Understanding Our Unique Approach to the World
Travel is something we Aussies take seriously—but not in the corporate, spreadsheet-planning way. We take it seriously in the “quit your job, buy the ticket, stay until your visa runs out” kind of way. If you’ve ever wondered why Australians seem to travel a little differently from the rest of the world, you’re not imagining it. There are a few very ‘Aussie’ reasons behind our unique approach to exploring the globe.
And we do it differently…..we are not always so keen to jump on a coach with 45 people where we see seven countries in ten days. We want to explore and understand the country we are visiting, we want to travel our way!
1. We’re Literally in the Middle of Nowhere
Let’s face it—Australia is miles away from pretty much everything. Flying anywhere internationally usually involves at least one 8+ hour flight, and that’s just to get out of our timezone.
Because of this, when Aussies travel, we go big. We don’t just take a quick weekend in Paris or Tokyo, we’re more likely to take six weeks, pack in four countries, and maybe even a detour to somewhere completely unplanned. If you’re going to fly that far, you might as well make the most of it.
2. Four Weeks of Annual Leave? Yes Please
Unlike some countries where two weeks off is considered a luxury (looking at you, America), Australians are generally entitled to four weeks of paid annual leave. That’s a full month every year to explore, unwind, or disappear into the jungles of Vietnam. We also have long service leave, something that offers us a reward for staying with the one company or organisation.
Combine that with a work culture that, while still busy, is increasingly supportive of career breaks and sabbaticals, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for long-haul adventures.
3. The Great Aussie Gap Year
For many of us, travel is more than a holiday—it’s a rite of passage. Whether it’s backpacking through Europe, volunteering in South America, or hopping between islands in Southeast Asia, young Aussies often take a year or more to find themselves (or just party a bit before uni or full-time work).
It’s part of our cultural DNA. Something encouraged rather than questioned. Taking time off to see the world isn’t “dropping out” – it’s living life.
4. High Wages, Strong Dollar (Most of the Time)
Australia isn’t cheap to live in. So it’s often a pleasant surprise when we hit the road and find out how far our money can go elsewhere. Places like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam offer not only stunning experiences but also a chance to live well for less.
Many Aussies discover they can spend less money travelling than staying at home, and that’s a very appealing prospect.
5. Travel Runs in Our (Multicultural) Blood
With a country as diverse as ours, it’s no wonder many Australians travel to connect with their family roots. Whether that’s visiting relatives in Italy, tracing heritage in India, or exploring ancestral villages in Greece or China.
Our multicultural backgrounds influence where we travel, how we travel, and why we travel. For many, it’s as much about belonging and identity as it is about sightseeing.
6. Nature is in Our DNA
We’re a nation of campers, hikers, surfers, and adventurers. So when we travel, we seek experiences. We’re not just looking for a nice view from a hotel balcony—we want to climb the mountain, swim with the turtles, or ride that sketchy motorbike through the jungle.
That love of the outdoors shapes our travel style: active, hands-on, and sometimes gloriously unplanned.
7. We Don’t Just “Go Overseas”—We Make It Count
Because international travel is such a commitment from Australia, we tend to treat it differently than, say, Europeans or Americans. We don’t go overseas for a quick long weekend. We plan, save, and go all in.
When we travel, it’s about experiencing a new culture, broadening our perspective, and making memories that last a lifetime. Not just ticking off a checklist of cities.
So, Why Do We Travel Differently?
Because we’re different—and proud of it. Our distance from the rest of the world forces us to think bigger. Our culture encourages us to take time to explore. And our adventurous spirit? That’s just who we are.
So, whether you’re planning a round-the-world trip, a working holiday, or just a month soaking up the sun, embrace the way we Aussies travel.
And if you are heading to Italy, don’t go into overwhelm or get information that is conflicting – you’re smart and savvy (spending a lot of money on this Italian adventure too), so reach out and ask us how to help save you time and money and still get the holiday of your dreams
Remember when Australia’s travel …..It’s not just a holiday—it’s a way of life.
