Work & Travel in Australia - Why, how, what?!

Down Under - a continent, a topic that I really delved into for the first time since my trip to New Zealand.

There, I felt inspired by the people who, like me, are captivated by the travel bug, the 'wanderlust', who want to experience the unique nature and feel the sense of freedom.

Australia is known as one of the most popular long-haul destinations for Germans. I have been immersing myself more and more in this country, with pictures, blogs, and reports, and it was clear to me: I have to go there! Preferably for a longer period of time, since this country is just so incredibly huge.

Perhaps this topic wouldn't have become so interesting to me in a relationship. But I have learned to take advantage of opportunities that life presents. And since there are still countless other great destinations on my bucket list, my plan was clear pretty quickly.

So I gathered all my courage and in early February I inquired about unpaid leave from my employer, without my family's knowledge. ;-)

After a few weeks, it became clear that my leave would be approved. Only for 5 months instead of the planned 6-9 months, with clearly more emphasis on travel than work, but hey... I'm going to Australia!!

After overcoming this crucial hurdle, there were still two more challenges to master: confessing to my family and dealing with my apartment. For tactical reasons, I first presented my freshly produced New Zealand video to my family. After that, the mood was relatively enthusiastic.

My mom immediately sensed that there was another bigger confession coming. After revealing my plans, you can see the mood of my parents and grandparents fluctuating almost daily. It's quite funny to witness, but of course, it's justified. Australia is home to the most poisonous animals in the world, it's 24 hours away from home by plane, and the apartment in Wolfsburg presents a not insignificant risk. But as the saying goes: no risk, no fun!

When my mother asked what I would have done if they had not agreed with my decision, I replied that I am already over 18, but their consent is very important to me. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my parents for always supporting me, no matter what.

Another topic was my apartment in Wolfsburg. It was clear to me that I would not give it up due to the housing situation. So with a stroke of luck, I was able to find a nice subtenant.

As for my work situation after Australia? I will probably be assigned to a different project in my company. But after 1.5 years, a change in this regard is not a bad thing. I have already let go of planning my life long-term anyway. Things usually turn out differently than expected.

I am now looking forward to a great time in Australia from mid-August 2016 to mid-January 2017, to many new people with a relaxed attitude towards life, a new culture, fascinating landscapes, unique animals, a kangaroo selfie, and New Year's Eve in Sydney.