Paul Dumas is a 71-year-old retiree from Paris, France, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2003.
Always been travelling for about 50 years, from China to Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, etc.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2003
- Age at departure: 71
- Nationality: France
- Location: Paris, France
- Duration: 3-6 months
- Original budget: USD 40,000 for two travelers (approximately USD 71,700 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: South Asia, Southeast Asia, Oceania, South America, Europe
The Route
India, Thailand, Burma, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Brazil, Spain, and France.
In Their Words
Here's what Paul Dumas shared about their RTW journey:
What is your advice for other travelers?
It is easier than you think, and people are more friendly than you expect.
What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?
Camcorder and prescription medicine.
What is the biggest myth people have about round-the-world travel?
Cost and fear. My own fear: that no one understands my Frenchy English.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 40,000 would equate to approximately USD 71,700 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 79% inflation over the intervening years.