Eric A. Olear was 35 years old when planning their round-the-world journey in 2006. Based in New York, USA, Eric was working as teacher before embarking on their adventure. About the journey, Eric shared, "Started with a few trips to Europe, need more."
The Snapshot
Age: 35
Nationality: USA
Duration: 3-6 months
Budget: USD 15,000 (approximately 24600 USD in 2026)
Departure: 2006
The Route
Regions: Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, Africa, Oceania, Russia/Trans-Siberian
NY to Africa. Mt. Killi, Cairo
Europe. Greece, Crotaia, Russia
Asia. Beijing, VietNam, Bali
Austraila. Sydney, Great Barrier Reef
South America. Galopagos, Rio
Spanning multiple continents, Eric's itinerary covered europe, southeast asia, south america, africa, oceania, russia/trans-siberian, 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?
15,000.00
Q: What is the route you plan to take/places you plan to visit?
NY to Africa. Mt. Killi, Cairo
Europe. Greece, Crotaia, Russia
Asia. Beijing, VietNam, Bali
Austraila. Sydney, Great Barrier Reef
South America. Galopagos, Rio
Q: Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
Started with a few trips to Europe, need more.
Q: What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Traveling from Mt. Killi to Cairo (fly?), and being overwhelmed by the number of people in Asia. alone.
Visas. they seem elusive.
Q: Are your family, friends, co-workers, etc., supportive of you? What is their opinion of your going around the world?
They are all supportive. they are either envious or seem indiferent.
2026 Context
- This profile reflects round-the-world travel perspectives from the mid-2000s. The original budget of USD 15,000 would require approximately 24600 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.