Travelers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in other cultures, try new experiences and sample global gastronomy over an extended period of time, a journey that could last weeks, months or even years. But world travel can feel like a daunting task for even the most adventurous of travelers. It’s a goal that requires careful planning to ensure the best results for both your time and money.
The good news is that a world odyssey doesn’t have to break the bank. For starters, a traveler who chooses to travel by air can purchase an around-the-world ticket that will save a significant amount of money. Two airlines—Star Alliance and OneWorld—offer these tickets; they typically cost a fraction of what it would take to fly to each destination individually, as long as you stick to a few guidelines:
Similarly, cruises offer an out-of-the-box way to visit the world, but only if you choose the right ships. For example, repositioning cruises, which are one-way voyages designed to get a ship back to port before it needs repairs or maintenance, can be cheaper than regular itineraries, while still offering many of the perks of a cruise.
Another way to save is by selecting the best time of year for your RTW trip. It’s important to consider a destination’s weather patterns, as well as the best times to see specific sites. For instance, traveling to the American Gulf Coast in July or August might not be the best idea due to hurricanes. And a winter trip to snow-prone destinations can be impacted by snowstorms and chilly temps.
A quality accommodation is essential to a successful world tour, and there are countless options to choose from. Some travelers prefer staying in hotels, but others have chosen to go with more unique accommodations—like capsule hotels. These hotels range from upcycled sewer pipes to spherical spaces suspended in the sky, and they’re becoming more popular among travelers who are looking for out-of-the-ordinary experiences.
Luxury travel offers a variety of options, from private chauffeurs to exclusive rentals and private yachts. In addition, many countries and cities have exceptional public transportation that’s both affordable and efficient. For example, Tokyo’s subway system offers access to the city’s top attractions and is more convenient than renting a car.
Finally, a traveler can also use simple mindfulness habits to reduce stress and maximize enjoyment on their upcoming trip. For example, practicing daily meditation can help you stay relaxed and alert as you explore unfamiliar places. Host Lale Arikoglu fields calls from listeners on the ups and downs of introducing kids to the world and shares advice for staying in the moment.
The 2023 Travellers’ Choice Best Destinations are based on the quantity and quality of reviews submitted by travelers on Tripadvisor for hotels, restaurants and things to do in each destination. Penn’s dedicated team of travel experts—Teri, Fatima, Stephanie and John—work with programs to plan high-quality trips for students, faculty and staff members.