I first visited Australia in 2017 as part of a college study abroad trip, where I lived and worked aboard a sailboat. I sailed across the Indian Ocean where I went surfing in Bali, scuba diving in Cocos Keeling, saw the red crabs on Christmas Island, went on a safari in South Africa, and so much more. Although I had prior personal and educational travel experience, this trip is what ignited my passion for travel.
I’ve returned to Australia with Audley where I explored the country in depth. Its biodiversity is unlike anything else in the world. The air smells of eucalyptus and the tablelands merge into the rainforest and reef — all in a day’s drive. There are no shortage of wallaby and kangaroo sightings, making Australia a wildlife-rich destination.
I’m eager to share what Australia has to offer with those interested in discovering it.
Q&A with Mikaela
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
My most vivid and profound travel memory is at Lake Louise in Canada. Back then, I'd never been out west to the mountains, so the juxtaposition of the turquoise water and snow-covered mountains was unlike anything I’d experienced before. The whole time, I was in awe of how one place could have such contrasting landscapes. I heard an avalanche rumble through the valley while on a canoeing trip on the lake. It was my first real introduction to how powerful nature can be.
Where would you love to travel next?
Where do I begin? I would have to say Antarctica, simply because it’s one of the least explored places on earth. I also have a lifelong goal of going to all seven continents, so any opportunity to get closer to that goal, I must take. Furthermore, I love winter, so any snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, or cold weather exploration is paradise — what better place to do that than Antarctica?
Your best piece of travel advice?
It would be remiss of me if I didn’t mention the Great Barrier Reef. One of the natural wonders of the world, it has to be seen when visiting Australia. The reef has two parts, the inner isles, and the outer reef. Although the outer reef is a bit farther out (hence the name), I highly recommend taking the time to go there. You can see thousands of species of fish, giant clams, reef sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and so much more.
