“I am going on an adventure!”
Bilbo Baggins shouted as he left the Shire to go on a mission, choosing purpose over comfort. It was also what my father quoted as I, with tears, hugged him goodbye. All my things secured in one huge luggage, I was ready to board the plane, thrilled to continue attaining quality education and experience campus life at the University of Melbourne. What a relief it was when I arrived last month! Being fastidious on crucial matters, I recall being irresolute the whole month before my flight that I constantly found myself asking this question “What are the important things I need to prepare?”
Top tips when travelling from Manila to Melbourne
Series of research, inquiry, and recent experiences upon arrival, I have come up with the top tips and must-haves on your flight back to Melbourne.
1. FLIGHT REQUIREMENTS
Don’t forget to label your personal items. Put a name tag or maybe a ribbon for easier access upon check-in.
2. PRE-DEPARTURE REQUIREMENTS
Some airlines and transit countries have different pre-departure requirements for International arrivals on top of Australia’s arrival requirements, but I listed here the essential ones:
- Flight ticket
- Passport
- Proof of Student Visa
- Proof of negative Covid-19 Test Result. Any of the following is recognized:
- PCR test (some airlines have a list of accredited testing sites in the Philippines)
- Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) test taken within 3 days before your flight’s scheduled departure
- Medical certificate as proof of a negative Rapid Antigen Test taken under medical supervision within 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure
- Proof of Vaccination (DOH VaxcertPH is accepted)
- State Border Permit
- Australian Travel Declaration taken at least 72 hours before departure
- Proof of Enrolment (Overseas Student Confirmation of Enrolment or International Student Acceptance Letter from your University);
- your Australian address and contact number
Additional documents you may need upon arrival
- Proof of your Overseas Student Health Cover (BUPA members can easily access their digital membership card through the myBupa app)
- proof of identity
- prescription for your medicines when you declare it
- medical certificate.
3. DRESS COMFORTABLY AND STRATEGICALLY
Whether you booked a direct or connecting flight, the journey will always involve waiting, and you would not want discomfort to add to the stress and anxiety of traveling during a pandemic. Wear soft and breathable clothes plus comfortable shoes. Choose layers that are easy to put on or remove when the temperature gets unpredictable. Bring your sanitizer and an extra face mask.
4. CONNECT WITH ORGANISATIONS AND FILIPINO COMMUNITIES
Get involved with organizations in your university or a Filipino community in Melbourne to get updates and information and have access to support once you arrive. In my experience, it is to my advantage that I am part of Filipino-Australian Student Council of Victoria. The organisation provided me with recent updates, emotional support, contact numbers, and tips as I prepared for my flight.
The flight back to Melbourne is a smooth process as long as you provide complete requirements and necessary information, declare items you brought with you, and comply with the immigration’s protocols and safety measures. Have a checklist, let a family member or a friend in Melbourne know about your flight details, and have lots of faith. The vibrant Melbourne is excited to welcome international students back! And just like Bilbo Baggins, I hope you’ve packed everything you need for an adventure!
READ MORE
- Elaine Yago: A student far away from home
- Coming home to Australia in the time of COVID-19
- Australia welcomes return of international students and backpackers
