Introduction post

I thought for my first post I would just do an introduction to me, my travels and what I am going to be writing on here. I read blogs from time to time so am not sure how many readers/clicks I am actually going to receive, however I wanted to make this blog as a sort of ‘diary’ for me to look back on and if other people enjoy it then that is an added bonus! 

So therefore, in November, I am beginning my travels in the Philippines for a month of island hopping, sun and (most likely) a lot of sunburn. I will then be flying to Australia where I am planning on spending the majority of my time abroad. Whilst this is extremely nerve wracking and risky, I would be lying if I said that I was not incredibly excited and yearning for the upcoming adventure. The reasons why I am going are endless; following three hard years at university, a break up making me desire a new adventure (and environment) plus the mindset that this is a ‘now or never’ opportunity, are just some of the motivators for this (crazy) decision.  With no job, relationship or immediate family tying me down to the UK (my parents live in the UAE, as did I for 8 years) I thought that there was no reason to stop me from going. I love meeting new people and experiencing new things. Whilst the crowded hostels and lack of a warm shower do make me feel slightly uncomfortable, the thoughts of the new memories that I will be making immediately make me feel better again. Therefore, so far there are no regrets for the plans that I have made.

I will be starting my trip with a one-week tour with ‘Welcome to travel’ in Melbourne which is a tour aimed (mainly) for solo travellers giving everyone an in-depth tour of Melbourne, the opportunity to meet new friends plus advice regarding getting a job, help opening a bank account and sorting you out a tax-number (for those, like me, who want to work in Australia). From then I am hoping to spend about a month travelling (hopefully with the people I meet on the tour) before settling down (sort-of) somewhere and finding a job (as I will be going on a working-holiday visa). After that I will have 11 months left in Australia and with no set return date can just decide when I feel ready to leave.

I will therefore be using this blog to document places I have been, memories I have made and give a bit of advice for any of you that are looking to go travelling. I will also be uploading (countless) stories and posts on my Instagram (here and here) where you can see real time updates of my travels. Whilst I have not been to the Philippines, I have visited Australia. My family and I travelled to Melbourne and Sydney for 10 days in December 2018 and I instantly fell in love with the country and their beaches. I will end this post with some of my favourite photos from Sydney in order to demonstrate why I have decided to return.

Thank you for reading!

Jess 

The Icebergs at Bondi

Manly Beach

Bondi to Bronte coastal walk

Palm Beach

Palm Beach