Lara Angelina Blake – Around-the-World Traveler is a pre trip from Virginia, USA. Currently working as a Retail Shivers, this 20-year-old from USA is preparing for one of life's greatest journeys: traveling around the world.
About the Journey
It was something I’ve always wanted to do since I was young. Not sure why, exactly. I guess I’ve always just loved adventure. Plus I figured I might as well do it now before the government catches up with me. Err, I mean, umm…
The Snapshot
Age: 20
Nationality: USA
Location: Virginia, USA
Planned Duration: 1-2 years
Original Budget: USD 5,000
2026 Equivalent: USD 9000
The Route
you plan to visit? UK, Ireland, Wing my way through the rest of Western Europe, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, India, Nepal, China (east), Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China (west), Japan.
Regions: Europe, Southeast Asia, Middle East
Note: Profile collected in 2003. Budget figures inflation-adjusted to 2026 USD.
In Their Words
Q: When do you leave?
December 2003
Q: How long do you plan to be away?
1-2 Years
Q: How much have you saved?
$5,000
Q: How old are you?
20
Q: Nationality
USA
Q: Where do you live now?
Virginia, USA
Traveler's Insights
Advice for other travelers: Consider bringing a Sarong. And duct tape – lots of duct tape. Emergency money always comes in handy as for, well, emergencies.
Packing essentials: A change of clothes, some hygienic stuff, a journal, tent, sleeping bag, bit of reading material. I’m surprised I fit it all in a medium sized backpack with room to spare. Most indispensable item? A sarong, of course. And duct tape’s a close second.
Common misconception: I’ve been told that it’s not nearly as expensive as most people seem to think.
2026 Context
Budget inflation: The USD 5,000 from 2003 now requires approximately USD 9000 in 2026, a 80% increase reflecting global economic changes and rising travel costs.
This pre trip profile captures round-the-world aspirations from the early 2000s. Modern travelers following similar routes should verify current visa requirements, safety conditions, and infrastructure in each destination.
Timeless principles: The planning foundations emphasized by this traveler remain essential. Thorough budgeting, visa research, family communication, and thoughtful preparation continue to support successful round-the-world journeys.