“I enjoyed it so much I made it my career”: Mai Loan of Mai Lo is in Oz on life Down Under

The Australia Working Holiday Visa (PVT) attracts thousands of young people from around the globe each year. To support French speakers preparing for their move, Mai Lo created Mai Lo is in Oz. Despite her busy schedule, she kindly answered our questions about Australia and the PVT process.

Could you introduce yourself in a few words?

I’m Mai Loan—everyone just calls me Mai Lo! In 2017, I launched Mai Lo is in Oz to help future PVTists heading to Australia. I studied in Brisbane for two years, then did a one-year Working Holiday Visa myself.

It was the best experience of my life, and now it’s a genuine pleasure to help tomorrow’s travellers make the most of their time Down Under every day.

Can you tell us more about the Mai Lo is in Oz project?

While living in Australia, I hosted French travellers in my Brisbane home. I walked them through their first steps—applying for tax numbers, finding work, and navigating the basics. When I returned to France, I wanted to keep supporting those just starting their preparations. I understood their stress and concerns because I’d been there myself. That’s how Mai Lo is in Oz was officially born.

Since then, I’ve expanded the project to offer as much guidance as possible. You’ll find YouTube videos, podcasts, a blog, and a free downloadable guide. I track the latest news—especially around COVID-19—to keep the community informed. I regularly share tips, deals, and practical hacks to give everyone the tools they need to thrive on a Working Holiday Visa in Australia.

Australia is clearly your favoured destination. Could you share a few words about your experience there?

I studied at the University of Queensland in Brisbane for two years. It was a fantastic experience—I met Australians and international students alike. I later spent another year on my Working Holiday Visa. Brisbane remains my top destination: it’s the perfect balance between relaxation and lively Aussie culture. I simply love the city!

What advice would you give to anyone considering moving to Australia?

Go for it! Moving to Australia changed my life, and I enjoyed it so much I eventually made it my career. Don’t worry too much about planning every detail in advance; focus instead on understanding how things work—finding a job, getting certified to work, picking a SIM card, and so on. The rest will fall into place as you meet people. Expecting to land a bakery job in Brisbane on arrival is, in my view, a bit too ambitious! Relax, embrace the unexpected, and give yourself space to enjoy the adventure without unnecessary pressure.

How should travellers plan their trip and what pitfalls should they avoid?

As I’ve mentioned, set realistic expectations but don’t over-stress before departure. That said, there are some key mistakes to steer clear of early on. For example, book the cheapest room for your first night in Australia at your own risk! You’ll likely end up far from the city centre, in less-than-ideal conditions—and you’ll need your energy after a long flight. I also recommend avoiding Airbnb on arrival. Hostels are far better places to meet people, discover hidden opportunities, and open doors you never expected.

© Mai Lo is in Oz

Has anyone in your network encountered administrative issues before a big trip?

I’ve heard stories of passports expired at departure, or international driving permits that didn’t arrive in time. Overall, serious issues are rare—but that’s largely because I emphasise preparation! The biggest hurdles are usually financial. Some travellers underestimate how long they can live without working, while others skip travel insurance only to face medical bills abroad, often forcing an early return to France.

How do you collaborate with VISAMUNDI?

I love connecting with people and offering down-to-earth guidance on living in Australia, managing paperwork, and easing anxieties. But I’m not an immigration agent: legally, I can’t handle visa paperwork for students, tourists, or PVT holders. I leave that to the specialists. Visamundi is the perfect partner for those journeys.

We’re grateful to Mai Lo for sharing these essential tips on preparing for a PVT in Australia. Hungry for more Australia insights? Reach out to Mai Lo via WhatsApp, follow her on Instagram, or connect on Facebook.

© Mai Lo is in Oz