Michelle Tsai is a 27-year-old from Michigan, USA, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2004.
Have always taken every opportunity to travel the world, but only in 2-3 weeks at a time. When I learned that my company offered sabbaticals, I HAD to take advantage of it.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2004
- Age at departure: 27
- Nationality: USA
- Location: Michigan, USA
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Original budget: USD 20,000 (approximately USD 34,900 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Europe, Africa, Oceania, South America, Antarctica
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Michelle Tsai shared about their RTW journey:
Is this job one that you actually like, or are you only doing it to pay for the trip?
It’s my career.
What is your advice for other travelers?
Everyone has to do it their own way. Listen to other people’s advice, but take it as just that – other people’s advice.
What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?
Light, non cotton clothes, non wrinkle clothes. Probably too many electronics.
What is the biggest myth people have about round-the-world travel?
That you have to win the lottery to afford it.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 20,000 would equate to approximately USD 34,900 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 74% inflation over the intervening years.