Traveling the world is a dream for many, but it’s not without its challenges. From figuring out how to do it on a budget to finding the right travel insurance, there are some key things to keep in mind.
First, it’s important to think about how long you want to travel. While there’s no definitive answer, some travelers may prefer to explore a particular region or city for a few weeks while others might spend months or even years on the road. For those who are planning a longer trip, it’s also essential to consider whether it will be easy to get from one destination to the next by ground transportation.
When planning a world trip, it’s also essential to understand when the best time is to visit each region or country you have in mind. For example, traveling to the American Gulf Coast during hurricane season is probably not a good idea, nor would it be wise to travel to Marrakech, Morocco during the summer, when temperatures can soar. Similarly, it’s not a good idea to fly into snow-prone destinations during winter, when flights are frequently canceled or delayed due to inclement weather.
While there is no definitive answer to this question, it’s often easier to plan a round-the-world trip from large airport hubs like London, New York, Paris and Sydney. This makes sense, as these locations tend to have a higher number of connecting flight options and will save you the trouble of changing planes at each stop along your route.
It’s also worth remembering that while some areas are better suited for year-round travel than others, it doesn’t have to be an either/or proposition. For instance, coastal regions such as the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Hawaii have their own appeal at different times of year.
Finally, it’s worth considering which mode of transport you want to use. While road trips and old-fashioned backpacking are popular, there are a host of other options that offer unique ways to experience the globe. For example, National Geographic Expeditions offers 23-night Around the World by Private Jet trips, while Oasis Overland offers extended guided tours that include transportation as part of the package.
One of the most exciting developments in the industry is the growing emphasis on sustainability and accessibility. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the sector has decoupled its growth from greenhouse gas emissions, and is increasingly benefitting marginalised communities and women, including youth, young mothers, girls and older persons.
The WTTC’s 2024 research also points to emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and data science, as driving further innovation and enhancing the traveler experience. With these advancements, the travel and tourism industry is proving to be resilient in the face of crisis and is well on track for record-breaking growth.