Why You Should Skip a Winter and Check Out Australia's Summer

Take it from me, if you want to skip a cold hard winter from the US and live, work, and explore in a foreign country that's experiencing a beautiful summer while our winter takes place, then this is a solid option! Here are a few reasons why:

1. Beaches, Beaches and more Beaches!

Life's beach down here, seriously. The vast majority of Aussies seem to live in close proximity to the ocean, and for good reason! Australia boasts some of the whitest sands and bluest waters that you will find anywhere in the world. The hardest decision to be made sometimes is honestly just which beach to check out. It's a real tough life.

2. Waterfalls and Epic Locations For Days!

So many waterfalls to choose from! Much like our beach problem where it's tough to decide which one you fancy for the day, it's basically the same with roaring falls around here.

3. The Surf Culture

Aussies can be pretty chilled out, and that reflects even more-so with the surf culture. It's massive here. I've been living a few minutes from a popular surf beach down south of Sydney for a couple of months and I can honestly tell you that no matter your skill level or experience there is a wave for everyone, just about everywhere. 

4. Endless Photography Opportunities

Seriously it's even a little overwhelming with how many amazing spots there are for photography out here, whether you're into landscapes, drone, architecture, or just about everything in between there are entirely too many options, and it's amazing.

5. The Unique Wildlife

There are countless species of animals that only live in Australia, their number of native species special to the country is off the charts. Whenever you venture out into the "bush" you're bound to stumble upon one of them, though I'll admit this isn't always a good thing. Whether you're able to embrace how deadly the animals can be or not, you have to appreciate such a special environment like this that is home to so many amazing creatures.

6. All of the Sun

Looking for sun? You'll find it here. For those suffering from their winter vitamin D shortage (I know I sure was when I lived in Seattle for a winter), the Australian summer couldn't be more opposite, and it's awesome! You'll need to constantly cake yourself in sunscreen, sure, but it's definitely well worth a burn here or there just to experience this sunny place! Australia is one of the happiest countries on Earth and with all this beautiful scenery, pristine beaches, diverse landscapes, piled on with more sunny days than you could imagine? Yup, I have zero regrets trading out a Montana winter below zero for one in the sun!