What I learnt in my first six months living in Sydney

Next week, it’ll be six months since I arrived in Sydney, and a lot has changed since I wrote about my first week living here. I’ve had some incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience, such as hot air ballooning, and whale- and dolphin-watching; battled a range of (some unexpected) emotions; and we’ve all had a global pandemic to contend with too!

The first few months can sometimes feel like a holiday, but often by six months, you’re likely to have a home base, know your way around a bit, and even have a favourite supermarket (hey, Coles, I love you and your seasoning aisle). Below is what I’ve learnt about living abroad so far, along with how much I love bird-watching and the optimum time to hit the supermarket for toilet roll in a pandemic.

Currency exchange

Converting to your home currency becomes second nature to you, however, you will do it less and less. While I always convert the final price of my weekly food shop to pounds in my head, just to see how it compares to my spending back home, as I go around the shop, I judge the prices more and more on their dollar worth.

The time difference isn’t all that bad

Despite only being here for six months, I’ve already gone through three different time changes: when I got here, we were 11 hours ahead of the UK, then we were 10 hours for a week or two, and now during UK summer and Oz winter, we are 9 hours apart. While the middle of the day Oz time is usually off-limits, there’s always an opportunity to talk in the evening (UK morning) and, currently, when I wake up for work, a little of the morning (UK late evening) too. I think this 9-hour set up is my favourite, as the UK waking up lines perfectly with the end of my working day, and I can chat to those back home until my bedtime if I want - while people are working from home or on furlough anyway. The current time difference also means the opportunity for communal Zoom drinks: an evening tipple for me is still a perfectly acceptable afternoon tipple for those in the UK.

It is okay to rely on people

Since I moved to uni (nearly 10 years ago…wtf), I’ve always tried to do things independently, without relying on others where possible. This came to a head when I moved home for a month just before I came here, and I ended up having a long conversation with my parents. I now, more than ever, realise it is okay to acknowledge and accept help when you need it! I’ve had so much support and encouragement from back home when I’ve opened up and asked for it in these last six months, as well as physical support right here.

During the height of lockdown, I was welcomed into the family home by my friend and her family in the Blue Mountains; at first, I was so conscious of being a burden, but as the weeks went on, I realised this wasn’t the case at all. Furthermore, going to Melbourne (once they’re out of their second lockdown and the borders re-open), I will have a friend to stay with for as long as I want; again, my initial thought was ‘I don’t want to outstay my welcome’, but I need to stop thinking like that. People (usually) don’t offer unless they mean it.

There is so much more to Sydney than its beaches…

… but they’re a stunning place to start! There are so many other stunning landscapes in and around the city too. My time in the Blue Mountains - an hour from Sydney - was breathtaking. A short meander from my friend’s house were glorious lookouts that truly reminded me I wasn’t in Kansas (okay, London) anymore. It awakened a new love and appreciation of nature. Next, the harbours and bays dotted around are absolutely gorgeous; I wax lyrical about the walk from Lavender Bay over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but Watson’s Bay was up there for me too, where you could look back onto the city skyline over the water from one side, and then out to the seemingly endless horizon on the other side by the lighthouse. Even the city parks are lovely: Centennial Park is dotted with ponds and watery expanses. Centennial Park holds a lovely memory for me: the photo below was taken by a stranger who lent me, a total stranger she’d met 30 seconds before, her sunglasses so I could get a good photo. It made me smile and made me feel a lot less alone in this city.

The four/five-month itch is a real thing

Living, rather than just travelling, means you’ll eventually get back to the daily routine – wake up, brush your teeth, work, food shop, etc – with a sprinkle of cool new location and way of life, but without the other familiar constants that used to get you through the week, like your pals, or your favourite pub on a Friday.

I was warned by people who have made a similar move that it was totally normal and expected to feel homesick around this time. Boy, were they right - and it’s a far more intense feeling than I expected. All I could think about as I walked, ran and worked for a good couple of months was whether I would be making a huge mistake flying home now, but seriously considering doing it anyway. As well as concern for a family illness back home, I appreciate that my overall experience was also compounded by the Coronavirus pandemic and its repercussions in terms of travel, making new friends, and work opportunities and environment. I will say though, this time wasn’t all bad - it gave me a new appreciation for what I have in the UK, and taught me ways to manage these new feelings I’ve never had to deal with before.

Sometimes, you just gotta roll with it

My plans in July changed quicker than the relationships on Made In Chelsea. From a called-off Melbourne visit to an early ending of my work contract, a new freelance role to a cancelled travel tour, things I thought were a ‘given’ changed in a matter of days. I am big on planning - I always have a Plan B and strive to be prepared for anticipated outcomes - but these last few months have taught me you just gotta roll with it! You’ll (likely) be okay.

Final word

Whatever your feelings, remember they are valid and right for YOU. If you want to start making more permanent roots six months in, don’t listen to those who say “it’s too early”, GO FOR IT. If you think “I want to cut my trip a little shorter”, don’t listen to those who brag “well, I stayed the whole year”. I was reminded of this by my housemates and a couple of people back home: whether or not someone made the same flight path, lived in the same city or had the same visa as you, NO ONE has had the same experience, so don’t take on their opinions as if they have. I can definitely say, not many others have had to manage the uncertainty and newness of a pandemic while trying to manage the uncertainty and newness of a new home and life too! Everyone will have an opinion on the choices you make, but only you have to live with them.

Moving to Australia: what to apply for and when

For an over-planner like me, it can feel a tad overwhelming moving abroad and not instinctively knowing the daily nuances, like how to access healthcare, what you need to open a bank account, or even, what you need to pass through immigration once you arrive! I had visions of being turned away from the airport after 24+ hours travelling for forgetting something vital… awks.

Despite my ramblings below, what you need to apply for is a pretty short, straight-forward list…

*The below information is based on being a temporary resident on the working holiday visa - some advice may differ between visas.

Before you get here

Your visa: You can’t get into the country without it! If you’re coming over on a temporary resident/working holiday visa as I did, it’s pretty easy to sort it out by yourself, without the need for an agent or middle man. Read the eligibility information and follow the steps on the official website to apply here.

You’ll be asked to present your visa countless times while you’re here - basically, any time you’re asked to present your passport, unless it’s at the bottle-o - so print it out and keep it with your passport.

In your first week

Medicare card: Your Medicare card is the Aussie version of your NHS number, and will save you a lot in medical fees, should you need medical attention. Fill in the forms online here, then print out and take to your nearest Centrelink/Medicare centre (be prepared with your Oz address, passport and visa). Now, this is the home of most benefits systems, so be prepared for a little wait; go and sign in at the front desk, registering why you are there, and then sit and wait until you’re called. You can also fill out the forms I referenced above on the centre’s computers, but it means even more waiting time.

On the day, you’ll receive a Medicare number on a piece of paper, which you can use if you need the docs while you wait for your actual card to arrive in the post. When you do go to the doctors, it’ll be free if you visit a ‘bulk billing’ GP. Partial bulk build and totally private healthcare are also available, increasing in price, of course. The price fluctuations also apply when it comes to pharmacies. I opt for Chemist Warehouse (think of it like when you go to Superdrug to get your prescription).

Bank account: Now, I didn’t actually apply for a bank account in my first week, because I had a Monzo account. Monzo doesn’t charge any fees for using the card abroad, I was able to see what I was spending both in dollars and pounds. It also meant I could budget and transfer my Oz savings from my UK account bit by bit. However, if your bank charges you for foreign currency purchases, this is definitely one to apply for asap. Research the right bank for you; there are a couple that are a bit more temporary-resident-friendly. I opted to go into the branch, but some banks allow you to apply online; you’ll need proof of address, passport and visa again here.

It is worth me pointing out I did this stuff having already secured a permanent address; if you’re living in a hostel, hotel or AirBnb, you can get your Medicare card sent to a friend’s permanent address and apply for a bank account from some banks while you’re still in the UK.

Before you start working

Tax file number: Once you secure a job, one of the things you’ll be asked for is your tax file number. It is unique to you and yours for life, whether you move jobs, countries, etc, and makes sure you’re paying the right tax (without it, you’ll end up paying more). I applied before I started working, but it arrives fairly quickly, so depending on how quickly you start your role, you can even apply once you accept your job. Apply for your tax file number here. Don’t forget: you MUST file your taxes (whether you’re permanent, contract, or freelance) between 1st July and 31st October.

Super: As a temporary resident, you’re probably not thinking about retiring here, but your super is your pension, and a portion of your earnings goes into a super automatically. You can research the best super for your circumstances, or just go with the default super offered by your company once you start working.

Once you leave the country, you can apply for your super back. The stinger though, they tax you SIXTY-FIVE PERCENT. Yup. Just gotta swallow that one. 35% is better than 0% though, right?

Any other pointers?

‘Supporting yourself’ funds: Looking at the forums and blogs on moving to Australia, it is recommended you travel with proof of being able to support yourself here, and funds/ticket for a return flight. The general rule of thumb is at least $5,000 (circa £2,500).

I printed an excessive amount of proof of funds, flights, and address, ready to be scrutinised at the airport, but border control let me through with just the simple passport and visa check. Within Facebook group comments in ex-pat groups, I found this is not uncommon, however it is best to be prepared, just in case.

Glasses/contacts prescription: For fellow blind bats, come armed with a print-out of your official prescription in case you need to visit the optician or order contact lenses. Once you have that, it’s the same process to get sorted as the UK.

Honestly, everything else you can do as and when it arises. I was surprised how easy and smooth it was to set up everything.

The best spots for self reflection in and around Sydney

Since moving here, I’ve had more time with my own thoughts than I’d ever had in London; I’m now undistracted by a full calendar, away from familiar surroundings, and on my own far more. As a result, I’ve unexpectedly done a lot of self-reflection. A friend said to me when I first got here: “living abroad isn’t always about having the best time ever, but rather having an incredible learning experience.” He was right!

Now that Covid restrictions are easing here in Australia, here are my top 5 spots for self-reflection; after all, gotta make the most of being abroad with some sightseeing in between the soul searching!

Royal Botanical Gardens, CBD

It is here, back in 2018, that I first thought to myself “I could live in this city.” The swaying palms tower above and the colours of the plants are vibrant; wandering around the gardens is such a good way to reset your mind, as you soak up the gorgeous nature. What’s more, as you take the north-west exit from the gardens (towards the water), and follow the path around, the famous Sydney Opera House appears. When I get those “why did I move here, again?” feelings, this is where I go, and within an instant, I remember.

Lavender Bay, Lower North Shore

Just across from the CBD, over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, lies Lavender Bay. In this peaceful spot, you can sit and admire the boats on the harbour, as well as drink in a magnificent view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. I sat there one afternoon for hours, happy as Larry, and was even inspired to do a little sketch (art is evidently not my strong point…) If you’ve got time, make a walk of it: get a bus across the bridge, stroll down to Wendy’s Secret Garden, then into Lavender Bay, before passing Luna Park, and finally crossing the aforementioned Harbour Bridge by foot, admiring stunning views of the harbour and Opera House below.

Coogee to Bondi // Manly to the Spit coastal walks

Talking of pretty walks, the six-kilometre Coogee to Bondi coastal walk is a stunning stretch for self-reflection, as is the 10-kilometre Manly to the Spit - and you can start the latter journey with a gorgeous ferry ride. From dramatic cliffs to secluded bays (plus a creepy but weirdly charming graveyard on Bondi-Coogee, and burned bushland on Manly - the Spit), there’s plenty to see as you mull over your thoughts and get that step count up. There are also plenty of spots to sit and stare out to sea. While Coogee and the famous Bondi beaches are often packed, there are less crowded beaches in between both walks, so come off the walking route and dip your toes in the water along the way.

Cremorne Point, Lower North Shore

An easy ferry ride from Circular Quay (which I only learned on my way back, after an hour’s bus + walk… whoops), you’ll find Cremorne Point. This 3km loop will take you past a smattering of gorgeous ‘Barbie house’ homes that boast spectacular views of the water and yachts bobbing along - you’ll be reflecting on how much you want to live there, that’s for sure. When you get to the tip (so you’re facing the city), take a left and walk down the little path: you’ll find the perfect spot for self-reflection. There’s a small rock on which you can sit and look over the water at the city, Opera House and Harbour Bridge, watching the boats zoom in and out, and the cars crawl along behind the Opera House like little bugs.

Pittwater, Northern Beaches

Now, this one is an hour north of Sydney, and most easily reached by car. On one side, you have Palm Beach aka Summer Bay, home of the popular soap, Home and Away, while on the other, you’ll find calmer waters with a horizon that wouldn’t look out of place in the likes of Switzerland, New Zealand, or even Ha Long Bay. you’ll find calmer this tourist town is a surprisingly serene spot for a little self-reflection. After some quiet time here, make sure you stop for some fish and chips Summer Bay side, then follow the tourists upwards, towards the lighthouse, for a breathtaking view of the two beaches.

Blue Mountains National Park, NSW

Okay, so this one isn’t technically Sydney, but it is within easy reach. An hour west of the city, the verdant Blue Mountains National Park is made up of a selection of residential towns, spectacular lookouts, waterfalls, and tourist attractions, like the Three Sisters, Echo Point and Scenic Skyway. For most of lockdown, I was lucky enough to be welcomed into the family home of a dear friend of mine who lives in the Blue Mountains, so I was able to benefit from quieter, hidden lookouts (usually just us there) and being immersed in Aussie birdlife. Stepping away from the bright lights of the city proved very cathartic.

Been to Sydney? What are your favourite spots to self reflect and clear your mind?

Little things every Brit should know when they move to Sydney

Before I moved here, a lot of people said: “Sydney is just like London, but with better weather and beaches.” That idea suited me just fine, but now I’ve arrived here, I wouldn’t say that was strictly true; the lifestyle is way more laid-back than London, and neighbourhoods seem a lot quirkier than your regular Lambeth or Wood Green – it’s great! And the beach thing… yeah, it’s pretty damn cool, especially having arrived in the summer. (Obvs, the whole place names, actual history of Australia thing does make it a little like London, but ya know, different point.)

There are a few other little bits you should look out for on your journey in and around the city, and throughout life here, some of which I have collated below.

I’ll keep adding to the list during my time here.

1) Tap on and off the bus

Unlike London, don’t forget to tap off – something a cheery driver reminded me in my first week. Public transport is cheaper here than in London, which is a Godsend when you want to explore but you’re still on the job hunt. Also, on Sundays, all public transport, including ferries, caps at $2.80, so you can go far and wide for cheap!

2) Stand on the left of the escalator

Practically one of the seven deadly sins back home, but alas, standing on the right will earn you a look of disdain, and maybe a tut, if they’re feeling a particularly London level of passive.

3) Have a print out of your visa to hand

Being on the working holiday visa, I found you’ll need one when applying for a bank account, Medicare and other important shiz (that you don’t need to worry about until you’ve secured a job). I printed mine before I left the UK, but you can also print cheaply at the State Library of New South Wales in the CBD; they’ll give you a little card to top up, which you can use for scanning too.

4) You can use your contactless for up to AUD$100 (roughly £50)

And, even after that, you can still touch it, but then it asks you to put your pin number in after.

5) ‘Welcome to country’ has nothing to do with country music

As I learned at the Fire Fight Australia charity concert, it is actually an opening ceremony-type ritual that highlights the significance of a specific Aboriginal clan’s heritage in the area.

6) Amazon delivery takes yonks

Unlike London and the US, where there are huge warehouses in the country, amazon.com.au products are mostly shipped from the US. Ain’t no next day delivery sitch here!

7) Coles is like a ‘big Tesco’…

… while Aldi is like a Tesco Metro (it’s better than Aldi’s offerings in London, in my opinion) and Woolies (RIP UK Woolworths) is like Sainsbury’s.

8) They’ve got the good crops

Let’s just say, the aubergine emoji should be replaced with the salad onion emoji here; that shiz is GIANT. Once you’ve eaten a week’s worth and still not made a dent in the bunch, turn your attention to other dishes…

9) The mayo tastes like salad cream

And I am a big fan.

10) The watermelon here is banging

As my favourite fruit, I am pretty close to taste bud paradise right now. I’m talking watermelon spritzes at The Bucket List in Bondi, watermelon slushies at Organism on Crown Street, (which also does a banging breakfast comprising egg, bacon, maple syrup, avocado, apple, rocket and crispy bread,) and various margaritas and smoothies at Mexican and Thai restaurants. 

11) Video calling is life

So, make sure you’ve got good Wi-Fi or data. In my first week, I got a great SIM from Aldi, and I’ve not looked back. I’ve managed to watch Queen and Adam Lambert perform live with my mum, despite there being 10,000 miles between us, catch a bit of the 35th anniversary EastEnders ep and even play poker with my brothers.

12) They don’t sell alcohol in the supermarkets

Being too lazy to walk those extra minutes to the bottle-o after your shop means you’re actually healthier in the long run, as you pair your dinner with water. Or, if you’re like me, means you order all the watermelon martinis when you’re in a bar cos #withdrawal.

13) Mosquitos can bite through clothes

I seethed as I admired my bitten legs in April, despite having a consistent COVID lockdown uniform of leggings.

14) Seeing leaves turn orange and fall in April doesn’t stop being weird

Between knowing it’s April and feeling the sun on your skin, it’s so strange. I’m like, where are the pumpkins? When are the rogue Guy Fawkes fireworks going to start going off? Can I hear the faint bells of Santa’s sleigh? Nope, because it’s not late October.

15) It does get cold during Autumn/Winter

Don’t be like me and scoff: “I’m from the UK; how cold can their cold be?” Central heating radiators are not that common, so when it dips to 11 degrees, you will feel it. Generally, in the direct sun, it is warm enough to wear just a cardi, or even a t-shirt, if you’re exercising, however, out of the sun, on cloudy days, or at night, it’s chilly. On a similar note, boy, does it rain. I arrived while the bushfires were starting to calm down, and the week of rain that followed my first day was needed. However, I’d be lying if I didn’t say I silently seethed at every other downpour that followed. It seemed to happen in packs of three to four days at a time.

16) The spiders aren’t that bad

And that is coming from someone who hates them and all their legs. Sure, we had two huntsmans in Sydney, but then I stayed in the Blue Mountains near the bush for six weeks and saw fewer spiders than I did in my last central London flat. It’s the fruit flies you’ll see multiple times a day, taunting you as you walk, swimming in your drinks, flying into your MOUTH that you have to worry about…

17) Chips are far better in Oz

Or 'hot chips', as they're called here, as like in America, 'chips' mean ‘crisps’. They often put some sort of seasoning on the ‘hot chips’, like chicken salt; KFC chips are the king of fast-food chips, which is something I’d never say back home in the UK.

18) There are so many UK and Australian locations with the same name

Cardiff, Newcastle, Richmond, Hyde Park... the list goes on and on and on. Of course, this is rooted in Australia's dark British history.

19) The Aussies do Asian food really well

I was told this before I arrived, and boy, were my friends right. There is a large Asian immigrant population here, and the quality of the Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese and Malaysian food I’ve eaten surpasses that in the UK. Even tiny vendor sushi is something to rave about!

20) Be wary of the gym contracts

I won’t go slandering companies here, but the gym I signed up to was not very accommodating. Apparently, being jobless, practically homeless (well, staying with friends) and leaving the country amidst a global pandemic isn’t extraneous circumstance enough to get out of their contract without hefty fees. Of course, a contract is there for a reason; but I stress to others to learn from my mistake - unlike when you’re at home and know for sure you’ll be somewhere a year later, pandemic or not, opt for a shorter contract when first moving abroad.

More to come…

How to not go stir crazy when you’re jobless

How many times in the working day do we wish we could be somewhere else? How many times, when that alarm goes off at 7.30am, do we wanna turn back over, sleep for a bit, then spend a day at leisure? I tell you what, I’ve had that thought countless times in the last 8 years. No matter if I enjoyed my job, I’d rather be laying on a beach in my swimmers, lazing the day away. Well, as luck would have it, I’ve got my wish! So, why am I bloody complaining?!

I didn’t expect the job hunt to be this long or this hard in Sydney, and sometimes it can be difficult to take a step back and recognise the situation for what it is – 24 hours each day to call my own and literally spend it exactly as I wish - when I’m used to a daily routine and the promise of a monthly income, and for the first time in my adult life, I’ve not got these things. I’ve had to remind myself, and have had some friends back home remind me, that until I can’t afford rent/bills/food, I need to enjoy this time, cos I’ll be begging for it back once I’ve secured a job.

So, in between cover letters and email alerts, what can you do to stay sane, but not spend a ton of money cos #unemployed? Well, I’ve got some suggestions, based on what I’m doing right now…

Refine your craft or hobby

Like, literally what I’m doing right now: writing. For me, it just so happens my hobby is closely linked to my day job, and if you’re in the same boat, capitalise on that! I have been told by previous employers and recruiters that this blog right here is the main reason they called me, so I’m making sure to update it regularly for both my job hunt’s sake and because I enjoy it. Make sure you mention it on your CV too!

If your hobby isn’t linked to your career, that’s okay too. Spend the time you don’t normally have to truly indulge and immerse yourself in it. Now’s the time to get even better at whatever it is you love.

Free/cheap sightseeing

We all know it costs a bomb to dine in the Shard in London or watch a full-on operatic performance at the Sydney Opera House, but there’s also plenty you can do for free or on a small budget.

For one, walking is a great way to explore your surrounding – and it’s great exercise too (which is needed for me, as I UberEats churros after being good and cooking dinner… oops). You can take things at your own pace, or join a walking tour. I’m Free Tours offer three-hour-or-so walking tours around Sydney (and Melbourne) for free - yep, it’s in the name - starting at Town Hall. You don’t even need to buy tickets if you’re less than a group of 10; you just rock up around 10.30am or 2.30pm and look for the person in the green t-shirt. It’s a really great way to get to know the city - I learned loads - and chat to different people too. While on the tour, the guide recommended visiting the Hyde Park Barracks to learn more about the city’s history, which is a truly immersive museum, relying solely on visual and audio, triggered by your location in the museum. It’s one of my museums in the city and is $20-odd dollars (a little over £10) - I would say this is pretty cheap, but it depends on your budget! If you want to learn even more about the convict history, hop on the ferry to Cockatoo Island, where pretty views and prison barracks await.

If you like your solo time, or have a pal at your disposal, head down to the beach. It’s around a dollar, aka 50p ish, return on the bus from mine to both Coogee and Bondi beaches, and I’ve spent many a day taking advantage of this so far. Just pack some water and some snacks, and you can have a pretty cheap day out. Alternatively, splash out (hehehe), and buy a AUD$9 guest day pass (less than a fiver) to the Bondi Iceberg Pools, which offers the same sea view, but less sand, and an outdoor pool. I got there early and it was pretty empty until like 11.30am. If you don’t wanna spend those dollars, the coastal walks of Sydney are pretty famous and absolutely gorgeous. I slowly ambled along the stunning route between Coogee and Bondi, taking pics and videos, and video calling peeps back home to boast #sorrynotsorry.

Also, on Sundays, all public transport, including ferries, caps at $2.80, so you can travel far and wide for next to nothing.

Volunteer

Giving your skills to a company for free might seem like you’ve regressed back to your uni years, but sometimes you’ve got to give a little to get a little, right? On the advice of a Sydney-sider pal based in London, I looked into it and found the Seek Volunteer network. Volunteering means giving back to your (new) community, learning a little more about a specific cause, and gives you the chance to meet new people, which can help with any loneliness you may be experiencing while everyone else is at work. Also, it’ll bring some routine to your week, giving you a sense of normality. I have specifically applied for volunteer positions that relate to my career, so I can get some Aussie companies on the ol’ CV, which has required me to send a CV and covering letter too – don’t be put off by the fact that it’s a similar process to paid work. I also volunteered at the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras, which was an INCREDIBLE experience, and enabled me to see the lead up, with everyone getting ready, plus get a front-row view when the parade was going on.

Be proactive

You can feel pretty demotivated and helpless when you’ve applied for over 100 jobs (yep, true story; the WHV’s restrictions do ya dirty sometimes) and not received a call back for any of them, so sometimes it helps to feel like you're doing something about your situation that is otherwise a bit out of your control. I chatted to a couple of recruiters who had some suggestions for my CV and LinkedIn – one in particular really made me feel passionate about the job hunt again – and spending time implementing those changes made me feel as though I was being more proactive (in between actually applying and waiting to hear back from potential employers).

Create future plans 

I love a list and I love a plan, so make a list of everything you wanna do when you have a regular income again. Dream big, but realistic; and realistically, a budget airline from here to Hawaii or Bali is within my budget. Obvs, I have big exploration plans on my doorstep too… Port Stephens sand dunes, here I COME. Once you’ve secured a job, you’ll have more than earned these treats.

How to combat loneliness when you move abroad

It may appear a little strange that I should be writing this only nine days into moving abroad, but my first bout of loneliness set in pretty early on. As someone who often does solo day trips, likes time to herself and was so sure she wasn’t going to get that homesick, I was pretty surprised at these feelings. Nonetheless, it doesn’t diminish my ability to recognise the incredibly lucky position I am in at the moment, or make me regret my decision to make the move; it is just part and parcel of totally uprooting life as you know it on your own.

It rained a fair bit during my first week, and I’m sure that initially contributed to it, but even in good weather, it was there bubbling away as I looked at pairs, groups and families throughout the day. Back home, I had quite an active social life; however, here, while I was happily posting photos all over Instagram, I kept quiet that it took an hour for me to find someone to snap a photo with me in (it was a lot harder than I’d expected to identify another solo traveller who wasn’t on the phone, asleep or donning headphones within my vicinity). I FaceTimed people back home, happy as Larry detailing my day ahead, as I know I am expected to be having the time of my life right now - I too am like “come on, girl, whatcha moaning about, as you sit on the beach?!” - and I don't want to worry anyone, least of all my mum (who will be reading this - read on, Mother Goose, you'll see I'm fine now!).

It is drilled into us that to be a strong woman in the 21st century, one must relish in her own company. It's not deemed an attractive quality to be needy (and it's not a value I personally hold high either). But, I'm going to say here and now that IT'S OKAY TO FEEL LONELY. It's not shameful, it doesn't make you weak; it is human, and we are social beings. I did feel ashamed to admit it initially, like I didn't have a right to feel this way in my enviable position, but everyone's feelings are valid. And another thing, there are ways you can cure it - or, at least, alleviate it a little.

Look at the bigger picture

It's easy to forget about the times you’ve actually spent with people when you've been on your own for at least eight hours straight each day. I felt lonely at the beginning of my day at Bondi Beach, yet just 12 hours before, I had been sat with my new housemates in ballgowns watching the Oscars, laughing away (then screaming away #HuntsmanGate). I've had some good meals and reality TV binges with people while I've been here and, when I recalled these, it helped alleviate the "I'm 100% on my own" feelings a little.

Also, remember why you moved abroad in the first place. When I visited Sydney in 2018, I left the city feeling like I needed a lot more time here, and that it was somewhere I could see myself potentially living. Fast forward two years, and here I am. Put yourself in the mindset of the girl or guy you were when you initially put these plans in motion, and look at the bigger, brighter picture.

Try not to rely on others

This may seem like silly advice when feeling you’re feeling lonely, but bear with me. As the saying goes, “you are responsible for your own happiness”; while you may have friends already in your new country, remember, they have their own lives too, just like you did at home. Try not to get disappointed if you don't fit into their routine in the way you’d expected; make your own routine instead. Dedicate the time you normally wouldn’t have had to your hobbies. Mine is writing, which is best done alone anyway, and is a great way to escape. In a similar vein, if your hobby is more team or sport-based, find a group in your area - there seems to be one for everything these days!

Another way you can make use of this ample alone time is to learn a new skill. Always wanted to know a bit more about Google Analytics? Fancy making a ceramic pot? There is no time like the present! Classbento.com.au offers a great selection of hands-on sessions in Australia, while a friend of mine, who relocated to Dubai, suggested Udemy.com for online classes.

Reach out

It may seem a little contradictory to my last point, but as I said, we are social beings. You're not the first person to be in this position and you won't be the last! Reach out to friends who have immigrated and see what they have to say. I got some great advice from a friend who moved to Canada from London, as well as another who moved to Dubai; they may have gone to different countries and in different circumstances, but we have a shared experience. Similarly, the friends or acquaintances you have in your new home may not even realise you're feeling this way, so be honest; I outright asked to set a plan with my housemate and she was right there, ready to don a swimsuit for a beach day.

Moreover, technology is an incredible gift; see whose time zone lends itself to a quick call. Even if it's not someone you wish to bare your soul to, hearing a friendly, familiar voice will set you right. You may even see your situation - being in an amazing new country, ready to explore - through their eyes as you chat.

Reaching out to strangers may help too. I am part of the Solo Female Travellers Meet Ups page on Facebook, and I posted a call out to people based in Sydney. I had many responses and struck up a good few chats, which have led to some meetups next week! If you’re staying in a hostel, this is a great way to go.

Avoid being hard on yourself

Lastly, you have to do what's best for you. Cry, indulge in a spot of retail therapy, order a large portion of chips to eat by the sea, because you just can't get enough of Hungry Jack's BBQ plum sauce (okay, I’m projecting now)… take care of number one.

What I learnt in my first week of living in Sydney

So, it’s pretty safe to say that my brain and body didn’t fully comprehend I was moving abroad, leaving behind my familiar city and way of life, until I was literally on the tarmac at Heathrow. Funnily enough, it was only as I stared at the HSBC building and the engines of the plane started to roar that I got a little teary (don’t worry, Mummy, if you’re reading this - I am fine now and was moments later!), despite all those hugs, kisses and messages in the last few weeks. Perhaps it was just a delayed reaction over closing my HSBC account a few weeks ago after circa 10 years?

Anyway, after finally landing in Sydney Airport after two fabulously smooth flights and impeccable service from Singapore Airlines, I was ready to begin this new adventure that I had dreamed about for a while, and everyone was so excited for me to begin. It’s only been a week so far, but I’d like to think I’m already starting to adapt, learning a few things along the way.

The sun is no joke

Okay, despite my first week in the city being pretty rainy, they’re (whoever “they” are) not joking when they say that the sun is different here. I am lucky enough to not usually get sunburnt, apart from a little on my nose and forehead, however, I wear sun cream to protect my skin from future damage. It’s not usually a big deal if I forget one afternoon though, even on holiday - well, until here! Within a couple of hours on my first day, the entirety of my arms and the bridge of my nose were the colour of a strawberry daiquiri (I realised, while I sipping on a mojito by the Opera House). So, first lesson: ALWAYS wear some sort of SPF coverage. The ozone layer is thinner over Australia, resulting in more UV rays reaching the earth and people’s skin here. And trust me, you can feel those rays for days after….

Pack minimal and buy

I was given this advice time and time again, but as someone who is quite budget-conscious, I didn’t really see the point in buying things I already had. In the end, I took what I could, and anything I hadn’t worn in ages, even if it was a summer piece, I left behind. Also, any cosmetics that were more than half used were binned, rather than taking up suitcase space. Because of this, I was able to enjoy hitting up Kmart Broadway, part of the Broadway Shopping Mall, buying all cute homey stuff, like bedding and towels, as well as some new clothes. Kmart is SO cheap, yet everything is pretty and decent quality. Another recommendation I was given was head to Chemist Warehouse for cosmetics; again, so cheap and there are a lot of familiar brands. For a quick conversion rate, remember AUD is roughly double GBP.

There’s always someone to help you out

… be it old friends, new friends or a stranger. I’m pretty lucky to have a few friends and ex-colleagues living in the city and, this week, I’ve sent so many ‘quick texts’ with the most obscure questions, from what’s the best moisturiser with SPF to what apps should I download so I can watch TV (9Now, 10Play and 7Plus, FYI - thanks!). Despite being a major city, it’s a helluva lot quieter and less densely populated than London, but for the most part, I’ve had attentive and friendly service wherever I’ve gone.

‘Home’ is never that far away

Okay, so technically, there are 10,500 odd miles between London and Sydney, but thanks to technology, it really doesn’t feel it (for right now, at least). I’ve had two experiences so far that have really honed in on how incredible technology is for being on the other side of the world: the first is chatting to my family on WhatsApp while on my flight; the second is video calling my aunt in the middle of the day (who is based in the US, 17 hours behind Sydney) and having a catch up with her, showing her the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. This was before I bought my Aussie SIM card; there is Wi-Fi nearly everywhere here.

On the recommendation of my friend who has recently moved to Melbourne, I bought an Aldi SIM card which, after topping up, is only $25 (£13) a month and affords you pretty great coverage all over the city, 18 GB of data and unlimited calls to 15 countries, including the UK. In the mornings and evenings, I have managed to maintain such regular contact with my mum, boyfriend and friends that it feels like they’re busy at work, so we’re just chatting in the mornings and evenings instead - and once I have secured a job, I will be at work in their sleeping hours anyway.

That said, while everyone does things differently, I feel like it’s good to put down some roots; be sure to nurture your important relationships back home, while also being present in your new place to make the most of the time abroad… this is something that I have been actively encouraged to do by my support network.

I have been extremely lucky with living arrangements in Sydney. Due to impeccable timing, I have moved into a central, well-priced room in a shared house, where one of the housemates is a really good friend (and ex-housemate) of mine. What’s more, the other housemates are really friendly and have made me feel so welcome that I’ve not once felt like a stranger or impostor. The house has such a good air about it; having a good home base where you’re comfortable is so important when every aspect of your life is brand new. A top tip another friend gave me is to bring some things from your room back home, so there is something familiar in your new space; for me, this was my dream catcher from Bali, a painting by my brother and my fridge magnets. Walking is a good way to get familiar with your new area; however, when walking for more than 10 minutes, one should opt for trainers rather than flip-flops (or ‘thongs’… weird), cos that shiz ain’t supportive of the ankles. I’m making sure that I walk everywhere unless it’s over an hour away. And don’t forget, it’s okay to feel lonely, even in your first week. With the rain, I definitely got a bout of the blues, but I made sure I got out, went to the gym and made a list of fun indoor activities I could do (FYI, there are a lot of museums and galleries here).

Say ‘yes’ but also do you

You’d be a fool to move abroad and not make the most of every opportunity that’s thrown your way - you may only get one chance to do some things, especially if, like me, you’re only planning to stay temporarily. I’ve enjoyed great food this week, connected with friends of friends, and currently have plans to go to the Fire Fight Australia bushfire benefit and volunteer at this year’s Sydney Mardi Gras, all things I’d probably have not done back home.

However, don’t feel pressured to say yes to everything and run yourself ragged. Not only may you not enjoy it all, but also, if you’ve not got money coming in as yet, it can be worrying to see your savings deplete. Strike that balance; while I’m constantly job hunting in my spare time, I’m also making sure I enjoy the time that I don’t have a job. When else in adult life do you get extended time off work without many responsibilities? I’m very thankful for this time off, especially with jet lag hitting hard in the first few days. Many 3am messages and 4pm naps have occurred this week… A friend, who previously moved from Canada to London, also recommended finding an activity that you genuinely enjoy doing by yourself, so that you can still go out, see things and have a good time, even if nobody’s around.

So, there you have it. I’m sure I will be learning a lot more in the coming weeks and months. If you’ve got any Sydney recs, or advice for moving abroad, let me know!

Five tips for job searching abroad

Finding a new job in this day and age is hard. While roles are more niche than the generation before us - there seems to be a job for every talent and taste - competition is fiercer, potential employers scrutinise harder at interview stage, and adequate pay is another matter altogether. Now, throw in a lack of experience in the country you’re applying… yup, it doesn’t look like an easy ride.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom! Working in a different country is an exciting opportunity to make some money while you’re discovering a new place, it offers new insight into a familiar industry (or the chance to get a taste of a new one) and it will give you unrivalled skills for when you return to your home country; you just need to get your foot in the door. If you’re looking for a new role abroad, read on for some pointers I have learnt (well, am learning!), or have been recommended by the people around me.

*The below is based on my experience searching for content writer roles in Sydney.

Sign up to all job alerts

This is something you can do before you’ve even set foot in the country. A month before I arrived in Sydney, I set up email alerts for every combination of content writer, digital producer, content editor, digital writer, etc, I could think of. I’ve found Seek, Indeed and LinkedIn the most helpful with this tactic, but I also check the Mumbrella jobs page regularly, and go directly to the websites of dream employers to send them an expression of interest or just see what they’ve got going on on the job front.

Get on the books of recruiters

Research the best recruiters in your industry; a simple Google search will do the trick, or ask for recommendations in relevant Facebook groups. Also, everyone knows a recruiter, or knows someone who knows a recruiter, so just ask in your circle! You never know what contacts you or your friends/colleagues have out in the wide world. Speaking of…

Talk to people

I am genuinely humbled by the amount of help my friends, family, colleagues, ex-colleagues and friends of friends have offered during my job search so far, from pointing me in the direction of specific people, contacting acquaintances on my behalf, suggesting companies to register interest with, ‘putting a good word in’ when I’ve applied to a company they work for, and more. I didn’t even realise some of these people had links to Sydney, so speak, speak and speak some more as you never know who you have in your midst.

Become a Faffer

… which sounds a lot ruder than it is haha. Find a Finder’s Fee, aka FAFF, is an international Facebook group with people posting job opportunities spanning a range of industries. These include in-house roles, permanent roles, contract roles, freelance roles, remote roles, everything really.

Keep positive

It’s disheartening getting rejection after rejection, or simply not even hearing back, especially after you put time and hope into the hundreds of applications you send out. It can feel personal, but remember it’s not. With regards to my visa, the working holiday visa, the six-month restriction on working in one place is a big deal-breaker; no one wants to train someone up to have to do it again in six months’ time. I changed tactic and now am applying solely for contract jobs. Similarly, on some good advice, I dropped mention of my visa in my cover letter, so it doesn’t put off potential employers in the first instance. Similarly, the time of year plays a big part - post-Christmas (and Australia Day here) is pretty quiet on the job front, so February onward, things should pick up. Now is not the time for shame either: follow up on emails you’ve sent, if you’ve not heard back.

In my panicky times in the month leading up to my move, when I was applying for jobs and getting nowhere, I was reassured that things would get moving once I was physically in the country. At the time, I didn’t understand that - my CV would show the same experience after all - but it’s the little details that can make all the difference, for example, the Australian address and phone number on your CV.

I was also given a good piece of advice: sit down, open Excel, and work out how long you can survive without getting a job. Take your moving abroad savings, note down regular outgoings (rent/hostel payments, bills, etc), any extras like travel insurance, give yourself an ‘enjoy the new country’ fund and be realistic. You might be prematurely panicking and not taking time to enjoy the amazingness of moving abroad.

Moving abroad: planning without making a plan

A new year always brings bold claims from people; how they're going to totally overhaul their lives, their outlook, their routine. And now it’s a new decade? Prepare yourselves for an influx of unbearable Instagram and Facebook proclamations of #newyearnewme #veganuary, etc, etc. And me? Hello, cliches, because I am doing the very same. Me - someone who always knows her next step, who plans things down to a T - will be stepping on a plane in just under a month, headed to the other side of the world, with no plan at all. No job, no home base. Me - who managed to fill out the same bag I took for two weeks in Cuba and New York with stuff for just one night in Kent - will have only a suitcase and a backpack with a few memories and many clothes. Scared? A little.

I guess this piece is semi 'blind leading the blind' (pretty sure there is a 2020/20:20 vision pun somewhere here, but I cba to *look* for it), but also a reassurance article of how to step out of your comfort zone and be an over-planner who lets go a little for once:

Get the big things in check

Unlike the Hollywood blockbusters where people just roll up or land in a foreign country, there are some things you really do need to do a little prep for - no matter how devil-may-care you’re trying to be. Sort your stuff out with HMRC (namely get your P45 from you last place of work and fill out the P85 form, so the powers that be know what to do with your tax and NI contributions), contact the Student Loan Company about what you’re going to do with your repayments while you’re out of the UK, and get familiar with the ins and outs of your visa: how much money minimum do you need to travel with? What kind of documents should you bring to the airport?

It might also be worth getting travel insurance; dependent on where you're moving to, you may only need it for the flight, or you could cover yourself for a month or two to give yourself some time to get familiar with the healthcare system wherever you’re headed. Oh, and make sure you have adaptor plugs (why not take two or three, then just use a regular extension lead?)

Find out what to apply for and when, when moving to Australia.

Chat, chat, and chat some more

You’re not the first person moving abroad, and you definitely won’t be the last. I am lucky to have a fair few friends and ex-colleagues who have done the UK-Australia move (or vice-versa); in fact, I also have two friends moving at around the same time (through to different parts of the country). Talk to them, get their advice, hell, ask for their help! I have one friend who has been meticulous with her planning, meaning any questions I have, she has the answer straight away, while others also set my mind at ease with “honestly, this is easy to sort when you’re here.” People love to help - just be sure to show some gratitude to those taking time passing on their wisdom. To those who have sent me emails, WhatsApps, voicenotes, Google Docs - THANK YOU! (Although a slightly different point, I also wanna say thank you here to my parents for letting me stay with them for a month, so I can save a month’s rent, and my bro for forcing me to the gym for that bikini bod.)

It’s not just your friends you can rely on either; you have a whole network out there that you may not even realise. Put a blast on Instagram stories a la Gossip Girl, calling for any recommendations, jobs, even spare beds. There are countless Facebook groups dedicated to moving abroad where you can find people going through the same upheaval as you, so can offer a kind word and, also, maybe point you in the direction of a job.

Speaking of jobs, whether you’re planning on travelling first, or just taking some time out, fire away emails and LinkedIn messages like it’s no one’s business. Send them to recruiters, send them to acquaintances, send them to your dream company. Now is the time to be bold - and you never know who might have a role going.

Have a Plan B

Okay, so I know the whole point of this post is saying to let things happen as they do without planning, but allow me this one thing, eh? I have a return flight booked for four months' time, in case it all goes tits up and I need to return to my… ahem… sanctuary (aka one of the busiest and brightest cities of the western world). However, I have also bought a flexi-pass, so I can change this easily if everything does go to plan.

Embrace the excitement

The main point, really. We all know I love to travel and best believe I have been making a checklist of the places I want to visit; like we have Europe on our doorstep, make the most of what will be on your new doorstep - and try not to get hung up on budget and money (where possible). For the most part, we live a monotonous life: we know what to expect from every part of the day (especially to expect unexpected delays on the London underground), so enjoy the thrill of not knowing what is around the corner for you. It's pretty liberating when people ask you your plan and you respond without one - the awe on their faces, the envy. And as you assure them that this normally isn't you, you become in awe of yourself - what you're doing is brilliant. If this pays off, your ambition will know no bounds.

Do you have any tips for moving abroad? Send them my way - I need them!