Catching a FIFA Women’s World Cup match in Brisbane was an unexpected highlight of my Australia trip. From the electric walk to Suncorp Stadium to the final whistle of England’s 1–0 victory over Haiti, the atmosphere, crowd energy, and shared excitement made for an unforgettable night.

Attending my first AFL match in Melbourne was an unexpectedly memorable experience. From friendly locals explaining the rules to enjoying a classic meat pie in the stands, watching St Kilda take on Melbourne at Marvel Stadium offered a genuine glimpse into Australia’s sporting culture.

Attending the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo was a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience. From eating chanko-nabe to learning the rules from a kind local fan, watching sumo live offered a deeper appreciation for one of Japan’s most historic and revered traditions.