Michael Hickmon – Around-the-World Traveler is a post trip from USA. Currently working as a Before your trip: Retired, this 65-year-old from USA is preparing for one of life's greatest journeys: traveling around the world.
About the Journey
The trip was a “Global Scavenger Hunt” organized by The Great Escape Foundation. They made all of the plans which were kept secret from all of the participents. It just sounded like fun.
The Snapshot
Age: 65
Nationality: USA
Location: USA
Planned Duration: Not specified
Original Budget: USD 11,000
2026 Equivalent: USD 19200
The Route
Headed West, Hong Kong, Saigon, Siem Reap, Bangkok, Delhi, Dubai, Casablanca, Madrid, Lisbon, New York and back home to L.A.
Regions: Middle East
Note: Profile collected in 2004. Budget figures inflation-adjusted to 2026 USD.
In Their Words
Q: When did you go on your RTW trip?
April 2004-May 2004
Q: How old were you when you took this trip?
65
Q: Including your air ticket and other expenses (from accommodation to souvenir-buying), about how much did your trip cost?
$11,000
Q: Nationality
USA
Q: Where do you live now?
USA
Q: Occupation
Before your trip: Retired
Traveler's Insights
Advice for other travelers: Don’t wait do it now. You never know what next year will bring.
Common misconception: People hear to many stories about bad things happening to people in far off places, and they get scared. The most dangerous part of the trip was the drive to the airport.
2026 Context
Budget inflation: The USD 11,000 from 2004 now requires approximately USD 19200 in 2026, a 74% increase reflecting global economic changes and rising travel costs.
This post 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.