Sarah Imogen Watkins is preparing for an around-the-world journey starting in 2002. Ready to explore multiple continents and experience diverse cultures.
Snapshot
- Departure: 2002
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Age: 27
- Budget: GBP 15
- Location: London, England
- Occupation: Public Relations
- Traveled before: No
The Route
We’re starting in South Africa and plan to stay there for 2 months, then over to Australia for 4 months, New Zealand for 3 months and not sure after that, as Bali and SE Asia were next. Hopefully things will be a bit calmer by the time we’re ready to go there…
In Their Words
Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
My partnerand I have just got married and have always talked about doing this, but it never felt like the right time. However, with the economy the way it is, now is the best time ever and it’s our last adventure before we do our bit for repopulating the planet!
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Not having enough money to do everything we would like (within reason!) Also, getting ripped off, as I’ve heard a few scary stories about South Africa.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Make sure you set a date ASAP, otherwise it’s easy to keep postponing it – there is no time like the present! Also, use the local advisors on BootsnAll for any questions you have about places you are visiting as it can save you time and money and is more reliable than your travel agent, who has probably never been!
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling?
That it’s too hard to organise, or that they are too old to do it. Once you put your mind to it, you can achieve amazing things, and there is nothing that can’t be sorted out.
How do you think your round-the-world trip will change your life? How do you think it will affect and change you as a person?
I’m hoping it will stop me being so materialistic, and also help me to meet lots of different people, as living in London makes you so unfriendly and suspicious of everyone! I’m also looking forward to seeing so many different ways of life, and to gain an understanding of other cultures in a positive way.
What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?
I’m packing mainly summer clothes as most of the places we’re going will be hot, plus they don’t take up so much room. I think my hooded fleece must be my most important item, as it’s very warm and cosy, and I hate the cold! I’m also taking a hairdryer and straighteners, although my husband thinks I’m mad – they are only old so can easily be thrown away, but I can’t break my addiction to them just like that!
2026 Context
- Southeast Asia backpacker infrastructure has grown significantly, with better accommodation standards and higher prices than in the early 2000s.
- Digital nomad visas have transformed countries like Thailand and Vietnam, increasing costs but improving connectivity.
- Visa situations have shifted: India now requires advance visa applications, and overland routes are more restricted.