FAQ's

questions, we get asked the most

Why Did you do it?
Because life’s short and we’ve spent enough years doing the traditional Aussie lifestyle. We wanted to give our kids more than work, school routines and screens; we wanted them to see the world, learn in real life, and build memories that don’t fit inside school holiday breaks.
Don't you think it's selfish to do that to your kids?
Honestly? We asked ourselves that a lot. The truth is: we’re doing this with the kids, not to the kids. They’ve been part of the planning for years — the ideas, the routes, the chats about what will feel exciting and what will feel hard.And yes, their feelings have shifted over time (relationships will do that), but they’ve still been included in the choices, the compromises, and the “how do we make this work for you?” conversations.We also feel really strongly that after all the work, saving, and planning — and with some of us still genuinely keen — it would have felt selfish not to go, to park the dream forever and miss the chance to do something life-changing as a family.We’re not pretending it’ll be perfect — there will be tough days — but we truly believe our kids will gain something huge: confidence, independence, perspective, and the kind of real-world experiences that stick with you. Most of all, they’ll see what it looks like to back yourselves, take a brave leap, and do hard things together. 
How does the rest of your families feel?
It’s a mix — excitement, nerves, big feelings. Generally speaking though our extended families are supportive and excited for us and are already planning their visits to Vietnam.

Why Vietnam?

Vietnam makes sense for our family: it’s vibrant, affordable, family-friendly, and it fits our long-term goal of building a life that’s calmer, more connected, and more sustainable. We also love the energy, the people and the food, and the fact that it’s a place where we can slow down after the chaos of travel.

How are you schooling your kids?

One thing that was important to us was that the kids don’t miss out on school and are able to maintain Australian Curriculum. To do this we have enrolled them in Euka Future Learning an online schooling platform.While the scope and sequences, lesson plans and assessments are set by Euka Future Learning their program has no strict due dates allowing full flexibility in delivery. Jake and Khi will be continuing with a university pathways certificate whilst Tij is continuing with the junior years.

How long are you going for

Roughly six months for the around-the-world section, and then we’re planning a longer-term move/settle phase in Vietnam. Really it will depend on how it all pans out.

How much did it cost for the rTW?

We’ll share exact numbers once we’ve finished the full plan and tracked it properly (because we’re big on being real and accurate, not internet-fake). But the short version is: it’s not “luxury travel,” it’s smart travel with plenty of budget airlines, longer stays, using discount codes and ShopBack where we can, and prioritising experiences over things.

AREN’T YOU WORRIED?

Yes. We’re parents. Worry is basically our subscription service.But we’ve planned hard, we’re staying flexible, and we’d rather be worried doing something meaningful than comfortable postponing life forever.

what are you planning on doing for work in Vietnam?

A mix of things. Teaching is a big one for Wean (as she is a high school teacher)— including exploring international schools and language centres. Matt has fun ideas he is still working through, however  we also have creative/side-hustle plans like the vlog itself (Five on the Fly) and other projects we’ve been building along the way. We’re basically the “multiple income streams” type of family… because teenagers are expensive.

Any hints and tips for travelling with kids with neurodivergence

  • This is a big one for our family.
  • What helps us:
  • Predictability inside the adventure: clear daily plans, itinerary, accommodation links and “what’s next” chats.
  • Comfort kit: headphones, sensory supports, snacks, things that are familiar.
  • Downtime is non-negotiable: make sure down time is scheduled into the itinerary.
  • Choice = power: let them pick activities, foods, direction- where possible.
  • Accommodation matters: quiet, space to decompress, and sleep-friendly setups are key.
  • Plan for regulation, not perfection: meltdowns aren’t failures — they’re information. Regulation tools such as Squiddy Hoodies, headphones and fidgets make a huge difference.

Any Advise for LGBTQIA+ Travellers?

Do your homework, trust your gut, and don’t apologise for existing. Our biggest tips:
  • Research local laws and social attitudes before you go. This will help you know when you can sprinkle ‘Zest’ and when to tone it down for safety.
  • Understand cultural and religious beliefs in relation to public displays of affection and be respectful of their spaces.
  • Check your countries Official Government Travel Advisory. In Australia we use Smartraveller. As a family we also use Spartacus Gay Travel Index for advice on the most to the least Queer friendly Countries and Regions.
  • When traveling to non-accepting Countries or Regions ensure you do not visibly display any Pride paraphernalia including flags, patches, pins ect.
  • Be e -smart. Be careful what content your post, upload/download and share whilst in different Countries. And potentially before you travel.
  • Pick well reviewed accommodation- bonus if it has queer friendly reviews.
  • Travel with copies of key documents and keep your digital safety basics tight.
  • Most importantly: you deserve joy and safety — plan for both.
  • If you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
  • You can find our contact details below or on the CONTACT US page.

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ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY Five on the Fly acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters on which we live and create — Gunnai Kurnai Country — and we pay our respects to Elders past and present. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Nations across Australia, and we recognise their continuing connection to Country, culture, community, and storytelling. As a travelling family, we also acknowledge and respect the Indigenous peoples, Traditional Owners, and First Nations communities of every place we visit around the world. Wherever we go, we commit to travelling with care — listening, learning, and honouring the histories and cultures that have existed long before us. Five on the Fly is proudly LGBTQIA+ inclusive. We celebrate safe, respectful spaces for all people, and we stand with First Nations and Indigenous LGBTQIA+ communities — recognising the strength, pride, and cultural significance of diverse identities across many cultures. Always was, always will be.