Russell S. Herrera – Around-the-World Traveler

Russell S. Herrera is a 26-year-old paralegal from Tustin, California, USA, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2004.

I have always been a nut when it comes to traveling, but reading a couple of the travel stories on this website just made me want to go for it.

The Snapshot

• Departure: 2004
• Age at departure: 26
• Nationality: USA
• Location: Tustin, California, USA
• Duration: 1-2 years
• Occupation: Paralegal
• Original budget: Not disclosed
• Regions: Oceania, South Asia, Europe, Africa, South America

The Route

Starting off in Tasmania, making my way through Australia, South Asia, Europe, Africa, and South America, then into the U.S. and back home.

In Their Words

Here's what Russell S. Herrera shared about their RTW journey:

What is your advice for other travelers?

Go wherever you want.

What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?

I’m packing very, very light. I hate the idea of lugging around too much. My indispensable items would be my journal, my camera, a few pictures of my family… AND my passport.

What is the biggest myth people have about round-the-world travel?

I haven’t heard about myths. But my family thinks that if I go I may never come back (and not in a good way). I’m hoping that’s a myth.

2026 Context

• Budget inflation: This traveler did not disclose a budget ("still working on that one"); early-2000s round-the-world costs are substantially higher in 2026 (roughly 75% cumulative inflation).