Denise Riegel is a 50-year-old assistant construction manager from Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2004.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2004
- Age at departure: 50
- Nationality: USA
- Location: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Occupation: Assistant construction manager
- Original budget: about USD 14,700 (approximately USD 26,200 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Africa, Europe, Southeast Asia, Oceania
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Denise Riegel shared about their RTW journey:
Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
Have wanted to join the peace corps since 1970 and never had the chance. My way of seeing the world and meeting people of different cultures. Life gets more global every year and I want to participate, or at least understand more about someplace other than home. Ultimate goal? To make a difference in someone’s life as I hope everyone I meet along the way will make in mine.
How do you think your round-the-world trip will change your life? How do you think it will affect and change you as a person?
I grew up in a small town. I moved as an adult to Hawaii with my husband and everyone thought we were crazy. It’s opened my eyes to the world. Honolulu is very global. I met so many people from other countries and realized there is a wanderlust in me I must pursue. RTW is a way to learn about this new part of me. I hope it changes me and makes me more aware of people as individuals, no matter what walk of life they’re from. I’m sure I will learn a ton about myself along the way. Kind of a mid-life enlightenment.
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Going it alone. But who can wait for someone else to get the time, courage or money.
Have you traveled around the world before?
No.
Why do you like to travel?
People, people, people. I am looking forward to meeting them everywhere.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Read as much as you can. There are some really awesome books and internet sites out there with people willing to share. Learn from their experiences and mistakes.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's early-2000s budget would equate to approximately USD 26,200 in 2026 purchasing power (roughly USD 14,700 at 2004 prices, about 78% cumulative inflation).