South Bound

I'm moving to Australia today. The Gold Coast, just south of Brisbane to be more precise.

I've know for nearly a year that the move was possible, agreed to it in January, and found out it was certain in March. And yet, even though my move date was pushed back from May 'til now, I find I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the change.

It feels more permanent than the other assignments I've had in the past 5 years - more of a real move than extended business trips. I'm struggling a bit with leaving my family for the 18 months I'll be there (minus a few trips home a year on holiday, it's not like I won't see them at all!)

At the same time, I'm looking forward to actually being in one place for 18 months, to have a somewhat "normal" schedule and life. The chance to sign up for a class here or there, get a gym membership, all the things I haven't done in the last few years.

I keep reminding myself, I'll be living near the beach, in a country and culture I admire, this isn't exactly a hardship posting (and since I've had those, I know the difference.) Still, for the first time in a while, I'm not going in as part of a team, but rather on my own. So more than ever, it is up to me to settle into a new place, make friends and adapt. I know I can do it - I've done it before - but it is never easy.

On a side note, this is my 800th blog post - it feels somewhat fitting that, on a blog I started to keep a record of my travels, I hit a milestone on the same day I make a big move.

So while I finish packing my bags - I'll ask. Any of you from Australia? Been there before? Have any advice to share? Things to add to my must see/do list? If so, please share, I know that if I go into this move with a list of exciting experiences to seek out the easier the adjustment will be.

"I'm going back down south now."
Kings of Leon - Back Down South Pin It

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