Alex Smith is a 34-year-old nurse from Brighton, England, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2005.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2005
- Age at departure: 34
- Nationality: England
- Location: Brighton, England
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Occupation: Nurse
- Original budget: $9,600 (approximately $16,200 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Southeast Asia, Asia
The Route
Starting in Thailand, then Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, China, maybe Myanmar, and who knows where else.
In Their Words
Here's what Alex Smith 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 have been kinda planning this trip since i got back from the last big trip 5 years ago (India & Nepal) then i inherited a bit of money and couldnt think what else to spend it on. Suppose i got into this type of travel during the 1 year working holiday round Oz
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
trying not to think about it 😉
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
Pack as light as you can
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be?
Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee i cant wait
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling?
that is is from 18 – 25 year olds only. some of the most prolific travellers i have met have been aged 40 plus.
Why do you like to travel?
nothing else offers as much freedom and chance to meet new people. Its also pretty fun to party as much as you can whilst travelling.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of $9,600 would equate to approximately $16,200 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 69% inflation over the intervening years.