You Asked
I Answered
So, seriously, are you guys rich or what’s the deal?
A popular myth is that travel is an expensive hobby. I understand where you’re coming from. As an Irish girl who didn’t even know what a hostel was 5 years ago I used to think that too. I thought international travel was only for the privileged. After travelling on and off for the last few years I’m here to tell you that travel is possible for all of us. Want to travel the world? Or take an extended break away? You don’t need to be rich, however, you will need to get creative about saving money. Check out 10 tips to save for future travels
How did your Australian adventure begin solo?
A thirst for travel brought me to a scary crossroads in my life. I had never intended to travel alone, however, plans fell through, my boyfriend at the time wasn’t enjoying travelling and I was left to go solo. Even the thought of going on my own shot a nervous jolt throughout my body…but, if I was to wait for the right time, to wait for someone else, I’d have never taken the plunge. After finishing an epic 4 months travel in Southeast Asia I was determined to make it to Australia and see all it had to offer. It’s hands down offered me the best experience of my life. So the next time you’re inspired to go on a trip and can’t find anyone to go with, do yourself a favour and bite the bullet. What have you got to lose?
What camera gear do you use?
To this date I have only ever used my phone, currently the iPhone 12 which has a pretty decent camera. I have recently purchased the DJI Magic Air 2 and can’t wait to explore more.
How have you navigated visas for different countries?
Every country has different rules. Some countries allow you to stay for certain period without a visa. It is worth looking into well in advance, if you don’t have the correct visa you can be refused entry. The type of visa you need will depend on the country you’re travelling to, the passport you hold, the purpose of your trip and the length of your stay. In Australia I started off on a Working Holiday Visa, then moved to a Sponsorship Visa and I’m currently a Resident. You can hire visa specialists or immigration lawyers but in my opinion it’s just an added expense. All visa information can be found online and is very straight forward once it is broken down.
How much money do you need to have saved before moving to another country?
How long is a piece of string! This will vary dramatically depending on the individual and the country. If you’re seriously thinking of living abroad, the time to start saving is now. It’s great to have seven to nine months worth of living expenses in the bank before you move abroad. You may need more or less depending on your lifestyle. Arriving to Australia I had €3,000 and managed just fine.
How do you cope with homesickness?
This is a funny one, it tends to hit you when you least expect it. Experiencing homesickness while abroad can bring you down but it doesn’t have to keep you down. Making new friends and connecting with others can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness. After all, your friends really do become your family when living abroad. Fully immersing yourself in your new country and its culture is a good way to feel more at home and appreciate the exciting journey you’re on.
How do you manage your Health Insurance abroad?
To be honest I’ve never purchased private health insurance while living abroad but I have never been without travel insurance. There are so many different providers, shop around and see what works best for you. You never know when you might need it.
Where is next on your bucket list?
The ever growing bucket list! This year I’ll be working hard to save. 2023 is going to be a big year of travel, I’m currently working hard to put plans in place for my biggest trip yet ‘a lap of Australia’. I can’t wait to take you on this journey with me; from buying and modifying a ute, to planning and exploring the wonderful unknown.