How Do You Travel The World? A Comprehensive Guide

Planning a trip around the world might seem like a far-fetched dream, but with careful planning and the right resources, it can become a reality. This guide, brought to you by TRAVELS.EDU.VN, unveils the secrets to planning your ultimate global adventure, transforming it from a mere fantasy into an unforgettable experience. Explore the world, embrace new cultures, and create memories that will last a lifetime with the guidance of TRAVELS.EDU.VN.

1. Soar Through the Skies with Airline Alliances

Air travel is the most practical way to see the world. Consider starting your adventure by purchasing a round-the-world plane ticket through an airline alliance. These alliances, which are partnerships between different airlines, allow you to book all of your flights in one go. While Skyteam has currently suspended sales of RTW tickets, you can explore other options. These alliances often offer regional passes, which can be a better option if you want to spend more time on one or two continents.

The two biggest alliances are:

• Star Alliance: A network of 26 airlines connecting 1,200 airports in 98% of the world’s countries.
• OneWorld: A group of 13 airlines serving around 1,000 destinations in almost as many countries.

Dawn over the ancient temples in Bagan scattered through the misty landscape

Dawn over the ancient temples in Bagan scattered through the misty landscape offers a mesmerizing experience to those who choose to explore the world.

There are a few rules to keep in mind, even though the fine print varies: Travelers must travel in one direction around the globe, either east or west, without turning back; cross the Atlantic and Pacific oceans once each; start and finish in the same country; and travel for a minimum of 10 days to a maximum of one year.

The convenience of these tickets is that they cut down on paperwork. Also, keep in mind that some countries, like China, need proof of a flight ticket before they will give you a visa.

How to do it: Star Alliance provides a 133-day journey from London that includes stops in Istanbul, Dubai, Bangkok, Sydney, Los Angeles, and New York, with prices starting at £2,580 per person.

2. Embrace the Romance of Rail Travel

Taking long train rides was one of the only ways to travel long distances a century ago. Trains are now a great way to see the world for travelers who want to lower their carbon footprint and take a slower, more deliberate route.

Around-the-world experts Travel Nation can create custom tours with multiple train rides to bring back the romance of the past. You can ride the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada, cross the Outback on the Australian Ghan, and take Vietnam’s Reunification Express.

How to do it: A 74-night, rail-focused world tour from Travel Nation costs from £17,760 per person, including flights, trains, accommodation, most meals, and some excursions.

3. Indulge in Private Jet Travel

If you want to travel in style, think about flying around the world on a private jet with National Geographic Expeditions. These trips are based on amazing itineraries where experts and ground-breaking researchers in different fields, who most travelers never get to meet, bring the destinations to life.

The 24-day Around the World by Private Jet trip lets you see 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Some of the trip’s most memorable stops are the Moai statues on Easter Island, the jungle-covered temple complexes of Angkor, Petra carved out of rock, and a safari in the Serengeti. Up to 75 passengers will fly VIP-style in a custom Boeing 757, staying in five-star hotels or lodges throughout the trip. The trip starts in Washington, DC.

How to do it: The 23-night Around the World by Private Jet trip from National Geographic Expeditions costs from £77,100 per person, all-inclusive, with medical evacuation insurance included. Trips leave on March 10, October 29, and December 28, 2024.

train curving near Lake Louise on bright, sunny day

Rocky Mountaineer is a luxurious way to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park in Canada.

4. Venture Overland for an Unforgettable Journey

If you don’t mind being on the road, Oasis Overland, a tour company that specializes in overland travel, might be a good choice. Its longest trip is a 293-day journey from the UK to Cairo that goes around the African coast in an anticlockwise direction and includes stops at Victoria Falls and Zanzibar. Highlights include the Sahara desert, the Giza Pyramids, and the plains of East Africa, which are full of wildlife.

The 16 or fewer people in the group will travel in one of Oasis Overland’s bright yellow trucks, which are made to handle rough roads while being as comfortable as possible. Camping is almost always the way to spend the night, and everyone is expected to help out by putting up tents or cooking meals.

You could also link trips by flying from Cairo to Istanbul and then going on another overland trip all the way to Singapore.

How to do it: Oasis Overland’s 292-night UK to Cairo trip costs from £9,495 per person, including all transportation (except flights from the UK to Gibraltar or Malaga) and some excursions.

5. Craft Your Own Adventure Independently

You can plan everything yourself by buying multi-destination flights through a comparison site like kiwi.com or Skyscanner.

This has the big benefit of letting you come up with something that fits your needs exactly. However, it will take a lot of time, and you will lose freedom and cancellation coverage. Changing dates can be hard.

It’s often better to go to big airport hubs like Bangkok, Dallas, Dubai, Heathrow, Paris, and Singapore, where there are more options because there are so many competing services. A normal round-the-world ticket would look something like this: London – Istanbul – Bangkok – Singapore – Sydney – Los Angeles – New York – London. From these hubs, you can easily get to more obscure places in between.

Also, keep in mind that you don’t have to fly between every stop. For example, you could take a train from London to Istanbul to cut down on your carbon footprint. Or, instead of flying from Bangkok to Singapore, you could take a boat from the Thai capital to Koh Samui and then go on from there. The website Rome2Rio is a reliable way to find out how much trains, buses, boats, and taxis cost. It’s also worth looking into Amtrak rail passes in the US, Eurail Passes for European trains, and Greyhound coach tickets for Australia’s east coast.

You should decide on lodging in advance. Make sure all of your hotel rooms are booked well in advance. Hostels are a good choice, especially if you’re traveling alone or want to wing it at each stop, but they might not be very private or comfortable. Renting a house or apartment can be much more convenient and comfortable, especially for longer stays.

How to do it: A 147-day trip from London that includes stops in Istanbul, Dubai, Bangkok, Sydney, Los Angeles, and New York costs from £2,189 per person, including checked bags, at kiwi.com.

clear blu skies, safari image featuring visitors and a herd of elephants

Witnessing elephants in their natural habitat in Tanzania is among the most cherished safari experiences.

6. Enlist the Expertise of a Travel Pro

Booking with a specialist agent or operator like Trailfinders, Travel Nation, or AirTreks is one of the best ways to plan a trip around the world by air. This can cut down on a lot of the stress of planning and let you take advantage of these companies’ years of experience. These companies often have access to special deals and aren’t limited to specific airlines or groups, which lets them improve what they offer their customers.

The AirTreks website even has a trip planner that lists suggested activities, interests, and attractions like hiking, beaches, meditation, and family travel, giving you even more choices when planning your trip.

Tell the agent if you want to earn air miles so they can find flights that qualify. Agents will also be able to suggest interesting additional stops, like Taiwan or a stopover in Oman, which can add excitement to new itineraries.

Finally, a specialized company can also take care of or advise you on shots (like for malaria), certifications, and visas, which will save you a lot of time and effort.

How to do it: An AirTrek nine-stop ticket from London via Paris, Florence, Venice, Athens, Singapore, Sydney, Auckland, and Los Angeles costs from £1,325 to £1,770.

7. Set Sail and Master the Art of Sailing

Land ahoy! If you sign up for a unique sailing trip with London-based operator Another World Adventures, you might get to say those words. They can set you up to join a classic, square-rigged tall ship for 90 days as it travels the world on a 455-day journey. You’ll learn how to trim the sails, haul mizzen spinnakers, and use trade winds to cross the tropics once you’re on board. No prior experience is needed, and those who take part will become part of a tight-knit crew and make friends for life.

You can join future legs no matter where the ship is on its itinerary. Leg three leaves Bali on November 6, 2023, and stops at the Indian Ocean islands of Rodrigues and Reunion before arriving in Cape Town on February 6. The fourth and final leg starts the next day and goes through Namibia, the British overseas territory of St Helena, a few Caribbean islands, and Nova Scotia in Canada on July 13.

If you’d rather wait and do the whole trip, which starts in 2025, Another World Adventures (which also has other, similar experiences) expects it to start in 2025. The other two legs are from Nova Scotia to Tahiti and from Tahiti to Bali.

How to do it: Another World Adventures offers 90 nights with full board from £13,600 per person, including transport, port fees, and instruction.

evening images of Singapore

Singapore’s Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay is a mesmerizing futuristic attraction that provides a memorable experience.

8. Embark on a Luxurious Cruise

Cruise lines are offering more and more trips around the world. To take one, you need one important thing: a lot of free time. Most of the trips are more than 100 days long, and Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise is a whopping 274 nights long, with stops on seven continents and around 150 places. These kinds of trips are truly “trips of a lifetime,” costing up to £100,000 per person.

Notably, 2023 is the 100th anniversary of the world’s first continuous passenger cruise ship completing its groundbreaking journey. Cunard’s SS Laconia, which was hired by the American Express Company, arrived back in New York City after a six-month voyage through Japan, Singapore, India, and Egypt.

They also sell out faster than almost any other cruise because there are only a few departures. For example, Holland America Line started taking bookings this summer for its new 2025 Grand World Voyage. This six-continent, 124-day round-trip leaves from Fort Lauderdale in Florida and goes through the Panama Canal before stopping at 46 places, including Callao (for trips to Machu Picchu), Easter Island, Tahiti, the Great Barrier Reef, the Seychelles, Cape Town, Kenya, Jordan, and Barcelona.

How to do it: A 123-night Grand World Voyage on Holland America Line costs from £19,900 per person, including full board, free airport transfers, a $500 (£400) air credit, and up to £6,700 per person in onboard spending credits if booked by June 3, 2024.

9. Travel by Cargo Ship for a Unique Perspective

A trip on a cargo ship or freighter cruise is a more daring way to see the seas. Some of these ships, which carry large containers of clothes, electrical goods, foods, and most other things between the world’s major ports, set aside space for four to twelve people.

Single, twin, or double cabins are the norm, and they usually have sea-facing windows, a sitting area, a desk, a shower, and a toilet. A few boats have a pool, but most are very basic. They’re made for work, not fun, so you won’t find a spa or casino. But it’s not unusual to play cards with the crew. All meals are served in the dining hall on board.

The main draw is the peace of mind you get from watching the ocean go by and having time to think or write that book you’ve always wanted to.

This can also be a great way to see some places that are hard to get to. For example, freighters from New Zealand that travel to Singapore stop at a number of Pacific islands along the way, sometimes for a couple of days, to get fuel and supplies or to drop something off. But some port calls are too short for guests to get off the ship.

Keep in mind that good health and the ability to move around without help are required because there are steep gangways and many stairs. It’s also not a good idea for kids or older people.

How to do it: Cargo Ship Voyages offers a trip on a cargo ship from Rotterdam to Cuba (which takes about 16 nights) from £1,880 per person, including all meals.

daylight image of people sailing

Learning how to sail allows you to join a tall ship journey around the world, experiencing the adventure for 90 days at a time.

Key Considerations for Planning Your Global Adventure

Planning a trip around the world involves careful consideration of several factors:

• Budget: Determine your overall budget, factoring in transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and unexpected expenses.

  • Flights: £2,000 – £10,000+ (depending on class and route)
  • Accommodation: £30 – £300+ per night (hostels, hotels, private rentals)
  • Daily Expenses: £50 – £200+ (food, local transport, activities)

• Duration: Decide how long you want your trip to last. A shorter trip may focus on specific regions, while a longer trip allows for more in-depth exploration.

  • Typical Duration: 3 months to 1 year

• Destinations: Research and select the destinations you want to visit based on your interests, budget, and time constraints.

  • Popular Routes: London – Istanbul – Bangkok – Singapore – Sydney – Los Angeles – New York – London

• Travel Style: Choose your preferred mode of transportation and accommodation based on your budget and desired level of comfort.

  • Options: Flights, trains, buses, cruises, cargo ships; hostels, hotels, private rentals

• Visas and Vaccinations: Research visa requirements for each country you plan to visit and ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and health precautions.

  • Visa Costs: £0 – £150+ per country
  • Vaccination Costs: £50 – £500+ (depending on required vaccines)

• Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect yourself against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

  • Typical Cost: £50 – £500+ (depending on coverage)

• Packing: Pack light and smart, focusing on versatile clothing items and essential travel gear.

  • Essentials: Universal adapter, portable charger, first-aid kit, comfortable shoes

• Communication: Stay connected with family and friends by purchasing a local SIM card or using international roaming plans.

  • Local SIM Card: £10 – £30 per country

• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions by learning basic phrases and being mindful of your behavior.

Sample Around-the-World Itineraries

Here are a few sample itineraries to inspire your planning:

Budget-Friendly Backpacking (3 Months)

1. Southeast Asia: Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia
2. India: Explore the diverse landscapes and cultures
3. Eastern Europe: Discover the history and charm of cities like Prague and Budapest
4. Estimated Cost: £5,000 – £8,000 (excluding flights)

Mid-Range Cultural Immersion (6 Months)

1. South America: Peru, Argentina, Brazil
2. Africa: Safari in Tanzania, explore Morocco
3. Middle East: Jordan, Egypt
4. Asia: Japan, South Korea
5. Estimated Cost: £15,000 – £25,000 (excluding flights)

Luxury Adventure (1 Year)

1. Private Jet: Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites
2. Luxury Cruises: Visit remote islands and exotic destinations
3. High-End Accommodation: Stay in 5-star hotels and resorts
4. Exclusive Experiences: Private tours, gourmet dining
5. Estimated Cost: £100,000+

Travel Gear Recommendations

Choosing the right gear can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here are some recommended items:

• Backpack: Osprey Aether/Ariel AG 65 (for comfort and capacity)
• Daypack: Pacsafe Venturesafe X18 (for security and organization)
• Travel Shoes: Merrell Moab 2 (for versatility and comfort)
• Camera: Sony Alpha 7 III (for high-quality photos and videos)
• Laptop: MacBook Air (for portability and performance)
• Universal Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter (for worldwide compatibility)
• Portable Charger: Anker PowerCore 20100 (for extended battery life)
• First-Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight Medical Kit (for emergencies)
• Travel Pillow: Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow (for comfortable sleep on flights)
• Noise-Canceling Headphones: Bose QuietComfort 35 II (for peaceful travel)

Practical Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Stay Organized: Keep important documents (passport, visa, tickets) in a secure and easily accessible place.
• Manage Your Finances: Use a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees and inform your bank of your travel plans.
• Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language can enhance your interactions with locals.
• Stay Healthy: Practice good hygiene, stay hydrated, and be mindful of food safety.
• Stay Connected: Purchase a local SIM card or use international roaming plans to stay connected with family and friends.
• Be Flexible: Embrace unexpected changes and be open to new experiences.

Top Destinations to Include in Your Around-the-World Trip

To help you narrow down your choices, here are some of the most popular and highly recommended destinations for a round-the-world trip:

1. Paris, France: Known for its romantic ambiance, iconic landmarks, and world-class cuisine, Paris offers a blend of culture, history, and culinary delights. Don’t miss the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and strolls along the Seine River.
2. Kyoto, Japan: Immerse yourself in the traditional beauty of Kyoto with its ancient temples, serene gardens, and geisha districts. Visit Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Fushimi Inari Shrine, and enjoy a tea ceremony for a cultural experience.
3. Machu Picchu, Peru: Trek through the Andes Mountains to reach the mystical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Marvel at the stunning architecture and breathtaking landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Embark on a safari adventure in Serengeti National Park and witness the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras. Experience the thrill of spotting lions, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
5. Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Explore the world’s largest coral reef system with vibrant marine life. Snorkel or dive to discover colorful corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles in this underwater paradise.
6. Rome, Italy: Delve into the history and art of Rome with its ancient ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, and charming streets. Visit the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, and indulge in delicious Italian cuisine.
7. Bangkok, Thailand: Experience the vibrant culture and bustling markets of Bangkok with its ornate temples, rooftop bars, and street food stalls. Visit Wat Arun, Grand Palace, and explore the floating markets for an authentic experience.
8. New York City, USA: Immerse yourself in the energy and diversity of New York City with its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and Broadway shows. Visit Times Square, Central Park, Metropolitan Museum of Art, and enjoy the city’s culinary scene.
9. Iceland: Discover the dramatic landscapes of Iceland with its glaciers, volcanoes, and hot springs. Visit the Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss waterfall, and explore the Northern Lights for a magical experience.
10. Cape Town, South Africa: Explore the scenic beauty of Cape Town with its stunning coastline, Table Mountain, and vibrant culture. Visit Robben Island, Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden, and enjoy wine tasting in the nearby winelands.

Understanding User Search Intent

To create content that truly resonates with our audience, it’s essential to understand their search intent when they type “How Do You Travel The World” into Google. Here are five key intentions:

1. Informational: Users want to gather general information about different ways to travel the world, including various modes of transportation, cost considerations, and necessary preparations.

   • Content to Provide: A comprehensive overview of travel options (flights, trains, cruises, etc.), budgeting tips, visa and vaccination requirements, and packing guides.

2. Planning & Logistics: Users seek step-by-step guidance on planning and organizing an around-the-world trip, including itinerary creation, booking flights and accommodations, and managing logistics.

   • Content to Provide: Detailed instructions on itinerary planning, booking flights and accommodations, obtaining necessary travel documents, and managing finances during the trip.

3. Inspiration & Ideas: Users are looking for inspiration and ideas for destinations, activities, and experiences to include in their around-the-world trip.

   • Content to Provide: Destination guides, travel stories, photo galleries, and recommended activities and experiences in various regions around the world.

4. Budget & Cost: Users want to understand the financial aspects of traveling the world, including average costs, budgeting strategies, and money-saving tips.

   • Content to Provide: Cost breakdowns for different travel styles and destinations, budgeting strategies, tips for finding affordable flights and accommodations, and ways to save money while traveling.

5. Practical Advice & Tips: Users are seeking practical advice and tips from experienced travelers on how to navigate the challenges of long-term travel, stay safe, and make the most of their adventure.

   • Content to Provide: Safety tips, cultural etiquette guidelines, health advice, tips for avoiding scams, and recommendations for useful travel apps and resources.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the most popular ways to travel the world?

Popular methods include airline alliances for flights, train journeys, private jets, overland tours, self-arranged trips, sailing, and cruises.

2. How much does it cost to travel around the world?

Costs vary greatly. Budget backpacking can start at £5,000, while luxury travel can exceed £100,000, depending on duration, destinations, and travel style.

3. How long should an around-the-world trip last?

Trips can range from a few months to a year. The ideal duration depends on your budget, interests, and how in-depth you want your exploration to be.

4. What are the essential items to pack for a round-the-world trip?

Essentials include a versatile backpack, comfortable shoes, a universal adapter, a portable charger, a first-aid kit, and necessary travel documents.

5. How can I stay connected while traveling the world?

Options include purchasing local SIM cards, using international roaming plans, or relying on Wi-Fi hotspots.

6. What are the most important safety tips for traveling the world?

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, avoid risky areas, and research local customs and laws.

7. How can I save money while traveling the world?

Travel during the off-season, stay in budget accommodations, cook your meals, use public transportation, and take advantage of free activities.

8. What are the visa requirements for traveling around the world?

Visa requirements vary by country. Research the requirements for each destination and apply well in advance.

9. What vaccinations do I need for traveling around the world?

Consult with your doctor or a travel clinic to determine the necessary vaccinations based on your destinations and health history.

10. How can TRAVELS.EDU.VN help me plan my travels?

travels.edu.vn offers expertly curated experiences, personalized service, seamless planning, exclusive access, and unmatched value for destinations like Napa Valley, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable getaway.