Present Perfect and Past Simple | English Conversation About Life Experiences

Hey Marcus! Hey Rob, Fernanda. Great to see you!

I haven’t seen you in such a long time. You’re right. It's been forever.

I don’t think we’ve talked since Mary’s party. True! That was two years ago.

I can’t believe it. What have you been up to? I heard  you quit your job last year.

I did, but I actually just started  a new job a few months ago. I’m an English teacher now, just like you, Rob. Amazing!

I think you will be great at it. I’ve been a teacher for almost 15 years now, and it’s the best job I’ve ever had. Do you get to work with students from all around the world?

I do! I’ve had students from  all over Europe and Asia mostly, but also quite a few from South America. From Brazil?

Yes, I’ve taught a lot of students from Brazil. They are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met! I agree!

Why did you decide to be a teacher? Well, I wanted to work with international people. I’m very interested in learning about other cultures.

My job at the bank was good, but I was ready for a new challenge. You’ve told me many times how much you love it, and that it’s such a fulfilling career. So really, your opinion helped me to make the decision.

I’m so glad! So what about you guys? Are you well?

What have you been up to lately? We’re doing great! We just  came back from vacation.

Nice! Where did you go? We spent a month in Brazil, visiting Fernanda’s family.

Have you ever been to Brazil? No, I haven’t, but I would love to! I’ve been to South America a few times, but I’ve never been to Brazil.

What did you do there? First, we flew into São Paulo to visit my parents for a few days. It was really great to see them.

Then we went to Rio de Janeiro. What a vibrant city! Yes, I’ve heard that!

Did you go to any beaches? We went to Copacabana beach. It was gorgeous.

The weather was nice – not too hot. We met some local people and played volleyball on the beach. Then we ate lunch at a cute little café beside the sand.

After that, we went for a swim in the  ocean to cool off. It was a great day! I’m sure.

Did you spend any time  in the Amazon jungle? I’ve heard it’s such an incredible experience being surrounded by all that nature. We did!

It was amazing. We hiked through the  jungle all day, then camped overnight. We heard all kinds of wildlife.

What an experience! But what about you? Have you taken any trips lately?

Well, before I started my teaching job, I went backpacking across China  and India for a few months. What an adventure! It was!

I had so many wonderful experiences. Too many to tell right now! What were some of the highlights?

Well, the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal were obviously amazing, but also the people, the culture…. And of course the food! I think I may have put on a few kilos!

Well, you’re looking great! Thanks! Oh, and I traveled around Australia last year.

That’s amazing! I really want to visit Australia. Can you believe I’ve never seen a kangaroo?

You should go! It’s one of the best places I’ve ever traveled to. Just be careful about the giant spiders!

That’s some good advice. What did you do there? Well, I rented a caravan and drove around the whole country.

I started in Sydney, and went north up the coast to Brisbane, then I headed west through the interior. I took my time and spent a few days here and there. Eventually I came to Uluru.

You know, the giant rock in the middle of the desert? Yes, I’ve always wanted to go there. What a great trip!

I think you’ve traveled more than anyone else  I know. How many countries have you been to? Hmmm.

. . Let’s see… I think I’ve been to about forty countries.

I haven’t tried to count them in a long time. Well, it’s been great to see you Marcus, but we have to get going. We meet a friend for lunch every Saturday, and I think we have been late the last three times.

Actually, have you eaten lunch yet? You’re welcome to come and join us! Thanks!

You know, I am pretty hungry. I only ate a small breakfast this morning and I haven’t had lunch yet. Who are you meeting?

Our friend, Dave. Have you met him? No, I don’t think so.

Well, he has been to many of the same places as you have. Come on! The restaurant is just around the  corner.

Have you been to Jenny’s diner before? Oh yes, I love Jenny’s! I went there for breakfast just a few days ago.

Let’s go!