About

My name is Ian. I’m a 20-something year old single Aussie guy; and I gave up my career, and my mortgage (in April 2011) for medium to long-term solo travel.

Am I really living? Or just existing?

This was a question I found myself asking frequently as I pottered away in a cubicle for 6 years trying to advance my Software Engineering career. Looking at the same 4 walls day-in-and-day-out, attending the same meetings, working on the same projects, driving the same route home everyday… you understand my frustration?

a hamster on a wheel (Flickr credit captainmcdan)

Eventually I decided to pack it all in, and take a career break to travel to Europe (and who knows where after that).

I started the blog so my family and friends could keep track of where I am, and what mischief I get up to.

I’m also available on all the usual social media:

Why you should read my blog

So it’s not just another “cubicle-dweller-who-quit-the-9-5-for-world-travel” blog.

I have loads of Aussie Personality oozing from everything I offer up.

I focus on achieving goals (and bucket lists), not just creating them, but making them happen.

The Message

My message is simple… get out there and follow your passions. Live a life of Eager Existence! If you’re bored or unhappy with the way your life is going, DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! I’m not really a believer in destiny or fate, I think YOU have the power to change your own life. So what are you waiting for?

Enjoy life! explore, live, love, and learn.

If you’re looking for more information on why I chose this domain name, or why I started blogging, you can read one of my first posts here. And, if you need more inspirational words to really get out there and live your own life, read this manifesto.

Side Note: I am not known to be a good writer, or even keep a regular journal… but I think its a great idea while travelling; to consolidate all the photos and stories and new friends in one place before I forget it.

If you haven’t had enough yet, here’s a bit more information about me pulled directly from my CouchSurfing profile:

Where you can find Perth (in Australia)

I’m pretty easy-going, I enjoy a good chat; not just about travel, but about love, life, sex, philosophy, music, or anything thats not too serious (no religion or politics for me).

I’ve always loved exploring, ever since I was a kid. And I definitely prefer to meet the locals and explore unknown places rather than just hitting the main backpacking circuit the whole time.

No offence, but I get bored with museums, churches, cathedrals, and castles. The same old walking tours, the same old photos. I want adventure. Lets go on a hike, lets go camping, lets go fishing, lets go to a music festival. If you can afford it, lets go skydiving! Or, for the more laid back times, grab a beer and have a conversation. Enjoy some good local food, or even attempt to cook some ourselves. Nothing really beats staying up late, looking at the stars, enjoying good conversation with great new friends over a few wines and a meal.

I also enjoy a good party; and every once in a while I will be attracted to people who do the same. Back in Australia I tried to go to every music festival in summer. I love the experience! A party with 20,000 friends you haven’t met yet.

Now, on all things ‘Aussie’

The most common questions I get asked about Australia are:

• Is it safe? Won’t I get bitten/attacked/eaten or maimed by some kind of dangerous Australian wildlife while I travel? Well, the short answer is probably not; after all, I managed to survive 20-something years (and counting). But, for an idea of how dangerous Australia is, check out this humourous map:

 

 

And if that hasn’t sold you on travelling to Australia, check out this YouTube video:

• Why did you leave? Everyone seems to think Australia is paradise-on-earth. Well, there’s no denying it… but everyone wants to see whats on the other side of the fence, right? Curiosity got the better of me.

• Can I get work there? Probably. I know the economy is going well, and unemployment is low. But do I look like a Visa Agency? Do your own research!

• Have you seen a Kangaroo? Yes. Many.

• Have you eaten one? Yes. Not as many as I have seen. It’s not really a delicacy though; it’s very gamey.