Michelle Burwell is a 25-year-old waitress from Bournemouth, England, who set off on an open-ended round-the-world trip in 2007.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2007
- Age at departure: 25
- Nationality: England
- Location: Bournemouth, England
- Duration: Indefinite
- Occupation: Waitress
- Original budget: $6,400 (approximately $10,200 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: North America, Oceania, Southeast Asia, Asia, South Asia, Europe
The Route
In Their Words
Here's what Michelle Burwell 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?
Always wanted to experience different cultures and meet new people. I get bored in one place – a free spirit really. Took a month to go round Europe and got hooked on travel.
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Getting to New Zealand and not being able to get a job.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip?
do lots of research. how people travelled before the internet is a mystery and am in awe of them. Use forums and get advice from other travellers they are the best source of info.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be?
pure adrenaline fuelled excitement – cant wait to get started
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling?
That you need a lot of money to do it.
Why do you like to travel?
To be in different places and meet new people.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of $6,400 would equate to approximately $10,200 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 59% inflation over the intervening years.