Rex is a 22-year-old student from Sydney, Australia, who took a round-the-world trip in 2003.
I decided to travel because I thought that I should get out there before starting a new job with new responsibilities. I originally planned to do some volunteer work in Costa Rica, but my friend was finishing at the same time as me and we both decided to travel together.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2003
- Age at departure: 22
- Nationality: Australia
- Location: Sydney, Australia
- Duration: About 6 months (July 2003 – January 2004)
- Occupation: Student
- Original budget: USD 15,000 (AU$15,000; approximately USD 26,900 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Southeast Asia, Europe, North America, South America
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Rex shared about their RTW journey:
What is your advice for other travelers?
Once you’ve made up your mind to do it, stick to it. Don’t let anyone talk you out of it, cause while you’re there, you’ll understand what other travellers are talking about.
What is the biggest myth people have about round-the-world travel?
I think the biggest myth is that the accommodation is horrific and it would be hard to live without the luxuries of your normal life. It was surprisingly easy.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 15,000 would equate to approximately USD 26,900 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 79% inflation over the intervening years.