Kirsty McLeod is a Before your trip: Just graduated from highschool Now: Going into University from Scotland based in Aberdeen, Scotland. I decided to take the trip because I didn’t want to go straight to University from High School (yes, I am lazy).
I wanted to see the world.
Meet new people.
I’m quite a shy person so I hoped to build more confidence and get a more realistic take on life.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2004
- Age at departure: 18
- Original budget: $8,000 (approximately $14,000 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Europe, Southeast Asia, Oceania
The Route
London – Delhi, India – Mumbai, India – Goa, India – Mumbai – Jaipur, India – Agra, India – Delhi, India – Singapore – Bangkok, Thailand – Siem Reap, Cambodia – Phnom Pehn, Cambodia – Saigon, Vietnam – Singapore – Sydney, Australia – Singapore – London
Note: Originally planned for 2004, this route represents the traveler's intended RTW journey.
The planned route through Europe, Southeast Asia, Oceania 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 Kirsty McLeod 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 decided to take the trip because I didn’t want to go straight to University from High School (yes, I am lazy). I wanted to see the world. Meet new people. I’m quite a shy person so I hoped to build more confidence and get a more realistic take on life.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip? Go for it.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling? that it’s a big drugs fest. I never witnessed one drug (and I went to Goa) If youre not looking for it, you wont find it
Why do you like to travel? because i like being Kirsty, the foreigner, rather than that local girl. I love meeting new people and seeing different things
Reflections on RTW Travel
Round-the-world travel represents a significant undertaking that combines careful planning with flexibility and adaptability. Kirsty'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 $8,000 would equate to approximately $14,000 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 75% inflation over the intervening years.
- Travel landscape: Since 2004, 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.