There are tons of places one can travel to with the goal of becoming fluent in English and choosing just one can be a bit overwhelming. Choosing Australia as your language-learning destination has a plethora of benefits. Not only is a country full of warm, fun-loving people with plenty of amazing English courses available in various cities, but there also are tons of unique things to see in do in Australia you can’t find anywhere else. From natural wonders to gourmet cuisine, there’s something for everyone in the Land Down Under.
If you’re into art, music, fashion, and the finer things in life there are plenty of exciting attractions waiting for you in Australia. The Australian art scene is a reflection of its eclectic culture. There are several world-class museums in the major cities including the National Gallery in Canberra that holds works from Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, David Hockney, and Lucien Freud. One truly unique aspect of the Australian art scene is the presence of the beautiful and culturally rich Dreamtime art scene created by Australian Aboriginal peoples. Artists such as Gloria Petyarre (along with her other equally talented sisters) are famous worldwide for their unique paintings that reflect important cultural ideals. Much of the Petyarre work has even been reprinted onto highly valuable scarves coveted by the fashionistas from around the globe. Speaking of fashion, while it isn’t as well known as Paris or Milan, Australia has its own Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. And with designers such as Akira Isogawa creating mesmerizing collections year after year it pays to keep an eye on the up-and-coming scene.
If you’re more of the sporting type, Australia is a great place to try out some new games. The famous beaches like the ones of Byron Bay with the warm waters and white sands are perfect for learning how to surf. And you can’t visit Australia with checking out footie—Australian Football which is different from American gridiron and traditional football. Ozzies also inherited a love of cricket from their British colonizers. And if you’re into the international sports scene, the Australian Open is one of the most important tennis tournaments in the world. If you’re less into competition and more into the great outdoors, there’s no lack of adventure. From sailing along the coast to camping in the great outdoors, you’ll find more than you bargained for waiting for you in Australia. The numerous National Parks provide various topographies and climates so you could take a completely different trip once a month and never leave the country. Hiking enthusiasts shouldn’t miss an opportunity to see the natural wonder of Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) or the Blue Mountains of New South Wales.
Next to language, food is the best way to experience a new culture. Exploring some of the exotic dishes of Australian cuisine is a foodie’s dream. Being such an isolated country/continent, much of the food culture is based on what can be produced locally. Along the coast, freshly caught fish and shellfish are unlike anything else in the world. And while they’re sold mostly as novelty, native animals such as emu, kangaroo, and crocodile are available for consumption. Australia’s large immigrant population also means there is a presence of variety in the food scene. From Italian to Korean, you’ll find whatever you’re craving freshly made. Vegetarians and vegans shouldn’t shy away due to their lifestyle choices. There are plenty of options for the meatless and cities such as Nimbin will spoil an herbivore with choices. Of course, wine enthusiasts can note that Australian presence in the market has increased drastically in recent years. A trip to the wine country in Clare Valley is the perfect adventure for your inner sommelier.
If you’re searching for a new living experience like no other while you acquire English, consider Australia as your main destination. Whatever your current interests, Australia has something for you. Plus, there are so many unique Aussie experiences to learn from while you’re on your language-learning journey.
Dani Barrow is a representative of Language Trainers, which provides individually-tailored language training on a one-on-one or small group basis worldwide.