Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo’s partner, Chelsea Becirevic, talks about her move to Dubai

It might seem glamorous on social media but the partner of Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo has lifted the lid on the realities of her new gig - and how her boyfriend is handling one tricky issue.

Chelsea Becirevic’s new life in the Middle East might look glamorous on social media, but so far the reality has been very different.

It’s been eight weeks since Becirevic, the stunning partner of Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo, packed up her belongings in Adelaide and moved to Dubai to follow her dream of becoming an international flight attendant.

The model and marketer has not yet received “her wings” and still remains in training for the globetrotting role, which will see her travelling to exotic destinations around the world.

But it’s been no picnic for Becirevic, who says the arduous sessions are much tougher than she anticipated.

Her days start as early as 5am and often “stretch into the late afternoon”, with the latest intake of recruits led through a range of demanding emergency situations along with study and other practical exercises.

“The training has been no joke, it’s been so intense. I don’t know why nobody talks about how crazy the training aspect is,” she says. “We get to practise emergency procedures, including sliding out of full-size simulators and even ditching in pools.

“The training facilities are also exceptional. We use full-size simulators that replicate every aspect of a real aircraft. These simulators can simulate everything from intense turbulence to emergency evacuations, fires and decompressions. It’s so lifelike that you almost forget you’re in a simulator.

“It’s been demanding but fulfilling … and the uniforms are cute so that’s always one of the best parts.”

Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo and his partner, Chelsea Becirevic. Picture: Supplied

Chelsea Becirevic, partner of Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo. Pics: Instagram.

Becirevic will officially take to the skies by the end of August, and she already knows some of her initial destinations, which include India, Russia, Bali and Morocco.

“It’s an incredible list and I can’t wait to explore these places,” she says.

When she revealed she was leaving Adelaide to embark on a new career overseas, Gold Coast-raised Becirevic – who remains in a long-distance relationship with Soldo – received some backlash from fans on social media, after admitting her time in Adelaide was a “big adjustment”.

She later clarified that she had enjoyed living in South Australia alongside her footy star beau.

“Despite what everyone is saying. I did enjoy my time here in Adelaide. And if it wasn’t for this exciting job opportunity, I would still be there,” Becirevic, 24, says.

“However, ultimately, I know it’s the right choice for me and I am so lucky to have such an amazing partner that supports me.”

The couple remain very close but Becirevic conceded being away from her longtime love was the hardest thing about following her international dream.

“The toughest part has been being away from my Ivan, my dog Paddington and my friends and family. I definitely miss them a lot,” she says. “Despite the distance, Ivan and I are doing well. We talk every day for hours on FaceTime, which helps bridge the gap. It’s definitely challenging, and there are moments when I wish I could be there with him, but we’re both committed to making it work.”

Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo and girlfriend Chelsea Becirevic

Port Adelaide ruckman Ivan Soldo and girlfriend Chelsea Becirevic

Luckily, Becirevic has formed plenty of close friendships among her new colleagues as they navigate their new surroundings in Dubai. In her training group are prospective flight attendants from 16 different countries.

“I’ve already learnt so much about myself and although I’m only in training I would still recommend it to anyone that asks me about it because I’ve met so many amazing friends that I never would’ve met if I didn’t come here,” she says.

“Dubai has been an exciting adventure with so much to offer. The city’s energy is incredible, although the heat can be quite overwhelming, especially in uniform.

“While I’m enjoying my time here, Australia will always hold a special place in my heart.”

And though it’s only early days, Becirevic has hinted that she might not stay in the high-flying role for too long.

“From the people I talk to who have done this job for many years it does take a massive toll on your health and body and I definitely don’t think it’s something you can do long-term. (But) from what I’ve experienced so far, I’d definitely recommend this career to anyone who’s passionate about it,” she says.

“I don’t have any regrets about taking this leap. It’s been a fantastic journey for personal growth and independence.

“Moving overseas has taught me a lot about myself, and I believe it’s a valuable experience that everyone should consider.”