1 Hour C1 Advanced English Listening Practice – Learn English with Listening Practice

[Music] all right hey everybody welcome back to the Deep dive you know why you're here to go deep exactly you want to learn faster and today we're looking at something so many of you have probably wondered about travel using travel to just explode your English level especially I think when you get to that advanced level you've got all the you know you've got the basics down right but you really want to get to that fluency and confidence m M travel is just an incredible way to do that so we've got a great article here all

about this and we're going to really dissect the reasons why it's so powerful and and also the kinds of things you can look for the the kinds of opportunities that come up when you travel that you can really use absolutely I think one of the big things that um you know we see in the article it's really highlighted is just this idea of immersive learning right yeah we hear that term a lot but but what does it really mean when it comes to language learning and travel and how is it different than you know what

we do in a classroom exactly I mean think about it you're in a classroom you're learning from a textbook you're kind of In This Very controlled environment yeah whereas when you're traveling you are thrown into the deep end totally you are surrounded by the language 24/7 and I love how the article uses that that little scenario of checking into a hotel yeah um you can almost picture yourself you know a little tired from your flight yeah jet lag jet lagged exactly walk up to the desk yeah and you've got to you know muster up the

courage to to speak right and you you know you're probably going to say something like hello I have a reservation under John Smith or whatever your name is right and then they're going to come back with you know yes Mr Smith a deluxe room for three nights is that correct exactly and you're immediately in the situation where you have to listen you have to process the information and you have to respond all in real time yeah and you have to you have to understand enough to know what to do next right you know do do

I give them my passport do I do I confirm the details exactly and then you might follow up with a question like okay and what time is breakfast served mhm and they might say you know breakfast is from 7:00 to 10:00 a.m. in the dining area sir and so right there in that very short interaction yeah you've already you know had to understand a variety of different things absolutely um you've you've had to kind of parse you know what they're saying even if they have a strong back sent or they speak quickly right and you've

had to use vocabulary yeah that you might not use in everyday like Delux room exactly or dining area so it's really stretching your your language skills in a way that you just can't replicate in a classroom and you're learning it because you need it exactly it's not just theoretical knowledge it's practical knowledge right and it's connected to this this goal of like you know I want to I want to get to my room I want to know where to eat bre yeah you're motivated I'm motivated to understand exactly so that's a great example of immersive

learning but what about vocabulary I mean we know that travel is a fantastic way to expand our vocabulary but but how so well the the article makes a really interesting point about how travel exposes you to very specific types of vocabulary MH that you might not necessarily encounter in your everyday life yeah so for example you know you can study a list of food words yeah but it's not the same as actually being in a restaurant right looking at a menu and needing to order something exactly yeah and needing to order something give me an

example so imagine you're you're at a restaurant and the waiter comes up to you and says good evening mhm and you might say something like I'd like to start with a Caesar salad yeah and then for my main course I'll have the grilled salmon with mashed catoes okay and I'd like a bottle of sparkling water please so just in those few sentences yeah you've already used a whole bunch of food related VOC yeah you've got Caesar salad grilled salmon mashed potato sparkling water yeah and not only that but you're also using those polite phrases like

I'd like or could I have exactly which are so important in a restaurant setting absolutely and it's not just about knowing the word for fish it's about knowing how to order fish in a polite and appropriate way right right and because you're using those words in a real situation they're going to stick in your memory much better exactly yeah it's not just rope memorization yeah it's meaningful learning Okay so we've talked about immersive learning and vocabulary but what about another challenge that a lot of advanced Learners face understanding different accents ah yes that's a big

one you know you might be really comfortable with one particular accent like American English or British English right but then you travel to a different country and suddenly what say it's like a whole new language almost right and this is where travel can be so so helpful absolutely because it exposes you to this incredible diversity of accents yeah you know you might go to Australia and hear Australian English you might go to South Africa and hear South African English exactly and even within those countries there are Regional variations yeah yeah so many different ways of

speaking English yeah it's incredible um and the article gives a great example of this with a simple question that you might ask on the street okay excuse me do you know where the nearest Tube Station is right and that's in London of course in London yeah so you're already using a word that's specific to British exactly tube instead of Subway right um and then the person might respond with something like cheers mate right and that's where it gets really interesting because cheers in this context doesn't mean let's have a drink right it means thank you

exactly it's a very informal way of saying thank you and mate of course is also very British yeah um and so you're picking up on these little nuances these little slang words these little idiomatic expressions that you would never learn from a textbook absolutely and the more you're exposed to these different accents the more your ear becomes ATT tuned to them MH and the easier it becomes to understand it's like training your ear to to hear different types of music exactly the more you listen the more you can appreciate the subtleties yeah Okay so we've

covered immersive learning vocabulary accents but what about something that I think is really really key for advanced Learners let confidence ah yes confidence that's huge it's huge and you know you can know all the grammar you can have a huge vocabulary but if you're not confident in using your English it's all for nothing it's all for nothing you're not going to be able to communicate effectively um and I think travel is one of the best ways to build that confidence absolutely because it forces you to speak yeah you can't hide behind a textbook or a

computer screen right you're out there in the real world yeah you need to use your English to get around to order food to ask directions and every time you do that successfully your confidence grows it's like a positive feedback loop Yeah Yeah the more you speak the more confident you become the more confident you become the more you speak and the article has this great example of going to a tourist information center right um and and how that can really boost your confidence yeah so you walk into the tourist information center and you might say

something like hello I'm looking for some recommendations for things to see and do in the city I'm here for a few days right and and the person behind the counter might say something like well we have a fantastic National Museum you could check out and the Oldtown district is really charming and there's also a lovely river cruise and then they might ask you do you have any particular interests like history nature or adventure and then based on your answer they can give you more specific recommendations exactly yeah so if you say you're interested in history

they might tell you well the national museums open every day from 9:00 to 5:00 so again in that short interaction you've had to use a variety of different language skills you've had to initiate the conversation you've had to listen to their recommendations you've had to express your own interests and you've come away with some valuable information and hopefully a sense of accomplishment yeah exactly that you were able to communicate effectively and I think the more you have those experiences the more confident you become absolutely because you realize hey I can do this yeah I can

speak English in the real world and it doesn't have to be perfect exactly people understand me as long as you can get your message across exactly you're good yeah okay so another really important aspect of language learning especially when you get to that advanced level is is understanding the connection between language and culture yes um how does Travel help us to to understand that connection better well you know language is not just a set of words and grammar rules it's it's a reflection of the culture of the people who speak it MH so when you

travel you're not just learning the language you're also learning about the culture yeah and the article gives this great example of something that seems so simple Okay small talk in an elevator right um you know you might be in an elevator with someone and they might say something like lovely weather today isn't it you might say yes it is I'm really enjoying exploring the city right and then they might say something like oh are you visiting from abroad and you might say yes I'm from Spain I'm here for a week right and then they might

say well that's great I hope you have a fantastic time now that seems like a very simple interaction right but what can we learn from it well it teaches you about social etiquette in that particular culture you know it's appropriate to make small talk with strangers in an elevator right um it's also a way of being friendly and welcoming yeah and it teaches you about the kinds of things that people talk about in casual convers ation exactly weather where you're from what you're doing in the city and it also gives you a chance to practice

your small talk skills which are so important for building relationships right right and making connections so even those little interactions really valuable for language learning absolutely Okay so we've talked a lot about speaking and listening right but what about reading and writing oh yeah those are important too how does Travel help us to improve those skills well think about all the reading you you do when you're traveling yeah you know you're reading street signs you're reading Maps you're reading menus you're reading brochures you're constantly bombarded with written information yeah and you need to be able

to understand it to get around to get around to make decisions to know what's going on and what about writing well you might not be writing essays or novels right but you might be writing emails you might be writing postcards you might be writing notes and the article has a great example of this a note to house keeping right yeah that's a classic one you know you might need extra towels or you might need the mini bar restock exactly yeah and so you write a little note saying dear housekeeping could you please provide extra towels

in my room also I would appreciate it if the mini bar could be restocked thank you room 305 and that's a great way to practice your writing skills yeah because it's a real world situation you have a specific purpose for writing and you need to be clear and concise and polite polite yeah so even those little writing tasks can be really helpful absolutely okay so finally let's talk about the social aspect of travel yep how can travel help us to practice our English in a more relaxed informal setting well when you travel you meet people

from all over the world right and you have the opportunity to talk to them yeah you might be staying in a hostel you might be on a tour you might be at a bar or a restaurant and you just strike up a conversation with someone yeah the article uses the example of a hostile common area right um you know you might be sitting there having breakfast and someone sits down next to you and you say hi where are you from yeah and they say I'm from Brazil how about you I'm from Germany oh cool is

this your first time in the city yes it is I'm really enjoying it so far me too maybe we could explore the night market together later it sounds great and there you go you made a new friend yeah and you've had a chance to practice your English and it's so low pressure yeah because you're just chatting exactly you know you're not being graded you're just having fun you're just having fun yeah so it's a great way to just relax and let your English flow absolutely so as we can see travel is a fantastic way to

improve your English there so many different ways it's total immersion experience it really is you're learning by doing you're learning by doing and you're having fun at the same time exactly so the next time you're planning a trip mhm think about how you can use it as an opportunity to really level up up your English yeah be intentional about it yeah don't be afraid to talk to people put yourself out there put yourself out there make mistakes embrace the challenge Embrace The Challenge and have fun that's what it's all about that's what it's all about

all right that's all for this deep dive we'll see you next time see you bye okay so you know that feeling right when you land in a new country it's like that Rush of excitement kind of like stepping into a whole different world you just know things are going to be different it is addictive it is it really is and you're ready for all those cool cool sights and experiences but sometimes sometimes different can throw you for a loop for sure you go beyond those mustsee places you start living the everyday life there and that's

where you really bump into those unexpected differences it's like you suddenly realize people do things in ways you never even considered yeah those are the cultural shocks people talk about sometimes you just don't know what to do right like I just mess up big time it can be funny confusing and sometimes straight up baffling and that's exactly what we're going to dive into today oh yeah so in this deep dive we're going to look at some of the most hilarious and just plain weird cultural shocks people experience all over the planet we've got a ton

of cool examples lined up I think people are going to love this yeah I think so too we're talking about everything from how people eat their food to how they act in public even how they view time and don't forget about those Corky superstitions every culture has their own oh right those are always fun so buckle up get ready to explore these fascinating cultural differences who knows maybe it'll even prep you for your next trip abroad that's the goal yeah for sure because what might seem totally normal to you could be super strange even illogical

to someone from a totally different culture totally and the opposite is true too like what might seem weird to you could be completely normal for them it all just shows you how amazingly diverse human cultur is it is and you know I think food is always a good place to start yeah I mean everyone's got to eat right exactly food's a huge part of who we are and it's often one of the first Places You'll experience those wait what moments when you travel makes sense just think about something as basic as well how we eat

so in most western cultures it's all about the knife and fork but when you travel to places like India the Middle East or lots of African countries eating with your hands isn't just okay it's often the preferred way it's true it's traditional in a lot of places and I remember reading this article about some from South Asia who was shocked to see someone using a knife and fork to cut a slice of pizza seriously yeah for them it felt like why take away that direct connection with the food you know yeah I guess it really

shows how what we grow up with becomes our normal it totally does and then you have those fun surprises like unexpected food combinations like you might think you know pizza but go to Japan or South Korea and you might find your pizza with peas corn even mayonnaise on it oh and it's so interesting when you think about it how tied our taste buds are to our culture what might sound yummy to one person could be a total turnoff for someone else like our sources has mentioned watermelon with cheese in China wa that's new right it's

just an example but it shows how different things can be just like peanut butter and jelly that's classic American but people from other places often find that combo pretty weird they do and don't even get me started on what some cultures consider Delicacies we're talking things that make you go wo I did not see that coming what about fried tarantulas in Cambodia yeah that one's definitely adventurous and then there's fermented shark in Iceland oh I've heard about that it's supposed to be uh potent very potent both in smell and taste and for something maybe a

bit less intense but still surprising they're snails or escargo as they're called in France it's considered fancy but still might be a bit much for someone who's not used to the idea yeah true it really makes you think about how much our culture shapes our definition of delicious absolutely all right let's shift gears a bit move from food to well how we interact with each other this is where you can really find yourself in some awkward situations as a traveler without even knowing it oh I've been there we're talking social etiquette all those unspoken rules

about how we behave around other people yeah this is really interesting because so much of the stuff isn't written down anywhere right you just kind of pick it up growing up in a certain culture it's like an unspoken code exactly and sometimes breaking the code well well that leads to some awkward moments for sure take Japan for example you might notice a surprising amount of Silence especially in public spaces oh yeah like on public transport you know in lots of Western cultures it can get pretty noisy people chatting listening to music taking calls but in

Japan that's often considered rude really yeah the expectation is to be quiet and considerate of those around you so if you're a tourist and you're not aware of this you might get some stairs oh can you imagine being all excited telling a story from your trip and everyone's just giving you the side eye I can see it but it's not about being unfriendly it's about different cultural values it's about respecting the space the shared space exactly and speaking of space personal space is another big one oh tell me about it that's something that can really

vary around the world and lead to some well uncomfortable encounters like in some cultures you know those in Latin America or the Middle East standing close when you're talking is normal even a sign of friendliness right but you try that in the UK or Germany and you might make someone really uncomfortable yeah you might get a quick step back it's all about what feels like a respectful distance and that's totally based on culture for sure and then we got to talk about a classic travel headache tipping oh yeah that one's a Minefield I swear it

trips up so many Travelers in the US it's practically part of the service industry DNA you tip your waiter your bartender your Uber driver it's a big part of their income too right it's expected mhm but in other cultures like Japan tipping can be seen as insulting it's like you're saying the place doesn't pay their staff enough so something you think is polite can actually be taken the wrong way it's tough trying to navigate all these different expectations especially when you just want to be respectful yeah it can be stressful for sure okay let's move

on to something a little more well concrete public behavior and laws this is where you might stumble upon some really surprising rules things you wouldn't even think of back home oh yeah like that chewing gum ban in Singapore I know right yeah for a lot of people that sounds crazy but it's a serious law there and it all comes down to keeping the country clean and the fines for breaking that law they can be pretty hefty no kidding you could be paying a huge fine for something you do without even thinking and then something I've

always found interesting pedestrian behavior in Germany they're known for following tra traff rules very strictly oh yeah even when there's not a car in sight you'll see them waiting patiently at a red light it's all about order and rules right but in some other places traffic lights might be more like well suggestions that's a good way to put it and you know even something like public displays of affection can be super different depending on where you are wait for sure in France or Italy a little kissing or hugging in public is totally normal right even

if you're just meeting someone but in more conservative cultures those same actions could be frowned upon even illegal it's a good reminder that what feels natural in one place might be seen very differently somewhere else okay ready for something a little different let's talk about toilet culture oh yeah this is one that can really catch people off guard it's something we all experience every day but you might not think about it in a cultural context and the differences you find when you travel can be pretty surprising yeah you're talking about a very basic human need

but the way people approach it well it's incredibly diverse take the squat toilet for example oh yeah those are still common in lots of Asia in the Middle East and for someone who's only ever used a western style toilet let's just say it can be a bit of an adjustment and it's funny some people who grew up using squat toilets actually think sitting on a shared surface is less hygienic it really is all about what you're used to and then you have those fancy bedet and toilet showers super common in Europe and Asia but still

pretty rare in places like the US and the UK it shows you how different cultures think about personal hygiene people who haven't seen them before are often surprised even amused by the whole concept for sure and then there's the less glamorous side of toilet culture paying to use a public restroom oh yeah in parts of Europe like Germany or at the Netherlands it's normal to pay a small fee yeah it might not seem like much but as a tourist especially if you're in a hurry it can be a bit of a hassle it definitely makes

you think about how different societies handle public amenities and who takes care of them yeah it does all right let's switch gears again we've talked about food social Customs even toilets now let's jump into the world of work work culture and how people view time that can also lead to some major cultural shocks especially if you're traveling for business oh yeah then it's crucial like take the Spanish Siesta imagine planning your day as a tourist ready to hit the shops or a museum and suddenly everything's closed right everyone's taking a break in the middle of

the day exactly and it's not not just about avoiding the heat it's also deeply tied to Social and family life it reflects a different set of priorities and then there's a whole punctuality thing in some cultures like in Germany or Switzerland being late even by a few minutes is considered rude oh yeah time is very structured very linear but in places like Brazil or India time is often seen as more flexible showing up 15 or even 30 minutes late to a social Gathering might not be a big deal interesting it's like different cultures have their

own internal clocks in a way they do and lastly we've got to talk about work life balance yeah that's huge and again you see massive differences across cultures in Japan there's often a big emphasis on working long hours staying late at the office but in Scandinavian countries work life balance is prioritized they have shorter work weeks more vacation time and a real focus on Leisure and personal time it's a completely different way of thinking about the role of work in life okay we've covered a lot so far from food quirks to work Styles now let's

dive into the world of superstitions and beliefs these could be incredibly specific to each culture and often leave Outsiders wondering what's going on here absolutely this is where you really see those incable aspects of culture come to life like lucky and unlucky numbers oh yeah those were always fascinating in China the number four is considered unlucky because it sounds similar to the word for death wow so many buildings in China actually skip the fourth floor I had no idea and and in Italy it's the number 17 that's unlucky apparently it can be rearranged into a

phrase that means I have lived implying death that's interesting and of course in lots of Western cultures we have our own thing with the number 13 you know many buildings don't have a 13th floor yeah and what's really cool is how these seemingly random associations can actually affect how people behave and what they believe and then there are those classic Western superstitions like breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck or knocking on wood for good luck yeah those are always fun people from cultures that don't have those beliefs often find them pretty funny

yeah I'm sure it just goes to show how much our background influences even those things we do almost without thinking it's true well we've definitely gone on quite the journey through the world of cultural shocks we have and it's pretty clear that experiencing the unexpected is just part of the fun of travel it is and while it can be a little disorienting at times those moments can also be really enriching they make you question your own assumptions and see the world from totally different perspectives yeah and and ultimately it's about appreciating the amazing diversity of

Human Experience couldn't have said it better myself so remember when you're out there exploring the world keep an open mind a sense of humor and that Curiosity alive and maybe as a final thought think about some everyday habit or belief from your own culture yeah and imagine how strange or even funny it might seem to someone from a completely different background it's a good way to turn things around and keep exploring the fascinating world of cultural differences I like that thanks for joining me today anytime it was fun so until next time keep exploring and

stay curious and watch out for those cultural shocks they're everywhere all right welcome to the Deep dive if you're here you're probably looking to step up your English game and you know sometimes the best way to do that is to just Dive Right In right go somewhere where English is just how everyone talks every single day yeah full immersion exactly and that's what we're going to get into today we've got this really interesting article that breaks down the top countries for anyone who's learning English it goes Way Beyond just listing them off like really gets

into the cultural side of things the different learning opportunities you can find even the kind of like language Vibes you'll experience in each place it's a great starting point for anyone thinking about taking their English learning to the next level totally so what we're going to do in this deep dive is pull out the most important takeaways from this article you know the really juicy stuff that can help you make a smart decision no more basic lists we're going deep looking at what makes each country stand out as a place to really boost your English

skills we'll be exploring how the unique cultural backgrounds of each Place impact not only the language itself but also the overall learning experience right so let's kick things off with the OG the birthplace of English the UK it's the obvious place to start right I mean you think about the history the literature Shakespeare Jane Austin their words are everywhere still influenc how we speak and write today that's right the UK offers a level of historical and cultural depth that you simply won't find anywhere else when you're in the UK you're surrounded by the language's origins

right and London especially I've always heard is just this incredible Melting Pot of languages London is a fantastic example you'll hear native speakers from all parts of the UK of course but also people from all over the world who've learned English as a second language being exposed to that kind of diversity early on in your Learning Journey can be really beneficial oh interesting how so well getting used to different accents and ways of speaking can really help you understand English in all its forms you know it builds your confidence and makes you a more flexible

listener and you can't forget about the cultural resources in London the museums theaters those aren't just tourist attractions they're incredible learning opportunities true and then beyond London you have places like Oxford and Cambridge those classic University towns those are fantastic places to consider imagine imine walking through those historic colleges maybe even taking a language course right there there's such an intellectual energy in those places that can really Inspire your learning yeah I can see that and then Edinburgh with its amazing Scottish accent it's like a whole other dimension of British English exactly edro demonstrates that

English isn't just one static thing it has so many forms and variations hearing different accents early on will significantly improve your ability to understand English as it's spoken across the world I like that expanding your ears flexibility now the article also mentions some specific places to learn in the UK like the British Council language schools like Oxford International but it also emphasizes the importance of everyday life just getting out there and interacting with people yeah those everyday interactions are where you really put what you've learned into practice talking with locals in pubs seeing a play

at Shakespeare's Globe visiting the British Library these are all fantastic ways to immerse yourself in the language so some is looking for a historically Rich traditional environment to learn English the UK is definitely a strong Contender absolutely it's a place where you can really feel the weight of the language's history and how it's evolved okay let's switch gears and head over to the United States this article highlights just how many English speakers there are in the US and how incredibly diverse the accents are you got everything from that super fast New York City accent to

the southern draw it's a completely different linguistic landscape it really is the size and cultural mix of the US creates this incredibly varied linguistic landscape and that diversity can be a huge asset for English Learners it's almost like different regions speak their own dialects you could say that think about New York City a Global Hub where you'll hear English spoken with countless inflections and styles it's challenging for sure but also incredibly rewarding it forces you to become a more adaptable listener and just like London New York City is full of cultural institutions museums Broadway shows

all of which provide Rich contexts for language learning you know I hadn't thought about it like that it's not just about the accent it reflects the cultural history the way people communicate in that area exactly learning to navigate those nuances will make you a more confident and culturally sensitive Communicator in English and then there's LA Los Angeles which the article describes as the perfect place to soak up American pop culture and that kind of casual everyday English you hear in movies and TV shows Los Angeles off offers a very contemporary media-driven English experience it's ideal

if you're interested in understanding and participating in American popular culture it's like stepping right into the movies the TV shows you've been watching precisely then you have Boston a city known for its academic atmosphere with universities like Harvard and MIT it offers a different type of immersion more focused on formal and academic language that makes sense and San Francisco with its tech industry and Global mix of people is described as having this really interesting blend of American English with International influences San Francisco is a great example of how globalized English has become you'll hear American

English used in a variety of professional and international contexts there so it sounds like the US offers a massive range of English experiences where you go within the country really shapes how you learn and interact with the language it's less about one standard American English and more about a collection of different ways of speaking which is a valuable lesson for any English learner yeah I can see that now when it comes to actually learning in the US you've got the formal options like programs at Harvard or UCLA but also lots of everyday opportunities exactly you

can go to public lectures attend book readings even just strike up conversations in diners or libraries the US offers a really diverse range of ways to practice your English so for someone who wants to be exposed to a wide variety of accents conversational speeds and cultural contexts the US is probably a great choice absolutely the US provides a chance to get comfortable with a wide spectrum of English which is incredibly valuable in today's world all right let's head north now to Canada the article really emphasizes that Canada is known for having a clear neutral English

accent which could be a big plus for Learners plus it's a bilingual country English and French which gives it a really unique linguistic feel that's right the clarity of Canadian English is a big draw for many Learners it can make understanding the language easier when you're first starting out it sounds like that could be a real confidence booster for someone new to English definitely and the bilingual aspect is really fascinating being in a country where another language is so present can make you more aware of language in general more attuned to the subtleties and how

different languages work oh that's interesting it's like it gives you a broader perspective on language itself exactly now Toronto is mentioned as being a particularly great City for English Learners it's Multicultural so English is spoken widely and and people are generally used to hearing different accents and ways of speaking so it's a comfortable environment to practice in very much so that multiculturalism means you'll be exposed to English spoken by people from all over the world which further broadens your understanding now Vancouver is also highlighted as a good option especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities

imagine improving your English while surrounded by beautiful scenery Vancouver offers a fantastic lifestyle balance and the fact that English is so widely spoken alongside it stunning natural beauty is a major Plus for many and even Montreal which is primarily french-speaking is mentioned as having great opportunities to learn English and interact with both languages Montreal provides a really unique bilingual experience while French is dominant there's a significant English-speaking community and the City offers resources for English Learners so Canada seems like a very supportive place to learn English particularly if you appreciate that neutral accent and a

multicultural friendly atmosphere it's a welcoming environment for newcomers which can have a huge impact on how well you learn a language let's Journey Down Under now to Australia the article talks about the friendly people the distinctive Aussie accent and that laid-back lifestyle all of which sound pretty appealing Australia definitely has a unique charm the Australian accent is certainly a key feature and while it might take some getting used to the relaxed and welcoming culture makes learning English there a very enjoyable experience it sounds like it could be a lot of fun now Sydney gets a

shout out as the largest city with tons of language schools so there are plenty of structured learning options there that's right Sydney provides a great blend of urban life and learning opportunities and Melbourne is described as having a really vibrant arts and culture scene which suggests lots of opportunities to experience different types of English exactly in Melbourne you'll encounter English being used in all sorts of creative and social settings it sounds really Dynamic and Brisbane being a bit smaller in former is described as perfect for practicing conversational English with those super friendly Aussies Brisbane offers

a more intimate setting where interacting with locals is a bit easier especially if you find big cities overwhelming now that Aussie accent though it's part of the adventure isn't it I but I imagine a learner might feel intimidated by it at first absolutely yeah the Australian accent is quite distinctive but don't let that be a deterrent Australians are generally very patient with people learning English it's more about embracing the experience and challenging your listening skills so Australia offers a combination of structured learning with a relaxed immersive Social Scene exactly it's about learning English within very

unique cultural context that values community and the outdoors okay moving on to Ireland it sounds like it has a rich linguistic and cultural experience to offer the article talks about a blend of traditional and Modern English and of course the Irish are known for being incredibly friendly and welcoming Ireland is a gem for language Learners that blend of English from different eras is fascinating and the Irish people's love for conversation makes it a great place to practice it sounds like you'd never be short of someone to chat with and Dublin with its literary history is

naturally a big draw it has a good number of language schools too Dublin is an excellent choice it's full of history and you can really sense that literary tradition everywhere you go and gallway a smaller town is suggested as the place to go for a truly immersive experience a apparently it has a strong sense of cultural identity plus the article mentions the regional variations in the Irish accent as an added challenge for Learners gallway provides a fantastic Deep dive into Irish culture being a smaller town can make it easier to connect with locals and feel

part of the community and those different accents while they might be tricky at first are a great way to deepen your understanding of spoken English so Ireland is a good option for anyone who's into History Literature and that welcoming atmosphere where striking up a conversation is just part of daily life absolutely it's a place where you can learn English while also immersing yourself in a culture that values storytelling and tradition now let's head over to New Zealand this article paints it as a nature lovers Paradise perfect for those who prefer a quieter more peaceful environment

for learning New Zealand offers a truly unique appeal its stunning natural beauty creates such a Serene backdrop for learning English and while the Kiwi accent might take a little getting used to the locals are incredibly friendly and welcome it sounds like a great place to relax and focus on learning it is Auckland being the largest city offers a variety of learning experiences while Wellington is highlighted for its arts and culture scene so Wellington could be a good choice for someone who's a bit more creatively inclined definitely and many of the learning opportunities in New Zealand

involve experiencing the country's natural beauty and cultural heritage so you can go on Hikes learn about marry culture all while practicing your English precisely it's about combining language learning with a deep appreciation for the country's unique environment and traditions so New Zealand offers this really unique blend of language learning with a focus on nature and a more relaxed pace of life exactly it's a fantastic option for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle and learn English in a more tranquil setting and finally we have South Africa a truly multilingual country with 11 official

languages the article describes is having English at its core though which makes it a fascinating option South Africa presents a truly unique linguistic landscape while there are many official languages English is widely used in business and education making it a very practical choice so you're learning English while also being exposed to this incredibly diverse cultural and linguistic environment exactly Cape Town is a beautiful coastal city with numerous language schools and cultural experiences to offer while Johannesburg is a bustling business business Hub so Johannesburg might be good for someone who wants to learn English in a

more formal professional setting yes Johannesburg is ideal for Learners who are interested in using English in their careers and in South Africa you'll have opportunities to experience the country's incredible diversity through markets historical tours and community events wow we've covered a lot it's so clear from this article that each of these countries has so much to offer English Learners it really depends on your goals your budget and what kind of environment you think would suit you best exactly the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and what you hope to achieve the

article's main takeaway though is that truly immersing yourself in the language is key to becoming fluent traveling to an english- speaking country gives you that real world practice you just can't get in a classroom that's the bottom line you have to put yourself in situations where you need to use English every day that's how you'll make real progress so for our listeners out there think about your learning style what you're interested in which of these places really Sparks your curiosity what specific cultural experiences in that country do you think would most benefit your English learning

Journey it's a question worth pondering consider what motivates you and what kind of environment will not only help you learn but also inspire you and make the whole experience Unforgettable that's such a good point thanks so much for joining us for this deep dive into the best countries for English learners we hope this has given you some valuable insights into what each location has to offer and how those aspects might align with your own goals keep exploring keep learning and maybe even start planning your own immersive Learning Adventure the world is waiting ever get that

feeling when you come across like a list of mustsee places and it's just like oh man wouldn't it be amazing to experience even one of those yeah totally today we're doing exactly that but kind of in Fast Forward yeah we're taking a curated tour of some truly breathtaking spots you know right the kind that end up on those travel bucket lists we all have tucked away somewhere absolutely yeah we we've basically immersed ourselves in this article that's like this fantastic shortcut to appreciating some of Earth's most visually stunning destinations perfect just like gaining that insid

or knowledge without actually having to you know Tri across the globe exactly and the goal is to give you more than just like a postcard description we want to dig a little deeper into what makes these places so special pull out those surprising nuggets and insights that go beyond the surface absolutely so consider this your rapid fire download of a inspiring locations I love it all right lift dive in starting with the iconic Santorini in Greece ah san you know what's fascinating about Santorini isn't just its beauty but how it was shaped by something so

powerful a massive volcanic eruption Millennia ago oh wow and that event didn't just create the Dramatical there we see today it influenced the very architecture those whitewashed buildings you see clinging to the cliffs right the construction using local volcanic rock actually helps to keep the Interiors cool in the intense Mediterranean heat oh that's a detail you don't often hear yeah and those Blue Dome churches aren't just for show either are they no they're not I read somewhere that they serve as important navigational markers for Sailors that's right and if we consider the Charming towns like

o Andra they represent centuries of human adaptation to this unique landscape right even those black and red sand beaches which look so striking yeah they're a direct result of that volcanic activity a constant reminder of the Island's dramatic past wow it's a blend of natural power and human resilience that makes Santorini so captivating yeah Beyond just the Romantic sunsets okay from the agan to the dizzying heights of the Andes okay next up the legendary Machu Picchu in Peru Mau Picchu uh it's more than just a lost city it's a testament to the incredible engineering and

organizational skills of the Inca civilization right it high mountain location wasn't accidental yeah some theories suggest it served as a Royal Estate or a sacred religious site deliberately isolated and strategically positioned interesting and while ham Bingham is credited with its Discovery in 1911 right local people knew of its existence long before well that puts a different spin on the Discovery narrative doesn't it it does you look at those perfectly fitted Stones built without modern tools at that altitude it really makes you wonder about their construction techniques absolutely the Incas were masters of adapting to their

environment they developed sophisticated agricultural Terraces to grow food on those steep slopes and intricate Water Management Systems wow it raises a fundamental question what motivated such an immense undertaking and such a challenging landscape right was it purely strategic ly spiritual or a combination of both yeah that's part of what makes Machu Picchu such an enduring mystery it's like a puzzle carved into the mountain side it is all right let's shift gears completely and head to a different kind of breathtaking landscape The Tropical Paradise of the males the malds offer a unique perspective on beauty one

defined by the delicate balance of coral ecosystems these aren't just random Islands they are the result of Millennia of coral growth right what's particularly interesting is that these low-lying atls are incredibly vulnerable to rising sea levels oh making their pristine Beauty all the more precious and potentially fleeting that adds a layer of urgency to experiencing them beyond the stunning beaches and those iconic overwater Bungalows right the article highlighted the incredible marine life yes is it really as vibrant as they say it truly is the coral reefs here are biodiversity hotspots teeming with an astonishing array

of fish species sea turtles and even manta rays it's incredible and that phenomenon of bioluminescent Plankton yeah it's caused by tiny organisms that emit light when Disturbed creating this magical glowing effect in the water at night wow it's a reminder that even on a relaxing Beach vacation there are incredible natural wonders at play that mental image is just stunning yeah okay let's move from the tropics to the rugged Grandeur of BFF National Park in Canada ah B yeah BFF showcases the raw power and beauty of glacial activity H those turquoise Lakes like Lake Louise yeah

they owe their incredible color to rock flower what finely ground sediment from glaciers that reflects light in a unique way oh wow it's a visual reminder of the immense forces that shaped this landscape over eons it's almost unreal how blue those lakes are in photos I know and it sounds like it's not just about looking at the scenery there's so many ways to immerse yourself in it from hiking in canoeing in the summer to skiing in the winter exactly the ice Fields Parkway which the article mentions isn't just a Scenic Drive it's a journey through

this dramatic Alpine environment offering access to Glaciers and panoramic views wow and the diverse Wildlife from bears to Elk yeah underscores the health and richness of this protected ecosystem yeah it's a place where you can truly connect with the natural world on a grand scale I love that okay from the Canadian Rockies to the world's largest living structure the Great Barrier Reef in Australia the sheer scale of the Great Barrier Reef is difficult to comprehend yeah it's larger than the Great Wall of China really what's crucial to understand is that it's not just a collection

of coral polyps it's a complex interconnected ecosystem built by billions of tiny organisms called Coral polyps right this intricate structure supports an unbelievable diversity of marine life it's like an underwater city teeming with activity for someone who's never been what's the most striking thing about experiencing it firsthand through diving or snorkeling it's the sheer vibrancy of color and the density of life Wow imagine being surrounded by Corals in every shade imaginable with countless fish darting in and out wow it's an immersive experience that highlights the incredible biodiversity of our planet yeah however as we touched

on earlier it's also a stark reminder of the impact of climate change and the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem that's a really important point to underscore it is all right shifting continents again let's explore the vastness of the Grand Canyon in the USA the Grand Canyon isn't just big it's a profound geological record right revealing millions of years of Earth's history in its layers of rock yeah each band of color tells a story about different geological periods wow carved by the Relentless power of the Colorado River H its sheer scale

provides a humbling perspective on our place time standing at the rim it must feel almost like looking at another planet it does the article mentioned viewpoints like ma point and Desert View yes do they offer significantly different perspectives absolutely okay mother Point offers a classic expansive Panorama right while Desert View provides a more Eastward facing perspective showcasing the Canyon's width and the winding Colorado River in the distance yeah and the experience of rafting down the river offers an entirely different way to appreciate the can 's depth and the immense forces that created it oh wow

it's a chance to truly immerse yourself within this geological Wonder it's hard to imagine the scale until you're actually there I know okay let's return to more tropical climbs and the idyllic beauty of Bora Bora in French Polynesia ah Bora Bora Bora Bora aure lies in its unique combination of volcanic Peaks and a sheltered turquoise Lagoon all encircled by a vibrant coral reef that dormant volcano at its heart creates a dramatic backd drink to the Tranquil Waters what's interesting is how the Barrier Reef plays a crucial role in creating that calm shallow Lagoon perfect for

those iconic overwater Bungalows those Bungalows really do look like something out of a dream they do and the activities sound incredible getting up close with marine life while snorkeling or even swimming with Sharps and stingrays it's a very direct and engaging way to experience the rich underwater ecosystem right and as the article noted the sunset that's in Bora Bora are legendary the way the light reflects off the Lagoon and illuminates those volcanic Peaks creates a truly Unforgettable visual experience yeah it's a place that often lives up to and even exceeds the hype sounds like pure

Paradise it is now let's journey to a place where history is carved into the very landscape Petra in Jordan Petra is remarkable not just for its beauty right but for its history as a thriving naban City a crucial hub for trade routes in the ancient world wow carving these intricate structures directly into the Sandstone Cliffs wasn't just an artistic feat it was a display of incredible engineering and Resource Management yeah the sick that narrow Gorge leading to the treasury was a deliberate design element creating a sense of drama and revealing the city's Marvels piece by

piece that entrance must be absolutely breathtaking it is and the nickname The Rose City perfectly captures the color of the stone it does beyond the famous treasury what else makes Petra so significant archaeologically well the monastery accessible by hundreds of steps is even larger than the treasury wow and offers stunning views really the Royal tomb showcase the Grandeur of naban rulers right and the remnants of a sophisticated water system highlight their Advanced understanding of hydraulics in a desert environment PES wasn't just a beautiful facade it was a fully functional and strategically important city it's like

stepping directly into the past it is Now for Something Completely Different a Celestial spectacle the NN lights in Scandinavia the Aurora Borealis is a truly mesmerizing natural phenomena yeah a direct result of solar activity interacting with Earth's magnetic field right those vibrant curtains of light often green but sometimes with Hues of purple and blue dancing across the night sky are an unforgettable experience wow the key to witnessing them is being the right location during periods of high solar activity and minimal light ution right which is why those Northern regions in Winter offer the best opportunities

it sounds almost otherworldly is is there a particular time of night or a specific way to maximize your chances of seeing them generally the hours around midnight are for the best viewing okay and clear dark skies are essential right there are also Aurora forecasts that can help predict when activity is likely to be strongest ah interesting it's a bit of a Chase but the reward of witnessing that Celestial display is often described as a once- in a-lifetime experience definitely sounds like it okay let's move from a natural light show to a testament of human love

and Artistry okay the Taj Mahal in India the Taj Mahal is more than just a beautiful building right it's a powerful symbol of love and loss right commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife yeah it's perfect Symmetry and the use of shimmering White marble inlaid with intricate designs showcase the Pinnacle of Mogul architecture wow what's fascina ating is how the light transforms the Taj Mahal throughout the day giving it a different character from the soft glow of dawn to the warm Hues of sunset the Reflections in the pools are so iconic they

are is it true that the color of the marble seems to change depending on the time of day yes the semi-translucent marble reacts to the changing light appearing almost pinkish at Sunrise and golden in the evening H this adds another layer of beauty to its already stunning presence yeah and the intricate carvings and calligraphy adorning its surface are a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of The Artisans who built it a true Masterpiece it is all right our final destination on this incredible journey serengetti National Park in Tanzania the Serengeti is the coincidential African safari experience

famous for the Great Migration the largest land animal Migration on Earth wow millions of vabes zebras and gazel move across the plains in search of grazing a truly awe inspiring spectacle of Nature's rhythms yeah and of course it's home to the big five right offering incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and their natural habitat seeing that M wildlife in one place must be absolutely incredible it is what's the best way to truly experience the serengetti a guided Safari whether in a vehicle or even a walking Safari allows you to get close to the wildlife while ensuring

safety right and providing invaluable insights into the ecosystem yeah the vastness of the serengetti is is also something to behold it feels like an endless Horizon teeming with life yeah it's an immersive experience in the Raw beauty of the African Wilderness wow from the icy North to the African plains from ancient wonders to Modern Marvels this has been an incredible Whirlwind tour of some of the most beautiful places on Earth it has it really highlights the astonishing diversity of our planet absolutely each of these locations offers a unique story and a distinct experience whether it's

the geological drama the Grand Canyon the cultural richness of Petra or the sheer natural beauty of the Maldives yeah we hope this deep dive has given you a taste of what makes these places so special and perhaps sparked a desire to explore them further definitely it's a reminder of the incredible Wonders that await us yeah so for you our listener as you've journeyed with us through these breathtaking locals which one has left the most profound impression and spurred your sense of wonder take a moment to consider what it is about that particular place that resonates

so deeply that's good question until our next Deep dive keep that Spirit of exploration alive absolutely thanks for joining us of course [Music] [Music]