G’day mates! Howzit going?

Going to Australia is one of the biggest steps Jason and I have ever taken in our lives. But before taking on anything major the both of us usually like to be prepared, in this case researching comprehensively about what it will take to make this trip possible. Besides a lot of money?

As Canadians travelling to Australia – a fellow member of the Commonwealth, we hope to avoid a lot of the hassles that horror travel stories are made of. And that is why, it was very important to us to be as informed as possible to cover all our bases. The following links have helped us immensely in preparing ourselves to what’s to come and will hopefully help you as well.

Preparations while in Canada:

• Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada – Before You Go – Planning a Trip Abroad
• Living/Travelling in Australia and the Pacific Islands
• Australian Government Offices in Canada
• OHIP Services while Travelling Outside Canada
• Registration of Canadians Abroad – A great service provided to Canadians, allowing the Government to inform/assist us in case of a natural disaster, civil unrest or family emergency at home

After all that research, it was time for some action:

1. Make sure our passports are valid for a minimum of 6 months of our return date to Canada
2. Obtain the proper Visas – the Working Holiday Visa allows me  to work in Australia
3. Buy plane tickets
4. Continue saving money
5. Get super anxious until departure!

By researching and planning this trip as thoroughly as possible, it has given the both of us a peace of mind.  Especially when either of us have one of those moments of panic where you feel like you don’t know what the heck you’re doing. It’s good to refer back to these plans and move forward with the attitude that whatever may come, we are ready to take on this challenge together.

Until next time, sprinkle hearts!