Claire Hankey is a Bar Tender from England based in Leeds, England. Going alone and first major trip so chose’easy’ route plus want to work in Australia. Had enough of the rat race back at home so just wanna get away.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2006
- Age at departure: 22
- Duration: 6-12 months
- Original budget: $4,800 (approximately $7,900 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Europe, Southeast Asia, Oceania
The Route
London – LA – Fiji – NZ – Aus – Indonesia – Asia
Note: Originally planned for 2006, 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 Claire Hankey 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? Going alone and first major trip so chose’easy’ route plus want to work in Australia. Had enough of the rat race back at home so just wanna get away.
What is your biggest fear about this trip? Getting started, getting lost, having everything stolen.
What is your advice for people planning their own RTW trip? Just go for it, don’t plan too much or rely on anyone else.
If you had to sum up your thoughts/feelings about your round-the-world trip in one sentence, what would it be? Excited, nervous, itching to go and experience once in a lifetime chance.
What is the biggest myth that people have about round-the-world traveling? That it’s full of people who just don’t want to work.
Why do you like to travel? To try new things and see things that I never will in England.
Reflections on RTW Travel
Round-the-world travel represents a significant undertaking that combines careful planning with flexibility and adaptability. Claire'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 $4,800 would equate to approximately $7,900 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 65% inflation over the intervening years.
- Travel landscape: Since 2006, 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.