Updated// Single 26yr Old Male Seeks Life/Travel Advice and Regrets before Travelling The Globe

J6 on 28/06/2016 - 15:54
Last edited 29/06/2016 - 19:59

Im a single 26yr old male with 50k. I wish to travel the world for an undetermined amount of time. Please give me advice.

I currently work fulltime as a high school teacher and live with my parents. My life has become extremely comfortable and routine.

At the end of this year, ive decided I will leave aus with an open ticket, probably in the direction of south east asia as a starting point and then onto India.

My goal is to become bilingual (unsure on language) and start making some travel related videos.

My parents dont want me to do this. They want to me keep saving money so I can put a deposit on a house in my capital city. There argument is that ill be able to live comfortable when im 40 and then I can travel and do what i want. This isnt happening. My parents have never been overseas before so their views are different from mine.

If you have any advice, can you pass it on to me? it doesnt have to be travel related but would love some from some of the older wiser people on here who have been in my position or wanted to be in my position before. Do you have any regrets or something that you think i should do?

Ideally id love to travel for a while then land a job somewhere. Then just live off my earnings. My goal isnt to spend 50k in a year.

TL:DR
Single Young Male Seeks life/travel Advice before Travelling The Globe
*Has 50k
*No kids
*Will take a good camera and pack very lightly
Please give me life advice.

Update: I have been overseas numerous times and backpacked around Asia/Europe/north America already on shorter trips (a few months at most).

Many older people on here are saying "yes do it, plenty of time to buy a house and settle down later. While many people who are closer to my ages are saying "go for a few months but invest/save your money for your financial future". I can see both sides as its statistically harder to buy a house now in many capital cities than it was 20 years ago.

The dilemma that is constantly playing over and over in my head is that if i go overseas and come back after X amount of months/years with $XXk gone, i wont be able to live my parents and save that amount of money again so affording a house will be difficult. As for those who say to invest, Id love to invest some money in a property but i wouldnt be able to cover the repayments even with someone renting.

I will be going overseas for an extended period of time. I think about it everyday. I just want to do it wisely.

Travel

Comments

  • brazen00 on 28/06/2016 - 15:58
    +47

    Do it. There are more ways to live your life than getting tied down to a mortgage in your mid-20s.

    Read Vagabonding by Rolf Potts. It's pretty inspirational.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 20:30

      thanks for the tip! im looking it up now.

    • montorola on 29/06/2016 - 15:40
      +10

      There are more ways to live your life than getting tied down to a mortgage in your mid-20s.

      This.

      Do you ever hear anyone come back from a holiday and say "omg, I wish I didn't go on holidays"? HELL NO.

      I'm glad you decided to make this choice, you're in your prime right now and the last thing you want is to be tied down. Live the free life while it lasts, some of us (i.e. me) are extremely jealous!

      When you're 40, you'll look back at a life well lived, not a mundane 9-5 routine, wondering "omg where did my life go?"?

      TLDR; Do it.

      • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 17:14

        thanks! how old are you if you dont mind me asking?

        • JH100 on 29/06/2016 - 18:51

          Teach English as a second language as you go. That way you'll also have more opportunity to learn a second language.

          And wherever you go, get yourself a campervan. Al least a van you can crash in the back of, very handy for far away beach nights and saves a lot of money and has other uses. Do it right and transport in any country/continent doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. Do it right you can even make money at it.

        • montorola on 29/06/2016 - 19:32
          +4

          I'm 28, and am just waking up to have a life! My regret is I didn't do it sooner!

        • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:14

          @JH100: id love to buy a cheap van and see Europe!

        • JH100 on 03/07/2016 - 17:16

          @Ronniefromdashore:

          It's the Aussie way. But remember, you don't have to buy an actual campervan, you can buy a van and throw a mattress (etc) in the back and use it for moving other Aussies around the city - for a fee of course.

        • J6 on 03/07/2016 - 18:23

          @JH100: yeah thats the plan. have you done this?

        • JH100 on 03/07/2016 - 21:21

          @Ronniefromdashore:

          Yes, years ago. Best to buy in EU - Holland/Germany - it's cheaper and even though left hand drive it will sell for more (than you bought it, but cheaper than an English van) in London when you're finished with it. Also used a van to make money, hire out to carry stuff around.

        • J6 on 04/07/2016 - 20:10

          @JH100: awesome, thanks

        • JH100 on 05/07/2016 - 18:11

          @Ronniefromdashore:

          Second hand cars/vans are/were much cheaper on the continent. Just don't tell customs on the way into GB you have any intention of selling, might attract fees - can't remember all the details now.

          The Aussies in London, or anywhere else, usually have an area they congregate and will steer you right for anything you need - work, housing, etc. Europeans are a friendly lot too, but there are places in every city you just don't go, so don't go there. If it looks like trouble it probably is, if you feel the sudden urge to leg it don't doubt … :-)

          Being a experienced teacher I'm sure you know how to handle people but if you've never been out of Oz you will find a level of sophistication you are unfamiliar with.

    • Gorodemon on 30/06/2016 - 17:07
      +1

      “Look at your life like a blank canvas and you're the artist, now go ahead and paint your masterpiece." - Ray Mancini.

      Never let anyone to tell you what to draw or which colour to use, just be yourself.

    • J6 on 14/06/2017 - 12:37
      +2

      I read it! im leaving soon. thanks.

  • gaz3342 on 28/06/2016 - 16:02
    +43

    Do it, then read this post again in a years time and laugh at yourself for even considering not doing it.

    • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 17:15

      thank you for the advice!

  • yessum on 28/06/2016 - 16:05
    +8

    Definitely do it, if you're thrifty you could comfortably travel for a few years without getting near 50k. Sounds like you've got the skills to get a comfortable job afterwards, why not have fun in your youth

    • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:14
      +1

      thanks for the advice! I knew you would say yessum to travel.

  • KBZ on 28/06/2016 - 16:07
    +20

    There argument is that ill be able to live comfortable when im 40 and then I can travel and do what i want

    That is such a lie, you'll have kids, a mortgage and being carefree, go lucky at 26 is so much different then 40.

    Edit:
    Forgot you wanted experiences etc.
    I'm in a similar boat to you but I already have a lot of obligations/responsibilities even though I'm slightly younger. I got 4 months for later this year where I plan on travelling and just being 'free'.
    I feel burnt out so hopefully find a purpose on my travels, Japan, Korea, SEA and Europe. I'm jealous if you actually spend years on the road, but that in itself is risky IMO.
    Enjoy and good luck.

    • nobro25 on 30/06/2016 - 16:09

      Having kids at 40??? Hahaha who knows what happens and honestly too many people are tied to relationships that don't fit. And if having kids and having a mortgage really is that bad that you can't be flexible and take a vacation once in awhile, then one you really have to work on you budgeting, two you really got to work on your parenting and relationship skills.

      I don't have my own family and probaly will never have one due to uncontrollable circumstances.

      Bottom line is do whatever you want as long as you forsee the circumstances, and kids don't magically pop out when you're 40. Sure if you're planning on having kids you should have them sooner but be sensible because your kids are human beings and you have full responsibility in taking care of them not just physically but also MENTALLY! (I'M talking to my parents)

      • KBZ on 30/06/2016 - 16:18
        +3

        Ok. Cause I said he'll 'be' having kids at 40 as opposed to you'll have kids around that age. Okay boss.

        • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:15

          heres to us becoming refreshed on our travels! thanks for the advice.

  • Adz81 on 28/06/2016 - 16:13
    +4

    Do it.

    My own mother gave me the same advice as I hovered over a 3 week trip from Adelaide to Los Angeles for $1k just this morning… No other plans, just do it… Granted it's not the same situation, but I think the advice still fits :D

  • Ryanek on 28/06/2016 - 16:14
    +47

    She may be pretty, but if she has an adams apple or hands bigger than yours… proceed with caution.

    • scrimshaw on 28/06/2016 - 17:16
      +2

      But it could be an eye opening experience….

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 18:57
      +17

      I've been to Asia a few times. Fool me once…

      • altomic on 29/06/2016 - 01:34
        +39

        Fool me a 37th time then shame on me

    • cypher67 on 28/06/2016 - 22:00
      +15

      I like how even though 'she' has an Adams apple, you are still prepared to proceed. I like that kinda commitment

      • montorola on 29/06/2016 - 15:42
        +1

        Better the known devil right? Lol

    • banzini on 29/06/2016 - 13:43

      Best comment ever!

    • crob on 30/06/2016 - 09:10
      +1

      that seems like a very un-exciting way to live life

  • watwatwat on 28/06/2016 - 16:26
    +16

    I would take off a few months and travel but don't be as hardcore as your original plan.

    Setting yourself up career-wise in a country with good salaries and saving a big chunk of your income is a good way to build a sustainable life. Earn it while you are young and just having money will gain you more money in interest for the rest of your life. Once you have saved up a lot more, then if you still want to go ahead with your plan, then you can. And then your job in SEA or similar (with low salary) can help supplement the income you're getting from your investments.

    Well, that's what I would do. I am 25 and I definitely would not be throwing my career away right now with this gloomy outlook that I am strapped for cash and will need to eventually change my mindset of being a carefree traveler (you'll get used to it) and realise that I need to give it all up eventually and get back to the grind. Albeit starting again because I've been out of work for so long.

    And your parents are right. If you live smartly, you could retire close to 40 and then do whatever you want for the rest of your life, via the residual income you have from adjustments investments.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 20:32
      +1

      thanks for the advice. youre young too though so do you ever want to drop everything a live on the road for a bit? is it just me?

      • watwatwat on 28/06/2016 - 20:53
        +12

        After working for a few years in a row, I had similar feelings that I wanted to get away from the rat race for a while. A period of travelling and unemployment got me back on track and made me realise the rat race isn't so bad and that getting back in to work after an extended period of not working is very tough to get used to. Plus I don't know about your field, but gaps in the resume/career progression aren't aren't exactly ideal.

        I am personally considering living in London for up to 2 years, shortly. But if I wasn't, I still be doing a big 2-4 week international trip per year with my annual leave. This is enough for me to clear my head and adventure, whilst still progressing my savings/career.

        So while you may have feelings that you want to 'get out', I would personally try to dampen those feelings through shorter term travel and/or living abroad and working in another first world country (not SEA, you won't be earning much). Hell, even do it for a few months if your workplace allows.

        I really think I would feel guilty if I had a small amount of savings and put my career on hold to go travelling indefinitely in your position. I'd always know that it was going to come to an end and when that time came, I'd have very little money left and would be shoved in to full time work to start again with savings.

        And I mimic what I said earlier about savings. I am personally part of /r/financialindependence movement so aim to save over 50% of my income. My plan is to then invest it and enjoy the fruits of dividends and interest payments for the rest of my life.

        Check out this income calculator:

        http://networthify.com/calculator/earlyretirement?income=500…

        So ultimately, go travelling if you really want. You'll probably have a fantastic time of your life. However, you'll come back in a couple of years with nothing to your name. I would personally travel for a shorter amount of time and build up a big bounty of cash to generate me income.

        • Bargain Hunter 007 on 28/06/2016 - 22:37
          +7

          Devils advocate with this one, I'm actually in a very similar position to you OP (except with partner).

          Looking to live and work in London and use that as a base for lots of travel. However planning a big trip (Central Asia, Middle East, Africa, South America etc.) on the way there or back.

          I imagine kids aren't too far away (for me), and once that happens… well there goes the chance at care-free travel for ~18+ years.

          Like most people are saying here, just do it. I've never heard of anyone regretting a mega trip, and those that mightn't of enjoyed it as much as they thought, or were burning through money just come back. Pretty simple.

          Money is a ridiculous concept, and while you don't have any obligations use that expendable income to your advantage.

        • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 17:19

          @Bargain Hunter 007:

          yeah i understand you completely. my parents often ask about when ill settle down and find a gf as they are worried im leaving it too late to have kids (yes i know i am only 26 and have plenty of time). But id love to use this situation of having no kids/gf/debt to my advantage. thanks for the reply

  • inherentchoice on 28/06/2016 - 16:28
    +22

    When I traveled on short trips of a few weeks up to a month, I found that after little while I got a bit homesick and wanted to just come back and stop living out of a suitcase.

    When I was 24 I could've quit work and traveled the world for many years and I had the money to do it. But I considered it empty and meaningless, to just kind of chase after a pleasure-seeking lifestyle. Now I'm nearly 30 but I don't regret not going and nor am I wanting to go any time soon.

    There was a king in history who also tried it all (he even had a harem of 1000 women) and he came to this conclusion:

    I denied myself nothing my eyes desired;
    I refused my heart no pleasure.
    My heart took delight in all my labor,
    and this was the reward for all my toil.
    Yet when I surveyed all that my hands had done
    and what I had toiled to achieve,
    everything was meaningless, a chasing after the wind;
    nothing was gained under the sun.

    You can read the full text at Ecclesiastes 2

    • watwatwat on 28/06/2016 - 19:45
      +2

      Sounds like you probably aren't very social and or you didn't stay in hostels? I've had multiple experiences that opposite of yours.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 20:36
      +3

      i think that quote relates more to a very wealthy person with many possessions.

      Im kinda wanting the opposite of that. To spend my money/possessions on experiences.

      Have you been overseas before? Did you consider it meaningless and empty?

      • inherentchoice on 28/06/2016 - 21:10
        +4

        Yes I've been to 10 countries or so and I found it a bit meaningless to be traveling for pleasure-seeking.

        If you read the book there are quotes relevant to people from all walks of life.

        I'm not saying traveling is bad, I'm saying that if you're doing it to pursue fun and enjoyment for a continued period of time, eventually you will probably get tired of it and you may question what was the point in the first place.

        • Bargain Hunter 007 on 28/06/2016 - 22:39
          +3

          Sounds like OP could mix up the pleasure seeking with teaching in foreign countries, best of both worlds.

          Lots of fun, and lots of rewarding experiences too.

        • RocketSwitch on 29/06/2016 - 10:16

          I see your point and it's a good one.

          Getting away from the rat race to find some purpose won't work.

          Flying somewhere is always appealing, gives you a feeling of discovery, but ultimately, finding what you're trying to do by doing this won't necessarily work.

          Get the old notepad out, write what you want to do, where you see yourself in the next 10 years, and what you want to experience.

          We need stability in order to do the things we want to do, how you do that while being happy and experiencing life is what you need to find out.

          What's the end goal? To be happy? To enjoy life? Find what's fulfilling to you so you can say in the end, it was all worth it.

        • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 17:21

          @justmiike: quite profound mike. thank you for the solid advice.

        • NoApostrophePlurals on 30/06/2016 - 21:10
          +1

          Therein lies your problem. You feel like every action requires a point. Enjoy life. That should be enough of a point.

    • coolfriendjoachim on 30/06/2016 - 19:25
      +1

      This is me, also. I've been overseas a few times now, to Europe and the US, and after about a week I'm well and truly over it and looking forward to getting home. I must say I'm not particularly social though. Though my sister spends literally all her savings every year on travel, and still rings me after a little while complaining that she's sick of being overseas.

      If you're really excited to go overseas, go for it (and with an open ticket you can come home any time you want!). Just don't do it out of feeling like you're "supposed" to, or with some grand idea that it'll open your mind.

    • freakatronic on 30/06/2016 - 21:29
      +1

      I would kinda +1 what you say, but people have to find out for themselves. I think travel is sold as a cure-all these days, but people forget that wherever they go, there they are. I certainly found that myself, living out there for a while. You can leave everything at home, but you're still you ovwrseas. Travel won't make you sociable if you're not at home. Travel won't give you wisdom if you're naturally an idiot. Travel doesn't change much beyond the view out the window.

  • tomleonhart on 28/06/2016 - 16:30
    +3

    Their argument is that ill be able to live comfortable when im 40 and then I can travel and do what i want

    Joke aside. By the time you're 40, you will have a cbf attitude toward travelling and won't do it because it will be too much hassle !

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 20:36

      are you speaking from experience? genuine question.

      • mskeggs on 28/06/2016 - 22:18
        +4

        Can't talk for Tom, but I'm in my forties and try and go on an overseas holiday every year or two. But taking my partner and 4 kids means it is a very different sort of travel. When I am 53 my last kid will turn 18. I'd like to live overseas again for a couple of years then, but I reckon it is a fair chance my older kids will be ready to produce some grandkids, and I would hate to miss them.

        I say take a year or two to travel, but aim to work along the way. There is plenty of work for qualified teachers who speak English everywhere you could go, in fact, I can't think of a better qualification for a long term traveller.

        • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 22:22

          thanks for the advice. I do enjoy my job in australia teaching so i wont be hesitant to find a teaching job.

        • 0p on 29/06/2016 - 10:24

          Alright guys math time!!!
          If he will be 53 his kid(x) will turn 18, so how old was he when his kid(x) was born.
          A-(15)
          B-(30)
          C-(35)
          D-(34)
          E-(I don't have time for these plebanian shenanigans)

        • mskeggs on 29/06/2016 - 10:38
          +1

          @0p:
          Eldest daughter was born when I was 27. Youngest was born when I was 35.

        • 0p on 29/06/2016 - 10:47
          +5

          @mskeggs:
          Well good on you!
          You win!
          Wait

          mskeggs

          Hey! Your ineligible to participate!

      • tomleonhart on 29/06/2016 - 07:42

        I'm 28 but most of my collegueas/ good friends are in their 30 -50. The reason why I draw that conclusion is as follow

        Two of my good friend is traveller ott, one loves travelling so much that now in her 39, she's still heading overseas once or twice a year. She spent 4 months riding through SEA with 5k in her pocket (and made a movie about it)

        I compared that to other work colleague whom I know all they do since their 20s is work. And whilst her career is fantastic. At the age of 36, all she does is going to resort and drinking cocktails by the pool. No skiing, no riding, no hiking, no road trip.

        You may draw from it that's it's their travel style, but style takes experience to form.

        • mskeggs on 29/06/2016 - 10:56
          +1

          But consider if you are climbing a career ladder there is little option to disappear for 4 months.
          My preference would be the travel, but I have a mortgage to pay!

        • tomleonhart on 29/06/2016 - 11:06
          +4

          @mskeggs: So OP should do it before responsibilities start to mount up lol

        • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:17

          @tomleonhart: yes i should!

  • BuyoTheCat on 28/06/2016 - 16:44
    +3

    Do it. However set a time frame for yourself. Maybe a year. Perhaps your parents are worried about the indefinitely part.

    I would do a rough itinerary for 1 year (or less) outlining where I would do and present this to them. This demonstrate that you are not just plodding along making things up as you go and you have a destination in mind. You will revaluate the situation at a certain time (6 months?)

    You might have a rosy ideal of carefree travelling but it could turn out that it might not be for you. Or you might stumble across something that could set you up for life.

    P.S. Take a good camera but dont take the BIGGEST camera you can carry.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 20:40

      thanks for the advice. I will actually use that. My parents stress… a lot. Im currently starting with a year. However it could be 6 months or 6 years. I might locate somewhere else entirely.

      Ill be bringing a DSLR and a gopro.

      • BuyoTheCat on 28/06/2016 - 21:03

        As parents do when they hear from you that you are going to go off into the wild. They will stress.

        Give them some assurance.If you tell them that you might never come back, they will think the worst. Present to them the best case situation. This is not even a white lie. You just have nothing concrete plan. But giving them a rough plan will be good.

  • spacemansam on 28/06/2016 - 16:52
    +12

    This is awesome - take the plunge and you won't regret it!

    My husband and I are physios and Asians - so expectations were that we would get permanent jobs and have kids ASAP. Thankfully we decided on the travel option instead. Nearly 3 years ago we hopped on a plane and have been travelling and doing short-term contracts (2-3 months)from London since to fund our travels around the world. It has been incredible! I am now 27 and we are only 3 months from heading back to Oz and I can say for sure that we are ready to go back home, but certainly have gained and learnt so much from our experiences. Kudos to you and good luck with it all!

    Here's my blog if you want to read:
    Www.thethriftytravellers.com

    And as for the camera I'd recommend the Canon Powershot G7x, it is one of the most powerful point and shoots on the market and has been a loyal companion. I think I bought it off Camera Paradise for about $570

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 21:00
      +1

      thanks for the advice, looking at your site now.

      Ive already for a nice dslr and gopro so ill most likely take them. a point and shoot would be handy though!

      • spacemansam on 29/06/2016 - 17:33

        Yep I brought a DSLR and GoPro with me too, point and shoot was great to have for those times you want a quick shot or if you're out at night and don't want to carry a huge camera.

        As for the whole investment property topic, both my husband and I bought a small pproperty each, lived in it for 6 months to get the first home owners grant (I'm pretty sure that's changed) and have rented it out. We still have to pay about an extra $50 a week to cover the mortgage but we just made sure to have about about $10k left in each of our accounts to do this and to be honest we barely ever think about the houses.

        In the end there no right way or wrong way to go about things. Some people say in the long term, people are no financially better buying vs renting for life so there are many different view points out there. Main thing is you do what makes you comfortable. Make the most of your youth - you have the rest of your life to settle down and work!

        • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 21:18

          thanks again for the advice! looking forward to the future

        • virhlpool on 29/06/2016 - 22:40
          +1

          Some people say in the long term, people are no financially better buying vs renting for life so there are many different view points out there.

          I kind of agree with you. If the properties were comparatively cheaper (say sub $350k) like they still are in some small towns, it would still make sense to buy a property, re-pay the loan as quickly as one can and get free from the loan chorus within say 8-9 years (or less depending on how many family members are earning). But, when we talk about $1.2m - $1.5m worth properties, which they commonly are these days, at least in Sydney, one will end up taking a HUGE loan (that if he was eligible at the first place) and it will take VERY LONG (~30 years) to repay the loan. For ~30 years, he will keep paying a significant portion of his income towards repayment EVERY SINGLE MONTH. There's no way he can run away from this burden for these many years unless he wins a jackpot. Now, there are fair chances that recession (or poor job market) will hit the economy twice or thrice during this period and it will increase his stress or he may actually lose a job too. 25 or 30 years after your first full-time job is almost 80-85% of your young and healthy life! It's not a short time. Even if you are successful in repaying the hefty loan after these many years, what's the point in living such a life where you couldn't ever live freely and always had to chase money, therefore job and hence stress! When I think of all this, I tend to believe that living on rent for the whole life and enjoy the life to the fullest ought to be more joyful and meaningful rather than being the guy above who is always in 9am to 5pm mode - every single day! He just can't escape.

          Of course there are a few assumptions here: 1) You are living in one of the large cities where property prices are high. 2) You are not fortunate enough to live in Sweden or Finland or Norway or Denmark or countries alike and therefore you work long hours which results into high stress in day to day life. 3) Your dad isn't rich enough to gift you a property or significant wealth.

        • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:18
          +1

          @virhlpool: all your assumptions are correct!

    • [Deactivated] on 29/06/2016 - 13:30
      +3

      I liked the pics on your blog. Can't wait to begin my journey.

      • spacemansam on 29/06/2016 - 17:35
        +1

        Thanks! Hope you've got a great adventure ahead of you :)

        • m2000 on 29/06/2016 - 21:02

          It is a very nice blog indeed!

        • spacemansam on 30/06/2016 - 00:04

          @m2000: appreciate it :)

  • toniyellow on 28/06/2016 - 16:54
    +3

    As others said, do it. Although I would be realistic about your goals. Do you currently make videos or spend your time learning a language here? If not, what will change overseas to make those more interesting to you? You will still be the same person overseas. Some things will be inspiring, but others very frustrating, and it will also be very tempting to just sit on the beach instead of studying or filming.

    A qualified teacher makes you quite employable overseas. You might want to investigate your options for that, as it might be handy to take some things with you. I taught English in South Korea about 5 years ago in their public school system. I got the job when living overseas, but they required me to have a bunch of documents from Australia e.g. criminal records checks, certified university transcripts, that were quite difficult and expensive to obtain from out of the country. If something like that might be a possibility, I would investigate all the things you might need to have with you. England also seems to be a very popular destination for teachers.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 21:04
      +1

      i currently find it very hard to learn a language here. id prefer to learn through immersion as i would have no other choice. I have made a few videos but struggle to find time as my job consumes the majority of my life. If i didnt have the job then id be able to focus on being a little more creative with videos.

      I would love to do some teaching so thanks for the tips. Can you tell me what documents you needs off the top of your head? any others? ill do some research. i figured to bring the transcript.

      • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 22:18
        +1

        if you negged me, please say why? thanks.

      • ItsMeAgro on 29/06/2016 - 11:07
        +1

        Teaching English in Japan pays poorly, but Japan generally is amazing.

        You could do a lot worse than a few months in Japan.

        But learning a second language is not easy, even in full immersion.

        I estimate a year or two for some degree of fluency in conversational Japanese. That's with an hour or so per day of study and living in Japan.

        Some people will tell you it's not that hard, but keep in mind most people who do it faster studied the language for years in High School first.

        Some languages, like especially Spanish, Italian, French, are several times easier to learn, for English speakers, than the majority of languages, though (like Chinese, Arabic, Japanese, etc.)

        • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 19:47

          yeah i never said i was learning japanese, im open to any language really though. are you bilingual?

        • ItsMeAgro on 29/06/2016 - 22:26

          @Ronniefromdashore:

          Yeah, I mention Japanese as I have the most experience with that, I lived there for 2 years in my early 20's, loved it, learned Japanese.

        • J6 on 29/06/2016 - 22:48
          +1

          @mgowen: awesome! thanks for the advice

      • toniyellow on 29/06/2016 - 11:08
        +5

        It wasn't me that negged you, but I think I had the same mindset before going overseas, I was sick of working and sure things would change if I left, I would start a blog, write a novel, but then found myself making similar excuses over there. When I was working overseas, that was still work, then I travelled on weekends, so I had less free time than working at home. When I was purely travelling, there was so much to see and do I was busy 12 hours a day, then I was tired, then I needed to find a place to do laundry, etc etc etc - there are still lots of things that get in the way. I had a lot of great experiences, and it was hugely worthwhile, but I think I was very idealistic about what I thought it would be like when I left.

        Most people do not 'find themselves' and change, they just come to terms with who they already are. The only people I know who continued beyond the first few months doing anything extracurricular overseas made time for it before they left as well - they already had a youtube page, or a blog, or they already studied languages from flashcards in their spare time. It takes a lot of passion to say no to going out, and stay back in the hostel to edit things, or study.(Through language immersion you will learn day to day - greetings, numbers, food, directions. But you have too little exposure to anything else to get beyond that without lots of study)

        This isn't to discourage you, I'm sure there are a few people that do change, give it a go. But if you go into it realistically, you won't be disappointed if the things you thought would happen don't. If you 'just' have a great two years of travel and then come back to teaching in Australia again, that is awesome enough in itself without becoming a bilingual filmmaker.

        The documents I needed exactly for Korea were:
        *3 original copies of sealed and enveloped university transcripts that are stamped and sealed by the university.
        *2 notarized and apostilled copies of the information page of your passport.
        *A notarized and apostilled copy of relevant certificates (TESOL).
        *A notarized and apostilled copy of university degree
        *A notarized and apostilled copies of an official criminal record check
        Getting the University to give me a properly sealed envelope (they have to put a stamp over the back to show it is unopened), and getting an apostille, was difficult, especially from overseas.

        • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:21

          thank you for your detailed response! I know it will be difficult to do but id love to treat it like a job. thanks again for the document list!

  • mrham on 28/06/2016 - 17:16
    -6

    Buy a place first. You will struggle to save that sort of money again unless you want to live with your parents until you're 40.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 21:17
      +2

      i think about this every night as a lay in bed. I dont plan to spend 50k. but your point is the same as my parents. Im sure people have managed to buy house after travelling.

      • Serapis on 28/06/2016 - 22:08
        +4

        Don't get the property first if you are already thinking of travelling. The property will be like a ball and chain and you will bitterly resent it later. Despite whatever the next housing hype is, there is no immediate rush to buy your own property.

        • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 22:19
          +1

          yeah, i just cant buy a house yet. If i do, ill think about what could have been, travelling the globe forever.

        • ChalupaBatman on 29/06/2016 - 09:15

          @Ronniefromdashore:

          I have recently purchased a house. I also want to travel, not like you but rather a small holiday here and there. When I have money its a matter of do I spend it on the house or save it for a holiday? I have no regrets buying a house.

          I would vote for just do it. Even if it is 6 months it would still be worthwhile

        • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:21

          @ChalupaBatman: thank you for the advice!

  • beerpara on 28/06/2016 - 17:28
    +4

    Your parents are probably thinking you're going to spend all your money and then you'll come back home and sponge off them for years to come.

    • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 21:20
      +1

      yes that is there fear. They have a vision that ive only got one chance to save money like i am and afford a house now. They are right in a way i guess.

  • fenric on 28/06/2016 - 17:59
    +15

    Find me one person in the world who says "I wish I travelled LESS when I was younger."
    The old idea that you can travel when you are comfortable and set up is a trap. You may not even live that long :P

    Having done a year long trip around SE Asia and 2 years though Central and South America, with several smaller trips in between, I could not recommend travel more. I am now 35, married with a kid and still travelling.

    While you are young you can travel cheaply, stay in backpackers, climb mountains and do any type of crazy stuff you want. Not so much when you are 40.

    Few general travel tips:
    Buy a one way ticket (round the world tickets expire after 12 months, limiting your options)
    Don't plan too far in advance, the best stuff just happens when you just go with the flow.
    Best languages for travel - English, Spanish and French (by countries that speak them rather than population)
    Don't get caught up in the "I'm too cool to use guidebook" wank. They are great for maps, instructions on getting places and general useful info. Internet is better for accommodation these days though.
    Start with the cheaper areas first. SE Asia or Central America, then decide where you want to go from there.
    Work in places where you get good money, then use that to travel more :)
    A big goofy smile is your best asset in tense situations, never get angry (especially in asia where it makes you look bad). Also pretending to be stupid is a great tool.

    As some clever person once said "The world is a book, and those who don't travel see only one page" :)
    Go for it.

    • watwatwat on 28/06/2016 - 19:48
      +1

      Guide books are a stupid medium with old information for old people.

      Usr trip advisor instead.

      • fenric on 28/06/2016 - 20:10
        +3

        Trip Advisor and sites like hostelworld and hostelbookers are perfect for accommodation and a quick top 10 of things to see, but they give you no information about the place you are visiting or the logistics of getting from one place to another. You can also get great info from other travellers, as long as the

        If you are just doing an overseas pub crawl (and there are alot of Australians and brits who do just that) or a 2 week holiday, then there is no need for a guidebook.

        It's also fun to watch peoples world fall apart when their ipad runs out of charge (and/or there is no internet in the town) and they lost and informationless :)

        • J6 on 28/06/2016 - 21:24

          thanks for the advice!

        • fenric on 28/06/2016 - 21:37

          @Ronniefromdashore: No worries. No reason that you can't have a bit from both worlds. My girlfriend and I were paying off our house while we were travelling through South America for 2 years. It's an extra financial drain, but we both worked our asses off to save up. You just have to be a good saver and live like a poor student :)
          Have an awesome time.

        • Serapis on 28/06/2016 - 22:11
          +1

          Lonely Planet guides are an awesome start for this, watch OzBargain for when they go on sale :)

        • MrTweek on 28/06/2016 - 23:38

          @Serapis: Unfortunately, they will show you the places where everyone goes, so you are quite likely to end up surrounded by Aussies where eve you go ;)

        • fenric on 29/06/2016 - 01:30

          @MrTweek: And Brits. Lonely Planet is now owned by the BBC.
          Though I do agree with Serapis and think that they are the best guides for backpackers.

        • maximum on 29/06/2016 - 15:33
          +1

          @MrTweek: We are all tourists even though some people you meet in hostels like to think they are trailblazers and call themselves "travellers". Sometimes there is a reason why everyone is in the one place - it's the best place to go.
          I get my library to order me the latest guidebooks - and I can extend my loan if I'm overseas. I wouldn't buy them as they are always updating.

        • mrjames on 29/06/2016 - 21:00

          I hate trip adviser with a passion, horrible website set out like it was made a decade ago. Might suit you if you have a large budget and staying in hotels visiting usual tourist stuff. Other than that its useless.

    • supersabroso on 29/06/2016 - 21:56
      -2

      OP should focus on dating, finding a wife and getting kids if family is important. Everybody wishes they spent more time with their family when they are about to pass away.

      If family is not important and your original city is not Sydney then you could justify squandering 50k. If it's Sydney, this trip will cost you a lot more than 50k that's for sure. Realistically, this trip will cost you $50k/year on top of whatever it actually costs you.

      If it's still worth it then go for it! Enjoy life! You will be just fine if you have no plans to buy a house in Sydney and do not want any more than 1 kid.

      • J6 on 02/07/2016 - 11:22

        Hopefully i might meet someone on my trip!

  • davohatcher on 28/06/2016 - 19:07
    +8

    I'm currently 26 years old, male & living in Sydney at home with my parents, not kids… same similar situation living standard as you.

    I had a full time job until last year before Wotif/Lastminute/Travel.com was moved to India by Expedia(only worked full time for 1 year).

    I only have just over $5000AUD in savings and a standard car which i hardly use, However i have traveled to currently 51 countries in the last five years and will be leaving in August for around another 10+ without a return ticket.

    I travel lightly with a Canon DSLR and a Xiaomi Yi. I stay and travel usually solo in guesthouses, hostels and hotels if the cheaper options are unavailable eg, (Middle East, Arctic Circle.) I may travel for a few days or a week or two with people i meet along the way.

    I do not regret one thing about my journey, the places i have been, the people i have met and the things i have experienced in my opinion can simply not be done at a later age (retirement). I know so many people that have said they will travel when they are older but simply cannot travel more then a week in Bali, Thailand etc they have to many restrictions such as children,work,mortgage.

    I do wish however that i had made some start or commitment to getting an investment property of some sort so that while i was traveling i had a property being slowly paid off by the tenant, something that i can come back to.

    My parents have never been overseas and don't understand my fascination with traveling and are very disappointed that i do not have my own house yet.

    So my advice is pretty bad for your parents but defiantly do it, you wont regret it lol.

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