The Ultimate Guideto planning a

ROUND THE WORLD TRIP

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Table of Contents

If you know where you’re going, go ahead and click on a chapter.

Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for Your Journey 1

Chapter 1: Making the Choice to Travel the World 3

Chapter 2: What You Need to Do Before Your Trip 11

Chapter 3: How to Book Your Flight 16

Chapter 4: How to Choose Where to Stay 20

Chapter 5: How to Stay Healthy & Safe While Traveling 25

Your Trip Around the World: Use This Quick Checklist and Book With Us 30

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Everything You Need to Know to Prepare for Your Journey

You’ve long dreamt of traversing the planet from the Amalfi Coast to the Himalayas. Ever since you were a child, you imagined the brilliant colors, sounds and aromas of distant places. You long to meet new people, explore different cultures and bask in the mysterious and exhilarating beauty of the Earth. Simply put — wanderlust is in your blood.

But before you pack your suitcase with maps and sunscreen, you realize you have a lot of questions about traveling abroad. Some of these questions might include:

• How do I pay for such a trip? • Where exactly should I go? • What do I need? • Where do I even begin?

Taking a trip around the world requires a ton of preparation, but it isn’t as challenging as you may think. We’re here to help you through the process from beginning to end. Know that your dream of world travel is within your reach!

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about planning a trip around the world, from budgeting your trip to booking your flight. You’ll learn what you need to do to get started on the experience of a lifetime.

This guide will show you how to:

• Pick the destinations that suit you best. • Budget for your trip. • Book the best around the world flight to meet your destination goals.

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• Choose the right accommodations for your budget. • Prepare for your trip with the necessary documents and traveler's insurance. • Have a safe and healthy round the world trip.

Ticketsroundtheworld.com is a team of travel experts who want to help you create an itinerary that’s customized for your budget, tastes and travel needs. For over a decade, we’ve helped travelers create the most economical routes, find the best around the world ticket deals and make the most out of their round the world journeys.

Planning a trip overseas can get complicated, especially with so many destination options on this planet. Here at Ticketsroundtheworld.com, we thrive on challenges and can work with you no matter how complex your desired route of travel may be.

We won’t leave you stranded once we send you on your way, either! We strive to build lasting relationships with our customers and provide assistance throughout their expeditions. It is our goal to make traveling as hassle-free as possible.

Excited? So are we! Traveling the world is an experience you’ll never forget. Keep on reading to learn how you can make your dream of becoming a world explorer a reality.

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Chapter 1: Making the Choice to Travel the World

You know you’re a traveler at heart if you appreciate life’s details, like the fragrance of Thai curry or the chime of medieval church bells. With so much admiration for all of the world’s cultural treasures, how do you choose which places to visit? After all, there are 195 countries in the world!

You might have to make more than one trip around the world to see everything your heart desires, but we’ll help you narrow it down one worldwide journey at a time.

How to Choose Your Destination

There are four different aspects to consider when deciding which countries to include on your itinerary. Those are:

• Cost • Weather • Time of year • Location

1. Cost

Simply put, some countries are more expensive to visit than others. If you’re looking to spend time in more affordable places, consider adding India, Kazakhstan, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia or Egypt to your list. You can stretch your dollar a lot further in these locations without sacrificing culture, nature or history. Although these countries are easier on the budget, check with the U.S. Department of State to make sure they're safe to travel to during your chosen dates.

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Even though some of the more affordable countries may have greater security risks, it doesn't necessarily mean that they aren't safe to travel to. That's why it’s important to do your research first. And, as with traveling to any unfamiliar place, you might just need to take certain precautions to avoid any potential danger. Arrange to tour with a local guide or stay with a host family that can help you make safe choices.

Kazakhstan has gorgeous lakes and mountains for nature-lovers to roam. If you love exploring ruins and historic grounds, think about how you can check out an ancient village in India. To give you a better idea of India’s affordability, a three-course meal for two people in Jaipur costs an average of $7.68.

When it comes to travel, low-cost doesn't always mean a low-quality experience.

On the other end of the spectrum, pricier destinations also offer an abundance of sightseeing gems. Some of the more expensive countries to visit are in Europe — think Scotland, France and Italy. Some countries in Asia and South America, like Japan and Argentina, can tip the scale to the costlier side, too. However, if you’ve always dreamt of touring Edinburgh Castle or snacking on gelato next to the Grand Canal, don’t let the price deter you. With proper planning, budgeting and saving, you can visit the places you really want to see.

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2. Weather

Different countries have seasons and weather patterns that are unique to their geographic location. For example, African seasons are opposite North American seasons. So while autumn runs from September until the end of December in the United States, it goes from May to the end of June in Africa. Places like Kenya, though, can be hot year-round.

The point is, it’s important to consider climate differences when choosing where and when to visit a place. That way, if you’re visiting Chile in August, you won’t find yourself shivering in a tank top.

3. Time of Year

Sometimes the time of year you decide to travel can affect the overall fun-level of a trip. Do you like crowds and being a social butterfly? Then maybe you’ll enjoy Europe during the summer months when there are plenty of festivals and tourist activity.

Or maybe you would prefer a more relaxed, out-of-season experience. You may have fewer events to choose from and maybe worse weather to deal with, but if you’re a lone wolf at heart, you’re more likely to enjoy the quieter atmosphere. It all really depends on personal preference and what you wish to do during your travels.

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Is there certain wildlife you want to catch sight of? Do you wish to be witness to an animal migration? Are there any traditions or ceremonies you’ve longed to partake in? Evaluating the purpose of your trips and what you want to do in each location will help you decide what to include on your path across the world.

4. Location

This may be the most obvious and the most important detail of your planning. You can only travel in one direction with a round the world ticket, so you’ll want to pick destinations that are on the same path, either going east to west or west to east. A round the world ticket, versus a bunch of one-way tickets, will save you money and frustration. You’ll have more freedom to make the most out of the places you do decide to visit.

For example, you can’t fly to from Dallas, TX to Istanbul and then decide you want to go swimming in Barbados — because the Caribbean is a little out of the way. However, if you want to head to Beijing from Istanbul before heading back to Dallas, well, that’s more round-the-world style. But don’t worry — if you really want to include some tropical beach time on your itinerary, we’ll gladly work with you to make that happen.

How to Budget for Your Round the World Trip

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The big question is — how are you going to pay for this trip across continents? Traveling is extremely expensive, isn't it?

It can be — but a hamburger can be expensive, too, if you order Kobe beef. Just like anything you purchase, the cost depends on a lot of different factors and the level of comfort you prefer. The trick is to find a balance between comfort and affordability, which we are happy to help you do. So don’t get discouraged! With a little effort each week, you can save enough money to tour the world. Here’s how to get started:

1. Make a Savings Plan

Remember the first car you bought with your own hard-earned money? It may have stalled at every stop light, but hey, it was yours! Well, just as you were patient and determined to buy your first car, you can apply that same willpower to plan a trip that will change your life forever.

• Plan a travel budget — see below. • Set aside money each week. Use a savings calculator to help you determine how much you need to save. • Cut unnecessary expenses. • Sell items you no longer want or use. • Work extra hours or pick up a part-time job.

Sometimes small changes can really add up. Next time you want to buy a latte when you can make a cup of coffee, think about the option that will help you reach your goal.

2. Estimate Travel Costs

When figuring out how much your round the trip journey is going to cost, there is more than flights and accommodations to consider. Write down everything you can think of that you’ll need to set aside money for. Even if you don’t know the exact cost of an item, an estimation will still help you determine what you can afford.

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You’ll want to estimate costs for:

• Passport or visa fees • Vaccination fees • Flight ticket • Baggage fees and airport parking • Transportation costs • Hotel costs, including fees and taxes • Meals, snacks and beverages • Travel insurance • Sightseeing, tours and other activities • Souvenirs • Travel accessories

You’ll need to have an idea of how long you plan to stay at each destination as well. Since you’re making estimates at this point, you’ll want to overestimate costs to ensure you’ll have enough to follow through with your plans.

3. How to Save and Spend Money Abroad

Using a foreign currency can be intimidating at first, but it’s also exciting and adds to the adventure. You have different options to choose from when it comes to exchanging currencies.

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One option is you can contact your bank to order foreign currency before you travel. There may or may not be a fee to do this, depending on your bank, but this can help you avoid fees to exchange cash while overseas.

If you do opt to exchange currency in a different country, use local banks and not currency exchange offices in the airport. Currency exchange at the airport usually can be costly.

You also have the option to wait until you get to your destination and take money out of an ATM. There can be a variety of fees with this method of currency exchange, such as a currency conversion fee, using- an-international-ATM fee and a foreign bank fee. However, if not used too frequently, an ATM can be a convenient choice.

Also, as traveler’s checks are no longer in much use, plan on using either cash, debit or credit cards abroad. Call your credit card card company and bank to make sure they allow international transactions and find out what fees, if any, are involved. You can also try to get a fee-free credit card before you embark on your journey.

Make sure to take a little American money with you, too, just in case.

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Here are a few money-saving tips to follow while traveling:

• Avoid tourist restaurants. Instead, eat like the locals do or cook your meals, if possible. • Reuse water bottles. Bring water purifying tablets with you to ensure your drinking water is safe. • Use public transportation. Ride a bike or walk when possible. • Get a no-fee credit or ATM card before your trip.

Consider leaving a bit of money at home with someone you trust in case of an emergency or if your cards get lost or stolen. Always have a backup plan.

Let a Round the World Travel (RTW) Specialist Be Your Guide

Now that you have a general idea of where you want to go and how much you can afford, it’s recommended to meet with an RTW travel specialist to take the hassle out of planning.

A travel expert can help you route your trip, book flights and address all of your questions and concerns about traveling abroad.

Foreign travel can get complicated, especially if there are a lot of destinations you want to include in your itinerary. Meeting with an RTW specialist at a travel agency can save you a lot of time and stress and help make sure you get the most for your money according to your needs and wants. No one traveler is the same — a travel expert will help you tailor your trip to your personality!

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Chapter 2: What You Need to Do Before Your Trip

There’s obviously a ton of planning and preparation you have to go through before you hop on the plane. Take it one step at a time so that you don't feel overwhelmed. Each step of the way is totally worth it.

Get Your Passport and Visa for Round the World Travel

One of the first steps you’ll need to take in preparing to travel abroad is to find out what documents are required to enter your chosen countries. Look up your destinations on the U.S. Department of State website to find out. This online search tool allows you to search your destination’s specific information.

For example, say you’re planning a trip to Thailand. Type “Thailand” in the search box, and you’ll find that you won’t need a visa if you’re staying for under 30 days, but you will need a passport that’s valid six months from the date of your arrival. The most important information you need to know about traveling to Thailand can be found on this page, such as medical info, embassy and consulate contact info, safety tips and local laws.

In general, make sure your passport won’t expire during your trip and that it will still be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into any foreign country. Renew your passport or get a new one at least three to five months ahead of time. Take into account that a passport can take four to six weeks to arrive from the date of application, or two to three weeks for expedited service.

Buy International Travel Insurance

You may or may not have considered purchasing a travel insurance plan for your round the world trip, but it’s highly recommended. A survey for the U.S. Travel Insurance Association showed that approximately 33.4 million Americans

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had travel protection plans. The most popular travel insurance plan included an option to cancel the trip, accounting for 85% of the plans.

You’ll first need to know which type of insurance you wish to have. You could choose coverage for one or all of the following depending on the plan:

• Medical expenses • Lost or stolen luggage • Trip cancellation or interruption

Things happen. Sometimes we can’t always go through with our plans for a variety of reasons. It’s a good idea to be covered when traveling abroad because if anything, traveler’s insurance will give you peace of mind. You want to enjoy your trip, not have to spend precious time worrying about the what-ifs.

If you’re wondering about costs, travel insurance generally costs from 4% to 8% of the total trip. Speak to your travel agent about buying travel insurance for your round the world trip, so you can see the world as worry-free as possible.

Check If You Need Vaccinations

You may need to get vaccinated before entering the destination of your choice. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Traveler’s Health site is a

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great starting place to research the countries on your itinerary and determine if you need a vaccine.

Say you’re traveling to Africa or South America — you made need a vaccine for yellow fever. Some other travel-related diseases that are preventable with vaccines are:

• Hepatitis A • Hepatitis B • Typhoid fever • Meningococcal disease • Rabies • Japanese encephalitis

The CDC recommends meeting with a doctor four to six weeks before you travel. Speak with your medical doctor or find a local travel clinic to answer all of your vaccination and health questions. A doctor can suggest precautions you should take depending on your individual needs.

Research Local Culture and Laws

Did you know beef is prohibited in some states in India, or driving under the influence in Japan can throw you behind bars immediately? Every country has local laws you may not be 100% familiar with. It’s important to know what to expect to prevent misunderstandings and keep yourself from getting in trouble.

One way to prepare for time spent in a new culture is to learn about your destination before leaving. Visit the U.S. Department of State site to read up on local laws in different countries around the globe.

Also, take the time to familiarize yourself with the culture and history of your destinations. Chances are, if you have interest in a particular country, you already know a little bit about the country's culture. However, the deeper you dig, and the more specific you get, the easier you’ll adapt to a foreign experience.

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Teach yourself local language phrases. Know how to dress and act to help you blend in with the locals. Learn customs and manners so that you can communicate without being offensive. Study the history of a place so that your travels have context, and you can better understand the culture and traditions.

The world is a colorful and diverse place. With a little preparation, you can overcome cultural challenges with greater ease and understanding. The more you know ahead of time, the richer and more meaningful your travels will be.

Pack These Items

Maybe one of the most stressful aspects of round the world traveling is pre-trip packing. You may constantly fear that you’ll forget something during the days before you leave. Don’t fret! As with most things in this guide, preparation will ensure you don’t forget a thing.

Try to make a packing list days or weeks ahead of time so that you can add to or take items away from the list.

As a general rule, you’ll want to pack as light as possible. As tempting as it might be to pack five pairs of shoes, just in case, or a complete series of paperback novels, just in case, remind yourself that sometimes adventure calls for a little less preparation, too — and that means leaving the snowshoes in the garage.

Here’s a short list of items, excluding clothes and toiletries, you’ll want to make sure you include on your packing list:

• Documents • Passport • Visa • International driver’s permit or driver’s license • Vaccination certificate • Proof of insurance • Paper copies of passport, visa and other documents

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• Medication • Anti-diarrhea medicine • Motion sickness medicine • Your prescriptions • Cash in the currency of destination countries & debit or credit cards • Accessories • Sunglasses • Scarf • Health items • Hand sanitizer • First-aid kit • Insect repellant • Sunscreen • Small bottle of detergent • Other • Gum for the plane ride • Earplugs • Travel pillow • Money belt • Phone charger • Headphones • Plastic bags

Look up your country on the CDC’s Travelers’ Health site to find a list of specific packing recommendations.

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Chapter 3: How to Book Your Flight

You’ve narrowed down your destinations. You have your freshly renewed passport sitting on top of your dresser, and you just bought a nice, new carry-on bag. You feel it’s time to book that flight and put your preparations in motion. But consider this: It’s one thing if you’re booking a flight to begin a week-long vacation in another state. It’s another thing if you’re planning to fly across an ocean and several continents.

The thought of flying around the world can feel a tad intimidating at first. Luckily, there are plenty of travel experts to help you choose the best and most economical flight for traveling to all of your destinations.

Aim to book your international flight around 60 days in advance for your chances at getting a better deal. Your travel agent can help you plan your round the world route.

Let’s look at some options:

1. Round the World Ticket

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A round the world ticket allows you to build a custom itinerary with the exception that you must travel east to west or west to east. In other words, you can't backtrack. You must also start and end your journey in the same country with a round the world ticket.

Depending on which airline you book with, a round the world ticket could be valid for up to 12 months. You will be able to book stops to the destinations of your choice that are generally along your flight path. This type of ticket is more economical than booking many one-way flights. In short, a round the world ticket combines multiple tickets into one.

2. Multi-Stop Flights

A multi-stop flight allows you to visit multiple cities with one ticket and does not require traveling in a particular order — you can backtrack if you wish. Because there are fewer limitations with a multi-stop ticket than a round the world ticket, there are lot more options of where you can go. Depending on what you want to accomplish with your journey, this may or may not be more efficient.

A multi-stop flight is a good option for shorter travel and has a lot of room for flexibility. Your travel agent can help you book a multi-stop flight if this is the option that best suits your tastes.

However, even with a round the world ticket, you can arrange to spend time in multiple cities along the way by taking advantage of stopovers. A stopover is basically a long layover. Whereas a layover is no more than 24 hours, a stopover can last for days. One way to include a stopover destination in your itinerary is to first know your overall route.

Let’s pretend that you’re flying from London to Cairo with a layover in Rome. Instead of waiting to re-board the plane in Rome for two hours, a stopover would allow you to explore Rome for a day or two for little to no added cost.

A travel expert can help you create a more complex itinerary while helping you find the best deals. There are plenty of options to tailor your flight to include multiple destinations.

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3. Open Tickets

What is an open ticket? An open ticket means that you set a departure date, but your return date is flexible. You could have up until a year to explore your destination before returning, depending on the airline. This type of flight allows room for a lot of flexibility at your desired location.

Not all airlines offer this option, and there are some risks that come with the freedom. For instance, having an open ticket for your around the world trip means no guarantee of having a flight to your next destination when you want it. A lot of factors come into play with an open ticket, such as airline schedules and seating availability.

Also, some countries, like those in the European Union, will only allow you to visit for up to 90 days. So in this case, whether you have an open ticket or not, you need to move on in about three months.

With an around the world open ticket, you’ll have a lot more time and freedom to explore whatever destination you’re at. Speak with your travel specialist to see if an open ticket is the right choice for you.

Why Fly Business Class?

The class you choose to fly in can have a big impact on the quality of your journey. If you think business class tickets are too pricey, realize that your travel agent can help you find the best deals. With business class you’ll have:

• More leg room • Better rest • More amenities • Better service • More privacy • Less exposure to germs • Better food and drink • Little or no wait to board • Lie-flat seats • More personal space • Reclining seats

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Think of it this way: If you were staying in a hotel for an extended amount of time, let’s say for a month, would you want to sleep on a bed that feels as if the mattress was made of cardboard covered in a shopping bag? Or would you rather sleep in a bed with clean sheets, soft pillows and some room to stretch out? Same goes with business class vs. economy.

Traveling for hour after hour can be exhausting — especially when you’re crammed in a seat next to a stranger. How can you sleep or feel comfortable? When you enter a foreign place, you’ll want to feel rested, so you can enjoy your destination. Sleep is very important.

Economy class and cheap motels might work for shorter trips, but paying round the world business class airfare might be worth it for long-haul flights. In some cases, quality does matter.

Although everyone has their individual priorities and needs, business class is worth considering especially when flying around the world. A travel specialist can help you find the best deals for a business class flight and help you decide if it’s worth the extra cost.

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Chapter 4: How to Choose Where to Stay

You booked your flight, and your heart is fluttering with excitement — it’s official now, you’re going to travel the world! So the next question is, where are you going to stay?

Choosing your accommodations can be difficult. On the one hand, you want the most affordable option. On the other hand, you want to feel comfortable and safe. The best way to go about it is to try to find a place that falls somewhere in the middle for you. Also, know that the traditional hotel room is not your only option.

Hotels

Opting to stay in a hotel feels safe and predictable, and after a long flight into a foreign land, safe and predictable will sound pretty good. To make sure hotel transactions run smoothly, it is recommended to book your hotel room around one month in advance. Booking too early may not land you the best deal, and if you wait too long, you may have to settle for less depending on where you’re traveling to.

Some of the pros of staying at a hotel include:

• Comfort • Convenience • Housekeeping services • Modern amenities • Can feel safer and more secure, especially for solo travelers • Familiar

Some cons of staying at a hotel include:

• Usually pricier than other options

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• Not always free breakfast or free parking • Lacks cultural immersion • Standard and predictable

Hostels

You don’t have to be afraid of hostels — they really aren't that scary! And you won’t necessarily have to sleep elbow-to-elbow with strangers, either. Although hostels vary greatly from one to the other, private rooms are becoming a standard with many modern hostels.

Hostels are usually a popular option for the younger crowd. This is something else you may want to consider.

Some pros of staying at a hostel are:

• Affordability • Ability to meet other travelers • Usually feature certain amenities • Usually conveniently located • May offer amenities that hotels do not offer, such as game and entertainment rooms

Cons of hostels include:

• Lack of privacy

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• May not have housekeeping services • Safety or theft could be an issue • May have to share a bathroom • Possible dorm-like atmosphere

Because a hostel doesn’t follow the standards of a hotel chain, it's important to research the hostel you plan to stay at ahead of time. Know if you want a co-ed or single-sex room. Find out if you’ll have the option to a stay in a private room with a private bathroom. Depending on where you stay, you might want to bring earplugs.

Although hostels may be seen as a more on-a-whim option, it's highly recommended to book your hostel in advance. Popular hostels fill up quickly. Depending on your destination and the season, this could be an issue. Talk with your travel specialist to help you find the right hostel for you.

Other Options

If hotels aren’t culturally exciting enough for you, or if you don’t like the idea of sharing a bunk bed with a stranger, there are yet other alternatives. These include:

1. Stay With a Host Family

To stay with a host family, you’ll have to make arrangements through a homestay program or service, or you can research homestay accommodations

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for your destination.

Homestay is a popular choice for volunteers and exchange students, but it can be a very affordable housing alternative for travelers of any age traveling for any reason.

With homestay you’ll:

• Experience full cultural immersion • Gain language skills • Learn where the locals go • Eat home-cooked meals • Build relationships • Have house rules to follow • Be expected to be mindful of your manners and cultural differences

2. Camp

Camping is likely the most affordable all the options, but it’s also probably the least comfortable. However, for all the nature-lovers and adventurous souls out there, the pros of camping may outweigh the cons.

Camping is:

• Usually the most affordable option • A way to experience the great outdoors • Less comfortable • Affected by weather, animals and insects

3. Rent an Apartment or Vacation Home

Renting out someone’s apartment, home or vacation home may be a favorable option depending on where you’re going, who you’re traveling with and what your destination dates are. More populated cities will likely have more rentals available. Important things to be aware of with home rentals are:

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• They can be more affordable than a hotel, depending on the size and location of the rental • It’s important to communicate with the owner and know exactly what you’re paying for • They have more space than a hotel • They usually have a kitchen • You’ll get to live like a local • Rental dates may be less flexible than other options • There may be a minimum stay time — no overnight-only stays

Not all homeowners are going to put effort into making their rental comfortable for you, nor will they always be 100% honest with you. That’s why it’s important to rent from a source you can trust.

Using an apartment or home rental may be a great option for a family, couples or large groups traveling together.

As you can see, choosing your accommodations may be more about personal preference than affordability. A travel expert can help you decide what’ll work best for your overall travel plans and can help you book your accommodations in advance.

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Chapter 5: How to Stay Healthy & Safe While Traveling

The rewards of traveling outweigh the risks, but the truth is, traveling can take a toll on your physical and mental health if you don’t make self-care a priority. Now that you have all the pre-planning figured out, let’s take a look at how you can be prepared to enjoy your journey with good health and safety.

Food Safety

See that street vendor selling fried meats on a stick? The aromas of sizzling fat drippings and spices fill your nose, and the steam from the hot grill blinds you. Your stomach rumbles. And then you take notice — there’s no one waiting in line.

But before you surrender to your senses, consider the following tips. You may find that waiting in that really long line of tourists for the place across the street is worth the wait.

Here are some things you can do to avoid food poisoning:

• Drink bottled water or canned beverages • Avoid raw fruits and vegetables, raw or undercooked meat, seafood, poultry and eggs, and food that has been unrefrigerated for hours • Try to eat at reputable places. Avoid deserted areas • Use water purifying tablets

So as much as you might want to just chow down on some street food, remind yourself of the risks.

Preparing for Travel-Related Illness

Sometimes you get sick even when you’re careful. Here’s how you should prepare for travel-related illness:

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• Check your insurance coverage before you leave on your trip. • Purchase short-term medical insurance that covers you abroad if needed — your travel specialist can help you with this. • Obtain a list of English-speaking foreign health care providers from the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers.

Other steps to take for good health:

• Eat healthy before your trip • Take it easy and don’t stress the small stuff • Avoid touching public surfaces. If you do, wash your hands or use hand sanitizer • Reserve time to rest and relax during your trip • Get adequate sleep • Research the health risks of your destinations • Use sun protection • Try not to alter your regular diet too much by eating too much food you don’t normally eat

Following the above steps will help lower your odds of getting sick. However, sometimes it’s inevitable. Either way, don’t let it prevent you from having a great time. Pack antacids and anti-diarrhea medication and drink plenty of purified water to stay hydrated — it’s important to stay hydrated regardless of if you’re sick or not.

If you are unable to nurse yourself back to health while traveling, don’t push it! Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for a list of healthcare providers.

Other Safety Tips

Eating spoiled meat isn't the only safety concern with travel abroad. Visiting foreign places poses other risks, too, but if you educate yourself and take the right precautions, you’ll be prepared to handle the risks. However, the first step is to do your research so that you don’t put yourself in risky situations in the first place!

Though safety will vary depending on the city you’re in, here are some of the

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precautions you’ll want to take:

Street Safety

• Stay on main roads that are well-lit • Beware of pickpockets • Act as if you know where you’re going even if you’re lost • Wear a purse or bag that straps across your chest • Keep a list of emergency phone numbers with you • Learn a few words and phrases in the local language • Only ask local authorities for help

Hotel Safety

• Always keep the door locked • Know the fire safety procedure of your hotel • Don’t leave valuables or money out in the open while you’re away. Keep whatever valuables you can at home

Transportation Safety

• Keep car doors locked • Avoid driving at night if possible • Never accept food or drinks from strangers • Try to avoid being close to other people on trains

As a general rule, try to explore with a fellow traveler or hire a local guide. Your

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travel agent can help you arrange a meeting with a local guide to help you navigate new places and make sure you stay in safe areas.

Not every city will require extreme caution, but some parts of the world are more dangerous than others.Currently, some of the most dangerous countries for American travelers are:

• Mexico • Mali • Israel • Pakistan • Iraq • Afghanistan • Nigeria • Syria • Yemen • Kenya • Philippines • North Korea

Some of the safest places to visit are:

• Finland • Iceland • The United Arab Emirates • Japan

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• Spain • Australia • Norway • Morocco • Switzerland • Hong Kong SAR • Austria • Singapore

Check the U.S. Department of State’s Alerts and Warnings page to find out the current safety levels of your desired destinations. This is an important step to take to help you plan a safe trip around the world.

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Your Trip Around the World: Use This Quick Checklist and Book With Us

Take a deep breath and exhale — you made it to the end of this guide, and you’re ready to begin the process of planning your round the world trip. Sure, there’s a lot to do, but before you know it, you’ll be looking down from your view in the sky at the patchwork of land below!

Here’s a quick example of steps to follow month-to-month before take-off:

Six to 12 Months:

• Research places that interest you • Choose your destinations • Figure out your travel budget • Start saving

Three to Five Months:

• Renew your passport • Apply for a visa if necessary

One to Two Months:

• Get vaccinated • Start a packing list • Book your flight • Book your living arrangements • Let your bank and credit card companies know when and where you'll be traveling • Make sure your phone plan will keep you connected internationally

See? It’s not that bad. But we’re here to help make your around the world trip planning even easier.

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Ready for Take-Off?

It’s hard to imagine spending a lifetime visiting the same places over and over again when there is an entire planet to explore. There are currently over seven billion people on this planet, and an estimated 6,909 distinct languages exist. Homo sapiens began migrating from Africa to Europe and Asia between 70,000 and 100,000 years ago. Think of all the languages and cultures that met and formed over the years! Culture is always changing, and this world will never be a dull place.

Travel specialists at Ticketsroundtheworld.com are here to help you experience the history and natural beauty of the world. Whether you want to see sightsee in Moscow or learn to dance the Samba in Brazil, we are here to help you plan your trip through its entirety. No detail is too small — from assistance with purchasing traveler’s insurance to tips for traveling solo, we’ll do what it takes to ensure you get the most out of your round the world experience.

It’s never too late to learn about new cultures, to challenge yourself and to live the life of your dreams. If you’ve always dreamed of traveling, why wait? You’re here on this planet. It’s time to make the most of it.

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Sources

Chapter 1

1. http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/budget-travel/most-affordable-countries-2017#egypt-pyramids

2. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-06-28/the-most-expensive-places-to-stay-bloomberg-index

3. http://www.businessinsider.com/the-most-expensive-holiday-destinations-on-the-planet-2017-2/#18-las-vegas-usa-11512-14356-per-night-4

4. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/time-visit-europe-16032.html

5. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/time-southeast-asia-18683.html

6. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/time-year-visit-africa-weather-viewing-animals-17388.html

7. http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/country.php3?r=EUR

8. http://www.earthtrekkers.com/how-to-design-around-the-world-itinerary/

9. http://curious.astro.cornell.edu/about-us/40-our-solar-system/the-earth/climate-and-weather/68-why-do-airplanes-take-longer-to-fly-west-than-east-intermediate

10. https://americasaves.org/for-savers/make-a-plan-how-to-save-money/54-ways-to-save-money

11. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/plan-travel-budget-1884.html

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12. http://www.tdbank.com/faqs/faqs_intl_indiv.html

13. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/budget-for-rtw-trip.html

14. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/getting-started-to-getting-it-done.html

15. http://www.worldometers.info/geography/how-many-countries-are-there-in-the-world/

16. http://www.indiamarks.com/chand-baori-the-deepest-step-well-world/

17. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/calculate-travel-expenses-11098.html

18. https://www.moneyunder30.com/money-tips-for-traveling-abroad

19. https://lifehacker.com/how-to-save-money-when-traveling-to-any-destination-1677596104

20. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html

21. https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Jaipur?displayCurrency=USD

22. http://www.our-africa.org/kenya/climate-agriculture

23. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/weather-climate-chile-14796.html

24. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/savings/savings-goal-calculator/

25. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/cheapest-way-buy-euros-63017.html

26. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/contact-us.html

Chapter 2

1. https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/en/general/americans-traveling-abroad.html

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2. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

3. https://www.vaccines.gov/travel/index.html

4. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country.html

5. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/packing-list-overseas-travel-33612.html

6. https://www.realsimple.com/work-life/travel/travel-planning/overseas-packing-checkilst

7. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/most-important-document-your-passport.html

8. http://www.ustia.org/uploads/2/4/8/8/24887869/ustia_2012-14_market_survey_release_v4.pdf

9. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/rtw-trip-insurance.html

10. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/see-doctor

11. https://www.webmd.com/vaccines/features/travel-vaccines#2

12. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/india.html

13. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/country/japan.html

14. https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

15. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/advice/2012/12/12/10-packing-tips-every-traveler-should-know/1764207/

16. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/passports/information/processing-times.html

17. https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/26/travel/how-to-buy-travel-insurance.html

18. https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/insurance/travel-insurance/

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19. http://www.ustia.org/faqs.html

20. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/getting-yourself-a-travel-insurance.html

Chapter 3

1. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/know-about-multi-destination-tickets.html

2. https://www.trails.com/how_19478_buy-openended-airfare-ticket.html

3. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/business-vs-economy-class-103443.html

4. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/business-class.html

5. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/how-to-book-rtw-trip.html

6. https://www.cnbc.com/2017/05/11/whens-the-best-time-to-book-a-flight.html

7. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/time-buy-airfare-13453.html

8. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/flights/2015/04/24/multicity-flights/26254131/

9. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/multi-stop-flights.html

10. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/round-the-world-open-tickets.html

11. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/buy-open-ended-airline-ticket-100041.html

12. http://traveltips.usatoday.com/us-passport-limitations-europe-104322.html

13. http://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-round-the-world-airline-ticket-2017-4

14. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/what-is-round-the-world-rtw-ticket.html

15. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2015/12/flying-business-class-as-a-millennial/421707/

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16. http://www.businessandindustry.co.uk/travel/five-benefits-of-business-class-travel

Chapter 4

1. https://www.goabroad.com/articles/choosing-the-right-accommodations-abroad

2. https://www.hospitalitynet.org/news/4070411.html

3. https://www.holidaystoeurope.com.au/home/europe-travel-blog/europe-travel-blog/890-hotel-vs-apartment-stays-in-europe-the-pros-and-cons

4. http://www.hostelworldgroup.com/~/media/Files/H/Hostelworld/press-release/PCW%20draft%20release_CV_LaunchSquad_V7.pdf

5. http://www.wisebread.com/hostels-vs-hotels-choosing-the-perfect-place-to-stay-within-your-budget

6. http://www.nytimes.com/2013/09/24/business/international/hostels-gain-popularity-with-business-travelers.html

7. https://www.studentuniverse.com/travel-guides/travel-like-a-student/10-tips-for-staying-at-a-hostel

8. https://www.tripsavvy.com/should-you-book-your-hostels-in-advance-3149895

9. https://www.unitedplanet.org/blog/2014/02/25/5-reasons-everyone-should-live-with-a-host-family-while-traveling

10. https://www.forbes.com/sites/deborahljacobs/2014/04/13/overseas-vacation-rentals-what-you-need-to-know/#73b070bb52db

11. https://www.smartertravel.com/2017/06/19/homestays-farmstays-travelers-guide/

Chapter 5

1. https://www.foodsafety.gov/blog/international_travel.html

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2. http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/travel_medicine/what_to_do_if_you_get_sick_while_traveling_85,P01455

3. http://www.nextavenue.org/take-safety-precautions-when-traveling-abroad/

4. https://www.linguisticsociety.org/content/how-many-languages-are-there-world

5. https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/world-history/world-history-beginnings/origin-humans-early-societies/a/where-did-humans-come-from

6. https://priceonomics.com/ranking-the-most-dangerous-countries-for-american/

7. http://reports.weforum.org/travel-and-tourism-competitiveness-report-2017/ranking/#series=TTCI.A.02

8. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html

9. https://www.prevention.com/health/travel-mistakes-that-make-you-sick/slide/5

Conclusion

1. https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/advice/2015/11/12/international-travel-tips/75580888/

2. https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/checklist.html

3. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/trip-planner.php

4. http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/

5. https://www.ticketsroundtheworld.com/getting-started-to-getting-it-done.html