Has anyone ever been to...

[Lindsey]

Australia or New Zealand? If so, where did you go and what was it like? What were some things you did like and didn't like?
The reason I'm asking is I've decided to actually do something with my life. So many people I grew up with are scattered throughout the world, and most of you know I've been itching to get out and see the world too. So I've decided that Australia and New Zealand are the two places I'd possibly like to move to. I've done a bit of research on what it would take to get over there, get a job, and get Layla over there too! There are quite a few jobs in both countries for civil draftspeople, and most of them are paying at least double what I'm making now! I'm so excited to apply as soon as possible, but I don't want to miss out on my trip to NYC in November so I think I'm going to hold out for a year :) But for now I'd like to get as much information as possible!

[Janet]

I'm sorry Lindey that no one has responded to your post.

I don't know anyone that has gone to either place, but I would love to for a vacation..won't happen, but I can dream. You always have to remember that even though the wages may be doubled, so may the cost of things. So check it all out before making your decision. Good luck to you!

[rivermom]

I've never been to either. It sounds exotic and fun. I remember you mentioned before you wanted to go. I hope it all works out for you.

[DianaB]

I have a cousin that decided that he wanted to live there and even went there to get a job but the job he wanted needed someone with more experience. He had really looked into New Zealand because of the ideal weather they have and I'm sure that there were other things that factored into his decision. It was several years ago he checked into it and I don't know what's happened to his dream of going. I just remember that the weather didn't get too hot nor too cold. I'm sure that he looked into the economics as well, but I don't remember what was said.

[Lindsey]

Thanks for the replies :) I have been looking into it pretty extensively lately. Some food costs are higher, and rent is a bit higher, but with the wages it seems I'd still be making more than here. On top of that, people living there on visas because of lack of Australian work force are offered a living away from home allowance which is paid by the employer and tax-free! It turns out my uncle and aunt visited Australia years ago, and a woman from my hometown is from New Zealand, so I'm going to have a couple of people to talk to about it. Even if I end up not liking it, or if I waste a lot of money on it, I'm going to be able to say that I took a chance and moved somewhere crazy :) It would be an adventure no matter what.
If I want a visa for 2009 I'm going to have to apply soon. I got back to the city last night and saw Kyle. Before we went to bed I told him about it and needless to say he was not happy at all. He wouldn't even look at me or talk to me :( But sometime in the middle of the night he told me I have to do what I want to do for myself.

[Mandy]

I dont blame you one single bit for wanting to see more of the world. I know a few people from there, if you would like to contact them, just let me know.

[Lindsey]

Thanks Mandy! I would be very interested in contacting them. Which cities are they from?

[Mandy]

Lindsey, i'll send you a PM