OK, here I go; let's just see how much of this comes to pass.
First up - I've given up on any overseas travel in 2022 (and probably 2023).
I've rolled over a bunch of 2020 and 2021 deposits and cancellations, plus tossed in a few more new things. I always scope two years+ ahead, start hard planning 18 months ahead and start locking in just under 12 months ahead when airlines open inventory.
But I can't see much stability that favours that approach returning before 2024.
PJM still works as a hands-on educational consultant in a special needs area, so she does at least have school holidays off that I can work with. And she has some LSL she can draw on that gives added flexibility.
1. The nearest I'll get to overseas for a while: off to Rottnest Island with PJM 12-13 January to burn a few Li ions in our E-bikes.
2. Brushing Broome/dodging monsoonal lightning with PJM, bro and SIL for five days 17-21 January.
3. May: using up some Intrepid & Peregrine deposits for Europe trips from 2020: Qld coast and E Arnhem Land, and following immediately on The Ghan DRW-ADL. Plan is to drive to Qld, leave my vehicle with friends, do the tours N, continue on to DRW, do The Ghan, then fly ADL-BNE to reconnect with what's left of my wheels and drive home. Solo while PJM toils.
4. September: A full two-week Arnhem Land Nhulunby-DRW trip. Solo.
5. September-October: Canberra for about a week with PJM to stay with friends.
6. October: finally (hopefully) SYD-PER on the Indian Pacific. Solo. Third time fare rollover lucky?
7. November: Voyage for one week CNS-CNS to the N outer GBR. Sshhh- surprise for PJM for a milestone birthday in 2022.
Now, what could possibly go wrong given the lunatics in charge of the numerous asylums in our great unified nation...