Navigate Expeditions guides Melinda and Johan have been, travelling around Australia with their three kids for over 12 months. Intrigued by their extended family expedition, we sent them a few questions about life on the road. They generously shared insightful videos and stunning snapshots from their adventures, offering a glimpse into their unique experience.
Watch the video below to hear firsthand as Melinda and Johan answer to our Questions.
From embracing flexibility to discovering Australia’s wonders, Melinda and Johan’s interview is full of wisdom. Here are a few snippets:
Reflecting on the most important lesson for their children, Johan shared, “I think it’s an appreciation of the beauty of Australia. What we have in this country, the absolute natural phenomenon that we go past and explore… [and] the appreciation of our family. I think we’ve grown much closer.”
When asked about advice for other families, Johan’s response was emphatic: “Don’t over think it. Just get in the car. Pick a direction and start traveling… Planning too much is creating stress…” Melinda echoed this sentiment, “It felt overwhelming and scary to start with but once you get in the car and you get going… to have come flexibly and not be so rigid… You don’t need all the gear. You know, we’ve seen people doing it more rustic than us… You just make it work, whatever you’ve got.”
Looking back on their year on the road, Johan noted a significant shift: “I think when we set off, we had 12 months in mind. And that changed very, very quickly since we got on the road. There is so much to explore. Melinda reflected on the personal growth, saying, “to be realistic, it took six months for us to unwind.”
Highlighting a memorable experience, Melinda shared, “One of the main things that stands out for me is the Great Barrier Reef. That was just a really positive experience for all of us… It was really stunning.”
Melinda also spoke to the unexpected connections forged on their journey: “We’re often going up to people and, you know, making small chat and then, you know, as a result of having that skill, we’re able to turn that into an adventure because we end up making friends or we end up traveling together, or we end up going out on the boat together, whatever it may be. And it’s turned into an adventure.”
To follow along on Johan and Mel’s incredible family adventure and see more of their stunning photos and videos, be sure to follow their Instagram page @Namibtroopy and Melinda’s own business page @AnythingmentalhealthbyMelindaras.
All Navigate Expeditions guides, including the inspiring Melinda and Johan, are experienced adventurers with a wealth of personal and professional experience. At Navigate Expeditions, we pride ourselves on having the absolute best and most professional guides, ensuring unforgettable and safe journeys for all.
Want to hear the full story and see their amazing videos? Press play on the video below to hear about their Australian adventure firsthand!