Kevin & Anjeanette Rettig Q & A

HOW AND WHO DECIDED TO DO THIS TRIP?
We dreamt up this trip together in February 2000 after seeing the movie “The Beach”. Not that this was the most compelling of movies, but it did have a central theme that really inspired us – the search for experience, the quest for something different. We decided to take this trip for so many reasons, but primarily because we both love to travel and experience different cultures and geographies. We also needed a break from the fast-paced Corporate America. We’re very fortunate to have the finances and motivation to take this trip and thought this would be a wonderful adventure to embark upon while we’re still young (we’re both 29) and have no children.
HOW OFTEN DO YOU FLY?
On this one-year journey around the world, we fly to a new destination every 1-3 weeks. For the year, we have flown more than 100,000 miles.
HOW MANY MILES/POINTS ARE YOU EARNING THIS YEAR?
Within one year, we have each earned approximately 125,000 frequent flyer miles. We have managed to earn a 50% bonus on our First Class segments.
WHAT CLASS OF SERVICE DO YOU MOSTLY FLY IN?
Prior to this trip, we would always purchase economy with an occasional upgrade. First class is really a bargain when buying an around-the-world ticket. It came to roughly $250 per segment for us!
FAVORITE AIRLINE?
No question about it: American Airlines
FAVORITE AIRCRAFT?
American Airlines’ Flagship Suites on 777
FAVORITE HOTEL?
The Prince Hotel in Kuala Lumpur
FAVORITE HOTEL AMENITY?
Fitness Room
FAVORITE AIRPORT?
Hong Kong International Airport: Efficient in every way, from customs to baggage claim; Helpful tourist info right outside customs; Easy access to efficient & economical public transport
FAVORITE AIRPORT TO PASS TIME IN?
Hong Kong International Airport: In Cathy Pacific’s First-Class Lounge, “The Wing”. The cabanas are Fung Shui all the way!
FAVORITE CITY?
Inside the U.S.: San Diego, California
Outside the U.S.: Cape Town, South Africa
Both cities have the perfect climate and a diverse geographical landscape (oceans, mountain, etc.).
FAVORITE ISLAND?
Phi Phi Leh Island off the southern coast of Thailand

FAVORITE SPA?
The Ihkapolei Spa at the JW Marriott Ihilani on Oahu, Hawaii
FAVORITE RESTAURANT?
Jake’s in Del Mar, California
AISLE OR WINDOW?
Aisle for Kevin and window for Anjeanette. When traveling solo, we prefer aisle for short trips and window for long trips.
ETICKET OR PAPER?
Eticket…it’s just so much easier!
TRAVEL AGENT OR ONLINE?
Online…we like being able to search around for the best deal. But, if you’re booking an around-the-world ticket through One World, call Sara Mills at the American RTW Desk.
FAVORITE TRAVEL WEBSITE?
LonelyPlanet.com’s Thorn Tree section (www.lonelyplanet.com). Search on any destination in the world and get great tips from fellow travelers.

FAVORITE TRAVEL BOOK?
Lonely Planet
IF YOU WERE STRANDED ON A TROPICAL ISLAND, WHAT THREE ITEMS WOULD YOU WANT TO HAVE WITH YOU?
1) Our Leatherman tool; 2) Our wristwatch compass; 3) A comfortable pillow
WHAT DO YOU HATE MOST ABOUT TRAVEL?
When we have to sit in between two people in coach on a long flight
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT TRAVEL?
Meeting people from foreign countries with a completely different lifestyle from ours and learning about their cultures and perspectives on the world
BEST TRAVEL TIP:
Always be cautious when strangers approach you