Are you considering a Working Holiday in Australia? Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime! From the vibrant cities to the stunning beaches, Australia offers a unique blend of work and travel experiences. We recently spoke with our own Work & Travel Australia alum, Savannah, and here’s what she says you can expect during your time Down Under.
Climate Adjustment
One of the first things you’ll notice is the climate. As Savannah shares, “My first initial reaction to the environment when stepping outside of the airport on Australian soil was the humidity.” Depending on where you are in Australia, you might experience different climates. For instance, “Sydney… is considered a humid subtropical climate.” Be prepared to adapt your wardrobe accordingly. “Now, linen clothing is my new best friend here in Australia,” she says.
Easy Travel and Friendly Locals
Traveling around Australia is surprisingly easy. “Whether you want to travel solo or find other travel companions to go on adventures with, it is very accessible to do both.” The country offers excellent public transportation within cities, and there are affordable options for intercity travel, including buses, trains, and air travel.
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Australia is the hospitality of its people. As Savannah recounts, “Whether I found myself lost in need of directions or simply wanted a photo that wasn’t a selfie, there was always an Australian ready to lend a hand.”
Language and Communication
While English is the primary language, you might find the Australian accent and slang challenging at first. “Australians have thicker accents and use unfamiliar slang that even for me who is a native English speaker have some difficulty understanding.” Don’t worry, though – it gets easier with time!
Work and Living Arrangements
Many Working Holiday participants start by staying in hostels. Be prepared for a unique experience. “Hostels are just a unique olfactory experience,” Savannah explains. “Each hostel has its own distinct aroma, good or bad.” While not always glamorous, hostels are a popular option for travelers that want to keep the cost down.
As you settle in, you’ll likely want to start looking for work. “By getting a job and establishing roots in a specific location, I am hoping to engage more with locals, contribute to a community, and develop more meaningful connections.”
Cultural Immersion
Living like a local means “immersing yourself into the community and into the culture of the place.” At first, you might feel like a tourist, but as time goes on, you’ll likely evolve into something more. “I am hoping as my year-long journey progresses, I will evolve hopefully into something more than just a tourist.”
Personal Growth
A Working Holiday in Australia can be a transformative experience. “One thing that has surprised me recently is this sense of courage or bravery I discovered about myself, “ Savannah reflects “Making this move to live in Australia for a year does take some courage. Many of us have these dreams and aspirations to do something like this, but only a few actually dare to chase them.”
Practical Tips
Before you leave, Savannah recommends that you disable two-factor authentication that relies on SMS messaging and review your settings on all devices and accounts. When possible, find alternate 2FA methods to keep your data secure. This simple step can save you a lot of headaches when you change to an Australian phone number.
Embarking on a Working Holiday in Australia is an exciting journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and adventure. As you navigate this new chapter, remember to stay open to new experiences, embrace the challenges, and make the most of every opportunity. Your Australian adventure awaits!
