>For some years I have wanted to travel, to see the world first hand, and experience the rich cultures and diversity that can be found on almost every continent. In April this year I took the first steps in realising my ambition by applying for a working visa in Australia, which to my surprise was granted within 24 hours!

Now before I receive a flurry of comments/emails stating the obvious – that Australia is but one continent and not the world – might I elaborate on my plans (or lack thereof). The visa is but a means to an end. Many Brits flock to Australia every year seeking sun and adventure, after all it makes the perfect starting point for any would be traveller, in particular those who have little experience in travelling alone, if only because being British we already speak the lingo thus feel more at ease.

I have chosen Australia for this reason but also for its proximity to Asia and (I hope) the ease of finding short term (contract) work in Sydney so I do not have to use the entirety of my savings from the last three years of work. I have provisionally only planned a year away; three months in Sydney working; three months in Asia; back to Sydney for a further three months of work; then three months to travel Australia and New Zealand. Depending on my financial solvency I may then head home via the Americas before returning to the UK financially poorer but personally wealthier!

To this end, I am now in the process selling my share in a property I bought two years ago, before finally resigning. Once both these are complete I can then look to finalise a date for which I will head for Australia to begin what I hope will be a life changing experience that can only broaden my horizons and open up new opportunities for the future. I say can look as I do hope to be able to enrole on an intensive French Course, in France or Switzerland, beforehand. Whilst I speak a little French, and a little more German, I am sadly mono-linguistic. This is something I dearly want to change and it can only help the lone traveller as they meander their way around the world.

And after this ‘expedition’…who knows. I have two thoughts at present. To return to University and study for a Masters in International Politics, or seek work for an NGO (Non-Government Organisation), perhaps in Africa (cue the French :p).