Lara Angelina Blake is a 20-year-old from Virginia, USA, who set off on an around-the-world trip in 2003.
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
- Departure: 2003
- Age at departure: 20
- Nationality: USA
- Location: Virginia, USA
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Original budget: USD 5,000 (approximately USD 9,000 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Europe, Middle East, Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Lara Angelina Blake shared about their RTW journey:
What is your advice for other travelers?
Consider bringing a sarong. And duct tape – lots of duct tape. Emergency money always comes in handy for, well, emergencies.
What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?
A change of clothes, some hygienic stuff, a journal, a tent, a sleeping bag, and a 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.
What is the biggest myth people have about round-the-world travel?
I’ve been told that it’s not nearly as expensive as most people seem to think.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 5,000 would equate to approximately USD 9,000 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 80% inflation over the intervening years.