Первая в 2026 году встреча в нашем Английском Разговорном Клубе была посвящена необычному континенту и удивительной стране контрастов, известной своей уникальной флорой и фауной – Австралии. Кто, как не ведущий Клуба, Федор, проживший в этой далекой и загадочной стране 23 года, мог бы поделиться своими впечатлениями не как турист, а как местный житель, чьё детство и молодость прошли в Австралии.

Our session started with the questions: What countries have you been to? What countries would you like to visit? The members of the club made a list of 2 favourites plus the third country – the future destination. We shared our travel experience and plans in pairs and in groups. It was a pleasant warming-up task full of sweet and happy memories.

Due to its position in the southern hemisphere Australia, as well as New Zealand, is sometimes called the “Land Down Under”. It is really unusual to enjoy hot weather and sunny beaches in Australia in winter while in Russia we have heavy snowfalls and freezing temperatures. It seems to be an ideal possibility to escape from long and cold Russian winters ;-)

The main part of the meeting was devoted to advantages and disadvantages of living (not just visiting) in Australia. As any place in the world, it has its pros and cons. As for the benefits, number one is, certainly, the climate. According to the information on the website weatherandclimate.co.uk, the average yearly temperature in Australia is around 24° C. The best time to visit the country for bright sunshine and perfect weather is May through November. In the other months of the year, there is too much rain.

Without doubt, the next benefits are Australian amazing wildlife and the ocean. Millions of tourists come to see the world’s largest coral reef (the Great Barrier Reef – home to thousands of different species), unique animals like the kangaroo, emu, platypus and koala, walk along vast endless sandy beaches. Besides, it is pretty easy to get the visa, the Australians are very friendly and hospitable, there are various kinds of sports and outdoor activities which people can enjoy due to Australian’s warm climate. Swimming, sailing, playing tennis, cricket, rugby… And, of course, surfing! Australia is a paradise for surfers!

In fact, the flip chart was divided into 2 parts. As for challenges, Fedor highlighted the following facts: the isolation and distance lead to long and expensive flights, the UV index is high, the cultural life is not so diverse as we are used to, so it can take time to adjust to Australian culture and lifestyle.

At the end of the session the participants were asked if they would like to live in Australia for 5 -10 years. The answers must have been supported with the arguments.

We have read so many texts and articles about Australia trying to remember that its capital is not Sydney but Canberra. On the 24th of January we had a chance to see one more English-speaking country through the eyes of our host. It was one more fascinating and informative journey!

Join our English Speaking Club and we will make the next thrilling journey to the world of the English language together!

P.S. to be continued…