Susan Elisabeth Davis is a filmmaker from Australia based in Australia. Decided to take this trip because our children are the right age to do it (8 and 11) and we are in a rut and drinking too much booze. We are into this type of travel because we have Romany heritage and just love to be on the road without too much of a schedule going on.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2002
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Original budget: $20,000 (approximately $36,700 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Europe, Asia
The Route
We are driving from southern New South Wales up to Cairns which is in north Queensland. From there we will fly to Japan and meet up with a friend in Tokyo for a few days and then to Kyoto and from there to Kanazawa on the north-west coast and then on to Takeyama in the mountains and then back to Kyoto, then maybe to an amazing little paper making village called Kuratani. That is as far as our itinerary goes and from there we will wing it and go where the wind blows us. We have a house to stay in at Peveragnio in the northwest of Italy so will head vaguely in that direction.
Note: Originally planned for 2002, this route represents the traveler's intended RTW journey.
The planned route through Europe, Asia reflects a strategic approach to experiencing vastly different cultures, climates, and ways of life. Each region offers distinct advantages for travelers: rich historical sites, contemporary culture, unique cuisines, and opportunities for meaningful connections with local communities.
In Their Words
Here's what Susan Elisabeth Davis 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? Decided to take this trip because our children are the right age to do it (8 and 11) and we are in a rut and drinking too much booze. We are into this type of travel because we have Romany heritage and just love to be on the road without too much of a schedule going on.
What is your biggest fear about this trip? That there will come a day when we have to head back home/one of us will get sick/we run into a war.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip? Don’t plan, put the word out that you are going… pretty soon someone will tell you about your first destination. Pack a bag, walk out the door.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be? Get me out of here.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling? That it is expensive.
Why do you like to travel? Hate being in one place for too long.
Reflections on RTW Travel
Round-the-world travel represents a significant undertaking that combines careful planning with flexibility and adaptability. Susan's experience demonstrates the importance of balancing preparation with spontaneity, understanding both the practical and emotional dimensions of extended travel. Whether traveling solo or with companions, the RTW journey offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth, cultural understanding, and expanded global perspective. The stories and advice from travelers like these continue to inspire new generations to explore the world.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of $20,000 would equate to approximately $36,700 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 84% inflation over the intervening years.
- Travel landscape: Since 2002, global travel patterns, visa requirements, and infrastructure have evolved significantly, impacting how travelers plan and execute RTW journeys.
- Legacy perspective: The original concerns, excitement, and travel advice captured here reflect a specific moment in travel history and offer valuable insight into how traveler motivations and planning approaches have evolved.