Yoder Toter children to meet the Land Down Under

It’s only 6 months til we are “wheels down” in Australia.

If you’re new here, you may not realize that I was an exchange student to Australia. ?Actually 15 years ago (this Friday) I took my first ever flight to Australia for what would begin a year away from my family and friends. ?It was a fantastic time and I as much as I loved the scenery and the FOOD (secret- I weighed less after baby #3 than I did after a year in Oz thankyouverymuch host mummy), the people and relationships were the best part!

I’m super excited to share for #WishfulWednesday that we have MOST of our Australia itinerary finally cemented! It’s been a dream of mine since having Jackson to visit Down Under with our children?and have them meet all of our friends and families. ?I’m also ready?to introduce them to koalas, kangaroos, Lamingtons, and meat pies.

While most of where we are visiting I have been before, Melbourne will be new for Brian and I’m so thrilled?we’ll be visiting Tasmania for the first time.

Here is a short recap of our itinerary:

Arrive Sydney and travel to Maitland, NSW

10 days total in the Hunter Valley region visiting with friends, sitting on the beach (Port Stephens), and hoping our children adjust to their new time zone!

 

Spend 2 days in Sydney for Australia Day – Not only are there tall ships in the Harbour and a fireworks display on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but a certain “Wiggly” group frequents the Australia Day celebration. ?I may be as excited as the kids!

Next we’re off to Melbourne for 4 nights and the main reason for visiting here is to take in the Australian Open. ?It has been a dream of Brian’s to see a major tennis tournament so we’re working on getting tickets (they open up in August) and hopefully we’ll get to see one of our favorites at Rod Laver Arena.

Our trip will end in Hobart, Tasmania and from here we’re hoping to explore Freycinet National Park and Port Arthur before returning home.

We’ll be on the ground in Australia?for 3 weeks! ?There will be at least 7 plane rides and countless train, bus and ferries as well.

Everyone I’ve spoken to thinks we are nuts for taking such a long plane trip with three little ones, but I say “go big or go home” and hey, who else is going to take the LONGEST FLIGHT IN THE WORLD from Dallas to Sydney for 17 HOURS?unless they are a little crazy?!

 

Anyone have any tips for a 17 hour plane trip? ?Maybe you have been to Australia? ?Maybe you just like Outback Steakhouse? ?I’d love to hear!

 

We’re back now. ?Here are some updates:

Australia recap

Australia Day in Sydney

My happy place, Port Stephens

City Guide: Hobart with Kids

A Walking Tour of Melbourne

4 Free Excursions from Hobart

Booking.com