Patricia Jones – Round-the-World Traveler

Patricia Jones is a 50-year-old registered nurse from the USA who set off on a round-the-world trip in 2008.

After Sept 11th I got up off my ass and took a trip to Italy for a month. I cried coming home. The next year I quit my job and went for 7 weeks to England, France and Italy. I am addicted.

The Snapshot

• Departure: 2008
• Age at departure: 50
• Nationality: USA
• Location: USA
• Duration: 6-12 months
• Occupation: Registered nurse
• Original budget: USD 4,500 (approximately USD 6,900 in 2026 dollars)
• Regions: North America, Europe, South Asia, Southeast Asia

The Route

New York to San Francisco, the Redwoods, Sedona, Albuquerque, and the Grand Canyon, then on to Mexico (Taxco, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Copper Canyon, and Cozumel); fly to Spain, Greece, Crete, Italy, and Bruges, then on to France and Ireland; a flight to India, and wrap up in Bali and Thailand.

In Their Words

Here's what Patricia Jones shared about their RTW journey:

What is your biggest fear about this trip?

Not having enough money. Getting sick and wondering who will take care of my cat. I still haven't decided whether to keep my apartment or put things into storage.

Are your family, friends, co-workers, etc., supportive of you? What is their opinion of your going around the world?

I don't think they believe me.

2026 Context

• Budget inflation: This traveler's original budget of USD 4,500 would equate to approximately USD 6,900 in 2026 purchasing power, reflecting roughly 53% inflation over the intervening years.