not quite round the world

jen_jen_2

Hi, I am in the early planning stages of a RTW trip. I am planning on going for at least a year, probably two and in that time don't expect to get past doing asia and australia/new zealand. Leaving, hopefully before Christmas!!

Within the 12 months i definately want to go to India, Thailand, Australia and New Zealand, also want japan, china, vietnam, laos. Happy to do budget airlines but want to be quite flexible about when and where to play. As there is no time restictions train, bus and boats are all viable options.

I am not under 26yrs (no young person or student discount) and wonder if a RTW is the best option. I'm starting to think a basic RTW with journeys to suit on budget airlines as an when may be the best.

Any experts out there with an opinion. I know i can go off to a number of travel agents, however i expect they will "recommend" the RTW. What do you lot think?

Dasnookster

I think a RTW ticket is the best thing to do budget wise. With a round the world ticket though you have to circumnavigate the world - its not really a problem though because you can just schedule in a few nights here and there on the return journey and allow most of your time in the places you want to see the most.

Also with RTW tickets they allow you to do overland sections - so for example you could fly into Auckland - NZ, overland (and ferry) to Christchurch - NZ and fly out of Christchurch. You can't backtrack on yourself with the flights, but some zig-zagging is allowed.

A friend of mine recently used this website to plan her trip http://www.travelmood.com/Holidays/flights/rtw/rtwIntro.asp?gclid=CO_Qlq7YspICFQIguwod6TkuLw, it gives some good info.

Lucky you!!!! I'm envious - my RTW trip isn't till 2010. Have a great time!

blue_haddock

Actually the best thing would be to get a RTW ticket (which are only valid for 1 year) and use as many stops as possible on the way to Australia. Once your there you can then get a budget flight cheaply to NZ and also some of the pacific islands. You can then get another RTW ticket to use on the way home to make further stops at required destinations.