Here in Australia they do speak English but they have their own terms for lots of things. While on study abroad to any country you should try to learn their lingo and acclimate to their way of doing things. Here are few of my favorite words, phrases, and random differences so far:
- “Uni”- here in Sydney it is not University, but Uni.
- “Pram”- this is a baby stroller…and they are everywhere
- “Flat”= Apartment
- Coffee…this is a hard one, they drink coffee but you can’t order just coffee- it is a Latte, Espresso, Cappuccino, or my personal favorite the Flat White… be adventurous and try something new, its all better than Starbucks!
- Football= Australian Football or sometimes soccer… While you are here, check out the sporting events and try to learn something new…Rugby, Cricket, Australian Football are all popular sports.
- “Its just a short walk”…everyone will tell you its just a short walk, to an Australian short is under five miles or so! Be prepared to walk A LOT! I would suggest getting used to the bus and train system that runs through town if you are not keen on walking.
- “Opal Card”- this is your bus pass, you can buy one at any convenience store (they still have 7/11s!)
- “Tap on/Tap off”- When you get on or off any bus, train, or ferry you “tap” your opal card against a little pad and it deducts your fare. It reminds me of speed pay with your credit card in the US. Just be sure you have enough on your card for your fare before boarding…you can usually reload the card in any convenience store or bus/train station lobby.
- “Hotel”- You will see small hotels around town, many are really bars with a few rooms to rent if you can’t make it home.
- **A note on alcohol in Australia…the drinking age is 18 and there are bars on the Urni campus. Students are expected to be responsible and think when you drink. Be smart, be safe, and remember…you are here to study and are here representing Texas A&M and the Aggie Core Values
- ***That said…you should still have a great, safe time!
When you get to the Uni they will provide you with lots of details about the city, where you will be staying, and things to do in Australia. Before classes start they offer surf lessons (more like surf weekend excursions) and tours through the wine country. They encourage you to adventure on the weekends, try new things while you are here. The city is full of awesome things to do!
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