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We’ve had the inkling for a while now that more and more of us are choosing to travel solo. That hunch has been confirmed by a survey we’ve just conducted among Aussies, with 69% of respondents have or would consider going it alone.

The driving force for travelling alone, said the respondents, was getting out of their comfort zones, as well as avoiding drama that could be created by travelling with a companion. You know, the travel pal they mean, the “Nah, I don’t want to go there” and “I’ll be ready in 5 minutes” type.

The benefits are obvious, but there’s one major drawback….travelling alone can lead to loneliness or homesickness which can impact even the best of trips.

That’s why we thought we’d create the Homesickness Hotline a service for Aussies to feel close to the things they love about home, wherever they are in the world.

All you have to do is jump on your phone and dial 1800STRAYA or click on the play buttons below, and you’ll be instantly reminded of some of the iconic Australian sounds that you love, and maybe don’t quite love.

There are 9 sounds including the waves of Bondi Beach, cockatoos waking you up on a Sunday morning and your neighbour pouring his empties into a wheelie bin.

In a couple of minutes, we’ll banish that homesickness and have you back on your way to enjoy the rest of your trip.

And one other thing our survey revealed: The rise in solo travel also sees many Australian’s seeking to ‘live like a local’ with 15% of respondents admitting to using dating apps to meet natives of their holiday destination.

When living like a local, 32% want to expand their international friendship circle and 13% actively seek a holiday romance. 12% want to add to their ‘selfie’ library, perhaps because on a solo travel trip there is no companion to take the photo for you!

Homesick Aussies – or even those who just fancy enjoying some of Australia’s most iconic sounds – can call 1800-STRAYA (+61 2 8316-6999).

Listen to the Homesick hotline introduction

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1. Waves crashing at Bondi Beach

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2. The sounds of the Aussie Bush

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3. The roar of the crowd at the MCG

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4. Waltzing Matilda being played on a Gumleaf

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5. Woken up by Cockatoos

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6. Being on hold with Centrelink indefinitely

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7. Your neighbour filling his wheelie bin with empties

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8. Sydney nightlife on the weekend

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9. Victa Mower starting up

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