Mike G is a 29-year-old TV writer/producer from New York City, USA, who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2006.
I got laid off when the show I worked on got cancelled. Had the money saved up and I’d been talking about doing something like this for years… no girlfriend, no job, a little tired of New York… now or never.
The Snapshot
- Departure: 2006
- Age at departure: 29
- Nationality: USA
- Location: New York City, USA
- Duration: 3-6 months
- Occupation: TV writer/producer
- Original budget: USD 8,000 (approximately USD 13,100 in 2026 dollars)
- Regions: Asia, Southeast Asia
The Route
Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Koh Tao.
In Their Words
Here's what Mike G shared about their RTW journey:
What is your biggest fear about this trip?
that i will not enjoy traveling alone and that my homesickness will ruin my time…
Are your family, friends, co-workers, etc., supportive of you? What is their opinion of your going around the world?
most friends are supportive, understand my situation and are cheering me on. parents are wary, scared and a little confused as to why i would go alone.
2026 Context
- Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 8,000 would equate to approximately USD 13,100 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 64% inflation over the intervening years.