Blair Carbury, a 45-year-old from New Jersey, found himself at a crossroads in his career. After years of dedication and hard work, he decided to take a mid-life break and embark on an adventure he had always dreamed of: a trip around the world. “It was now or never,” Blair said, reflecting on his decision. “I wanted to see the world, experience different cultures, and create memories that would last a lifetime.”
The first step in planning his journey was to purchase an around-the-world ticket through Star Alliance. The Star Alliance Round the World ticket is a unique offering that allows travelers to visit multiple destinations with a single ticket. “The flexibility and convenience of the Star Alliance ticket were exactly what I needed,” Blair explained. The ticket allows for a maximum of 16 flights and up to 15 stopovers, making it an ideal choice for an extensive trip like Blair’s.
Blair began by mapping out his journey, ensuring that he followed the rules of the ticket: starting and ending in the same country, traveling in one global direction (either east or west), and crossing both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. “I decided to travel eastward, starting from New York,” Blair said. His first destination was London, a city he had always wanted to visit. “The history, the culture, the architecture – London had it all,” he remarked.
“As well, I had two former clients there who I wanted to meet. I thought it was prudent to stay in touch with some of my favorite business contacts.” But as Blair notes, the blazer and tie he brought for the meeting basically just took up room in his suitcase for the rest of the trip, except for, “a way too expensive meal in Tokyo, which was totally worth it.”
From London, Blair’s journey took him to Paris, where he marveled at the Eiffel Tower and indulged in the city’s culinary delights. “The food in Paris was incredible. I tried everything from croissants to escargot,” he recalled. Next, he traveled to Rome, where he explored ancient ruins and soaked in the rich history of the city. “Walking through the Colosseum was like stepping back in time,” Blair said.
As he continued his journey, Blair made sure to plan his stops carefully, considering factors such as weather, local events, and personal interests. “I wanted to make the most of each destination,” he explained. After Europe, Blair headed to Asia, with stops in Bangkok, Tokyo, and Beijing. “Each city had its own unique charm and attractions,” he noted. In Bangkok, he visited ornate temples and bustling markets, while in Tokyo, he was fascinated by the blend of traditional and modern culture. “Tokyo was a city of contrasts – ancient shrines next to skyscrapers,” Blair observed.
What were his favourite moments?
Blair Carbury had many favorite moments from his trip around the world, each one leaving a lasting impression on him. One of his most cherished memories was watching the sunrise over the ancient temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. “It was a surreal experience,” Blair recalled. “The beauty and tranquility of the moment were beyond words.”
Blair’s journey was filled with countless memorable moments, each one contributing to the adventure of a lifetime. “Every destination had something unique to offer,” he reflected. “The people I met, the places I saw, and the experiences I had will stay with me forever.”
What are his best tips?
One of the most challenging aspects of Blair’s trip was managing the costs. “Budgeting was crucial,” he emphasized. Blair researched accommodation options, transportation, and daily expenses for each destination. “I used a mix of hotels, hostels, and even stayed with locals through homestay programs,” he shared. To keep track of his spending, Blair used a travel budgeting app, which helped him stay within his budget.
Currency exchange was another important consideration. “I made sure to have some local currency on hand for each country,” Blair advised. He also used a travel-friendly credit card with no foreign transaction fees. “It made things a lot easier,” he added.
Throughout his journey, Blair learned valuable lessons and gained insights that he was eager to share. “Traveling teaches you to be adaptable and open-minded,” he reflected. He also emphasized the importance of staying safe and being aware of one’s surroundings. “Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious in unfamiliar places,” he advised.
Blair’s trip around the world was not without its challenges, but the experiences and memories he gained were well worth it. “It was the adventure of a lifetime,” he said with a smile. “I came back with a new perspective on life and a deeper appreciation for the world we live in.”
In conclusion, planning a trip around the world requires careful consideration and preparation. From choosing destinations and managing costs to navigating currency exchange and staying safe, there are many factors to consider. But as Blair Carbury’s journey shows, the rewards of such an adventure are immeasurable. “If you have the chance to travel the world, take it,” Blair urged. “You won’t regret it.”
