Home » Asia & Pacific » Australia » Escape Down Under 3: Becoming an Aussie

Escape Down Under 3: Becoming an Aussie

by James DeVere on 18/03/09 at 5:05 am

Meeting Australians. Your Down Under Escape to Meet the Natives. Third in the Web Series, “Escape Down Under”.

What are Australians like?  Australia is known as a, “Multicultural,” society.  This is means many cultures meet peacefully on one large island.  When you visit Australia you will find people from every nation. If you have a closed mind then Australian society will quickly open it with the many races you will encounter.

What Cultures Are You Talking About?

The highest proportions of migrants to Australia are from three groups:

  • United Kingdom
  • The Mediterranean
  • China and Asia

It is fair saying that these three groups are the majority of Australia’s people. The main lingo is English followed by Chinese, Italian then Greek. The lingua-franca is English – all signs are in that tongue. That’s why Australia is perfect as a destination for tourists from the UK and the USA.

Easterfest Music Festival, Queens Park, Queensland

Image Credit

What Are Aussies Really Like?

The Australian attitude is best described as:

  • Friendly
  • Funny
  • Relaxed

If you can’t joke at yourself or life then perhaps a more serious culture is for you.  Down Under culture holds an ethos of a, “fair go.” Everyone has a chance at making it Down Under. The natives are willing to give new migrants a chance at success.  It is right saying that Australians are relaxed, willing to give you a chance, willing to share and willing to welcome you into their homes.

 Australians Watching the Tennis @ Federation Square, Melbourne

 Image Credit

Will I Feel Uncomfortable With People When I Arrive?

Shy folk may be threatened by Australian openness. Socialising comes easily for them - there is always a party somewhere.

Are There Places For Me To Mingle?

Australia is a pub culture. Drinking is part of that.  You will find yourself in a pub, club or restaurant, most days, with large quantities of wine beer and food consumed.  Every pub and club serves great food – Australia is famous for her hospitality.  

Australian beer is stronger than American ales and colder than British beer. There is a good choice of beers. Overall, Australians favour larger, white wines and reds in colder months.  It is quality; the pubs have lots of things to do – you can eat, socialise and mingle well with Australians in any pub or club.

Some social encounters you will be thrown into when you arrive are:

  • Barbecues – Bring a plate
  • Beaches – Take an, “Esky.” ( Ice chest )
  • Outdoor Events – Sports and Music
  • Pubs – Local and easy
  • Restaurants and Clubs – Family and friends
  • Nightclubs – Pumpin’
  • Massive Parties – Jumpin’

All of these are typical Aussie settings.

Race Day Over! Heading Home in Formal Wear

Just How Many Aussies Are There?

There are twenty million Australians. 2008 witnessed the greatest migration into Australia since the end of the Second World War.  Many people from places like Somalia and out-of-the-way lands are now showing up.  Folk from behind the Iron Curtain are now spilling into Australia making for an interesting situation.

I hope this gives you an idea about Australians. You will become an Aussie in no time. See you here!

More in the Escape Down Under Series…

6
Liked it

6 Comments

Mrs M

Mar 18th, 2009

I like the things that people from other countries say and do. I love the lingo and lifestyle of the different cultures. It’s so nice to learn about them. Nice write.

Dee Gold

Mar 18th, 2009

learned a lot,thanks

rutherfranc

Mar 19th, 2009

your article made it very enticing.. mate..

Joe Dorish

Mar 19th, 2009

Always found Aussies to be the friendliest people when traveling.

kate smedley

Mar 22nd, 2009

You make it sound so perfect!

Morgana

Mar 23rd, 2009

If there is always a party, I’m there lol Well, maybe one day I’ll get to visit. :)

Leave a Comment