Nick Wusz – Around-the-World Traveler is a post trip from Prineville, Oregon, USA. Currently working as a Before your trip: Mechanical Engineer, this 26-year-old from USA is preparing for one of life's greatest journeys: traveling around the world.
About the Journey
We met so many people that had travelled like this while we were living in London. They inspired us and made us realize how little exposure travelling gets in the USA. Such a shame.
The Snapshot
Age: 26
Nationality: USA
Location: Prineville, Oregon, USA
Planned Duration: Not specified
Original Budget: USD 15,000
2026 Equivalent: USD 27500
The Route
Lived in London for two years, and we left there in May 2002. From there, in order: Czech, Poland, Slovakia, fly to Greece, Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, fly to Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Malaysia, Singapore, fly to Australia, fly to New Zealand, fly to Cook Islands, fly to Los Angeles.
Regions: Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa, Oceania, Middle East
Note: Profile collected in 2002. Budget figures inflation-adjusted to 2026 USD.
In Their Words
Q: When did you go on your RTW trip?
May 2002-January 2003
Q: How old were you when you took this trip?
26
Q: Including your air ticket and other expenses (from accommodation to souvenir-buying), about how much did your trip cost?
$15000USD for 2
Q: Nationality
USA
Q: Where do you live now?
Prineville, Oregon, USA
Q: Occupation
Before your trip: Mechanical Engineer
Traveler's Insights
Advice for other travelers: There is such a thing as too much travelling. Remember to spread your plan out and be prepared for it to change. It’s OK to check out the Lonely Planets before you leave, but just remember, with or without those books, you will end up in the same places as everyone else. The travellers’ route is very deep and it is hard to get out of the rut of the route sometimes – do it though. Those are your best times, when you see and hear no other travellers.
Common misconception: Not sure.
2026 Context
Budget inflation: The USD 15,000 from 2002 now requires approximately USD 27500 in 2026, a 83% 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.