If the Aussie accents and slang do not win your heart over, the delicious ethnic and health food, capital cities, picturesque scenery and wildlife will inspire you. I was most excited to check out the exotic animals and beautiful environment but Sydney´s street scene was equally as exciting as Australia´s natural landscape.

The intense blue waves of the ocean appear endless as they unify with the sky and the wildlife surprisingly meshes with the city streets. I ran across countless geckos and oversized insects scurrying across my path. It was cool, but I must admit I could have done without encountering a spider that was roughly the size of a domestic pet. Being an athlete, Australia felt like home away from home. After swimming in the ocean and having the honour of meeting some of my idols on the Australian swim team, my heart truly lives in Australia and I hope to return soon.