The Two Most Common Thoughts People Have Towards Australia
Everyone I have met seems to know and talk about these two things
I moved to Australia in 2016 for my graduate degree, and I have remained ever since. Although I do visit my family and friends overseas.
When I speak to family and friends, letting them know I live in Australia, they appear surprised.
They take a minute or two to reflect on the country. I could feel it in the silence.
They all seem to know these facts two about Australia, and they mostly share similar views.
The Distance
You are going to have to fly anyway
Australia looks a bit like an island on its own. It’s some distance from many other countries depending on your origin.
I am originally from Nigeria, and there is no direct flight from Nigeria.
The quickest flight takes 22–24 hours, including layovers and a 14 hours straight flight from Dubai to Sydney.
Yes, coming here is no joke. You have to be prepared.
Australia is far. But why should it bother you? Like I tell friends, you still have to catch the flight anyway — whether it’s a six-hour flight to New York, an 8-hour flight to the UK. Does it matter? You still have to get on the flight to travel to most countries.
If you seek to come to Australia, do not let the distance deter you from coming to this beautiful country.
The Dangerous Creatures — Snakes, Spiders, and Crocodiles
You have probably heard it already.
The other facts I hear are about the many dangerous creatures in the country, especially snakes, spiders, and crocodiles.
Yes, I am not surprised. You might indeed have these creatures in your home country, but there are considerably more venomous ones in Australia.
Overall, they are not as prevalent as you think, and there are obvious signs and warnings in areas where some of these creatures, e.g. crocodiles, are likely to be found.
I have seen a couple of spiders around the corner, but I wouldn’t say they are a threat.
There may be many of these creatures in Australia, but you are unlikely to come across one unless you go looking for it. The big cities are not an issue.
Final Thoughts
Interestingly, almost everyone knows a thing or two about Australia. From my experience, the distance and the presence of dangerous creatures are the most common topics I hear from people.
Australia is a beautiful and multicultural country. The cities consistently rank the most liveable in their world for years.
If you are looking to make a trip to Australia, do not let the distance or the fear of these creatures stop you. Australia is an excellent county to study, work and live with family.
Let me know what you know about Australia.
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