Chris Smith is a 24-year-old development scientist from England who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2006.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2006
- Age at departure: 24
- Nationality: England
- Location: England
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Occupation: Development scientist
- Original budget: Approximately USD 6,500 in 2026 dollars
- Regions: Southeast Asia, Oceania
The Route
London to Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand.
In Their Words
Here's what Chris Smith shared about their RTW journey:
Is this job one that you actually like, or are you only doing it to pay for the trip?
I’ll come back if they’ll have me.
Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
Boredom and interest of other countries.
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Running out of money and being stranded.
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?
Not sure yet.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be?
Cant wait.
Why do you think people should go on round-the-world trips? Why not just take a regular old one- or two-week vacation instead?
See honestly how people in other countries live.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's budget equates to approximately USD 6,500 in 2026 purchasing power.