Denise Riegel is a USA assistant construction manager embarking on a round-the-world journey.
The Snapshot
- **Departure:** 2004
- **Duration:** 6-12 months
- **Age:** 50
- **Budget:** $26,200 USD (2026 equivalent)
- **Nationality:** USA
- **Occupation:** Assistant Construction Manager
The Route
you plan to visit?Still open, but think I’ll travel east, Africa, W Europe, E Europe, SE
Asia, New Zealand, S Pacific
Regions: Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania
2026 Note: Travel conditions, visa requirements, and costs have evolved significantly since this profile was originally recorded.
In Their Words
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 asa person?I grew up in a small town. I moved as an adult to Hawaii with my husband
and everyone throught 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 mater 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
- This profile was recorded before departure. Many travelers never return home quite the same.
- This journey is now 22 years in the past. The world has changed significantly.
- Exchange rates and travel costs have shifted considerably since the original planning date.