Meathwoman's Diary: Preparing for the big move and new adventures Down Under

Hannah McNamara

Over the past few months, I've planned and prepared for the 'big move'.

The 'move' that almost comes natural to the younger generation of Ireland nowadays, like a rite of passage leading to adulthood.

If you haven't already guessed where to... it's Australia.

Moving away from home is so much more than just packing up a suitcase, and booking the flights.

While tying up loose ends at work and in my personal life, I'm also projecting myself into an unfamiliar, unknown future.

I've had to consider many major aspects of the move; financial security, health insurance, visas, accommodation and the change in day-to-day life.

Having talked about my plans for months, I feel completely unprepared now that it's just around the corner. But how prepared can one really be?

I feel like I've been having the same conversation at least three times a day with different people... 'Where exactly are you moving to?', 'Have you a job lined up?', 'How long are you going for?'

The look of worry on their face when my response to every single question is 'I don't know yet'. But the truth is, I don't.

Rarely does anything actually go to plan but now here I am questioning, am I being naïve thinking it will all fall into place?

Another question I've been asked constantly over the last few months is 'Why are all the young people leaving Ireland?'

While each time I could go into a list of reasons, the housing and cost of living crisis, poor pay and working conditions to name a few, I just answer that question with 'It's a desire to live more.'

Two years ago, I first left home to fulfil my dream to travel. At the age of 17, with no expectations, I packed up and moved overseas to Spain. I plunged head first into a new lifestyle with no preparation at all.

When I'm questioned on why I did this, I reply why not?

It was an experience of trial and error; trying new foods to see what I like and dislike, visiting new places to find where I liked most, and meeting new people that shared these new found interests of mine.

When speaking about Australia people think, well you moved away before so it's nothing new. But truth to be told, it's all new. A new location, new lifestyle and new challenges to face.

Almost 10,000 miles across the world, with a time difference of nine hours, my life in Australia will be nothing like before.

For the first time ever, I'm considering what I'm leaving behind, and consequently what will be waiting for me when I return.

Goodbyes are never easy, but with no specific date of return, the 'I'll see you when I see you' phrase has never felt so fitting.

Now two weeks until I flee the nest again, I have no doubt in my mind that my move to Australia will mirror my first travel experience in that it will all work out!

And if not, there's no shame in coming home.