Daphne Laura Cook
Round-the-World Traveler Round the World Travel GuideYour One-stop Source to Plan & Book Around-the-World Trips
September 2003
6-12 Months
$15K+
35
USA
Chicago, Illinois, USA
Project Manager
It's my career
No
Hawaii, Hong Kong, Beijing, Hanoi, Saigon, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Southern Thailand Beaches, Malaysia (unsure where yet need help), Indonesia (at least Bali, need help with locations safe for solo woman traveller)
Work not going so well, need an exteneded vacation, compelled to do this now. During one of my short flights, met this guy from India who talked about RTW vacation. I was inspired.
Safety in Muslim countries like Indonesia although the experience will outweigh concerns, I think. Still need to do a load of research on Malaysia & Indonesia.
Family is concerned for my safety, especially since the US is going to war.
Just Enough
Bringing very little clothes, plan to dress like the locals, considering custom-made travel clothes in Hong Kong & Bangkok. Water purifier, headlamp, guidebooks, makeup, toiletries, binoculars.
I'm looking to grow personally, want to learn about other cultures & engage in a lifetime experience that I can share with friends & family. Should have done this right out of college, couldn't afford it. Yes, I believe this will change my perception of the world. I will have a new appreciation of the US & other cultures.
I'm excited and scared at the same time to face a new life time experience.
To live outside of our everyday box. Never know until you try it, especially if you love to travel. I'm going to try it. 1-2 weeks is never enough time for a full experience.
I think that it could be extremely lonely. Can't imagine wanting to come home early.
Love food, new experiences & interaction with different cultures. Memorable conversations is what I remember most about my foreign travels.
I think, try to prepare but not over-prepare to learn about the culture. Don't force Western styles or behavior. In other words, when in Rome, do as the Romans, whether it's traditions, learning the language, even a little, try something new like food. Be open to a new life-altering experiencee.
