If I made a list of the far-flung places I have now traveled to, it would probably contain the following:
1) Guatemala
2) Ukraine
3) Kyrgyzstan
4) Kazakhstan
I didn’t think I could add my current country to this list, but after many shocked glances and responses about how remote it is, I decided that Australia now makes itself known as number 5.
Yes, people, I am in the land of kangaroos, koalas (not koala bears), and crocodiles. I’m walking on a land of deserts, beaches, and bush… A place where people eat vegemite for breakfast, call busboys “glassies”, and say “thongs” instead of flip-flops. I am in Sydney, Australia and absolutely loving it!
Australia has been a curiosity of mine for more than half my life, and I’ve actively played with the idea of moving/living there for at least the past 10 years. Actually, when originally planning on traveling the world, I always thought I’d save Australia for the end because I could work/live there.
When I was in high school, I thought becoming a photographer would be a cool job. I would travel to Australia and take pictures to sell to National Geographic.
I also thought that taking a year off before university and spending it in Australia was a good plan. I talked about the idea a lot, but the idea of a “gap year” wasn’t too common in my neck of the woods, so I didn’t have the proper support or inspiration to make stepping out of the norm happen.
When returning from study abroad, I held the forms for applying for a working holiday visa to Australia in my hands. I calculated the amount of money I had to save up in order to head abroad, took up two jobs, and started counting down. Unfortunately, it was again just not meant to be. I ended up having knee surgery, not working for a while, and getting caught up in a life back home.
Imagine my disbelief that I am finally making it a reality: I’m touching the untouchable!
I’ve been here for a little less than 2 weeks now, but I’ve been super busy. I hostel-hopped for about the first week until I finally found a place within walking distance of central Sydney. Soon after I found a job, which starts this Monday!
As for touristy things, I’ve gone up in the Sydney Tower for a bird’s eye view of just how massive Sydney is.
I took a gander at the famous Sydney Aquarium for a view of what lies out in the deep blue. Fantastic.
Besides this, I’ve been introduced to various good restaurants, cafes, and bars. I’ve even gone bowling! So far, Australia is treating me quite well. What fun lies ahead. 
whats ur job?
I am tutoring Korean children in English, Math, and Science – one-on-one ONLINE!!! It’s so crazy that I came to Australia to teach Korean kids. hahah Even though it is part-time, it pays enough to cover my living costs.
really? how did u swing that job? Sounds so 21st century- virtual teaching. at least u can do it from anywhere!
post about ur life here…with photos….
Congrats Brooke! Sounds like a big change from the …yztans. Are you planning on settling there for a set amount of time or will still follow the adevnture? Best of luck!
I wish you luck on your new job!!! You're great writer, after reading this note I want to visit australia!!!!
It’s no Ukraine though, right? Right…
Hi Brooke! Yah! It looks like you’re having a great time! I’m so glad you made it down there and are enjoying the sun. I can’t wait to hear all about your adventure. I almost worked a similar gig several months ago but couldn’t swing the hours with the current situation. Hopefully in a couple months that will be over and I can do something cool like that. So write me and tell me all about the new place!! – Beth
Don’t worry people, I’ll do posts on both place and work soon
I’m really enjoying life here thus far!
what a mix, guatemala with slaviccountries. ironically, that is the exact mix of my son. guatemalan dad, where we’ll be moving to in about 2 months, and me a russian mom:)
The Travel Expert(a) and an Expat with a Twist
wow that’s cool, it’s always my dream to be on a working holiday in aus, btw how did u find ur students online? i also teach Korean kids privately in their homes, but maybe an online job will another income to fuel my wanderlust