Victoria Smith is preparing for an around-the-world journey starting in 2004. Ready to explore multiple continents and experience diverse cultures.
Snapshot
- Departure: 2004
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Age: 20
- Budget: GBP 2,000 (USD 3,200, or USD 5,600 in 2026 dollars)
- Location: Cheshire, England
- Occupation: Accounts assistant
The Route
you plan to visit?Eastern Asia (Singapore), Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Mexico, USA
surface stops.
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?It has always been my dream from a child to see the world, it’s a once in a
lifetime opportunity.
What is your biggest fear about this
trip?Going alone, being lonely as well as home sick.
What is your advice for people planning
their own RTW trip?Just do it
What is the biggest myth that people have
about round-the-world traveling?Travelers always get kidnapped.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings
about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would itbe?Be free, live life, and open your eyes because the world will be my oyster.
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.