Australia's isolation is reflected in the long periods Australians stay away. Judith Maher, of Youth Hostels Australia, says the working holiday visa is also a big factor in allowing Australians to extend their time away. For many, backpacking is the only way to really experience the world. Anita saw it as a great opportunity to learn her parents' first language and to discover more about her background. What she noticed most was the change in her concept of time.
Time becomes nothing.
Backpacking is about immersing yourself in the culture of a country and living like a local. While backpackers spend less each day than the five-star tourist, they stay longer. A host of voices are cybershouting their opinions on the funniest hostels, health insurance abroad and places to avoid. Backpacking is something people enjoy at that point in their lives when they have the most time and the least money. But they learn how to make each dollar stretch that little bit further to experience that little bit more.