Probably one of the most fascinating locations since it’s not a particularly huge tourist destination. Didn’t really notice any pollution but I was there in the summer and UB probably has gotten more crowded since then. Getting out of the city and touring the open countryside and being able to camp wherever you wanted was an amazing experience when I was there. First time seeing one of your videos but I’ll definitely watch more.

[@philippok18]

I've visited Mongolia this late November the air was not that polluted comparing to other countries, especially India and Pakistan. No garbage on the streets. I don't know where did he get that the city is the most polluted in the world, clearly for clickbait.

[@armchairgeneral576]

Seeing so many people say ''Glad you are alive'' describes your efforts best and the extremes you go through to bring these images to us. Thanks a lot!

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thank you so much 🤍

[@demacto13]

I have to say, your partnership with Ground News got me interested considering all the ads I have seen being promoted in KZbin. I've found the integrity of most news outlets to be questionable and I feel like Ground News could be a reliable source that I could get into. Definitely looking into it, thanks Nick. ☺

[@Xoxongorooo]

Thank you for showing this side of Ulaanbaatar on youtube. I can see that you have gone through a lot of difficulties and made a huge efforts to make this video. I really appreciate you sharing this situation to the world. I hope our situation will get better in the future.😇

[@xborak2]

Love to see a country that is not as dangerous and just plain interesting! Seeing countries like Haiti was really giving me a sense of anxiety for you dude

[@TopHatNat]

To me it's more horrible and depressing than interesting and it all gives me a sense of anxiety. It seems the main problem here and everywhere is over population. I'm not sure how to fix that apart from education and contreception. Peace and love to you.

[@misomar7193]

@@TopHatNati think the solution often involves redoing the government budget. investing more towards something like infrastructure would help a lot

[@jbjaguar2717]

​@@TopHatNat Mongolia is the least densely populated country on earth so it doesn't make any sense to say it's overpopulated. What you see as 'overpopulation' is actually a result of several things: 1. Climate change has caused mass die-offs of livestock in rural areas of the country. When this happens, the local people have no choice but to migrate en masse to the city. This is actually something that has happened on a cyclical basis for centuries - previously they responded in part by invading their neighbours, but they can't do that any more because of the invention of modern warfare which favours industrialised nations. However it's definitely not helped by manmade climate change which makes existing systems even more volatile. 2. Imperialism. Mongolia is not an entirely free country, it's under heavy Chinese influence. The CCP exploits Mongolia's resources and takes much of its rich resource wealth for themselves. 3. Corruption. All countries are corrupt - Mongolia is not unique in this regard. But Mongolia is especially corrupt because of imperialism, and because it transitioned so much between different economic systems too quickly - first Steppe Nomad culture, then Communism, now Capitalism, within the space of a single lifetime. Also because it's a very small country, so basically all lucrative jobs go to family members of those in power. Unlike in larger countries, there's basically no jobs left over once this process is done. 4. Development levels. Education, infrastructure and so on require money and investment. When you have good levels of modern infrastructure both in the capital but also in rural areas, then you no longer have issues of sanitation, pollution, poverty and rapid urbanisation. Right now, there's only a tiny amount of development and it's all in Ulan Bataar, so you have to go there if you want access to it. The factors already mentioned are what is blocking faster development.

[@bestchannelintheworld]

@@jbjaguar2717 Mongolia's problems stem from overpopulation because California, Hawaii and other similarly perfect (in terms of climate and fertility) locations in the world are taken. So humans are having to resort to migrating to undesirable places such as Mongolia.

[@jbjaguar2717]

​@@bestchannelintheworld Nope, actually. Mongolians have been in Mongolia for millennia - Google Genghis Khan, you might learn something. Besides, it's generally observable that countries with increasing population have improved living standards, not worse living standards.

[@cysquatch4883]

So thrilled to see a new video from you!

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thanks, good to be back :)

[@loutenant2817]

​@@IndigoTravellerHad me worried something happened to you while traveling. Glad you're doing well

[@troychristman5662]

Sorry to hear you got sick again, mate, but glad you're doing better overall. So nice to see new content from you... Been watching for years and you're one of the best creators on this platform. Can't wait to see where you go next!

[@cheesy1nacho924]

Im currently here right now!!! Been moving around Mongolia for the last 10 days. Great country

[@Danilyn_Livao]

Despite its challenges, you’ve shown the city’s charm and history. Excited to see more of Mongolia through your lens! 💙📹

[@r0dani3lb]

What a beautiful surprise to see a video from you ! Glad you're safe and looking forward for this new adventure !

[@IndigoTraveller]

Cheers!

[@jeff69dini]

@@IndigoTraveller I was just thinking about you the other day, wondering where you were gone, you're a wonderful human being

[@davidbottles3035]

Looks cleaner than most of the cities I have seen in India.

[@MultiHeheboy]

I mean everything is cleaner than India.

[@wutm8565]

its a lot cleaner than most of india, but due to the mountains that surround the city the pollution is trapped in the city. salt lake has a similar issue

[@Treedaone]

Your right India need to stop reproducing and start cleaning

[@MBAinternetmktg]

Well, a homeless person wouldn't last long in that climate.

[@SunnySunfl0werz-03]

​@@MultiHeheboy it makes sense as the pollution in UB isn't land it's air pollution, they dont have garbage on the streets however the location of the city is what kills them, smoke, poisonous gasses, etc. are trapped as the city is covered with mountains do it's hard for them to dissipate into surrounding places, hence why the rest of Mongolia is clean while this city is cancerous

[@dailylearninprism]

The presentation of Ulaanbaatar and the political state of Mongolia was accurate. I loved the scenes, although they were brutal and tragic at times. The background music and the translator were pretty good. All in all, even though we have all these problems, I am still grateful I was born here because the nature outside the city is really great. P.S. I hope you get well soon!

[@AGlugofOilJanBennett]

It’s been a month since you posted this, I’m hoping to goodness you’re fully recovered now. Sending love and hugs from the UK x

[@C.Chandler_May]

Glad to see you back.

[@antoniynedyalkov2437]

Great to see you back. World needs more journalists like you.

[@IndigoTraveller]

Too kind, thank you.

[@jamesclarkmaxwell-v2n]

yeah

[@VicSage1836]

Glad you're back, buddy. Your channel is what got me interested in watching these travel videos. The other travel channels I watch do a great job, but you're definitely my favorite.

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thanks so much for watching!

[@Katz0226]

Spent a month there last year and I can confidently say one of the most beautiful and fascinating places in the world. Both the people and the culture were absolutely wonderful and I can’t wait to go back highly recommend!

[@joyo94]

Good to see u again Nick, glad you re safe and sound

[@StarSystem-p3i]

Mongolia is my second favorite country after my country, Korea. My next travel destination will be Mongolia.

[@308_Negra_Arroyo_Lane]

Nobody says their favorite country is their own. Koreans are weird.

[@rolandklimant]

Great to see you back, Nick ! Big fan from the Czech Republic.

[@redmen8339]

Great to see you back

[@adamphelan450]

Great to see you back and glad that you have recovered from your illness after Jamaica, fascinating video as always, thank you!

[@meghancomo96]

OMG YOURE BACK! I’ve been checking your channel every few months to see if you had any new videos, so happy to see you’re posting again.

[@RitzStarr]

"The spirit asks to feed it with sometimes some milk, sometiems vodka" okay buddy I think we all know which spirit is asking for the vodka lol

[@triciac4240]

Too funny!! ;D

[@TheBaxe]

hahaha

[@munkhtuvshinmt]

sometimes spirit even asks for ciggerates as well lmao, such bs thing (source: I'm Mongolian)

[@jamesrobert4106]

Scammers were born when the first Con man met the first fool. ​@munkhtuvshinmt

[@eatingnemo9582]

when the animal spirit is in a certain mood, normally after consuming vodka, it demands sex from a human woman who is not even the same species as the spirit

[@margaretfox4808]

Great to have you back Nick. Hope you are well. Brilliant video as always. 👍

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thank you Margaret!

[@hos-uchralnaranbaatar7602]

But I'm always grateful for being born here. It's not horrible lile that lady said, if you just work and live, you can live happy with hardships. And if you're lucky, maybe average to above, life isn't that bad. Especially in the summer. Everybody goes to the countryside and for a reason because it's a bliss even though it's bit tiring. And if you get left behind in the city, it's so quiet and peaceful since everyone left

[@markg9544]

Hey Nick, huge fan of all your videos for years now. Thank you for bringing us a different prospective on all different parts of the world. Wish you well and good health I look forward to seeing more of your videos in the future.

[@janellek21]

I've been to Mongolia twice and it's my favourite country. UB isn't the most attractive large city, but it's a fun place to spend a few days. The city is slowly transitioning from wood and coal to electric power and pollution is slowly lessening. It's also the only place in the country where it's not too difficult to find someone who speaks English.

[@andrewdalbert7078]

Welcome back! Sorry to hear you got sick again, take care of yourself, traveling can be challenging, I am in Africa since one month and already got sick twice and will spend other 2 months at least 😅 we have to stay strong cause in the end is always worth it! Hope to see you soon!

[@Gbolahanayinde-cy4vs]

While in Africa make sure to visit morocco and Egypt... Promise you would love it

[@andrewdalbert7078]

@ already been to Morocco I loved it, going to Egypt soon 👍🏼

[@Gbolahanayinde-cy4vs]

@@andrewdalbert7078 oh wow! As an African,it gladdens me to see people from all over the world come over! How was your experience in morocco? You should try visiting Nigeria as well..I would be glad to show you around and make you feel at home!

[@GurkeN1337]

Hello Nick! I'm extremely happy to hear that you are ok. I have been checking your youtube channel almost daily and have been worried about you for a while. To me you are the best reporter in the world! Greetings from Poland.

[@Gbolahanayinde-cy4vs]

Hello! Been wanting to meet someone from poland

[@YannicksChannel]

One of the greatest travel vloggers on KZbin is now backkkkk‍🔥. I'm glad to see that you're okay because I haven't seen anything from you on KZbin in the past seven months and your videos really mean a lot to me as you were one of the few KZbinrs who personally inspired me to start making KZbin videos. 💯I also hope to one day film a vlog with you 🙏

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thanks so much, all the best for your channel mate :)

[@YannicksChannel]

@@IndigoTraveller noo wayyy you actually replied, thank you for the best wishes. Can't wait to see and support all your upcoming videos, and hopefully, one day, once my channel grows I can film a vlog with you💪🏾

[@jerryfrank702-5]

@@IndigoTraveller , Great videos, just curious, what ilness did you have ?

[@Gbolahanayinde-cy4vs]

​​@@jerryfrank702-5 I think he is all healthy now! Hope you having a great day mate?

[@backaddict673]

Thanks for the great look into a country I barely even remember half the time. It's important to know what's happening around the world!

[@rudypoo421]

I spent a month last year in ulaanbaatar. I had no idea pollution was such a bad problem. I really enjoyed my time there.

[@taylorjones7174]

Yay!! Welcome back! We have missed you and your videos! ❤

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thanks!!

[@05amiller]

Ulaanbaatar isn't the most polluted capital at all. Coldest, yes.

[@rollogic2988]

"What comes to mind when you think of Mongolia" The HU!! The greatest Mongolian throat singing heavy metal band! I saw them live. Totally awesome!

[@joshlewis575]

Could you imagine 10 20,000 of those dudes coming to raid your little village with those sounds. They are pretty sick. How they make their traditional instruments and singing into metal is cool as hell

[@rollogic2988]

@@joshlewis575 Absolutely!

[@robertachristina8116]

Ah, hello, dear traveler! Your presentation is truly a work of art-like a deep dive into the darker corners of Mongolia, rich with those charming negative details that almost made me think you were trying to land a role in a documentary about the world's most overlooked places. But then, your comparison between this unique environment and Brazil, particularly Rio de Janeiro, practically screams, ‘I’ve seen Brazil through a postcard and an outdated travel guide.’ It's almost sweet how you’ve managed to ignore that Brazil is a vast land with a diversity that would make any Netflix show jealous of its ability to switch genres. Brazil isn't just Rio and its carnival chaos, you know. If you're looking for a ‘European lifestyle,’ I highly recommend exploring the southern regions, where the standard of living might even make Naples/Capri seem rustic in comparison. And I must admit, I felt a wave of relief that you didn’t fall into the common tourist pitfall of calling Buenos Aires our capital-a mistake made by many who only get a taste of the more touristy areas of Brazil. Keep up the great work, but perhaps you could consider adding just a bit more carefully selected detail to your comments.

[@tejshanbhag3998]

Good to hear from you again Nick! I'm glad you have recovered safely first off, and hope that you remain in good health. This video really gave insight into a lesser-known part of the world - never was aware of the intense pollution, cold, and unique sources of power in Ulaanbaatar. Mongolia is pictured as this open countryside without dense population pockets, but this city certainly shows a new perspective. I look forward to your content coming up! Best, Tej

[@abhijeetdas9605]

Happy to See you back. Was missing your tours

[@landinsongs]

Mongolia is amazing in a lot of ways. Like, most of those in charge of anything important works within 8 blocks. You can meet, say, the foreign minister, at lunch in UB. Next time, come in january. It's quite an experience to go for a walk in -35 celsius in the city farthest from any oceans in the world.

[@新访梅]

一月。

[@CH4OffsetsLLC]

Another great reminder that we are more a like than different. We are all trying to survive and get by

[@ancika88]

I've been wondering where you are. Good to have you back. Giving voice to places and people hidden from our view. ❤️🙏 Much respect! Hope you feel better soon.

[@Gbolahanayinde-cy4vs]

What's your view on mongolia, would you like to visit?

[@lilyfaul]

Welcome back, Indigo Traveler, you have been truly missed! Such a fascinating documentary, it’s actually the first time that I saw Mongolia. I’ve heard about it of course but never seen it. And what a beautiful place it is, hope that political and economical situation there would improve

[@Kreenick]

I’ve always wanted to travel to Ulaanbatar. It’s crazy that half the population of Mongolia lives there.

[@joebloe4374]

What's more crazy is inner mongolia china population 15 million 😂

[@huselman]

Why.

[@joebloe4374]

@@Kreenick I've been there Nature beautiful but nothing else is good

[@Tomoesong]

@@joebloe4374 Why is that more crazy?

[@joebloe4374]

@@Tomoesong 5 x more people living inner mongolia china than actual mongolia

[@jenniferAKABUT]

So HAPPY YOU POSTED NICK!! I AM A HUGE FAN!!!!

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thanks Jennifer

[@jo1e-de-v1vre]

Glad to have you back. I had the pleasure of visiting Mongolia seven years ago. It was the greatest travel experience of my life. I hope you had a great trip! I remember using a local toilet like the one you enter at 4:35 but it only had three walls.

[@Gbolahanayinde-cy4vs]

Where did you visit from?

[@savingpvtrybka]

So excited to see you back to your craft and sharing with the world, we're happy to have you back !

[@andrewyeah3143]

Welcome back Nick! I discovered your channel in October last year, binge watched every one of your vids, and now patiently wait to see the yt push notification to say that you have released a new vid

[@isaactegg4966]

Welcome back bro good to have you back on KZbin again from NZ KIA ORA

[@LilhiroK]

Not sure how this is labeled the most polluted country in the world when Mongolia is 10th in the rank. Obv not the best, but definitely not the worst. Kind of misleading really. Pollution is only awful in the winter because the citizens burn raw coal to be warm. The government obv isn’t doing much to help w that, and I do wish they would because Mongolia could be amazing in the winter just like the summer if it didn’t get so polluted.

[@FalseNi9e]

He said city, not country

[@bobbyrivera2951]

Yea no one is beating India in pollution

[@sergelenboldoyunbat5261]

Correction : Raw coal is banned in Ulaanbaatar since 2019 5/15

[@AnandJargalsaikhan]

@@FalseNi9e Yeah no way that Ulaanbaatar is worse than Indian cities 💀

[@nancydrew1882]

I actually I cannot believe that this is the most poluted city in the world either. What aboiut Bankok and New Delhi. Honestly, I'd take some things in this video with a grain of salt. Electrical wires do NOT emit radiation. This like saying a moicrowave emmits radiation.

[@dozierstadium]

This is shocking to me. I spent a summer there in the late 90s. It seemed to be quite normal in emissions for an emerging city it's size. Not even in same league as Beijing for example for pollution. I would love to go back for myself and see what my perception is of the changes. When I was there it was hard to find a restaurant at times. If you wanted a burger you had to know which hotel had a chef that showed up and knew how to make a burger. Services were scant. Now I am sure it is quite modernized in certain parts of the cities. The people were hospitable, quite broad in their languages (Mong, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, German, English), loved American sports and music....only place in world I have been pick pocketed was a grey market on the outside of the city. The fishing in the steppe lands was sublime. Hope things change for the people of Mongolia. Kids deserve a good start.

[@silveriver9]

Beijing is not polluted.

[@gregarmstrong6077]

@@silveriver9 I was going to say the same. 10 years ago it was awful in Beijing but now it's really comparable to many other major world cities. It's come a long way.

[@TemuulTK]

His exaggerating.

[@silveriver9]

@@gregarmstrong6077 I would say 15 years ago it was bad. It takes a long time for narratives to die. Some ppl still think China today is like how it was in 1980s.

[@dozierstadium]

@@silveriver9 Yeah, I was comparing 90s Beijing with 90s Mongolia. At that time it was hideous.

[@rocco_420]

I'm so glad to see you making videos again. I enjoy your work a lot.

[@MyVintageLife]

A stunningly enlightening documentary, Nick! A real eye opener for me.

[@fijiPUNK]

You fall ill to a respiratory illness and you come back to document the many realities of along the most polluted cities in the world An absolute legend among humans

[@mikeoxlong5843]

Who says Nick had a respiratory illness ?

[@samdekker90]

​@@mikeoxlong5843he did in a post a few weeks ago

[@fijiPUNK]

@@mikeoxlong5843 read his pinned comment on the video before this one

[@misomar7193]

yes when you get sick you don’t just give up lol

[@Mongol1232]

lol it’s only polluted during the winter stupid, he came during the summer when there is almost zero pollution

[@scottmeredith3359]

Just an electric utility worker here, electric transmission lines absolutely do NOT put off “radiation”. What are you talking about? There are obviously a lot of pollutants there, but transmission conductors are not a source.

[@EddieGillies-lj8dp]

Yes he talks a lot of BS and paints Mongolia very negative.

[@RichardHarlos]

_"Electric and magnetic fields, also known as electromagnetic fields (EMF), consist of waves of electric and magnetic energy moving together. These energy fields surround us all the time. The World Health Organization, an agency of the United Nations, classifies extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans based on limited evidence showing an association with childhood leukemia. However, scientific studies have not consistently shown whether exposure to any source of EMF increases cancer risk. Scientists continue to conduct research on the possible health effects of exposure to EMFs in order to improve health risk assessments and protection programs."_

[@RichardHarlos]

@@EddieGillies-lj8dp wrote, _"he talks a lot of BS and paints Mongolia very negative."_ You seem to be confused. That's what you're doing. What he said in the video is easily verified by searching online. But you can't be bothered to do that, right? Instead, you just form opinions out of thin air, and then accuse other people of doing what you do. Fix yourself.

[@EddieGillies-lj8dp]

@@RichardHarlos blah, blah, blah. You have no idea, especially about Mongolia. So take your advice and fix yourself.

[@RichardHarlos]

@@EddieGillies-lj8dp You didn't refute anything I wrote. Instead, what you did is revert to a 9-year old mentality. Maybe if you'd grow up instead of being a punk, you might learn something. Fix yourself.

[@alecrechtiene558]

Mongolia is endlessly intriguing to me.

[@c7flat13]

For me these kind of videos are what KZbin is all about. Youd never get this content on any mainstream broadcast travel show. They are all superficial and glossed over. My ignorant impression was exactly what you showed at the beginning of the video. I had never even heard of Mongolia's capitol. This was truly enlightening. The depth and granular representation are what I crave. Thank you.

[@SmileyOscarDoscar]

Good to see you again, I have been watching for you! Glad you feel better.

[@CarlMiller-ql2wz]

You should do a video showcasing the dangers of illness while travelling. Not enough people really know how easy it is to get violently ill just from the water.

[@rob41n]

Ulanbaatar is rank 982 in polluted cities, its a lie to call it most polluted city. Majority is in India, like top 100

[@paschaluzoma1429]

everyone on reality check and talk...welcome to real life

[@effingcool1780]

I mean if you want to experience and talk about pollution maybe visit during the winter. There is no pollution during the summer, none is burning a coal

[@LandoCalani404]

Waiting for you to release your next vlog. I always get hooked up on these, I even wished they were longer.

[@chitraghosh3167]

Prayers for your good health, great show as always . So nice to see you after such a long time. God bless you.

[@pewpewTN]

Electric vehicles are actually worse for the enviornment right now. It's just an extra step to get your energy. Instead of just burning fossil fuels in a combustion engine, you are burning fossil fuels in a power plant & using them to charge a lithium battey.

[@chubbylilredhead1960]

Good to see you Nick!!!

[@IndigoTraveller]

🤍🤍🤍🤍

[@TheNails3]

That little boy at 6:24 giving you a fist bump was so cute

[@murin7185]

😂

[@videoclipsdude]

man boith of your editing and documentary skills developed SO EFFIN MUICH over the years. i am glad to see your movies

[@seved6618]

Thanks mate, once again for a video with such insight in an environment we are not familiar with. It's awesome to have you back, to enjoy your videos and to see the way you act amongst those people - fills me with joy and greatfulness! ☺️ As always keep going - you are such a motivation! 100% support from here brother ❤ Best wishes Sevi🙏🙏

[@dexterrr9163]

Born and raised in Ub. City is getting overpopulated for over 2 decade because we dont have enough paying jobs outside of UB and hospital, schools are limited. i hate to live here during winter because everything is basically trying to kill you. Traffic is also 2nd biggest problem after pollution so I have to spent more time outside destroying my lungs and kidneys. Everything is centerred in very small downtown of UB and our politicians spent billions doing nothing its kinda sad. And average salary is around 300$ with tax taking away the 20%. I love to go camping around mongolia traveling 1000's of kms during summer. We have high mountans, dessert gobis, vast steppes basically everything except ocean.

[@paulb1951]

I’d love to only pay 20% tax 😢

[@erikerik3750]

hen chmaas asuusiin

[@kenadams218]

@@paulb1951 20% of $300 is actually a significant amount. The prices of groceries in Mongolia are comparable to those in developed countries like Australia, Korea, and Japan. For example, the average salary in Australia is around $4,000, and beef costs about $7 per kilogram, while in Mongolia, beef costs around $9 per kilogram. Therefore, living in Mongolia after a 20% tax can be challenging.

[@paulb1951]

@@kenadams218and that changes my wish to only pay 20% any different? Actually paid over $1000 tax this week. Bet there’s no $800k houses you need to mortgage or $700 a week homes to rent, if you wish to compare costs of living

[@electricmachinesub]

Дундаж цалин 2023 онд 700$ буюу 2.3 сөя төгрөг болсон, Статистикийн ерөнхий хороо гаргасан шүү дээ. Хаанаас, хэдэн оны 300$ гэж гаргаад мэдэмхийрээд байдаг юм бэ.

[@JulianoBrumate]

Great Man. Thank you very much for your videos.

[@nataliekirhen42]

I am happy you’re back! I really like the way you and your lovely interpreter interact in this video!

[@IndigoTraveller]

Much appreciated!

[@ivdelch9242]

The best country-definitely a nature unique in every sense, those never ending green hills and cold harsh weather, beautiful mountains give peace to the mind.

[@visionofwellboyofficial]

Thank you for visiting, wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🎄☃️

[@nsofwawalklog]

I'm glad you are feeling better

[@baslouwerse4042]

it isnt the most polluted city in the world. Acording to iQair it ranks 32 and other sources say so as well. Do you have a source for this factually incorrect claim?

[@kiwififochef510]

He did suggest most polluted capital city..

[@baslouwerse4042]

@@kiwififochef510 Indeed, but that is also not true: delhi is the most polluted capital city.

[@aviation1337]

Actually it might be Hanoi, Vietnam that's the most polluted capital on a year basis. When I check Air Visual Hanoi is almost always before any other capital with numbers of 150+ 24/7 year round

[@godbluffvdgg]

They keep showing the Nuke power plant emissions as pollution IT'S WATER VAPOR...

[@axelstudio42]

Yes, kinda seem like he tried to fit his narrative into look like reality. Also he was standing beside construction hole filled with rain water and talked about infrastructure. But then I guess he can’t show anything worse than he already did, he decided to pack and leave. Without producing any more episodes.

[@joej783]

Dramatic music, pretty nitpicked footages, completely ignored 80% of the city center. UB is a beautiful city but after being to many Asian cities and let me say UB is by far better in my opinion by safety and pollution wise

[@Nouvellecosse]

Ok but there's lots of info online discussing the air pollution issues. There's even a section about it on the city's wiki page. So it isn't fair to imply that he just invented an inaccurate narrative. So the pollution problem exists whether or not he showed the wrong source of the pollution.

[@joej783]

@@Nouvellecosse is that the only notable thing to show about a city? No. Do better

[@axelstudio42]

@@Nouvellecosse He didn't specify air pollution. Also the air pollution comes from burning raw coals, it's excessive only during winter. If he really wanted to show that, why couldn't he have come during winter. Why he called the city most polluted in the world. When in reality it's not even in top 100. Remember pollution comes in many different forms. I've been to some other countries that literally looked and smelled like trash dump site. With a thick fog walls from trash burning. Also some cities people were drinking grey and yellow water. Have you seen anything close to that in this video? But he implies Ulaanbaatar is somehow worse than those cities. Our country is trying to rebound from covid and trying to receive more tourists. Ministry of tourism started 3 year program called Go Mongolia. Funded by our taxpayers money. But then someone who didn't even properly read about Mongolia just casually lies and makes a video for his many followers.

[@vinniedaniels3521]

Awesome to see you back and hope you have been safe. Really missed your vids...

[@jameswalker68]

Our boy Nick is back! So good to see you mate. So sorry to hear you were so unwell - so even more pleased to see you doing what you do best! Loved this - always been a little fascinated by Mongolia. Thanks as always ❤ Best wishes from James in Melbourne

[@IndigoTraveller]

Thank you James!

[@jameswalker68]

@@IndigoTraveller Thanks for the response, Nick. Much love and respect to you buddy!

[@justusschmitz9206]

I lived in 22/23 the winter in Ulaanbaatar and worked as a teacher. Such a great city and the smoke condition was not that bad.

[@lambod9359]

Which school did you teach

[@gadaadyn8190]

RPCV?