The past couple of years in Australia have felt a little like living in a birdcage — especially if you were the type to treat yourself to an overseas trip each year.
And while those of us who were stuck on the inside looked out at the world with bleary eyes, things were even more tough for Aussies stranded internationally who couldn't get back home.
One Aussie in particular — Reddit user u/ChrisTheDog — was stuck overseas and had been unable to see their family since 2019. They posted a thread, thanking Australians — particularly NSW for masking up, getting vaxxed and generally doing the right thing.
"My dad was in a serious motorbike accident last week resulting in a shattered pelvis, a severed finger, internal damage, etc and it has never been harder to be away. Even as a serial expat, I’ve never missed home this much for this long."
"Thanks to NSW hitting its targets, we’re not only able to be home for Christmas, so I can meet my nephews and see everyone, but I’ll be able to surprise my dad in hospital and help my mum cope with juggling a bed-ridden husband and two foster kids.
It wouldn’t have been possible if everyone hadn’t done their part.
Thank you!"
This wholesome and heartwarming Reddit post kicked off a thread of replies from other users who not only sent their love, but shared their own experiences.
"Not OP but I have been stranded overseas for two years. No flights, cancelled flights every time that I check for tickets. I can't wait to go back to Australia."
—u/PolarLight
"I'm an expat as well, in Hong Kong with an American wife and we're about to start the process of getting her visa so we can get the fuck out and back home. I can't wait."
"I’m an expat Australian living and working in the UK. Before COVID-19, I’d have been back to Australia at least twice a year. I still rent a place there along with my son. For the first time in two years, I have a ticket to fly back early in 2022. I have nothing to complain about, but given the state of the world at the moment I fear something may snatch that flight away from me still."
"I am so happy that Australia showed that it can get back into the swing of things so fast. I've booked my flight to see my family for February — been two years to the day since I have been able to see my mum and my sister's brats."
—u/symonty
Shoutout to all the stranded Aussies who are planning to fly home when borders reopen — we can't wait to see you and welcome you back!
Note: Responses have been edited for length, sensitivity and/or clarity.
