Carlton Grooms & Family is a Photographer from USA based in St. Petersburg, FL , USA. We are young, healthy, financially able and our kids still like us. (They just entering Middle School and we want to avoid “That” period).
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2005
- Age at departure: 37
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Original budget: $100 (approximately $200 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Asia, Africa, Oceania, Middle East
The Route
Southern Africa, Dubai, SE Asia, Australia. With two kids we must base ourselves for around 2 months for school and to have some feel of stability for them. We will hit 28 countries in total overall.
Note: Originally planned for 2005, this route represents the traveler's intended RTW journey.
The planned route through Asia, Africa, Oceania, Middle East 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 Carlton Grooms & Family 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? We are young, healthy, financially able and our kids still like us. (They just entering Middle School and we want to avoid “That” period).
What is your biggest fear about this trip? Coming home.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip? Plan your gear list carefully. Buy it early so as to test it out and make sure you really need it and you know how to use it. Don’t plan your schedule carefully. Let the tide of new places and new faces move you along.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be? Anticipation of what is around the next corner.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling? It’s one long vacation.
Why do you like to travel? The world is a great and large place. Why miss it and life by sitting in a small corner of it?
Reflections on RTW Travel
Round-the-world travel represents a significant undertaking that combines careful planning with flexibility and adaptability. Carlton'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 $100 would equate to approximately $200 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 100% inflation over the intervening years.
- Travel landscape: Since 2005, 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.