Brian Setzer was 29 years old when planning their round-the-world journey in 2006. Based in Oklahoma, USA, Brian was working as mine superintendent before embarking on their adventure. About the journey, Brian shared, "Have always wanted to go to Australia for an extended trip and found a bunch of other places that I want to see also."
The Snapshot
Age: 29
Nationality: USA
Duration: 6-12 months
Budget: USD 30,000 (approximately 49100 USD in 2026)
Departure: 2006
The Route
Regions: Asia, Oceania
Oklahoma -> Boundary Waters -> Glacier National Park -> Portland -> San Diego -> Cook Islands -> New Zealand -> Australia -> Southeast Asia -> Return to USA
Spanning multiple continents, Brian's itinerary covered asia, 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?
6-12 Months
Q: How much have you saved?
30000
Q: What is the route you plan to take/places you plan to visit?
Oklahoma -> Boundary Waters -> Glacier National Park -> Portland -> San Diego -> Cook Islands -> New Zealand -> Australia -> Southeast Asia -> Return to USA
Q: Why did you decide to take this trip? What got you into this type of travel, and/or influenced you to go?
Have always wanted to go to Australia for an extended trip and found a bunch of other places that I want to see also.
Q: What is your biggest fear about this trip?
Staying healthy. I have ulcerative colitis and know that it will be difficult to deal while being on the road for a year.
Q: Are your family, friends, co-workers, etc., supportive of you? What is their opinion of your going around the world?
Extrememly supportive by everyone. My family and friends are all for it and jealous. My company gave me a year leave of absense with no hassles what so ever and are bringing back to the same position.
2026 Context
- This profile reflects round-the-world travel perspectives from the mid-2000s. The original budget of USD 30,000 would require approximately 49100 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.