Shauna Donfeld is a 27-year-old teacher from California, USA, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2005.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2005
- Age at departure: 27
- Nationality: USA
- Location: California, USA
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Occupation: Teacher
- Original budget: USD 20,000 (approximately USD 33,800 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Oceania, Africa, South America
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Shauna Donfeld shared about their RTW journey:
Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
I have traveled for a few month chunks now and then, and lived in Costa Rica for awhile, but doing a big trip has always been my dream. To just through caution to the wind and see the world in one swoop…So I can spend the rest of my travel days revisiting and filling in the gaps. Travelling is my passion!
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
I guess the initial solo time…. and the first bout of inevitable montezuma’s revenge in India… and maybe not planing enough – spontaneity is more my style, but this is a big one to wing it.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Make it happen!
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 have been wanting and planning to do this trip for so long, I don’t know what I’ll think about when I get back. Anything could happen, so there’s no way to tell how I’ll change….
What are you packing? What do you consider your most indispensable item(s)?
Packing? Not even close to that… but I’ve heard good things about those Keen sandals… All I know is less is more.
Are your family, friends, co-workers, etc., supportive of you? What is their opinion of your going around the world?
Some have been great and want to visit me along the way, some think I’m crazy (but they still want to meet up at some point.)
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 20,000 would equate to approximately USD 33,800 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 69% inflation over the intervening years.