Meet Courtney.
Hi, my name is Courtney, and I’m a travel-obsessed twenty something! I come from a city called Wollongong on the south coast of NSW, Australia, about an hour and a half south of Sydney. I love the outdoors and exploring beautiful landscapes, and in the summer I basically live at the beach. I work in marketing & communications at a travel company, and save every penny I earn to go on adventures!
What inspired/inspires you to travel?
The thing I love most about travel is that every destination you visit, every person you meet, every culture you discover, and every experience that you have is different. You’re continuously challenging your perspective every time you visit somewhere new. I’m inspired by these differences, and am determined to seek out as many as I can, and become as worldly as humanly possible.
Where is your favorite destination to date?
It’s hard to choose a favourite destination, but if I had to then I can’t go past Rarotonga, Cook Islands. I’m a beach lover, and Raro is a paradise like no other. The people, the beaches, the landscape, the culture…. Everything about it is incredible. Plus, there’s something for everyone; from those who seek a relaxed, beach holiday to those who seek an adventure holiday full of thrills. It’s also perfect for families, couples, groups of friends or solo travellers!
How do you prefer to travel? Solo or With a group? Why?
I’ve never done a fully solo trip, but even if I had I think I’d have to say a group, or at least with one other person. I like to share experiences, especially when travelling. Obviously, solo travellers meet plenty of new people on their journey, but I prefer to travel with at least one other person I know. I spent a week in San Francisco by myself at the end of my summer working as a camp counselor and I felt incredibly lonely without someone to share the experience with.
Do you think there is a difference traveling as a woman?
I guess that depends on where you go! As much as I hate saying it, I do feel safer when I’m travelling with a male. My friend and I (both girls) had a few uncomfortable moments during our eight-week stint in the USA, and I think these could’ve been avoided had we been travelling with a guy. I do admire those independent women who travel to dangerous countries on their own – their spirit and desire to change the way others think is very inspiring.
How do you plan your trips?
Usually I figure out a destination I want to visit, and then go from there! I see if there’s anyone interested in going with me, work out the best time I can go, and pretty much wing the rest. I like to be spontaneous when I’m travelling, but there are some things you do need to plan in advance!
When is your next one?
Although I’ve got nothing booked, I’m planning to travel to Europe in the northern summer next year. I’ve only touched upon mainland Europe in my previous trips, and am dying to visit Italy! Specially, Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast – get me into that hot Mediterranean sun!
Any advice you would like to give to your fellow travelers?
My biggest piece of advice would be to save, save, save! There’s nothing worse than looking forward to a trip, then realizing halfway through that you can’t afford to have the experience you expected. I’ve found myself short of cash on too many occasions due to my terrible budgeting, and have vowed to never again go anywhere unless I have saved enough!
Want to learn more about Courtney?
IG: @courtystelt
Twitter: @courtystelt
She Went Wear 