As we all know, it takes a certain kind of courage to travel the world on an airplane. Most Veterinary technicians are a fearless bunch; I have faced down fractious felines, belligerent clients and other pugnacious critters. Yet, traveling to a different country positively froze the blood in my veins. So personally “courage” was not at all associated with traveling across the world. As an inexperienced traveler, it was a daunting task. However, I’ve always wanted to further my skills with exotics and chelonii (the turtle and tortoise family) are one of my favoite reptiles.

Once I began to apply for the study abroad program, I honestly did not know what to expect from the program and traveling to Australia. Questions and concerns flitted across my mind like anxious little spiders. My family also had reservations because I’m a wee bit accident prone and I have habit of rescuing animals. I began researching everything from packing light, traveling on a long flight, currency, poisonous/venomous flora and fauna of Australia. All of this research was to give myself a better understanding of what to expect.

Fast forward to May 10th, I had packed everything I needed in two carry on sized luggage and 36 hours later I was in Australia! The scenery was absolutely breathtaking and Cairns was no exception; Cairns is surrounded by rain forest, beaches and mountains. Once my fellow classmates were picked up by our bus, we headed towards our hostel “the Northern Greenhouse”. It is a blue building nestled near the center of down-town Cairns. The first night I got to meet my fellow dorm-mates Christa, Brigette and Lacey plus our neighbor Audra. We went to explore down-town Cairns; we were surprised on how similar the weather is to Florida!