Nicki Cornwell was 24 years old when planning their round-the-world journey in 2006. Based in Minneapolis, MN, USA, Nicki was working as waitress and esl education before embarking on their adventure. About the journey, Nicki shared, "My roommate and I have decided that since we’ve graduated college, we may as well avoid the “real world” of work, by getting out to experience the real world."
The Snapshot
Age: 24
Nationality: USA
Duration: 3-6 months
Budget: USD 6,500 (approximately 10600 USD in 2026)
Departure: 2006
The Route
Regions: Europe, Southeast Asia, Africa, Oceania
Meeting up with my travel buddy in Dakar, Senegal for some fun, then we’re off to Morocco, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Austria, Thailand, and finishing my leg of the journey in New Zealand.
Spanning multiple continents, Nicki's itinerary covered europe, southeast asia, africa, oceania, offering exposure to diverse cultures, landscapes, and travel experiences.
Note: This interview was conducted in 2006. The travel landscape, accommodation costs, transportation infrastructure, visa requirements, and accessibility have evolved significantly by 2026.
In Their Words
Q: How long do you plan to be away?
1-6 Months
Q: How much have you saved?
After airfare, about $6,500 USD
Q: What is the route you plan to take/places you plan to visit?
Meeting up with my travel buddy in Dakar, Senegal for some fun, then we’re off to Morocco, Spain, Czech Republic, Hungary, Austria, Thailand, and finishing my leg of the journey in New Zealand.
Q: Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
My roommate and I have decided that since we’ve graduated college, we may as well avoid the “real world” of work, by getting out to experience the real world.
Q: What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Running out of money.
Q: Are your family, friends, co-workers, etc., supportive of you? What is their opinion of your going around the world?
They have all been extremely supportive, most have expressed a “Wow, I wish I could do something like that.” To which one must reply, “You Can.”. The others think I’m a little crazy, but well, things are more fun that way.
2026 Context
- This profile reflects round-the-world travel perspectives from the mid-2000s. The original budget of USD 6,500 would require approximately 10600 USD in 2026 when accounting for inflation and increased travel costs.
- The destinations and routes mentioned have experienced significant changes in accommodation costs, transportation infrastructure, visa policies, and overall accessibility to travelers.
- The RTW travel community, available travel tools, digital connectivity, and shared travel resources have evolved considerably over the past two decades, creating both new opportunities and challenges for contemporary travelers.