As the plane descended into Darwin, I gazed out the window at the harbour far below, my stomach in knots. 

I was terrified. I’d never travelled alone before and had no idea of the impact it was about to have on my life.

Even when I moved to Mbantua/Alice Springs for work, I’d had the support of friends and family every step of the way, offering advice and coordinating logistics. The move had also been a few years ago, and in the meantime, I’d grown familiar with my life.

I dreamed of visiting new places, but the unknown sounded scary. 

While friends jetted off to Europe and America, I watched from the sidelines, too afraid to have my own adventures, trapped by anxiety.

Eventually, in my 30s, I decided I couldn’t let the situation go on. Seeing a friend’s photos of a getaway to a tropical paradise was the final straw.

Still afraid, I chose to book a holiday to Darwin, only a short flight away on Larrakia Country. I’d ruled out going overseas, believing it would be too much for a first trip.

A week from the start of my holiday, I almost cancelled my flights out of sheer panic.

But I didn’t — and that decision opened the door to all that came next.

The first days of exploring the Top End

When the plane landed, I took a deep breath, grabbed my luggage, and organised a taxi to my accommodation.

In my hotel, I reviewed the day trips I’d booked. I found the prospect of travelling with strangers hundreds of kilometres each day on tours daunting and didn’t get much sleep that night.

The next morning, as the coach lurched out of Darwin in the pre-dawn, I tried to talk myself into relaxing — easier said than done.

I still had my heart in my mouth as I walked the trails in Kakadu. 

As I looked at rock art and listened to the guide speak about the flora of the rainforest, dread washed over me because I was in a completely new place without my support system. What if something went wrong? 

On another day when we went swimming at Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park, I only dipped my feet in while others dunked themselves completely.

The turning point of my holiday

Unexpectedly, my discomfort didn’t last forever.

About halfway through the trip, sitting on a boat on the crocodile-infested Mary River, knowing life jackets would be useless, I couldn’t ignore the fact that I seemed to be coping.

Instead, I was chatting to fellow tourists surrounded by the wildness of nature.

Two days later, when floating down the majestic Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) to the song of cicadas, the realisation that I’d accomplished my dream hit home. I’d risen above my fear and lived beyond my limitations.

Confidence surged through me.

From that moment onwards, I enjoyed every minute of my trip. 

When visiting the Tiwi Islands, instead of drawing back with hesitation, I asked questions and took every opportunity to learn about the region’s culture and history.

No longer constantly looking over my shoulder, waiting for the worst to happen, I soaked up everything and focused on having a good time.

One of my favourite memories is of sailing out on Darwin Harbour to view the foreshore from the water. The touch of ocean breezes over the glittering waves sealed travelling to Darwin and the Top End as one of the best experiences I’d ever had.

Normal life felt different

When I returned home to Alice Springs, people remarked that I seemed more grounded and self-assured. 

I sought out numerous new locations to visit locally in Central Australia, marvelling at the landscape. I also enjoyed swapping travel stories with the students at the school where I taught.

Inspired to continue travelling, I took opportunities to book solo trips to other destinations in Australia. 

I’m just getting started, and keen to see different places and learn to trust myself even more.

Staying in Australia suits me for now because I want to see as much as I can of my home before I explore further afield — which I definitely plan on doing at some stage. 

In the meantime, Australia’s raw beauty and diversity never disappoints.

Visiting Darwin wasn’t just a holiday — it was a catalyst for freedom.

Sonia Morell is a freelance writer from Sydney who has lived and worked in Alice Springs.

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As the days grow shorter and the air turns brisk, outside beckons with the promise of autumn adventures. Whether you’re wandering through a vineyard in Tuscany or navigating a crisp New York City morning, it’s the perfect time to embrace a wardrobe that’s both functional and effortlessly chic—and no piece is more essential to this transformation than a great fall boot.

From cobblestone streets to country roads, boots are your passport to style and comfort. Imagine the understated elegance of a classic riding boot paired with rich, textured layers, or the bold confidence of a sleek combat boot cutting through the urban sprawl. Ankle boots, versatile and stylish, are the workhorse of the season, transitioning seamlessly from daylight adventures to evening outings. And, of course, you’ll need a pair of rain boots, because autumn’s unpredictable weather won’t stand a chance against style this season.

Wherever your travels take you, these boots will be there ready to ground you in every sweet autumnal moment. Read on for the best fall boots that will elevate all kinds of journeys this season.

Ankle boots

Ankle boots are some of those autumn fashion staples that never go out of style (see also: cashmere sweaters, cardigans, and cozy joggers). That said, there are oodles of amazing ankle boots for every occasion. Of course, the best ones combine comfort and style, be it in the form of a lug sole for traction, water-repellent construction for durability, or sheepskin lining for extra warmth. Below, find our favorite ankle boots to wear wherever your travels take you, whether that’s a work conference, a night out at the bar, a long-haul flight, or an afternoon trekking through a new city.

Over-the-knee boots

Slipping on a pair of over-the-knee boots is an easy way to elevate any outfit. What’s more, these statement-making shoes, which can be dressed up or down, work especially well with mini dresses or skirts (paired with tights or leggings in cooler weather) or your favorite pair of straight-leg jeans. Keep the rest of your accessories to a minimum so as not to take away attention from the shoes. Ahead, a few of our favorite picks—including wide-calf options—across an array of price points.

Rain boots

While rain boots are a must-have for any season, the best ones combine fashion and functionality, shielding your feet from puddles, water, rain, and slush sans any bulkiness (which is key when traveling and preserving precious suitcase space!). Classic rubber rain boots are great for casual everyday wear, while those made with waterproof leather offer a slightly elevated look and feel—stylish enough to be worn on dry days, too. Most options feature thick rubber soles for grip and traction to help prevent you from slipping in the rain. All you need is a lightweight rain jacket to complete the weatherproof look.

Under-the-knee boots

Under-the-knee boots, also known as riding boots, are the fall essentials that keep making a comeback year after year. Some western-inspired, others sleek, these styles effortlessly transition from day to night, adding a polished touch to everything from jeans and tees to flowy dresses. Classic riding boots, with their clean lines and timeless appeal, are a wardrobe staple, while calf boots, which fall around the half-calf area on the leg, offer a more playful, relaxed alternative. This season, expect a variety of styles to hit shelves, from Vince Camuto’s sophisticated leather options to Steve Madden’s subtly edgy designs featuring chain accents. If you’re looking to switch it up, Dolce Vita brings in chic vibes with rounded toes and delicate tonal stitching.

Combat boots

With their lace-up design, chunky soles, and leather construction, combat boots practically ooze cool—and best of all, they’re actually practical. A quality pair of combat boots can last for several seasons and provide optimal comfort and foot support for hours on end, making them ideal for travelers looking for a functional and fashion-forward footwear option. And, despite their striking silhouette, these shoes are pretty easy to style: They look great with (almost) anything, from jeans and joggers to loungewear sets and leggings, as well as dresses or skirts of varying lengths. For a fun take on the trend, consider springing for a pair with fun embellishments (like the option below from Frye).

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.