Why I Chose Cairns to Study English | Laura from Colombia

My name is Laura and I’m from Colombia.

I have been studying English in Australia for a year, but before this journey, I was confused about which was the best city to start my adventure as I had many options. In the end, I chose Cairns. At the moment, I feel that I made the best decision. Cairns is a small and multicultural city surrounded by lots of nature. It has a warm climate and most of its economy is based on tourism. It has the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree, the oldest rainforest in the world. I have adapted well to all the changes that travelling from Colombia to Australia entailed. Because it is a small city it is easy to move by public transport. Another advantage of living here is that there are fewer Spanish speakers than in big Australian cities which has allowed me to improve my English quickly.

I decided to come to Australia to Study English because I practically couldn’t communicate in English. I started my course at the elementary level without being able to speak or understand. Over time I improved and moved up each level; I am now in an advanced English class and I can hold conversations even with Australians. Additionally, my school provides a high-quality education. They have excellent teachers, advanced technology, and a friendly environment and I have classmates from all over the world which has allowed me to learn about new cultures. As for my job, I can tell you that I was very blessed because the same day I went out to look for a job I got it. I have been working in the same place for a year. I started as a dishwasher, then I was a kitchen hand and now I work as a chef.

It has been quite an adventure for me since I had never worked in that industry because I’m an industrial engineer. The job has allowed me to learn and practice my listening and speaking skills a lot since most of my colleagues are from Australia. I also have the financial stability to make a living and save some money.

This whole Australian adventure has been an enriching experience for me in many ways that I will never forget!