Turning the dream of a global adventure into reality is more achievable than it might first appear. While planning an around-the-world trip can seem overwhelming due to numerous considerations, it’s entirely possible with the right approach. Here’s a guide to help you get started on organizing your ultimate journey.
1. Fly Around the World
Air travel is the most straightforward way to circumnavigate the globe. To simplify your journey, consider purchasing an around-the-world (RTW) ticket through an airline alliance. These alliances, such as Star Alliance, OneWorld, and SkyTeam (though SkyTeam has currently suspended RTW sales), allow you to book multiple flights in one transaction. Star Alliance, for example, connects 26 airlines and offers flights to 1,200 airports in nearly every country, while OneWorld covers 13 airlines and 1,000 destinations.
RTW tickets come with rules: you must travel in one continuous direction (east or west), avoid backtracking, cross the Atlantic and Pacific oceans only once each, and start and end in the same country. You’ll also need to complete your journey within 10 days to a year.
How to do it: Star Alliance offers a 133-day RTW itinerary from London through cities like Istanbul, Dubai, Bangkok, Sydney, Los Angeles, and New York for around £2,580 per person.
2. Travel by Train
Rail journeys offer a slower, more scenic way to see the world and can be a more sustainable option. Companies like Travel Nation can create custom rail-based itineraries. Enjoy train rides like Vietnam’s Reunification Express or Australia’s Ghan, which allow for in-depth exploration of diverse regions.
How to do it: Travel Nation’s 74-night rail-focused global tour starts from £17,760 per person and includes flights, trains, accommodation, most meals, and some excursions.
3. Fly Private
For a luxury experience, consider a private jet tour. National Geographic Expeditions offers a 24-day around-the-world trip by private jet, visiting 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Easter Island, Angkor Wat, Petra, and the Serengeti.
How to do it: National Geographic Expeditions’ Around the World by Private Jet starts from £77,100 per person, including all-inclusive amenities and medical evacuation insurance. Departures are on 10 March, 29 October, and 28 December 2024.
4. Go Overland
For a more adventurous experience, consider overland travel. Oasis Overland offers extensive trips, such as a 293-day journey from the UK to Cairo, covering diverse landscapes and landmarks like the Sahara Desert and the Giza Pyramids.
How to do it: Oasis Overland’s 292-night UK to Cairo expedition starts from £9,495 per person and includes all transport and a selection of excursions (excluding flights from the UK to Gibraltar or Malaga).
5. Plan It Yourself
If you prefer flexibility, arrange your trip independently by booking multi-destination flights through platforms like Kiwi.com or Skyscanner. This approach allows for personalized itineraries but requires significant planning. Consider combining flights with other modes of transport like trains or boats, and book accommodation in advance to ensure availability.
How to do it: A DIY 147-day itinerary from London through Istanbul, Dubai, Bangkok, Sydney, Los Angeles, and New York starts around £2,189 per person, including checked luggage.
6. Hire a Specialist
Booking with a travel specialist like Trailfinders, Travel Nation, or AirTreks can reduce the stress of planning. These experts have access to special deals and extensive experience, and can tailor your trip to include additional stops or earn air miles. They can also assist with visas and vaccinations.
How to do it: AirTreks’ nine-stop ticket from London via Paris, Florence, Venice, Athens, Singapore, Sydney, Auckland, and Los Angeles costs between £1,325 and £1,770.
7. Sail the Seas
For a unique experience, join a sailing adventure. Another World Adventures offers 90-day voyages on classic tall ships, where you can learn to sail and become part of the crew. These trips offer a distinct way to explore remote locations.
How to do it: Another World Adventures’ 90-night sailing adventure starts from £13,600 per person, including full board and transport.
8. Go on a Cruise
Cruises offer extensive around-the-world itineraries, though they require a significant time commitment. Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise, for example, spans 274 nights and covers seven continents. Cruises are an excellent way to experience many destinations but can be quite costly.
How to do it: Holland America Line’s 123-night Grand World Voyage starts from £19,900 per person, full board, including airport transfers, a $500 air credit, and up to £6,700 in onboard spending credits if booked by 3 June 2024.
9.Travel by Cargo Ship
For an unconventional experience, consider traveling on a cargo ship. Some cargo ships offer passenger cabins and provide a peaceful, minimalist travel experience. This method is less about luxury and more about the journey itself.
How to do it: Cargo Ship Voyages offers a crossing from Rotterdam to Cuba for around £1,880 per person, including meals.