Travel advice

BMTH

Me and my gf have constantly spoke about going travelling, and making the most of still having a bit of freedom while we’re both still young. We were set on Australia anyway as she has family over there, but now we’ve thought about making a bit of a trip of it and stopping some other places (SE Asia the likely choice).

Firstly, would it make sense stopping off in Asia on the way or way back from Aus? I’m very nervous about the whole idea of traveling, I’m not a very out going person as such but always swore I’d regret not doing it when I’m older. I have this whole idea in my head that starting in Australia would be ‘easier’ as it’s an English speaking, richer country. Forgive the ignorance!

Secondly is STA worth looking into? We are both 25 and I’ve heard you can get discounts for young people. We will both have around £5000 to budget with.

Neo187

I haven't used STA so cant comment on that, but don't feel worried about going to a foreign culture. Everyone speaks English in the major cities that are quite touristy. Its a long flight to Oz, best to stop off somewhere both ways to break up the long travel time. I have been to Oz a few times for family, and stopped off at Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Dubai. All nice places to see and visit for a few days on the way to/from Oz.

PeacefulWaters

The world speaks English.

While most places appreciate efforts to speak the local language, only the French get annoyed if you don't try!

Voyager2002

I would stop over in Southeast Asia in both directions... the flight to Australia is too long, and there is a lot to see on the way.

I will add that the cheapest way to get to SE Asia is probably the Norwegian Airlines flight to Singapore. That way, you arrive in a sophisticated English-speaking country that is a great transport hub. You could relax there (expensively) and then use one of the low-cost airlines that serve that part of the world to continue to Australia, or travel by bus and train to Malaysia; Thailand; and perhaps onwards to the rest of the region.

By all means check the fares offered through STA, but they are unlikely to be the very best you will find.

EveryWhere

Also check the climate of the various places for the time of year you intend to travel. That could have a bearing on where you spend your time.