high flying jobs

Shelley Craft from is now also hosting Jetstar’s inflight destination video

Tiger time at Dreamworld, Queensland

 

How did you get into travel reporting?
I was hosting Saturday Disney for Channel 7 and the opportunity to audition for The Great Outdoors arose. I missed out on the role initially but luckily for me, another host left six months later and I was offered the job.

What’s the greatest misconception about your job?
The first is that we’re always on holiday. The truth is, on international trips we work 12-hour days for three weeks straight and on domestic trips, 10 days straight. It’s a case of hit the ground running and don’t stop. The second misconception is that it’s luxury all the way. We cover the five-star resorts, but we also do our fair share of roughing it.

What skills do you need to be a good travel reporter?
Flexibility. If you’re a routine kind of person, this job would drive you crazy! There’s a lot of “hurry up and wait” and there are always last minute changes to the itinerary. Being a team player is also vital; we work together very closely.

What’s your favourite part of travelling?
Experiencing new and exciting cultures and people. Immersing yourself in another’s way of life is a tremendous gift.

At Melbourne’s Luna Park with
actor Daniel McPhersonWhat’s the worst part?
Being away from family and loved ones. Missing birthdays, special events and not being there for the hard times is tough. In this job you also experience many wonderful life-changing moments but you’re not sharing them with the special people in your life – it can make an extraordinary experience a lonely one.

What tips can you offer passengers flying Jetstar domestic routes?
Never underestimate the power of the nanna nap: Sydney to Melbourne is the perfect distance to have a quick power kip. Don’t take too much hand luggage – your fellow passengers will be grateful. Board early if you have a window seat so you don’t have to clamber over anyone.

What are your secrets to travelling comfortably and in style?
I can sleep from take-off to touch-down, no problems at all – I change into trackie dacks for long-haul flights and carry a clean shirt for arrival. Drink plenty of water and try not to eat too much – how much fuel does your body really need to sit still for 12 hours?

Are you an organised or a disorganised packer?
There is method in my madness. I am usually still packing as the taxi rolls up to my door… any earlier and I will be pulling things out to use.

Any tips on packing more efficiently?
Ladies, you do not need that many pairs of shoes! Leave room for souvenirs or shopping. Most of my wardrobe is denim, white and black so everything matches and is interchangeable. I am a folder not a roller – I find you can fit more in that way.

What is the one thing you always carry on board with you?
Moisturiser (a size acceptable for new international standards), iPod and an eye mask.

What are your three favourite Jetstar destinations and why?
Osaka, Japan – terrific food, wonderful culture, fantastic shopping and so much to see and do. Phuket, Thailand – jump in a tuk tuk (three-wheel motorbike taxi) and visit some of the fabulous villages and beaches only a short ride away from Patong Beach. Sydney, Australia – when I fly into Sydney, it always means home isn’t far away.

Which Jetstar destination have you always wanted to visit?
Hawaii. I must have passed through the airport a hundred times but I’ve never had the chance to stay.

Can you tell us some funny stories about making the Jetstar videos?
It was crazy to spend 12 hours on a plane and hop off in exactly the same place I boarded. I didn’t think it was possible to suffer jetlag without leaving the ground! I had a ball pretending I was cabin crew, going behind the scenes of the cabin and helping myself to the snacks trolley.