Many people keep track of the number of countries they have visited.
But when does a country count?
Typically there are three possible ways of counting countries.
The first one is ultra minimalitic and easiest to get by: even a port of call (cruise) or scheduled stop(over) at an airport is already sufficient to add the country to your list. Using these criteria  even putting one foot into another country without going through immigration counts.
The second one has still minimal requirements: you must go through immigration and customs but that is sufficient and no real stay in or visit of the country is required. 
The third one is a ‘valid’ or ‘good’ visit whereby you not only have to go through immigration and customs with the necessary visa but also should properly visit the country, see at least one highlight and have a story to tell. about it.”
The third way of counting countries is used by us.”