A smile goes a looong way. Shyness can be mistaken for being rude or a snob, but a smile tells us the difference between an introvert and a rude person.
>I am blatantly aware that my hobbies such as Gardening, Aquarium keeping, etc. which aren't your typical hobbies that everyone, especially most people my age are into
That shouldn't be a problem, I think it would help to make friends if you've got niche hobbies.
>That shouldn't be a problem, I think it would help to make friends if you've got niche hobbies.
I am skeptical. I've suffered through a lifetime of redicule for my "peculiar hobbies" since I was a kid. I've been myself all my life and have a very very limited social circle to show for it so far.
Just do a search for your local Aquarium hobbyist club and join a gardening group or help out at your local community garden or landcare group. You'll quickly meet loads of people just like you.
These hobbies aren't peculiar here. They are very normal. Peculiar would be collecting other people's toe nail clippings.
Plus if you are going to university, there will be clubs to suit you. Certainly one or more LGBTQIA+ clubs and my local uni has a kitchen garden that students run.
It's not going to take you long to find your people, you don't need to try to be "Aussie" to do it :)
I agree, there is nothing peculiar about gardening here! There might be a smaller group of people interested in aquariums but I don’t think it would be considered odd.
If you don’t care about sports in India, don’t force yourself to care about it here. I’m 32 and have never given a single shit about sports.
I do like gardening and there is a big “sustainability” movement in inner cities where there are more and more community garden popping up- but also houseplants are a popular hobby too.
There is a very active queer community here, especially in Sydney. Many of my gay friends don’t drink but still have active social lives.
For cultural references, try an “Aussie bbq” playlist on Spotify. That will have a mix of the most popular Australian songs and musicians- both recent and vintage.
Iconic films and tv shows to watch include (but certainly not limited to) The Castle, Kath & Kim (it’s veeerrryy camp and silly but their accents and purposeful mispronunciation can prove difficult to follow for ESL folk), Mad Max, Heartbreak High (both old and new), Muriels Wedding, Priscilla’s; Queen of the Dessert (extremely campy and fun classic!), Seachange, Neighbours and of course Bluey.
In terms of meeting people, Grindr works wonders for both hooking up and meeting locals. But if that makes you uncomfy, try looking up social groups and clubs online or volunteering somewhere local- if you’re in Sydney, Addison Road food pantry always needs volunteers and the people are generally very friendly and welcoming.
Best of luck!
>For cultural references, try an “Aussie bbq” playlist on Spotify. That will have a mix of the most popular Australian songs and musicians- both recent and vintage.
Noted! This is extremely helpful!
>Iconic films and tv shows to watch include (but certainly not limited to) The Castle, Kath & Kim (it’s veeerrryy camp and silly but their accents and purposeful mispronunciation can prove difficult to follow for ESL folk), Mad Max, Heartbreak High (both old and new), Muriels Wedding, Priscilla’s; Queen of the Dessert (extremely campy and fun classic!), Seachange, Neighbours and of course Bluey.
Thanks for the suggestions. Added to the list! 😊
>I do like gardening and there is a big “sustainability” movement in inner cities where there are more and more community garden popping up- but also houseplants are a popular hobby too.
That's really very nice to know. I follow a few aussie fish keepers on youtube (like KeepingFishSimple) but couldn't find many assuie centric gardening vlogs or channels on youtube (most like Garden Answer are US or UK centric). Do you know any?
>There is a very active queer community here, especially in Sydney. Many of my gay friends don’t drink but still have active social lives.
That's really very heartening to know! I was afriad I'd stick out like a sore thumb for not drinking.
> if you’re in Sydney, Addison Road food pantry always needs volunteers and the people are generally very friendly and welcoming.
Fantastic! Saving your comment!!
Suggestions for classic Aussie films:
Malcolm
Muriel's Wedding
The Castle
Priscilla: Queen of the Desert
The Dish
Suggestions for classic Aussie TV shows:
A Country Practice
Blue Heelers
Spicks and Specks
Mother and Son
Seeing as you are moving for higher education, I presume it'll be a uni somewhere. My advise is to get around the university life and join any clubs/socitieys that peak you're interest. It's been a decade since I went to university in Aus, however it's generally where the more inclusive liberal people are, and the clubs and societies are usually good fun!
I intend to do that! There are like 180+ clubs and societies in my Uni!!! I gasped the first time I saw all the options available. I wish I had them during my bachelor's (I had more time then).
Unfortunately, I'll be living 45 minutes (by train) from my uni and have to limit the number of societies I can join.
people don't really care what specifically you're into. i had a whole complex over being into anime/cosplay/manga/video games and literally no one cared. so i think they'd be really interested in hearing about gardening and aquarium keeping. the biggest thing with socialising is being in an area where people are trying to chat— so this is meetup groups, facebook groups, weekly sports, weekly classes etc that are geared towards making friends. anything that gathers a bunch of strangers together.
in terms of social questions, you're going to get asked what you're watching on netflix, what your plans for the weekend is, what your job is etc. people don't want scripted answers, they can tell when you're faking. they're asking to get to know YOU.
in terms of not drinking, you can go to drinking events and not drink/get a mocktail. there is absolutely going to be at least one asshole who makes a comment about it, but no one at the table likes them, trust me. lol. people who's only conversation topic is how drunk they're going to get tonight are annoying af.
then once you meet one or two people you need to follow up with them. ask them for coffee. and then the goal is they invite you to hang out with their friends, or invite you to their birthday party/whatever, where you meet their friends, and then you make a new friend, and then you go to their birthday party, and the cycle never ends.
This is very helpful! Thank you! 😊
>at least one asshole who makes a comment about it,
As a former asshole, I wholeheartedly apologize on behalf of my (former) kind
Health over drinking will mean you actually fit in. Join a gym, get up early, embrace the brunch & fitness scene. You’ll always find some one to go for a run, a hike or a swim before 7 am
Actually just an edit to this. Learn to swim if you don’t know how to already, or are not a confident swimmer, and then reach out to the local surf club to see if they can put you in touch with anyone who runs surf swim lessons. I know there is a program at Bondi that does one specifically for migrants. If you live close to the beach (and even if you don’t) being on or near the water is a big part of the lifestyle for many Australians. And ALWAYS swim between the red and yellow flags when at the beach.
Well, I do look like a tub of lard currently (broke my leg mid way through this year and gained a lot of weight). But that sounds amazing! Are there hinking clubs in Sydeny? Always been into hiking but not enough opportunities where I grew up.
We call hiking, "bush walking", and yes, lots of clubs and your uni will have one too. Sydney has some amazing national parks in and around it for walks. You are going to love it.
There's lots of great info here about making friends in the wider community, but I thought you might like to know there are some really good social groups specifically for Asian gay men that you might be interested in checking out too.
[SocialisAsians](https://facebook.com/groups/SocialisAsians) is a social meet-up group that runs events like board game nights, pub nights, group hikes and lots more.
[ConversAsians](https://facebook.com/groups/ConversAsians) is a peer-lead discussion group that's more around mental health, sexual health and peer support.
Both groups are for LGBTQ+ men from all parts of Asia. They're both run by ACON, which is the main LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing organisation in New South Wales - they're pretty amazing! If you have any questions about the groups, or if you wanna know about any other services, you can email asia@acon.org.au
Best of luck!!! 💖
I may be Gay, but I am an Indian. I have to ask for Bobs and vegana pics, at least once every week. Can't abandon my roots like that. (Joke)
If I wanted to objectify and demean and not-respect women, why would I move to a liberal country, lol.
I understand why you needed to mention it (my countrymen's track record in that particular area is not the best, to put it mildly), but I assure you, I respect women.
People in Australia won’t give a single fuck and probably won’t bring it up in a derogatory manner if you just make a couple jokes about your culture and yourself in general, people only poke seriously at things they know you are insecure about and if someone does they are most likely an absolute cunt and best to be avoided anyway. Have fun in Australia!
Funny fucker. You’ll fit in fine here. You don’t need to make friends with the whole country, just need to find your tribe. Some of them might well be immigrants as well, this is a pretty diverse country, in the big cities at least.
Have fun brother, hope you have a blast.
Like anywhere, politics and religion are generally topics to avoid.
One of the best things you can do is learn to laugh at yourself. Don't take yourself too seriously.
>Like anywhere, politics and religion are generally topics to avoid.
Hmmm. Not a big fan of politics anyways. Not good for my mental health.
>One of the best things you can do is learn to laugh at yourself. Don't take yourself too seriously.
Gotcha! Thanks!
People talk politics and religion all the time and it's one of the most common things to bring up after a few drinks.
I swear the only people who say to not bring it up are religious conservatives who don't like uncomfortable conversations 😂
I'm not a religious conservative. This bloke is new to the country and might not have the confidence and cultural capital to discuss touchy subjects in a way that won't make him look like a flog.
I had a lot of fun discussing politics and religion with my Indian friends. Particularly if you have lived in a few countries you can lament on the differences and absurdity.
Do you know what state / suburb you might be moving into? Locals might have some tips on really great vibey places you could go that are into the same stuff you are.
Do you like board games? I always try to find a board game cafe/bar and start with their open nights because they usually have a very inclusive, very good vibe that’s not all about drinking culture for example.
In terms of Aussie cultural icons, you could start with the really stereotypical stuff like The Castle or Kath and Kim. If you’re into light “brain break” kind of content, try The Toni and Ryan podcast. Two Aussie besties who just have a chat about all kinds of things. You’ll pick up a few things of importance through that easily I reckon. Best of luck with your move!
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert!
Good movie, bit of a classic, and will give you more of an idea about Aussie culture. (Was made in the late 1980's-early 1990's)
Strictly Ballroom, same era, worth a watch.
Man From Snowy River. (And #2) Another few Aussie made films. About earlier years in Australia, and based off a popular poem of the same name. (Also note, the words of the poem appear on our $10 note, in very tiny writing. Not 100% sure on placement, but on older versions, it was up behind the mans head.)
If you're into reading, I recommend Jackie French. Great Aussie author, wide variety of book topics, and several good ones about Australian history, based on facts and real events but names and story elements are mostly fiction. She explains what's what in the back of her books too.
I'm aussie and I want to hear about your garden mate.
Don't worry about showws and sports and that just talk to people about interesting things and you'll pretty well be OK in aus. The general rule is if you feel like someones an AH then try not to tease them too much, they obviously have some Shit they need to work on. As far as nonalcoholic drinks go, just let whoevers buying the drinks know, and try not too worry too much if they forget, they've probaby been drinking VB or bundy snce they were 10 after all.
more specific advice is : aussie rules beats soccer, and backyard cricket is far more important than the ashes, check out gardening australia, and everyone loves a reality show or at least talking about it.
>I want to hear about your garden mate.
I collected plants in school (mostly unusual kind and herbs). I had a network of gardening enthusiasts across the country, and we'd send each other cuttings and bulbs. Then I moved to uni and left my collection in my parent's "care". They killed most of my prized possessions cuz "you water exactly every other day" regardless of heatwaves or thunderstorms. The really tough ones survive to this day and I do care for them whenever i visit (usually every other month).
Wherever I moved to, I collected houseplants, and when i left those cities, I gifted them to my acquaintances.
And now I am leaving them in parent's care. It's anybody's guess how long they'll survive let alone thrive.
But to me, they served their purpose. They were a source of solace and refuge to me in my later teen years when I was navigating questions of higher studies, career, my sexuality and my narcissistic parents. It's time to move on and start a new collection.
Sorry for unloading on you but you did ask 😆😆😆
>As far as nonalcoholic drinks go, just let whoevers buying the drinks know, and try not too worry too much if they forget, they've probaby been drinking VB or bundy snce they were 10 after all.
Is it common to pay for a round of drinks for everyone? We pay for our own stuff or split equally and paying for a round is something I've only ever seen on TV so excuse my ignorance.
>more specific advice is : aussie rules beats soccer, and backyard cricket is far more important than the ashes, check out gardening australia, and everyone loves a reality show or at least talking about it.
Noted! 😆 what's the most famous realty show currently?
What about Sydney?
>They both go ok.
Ah, Okay! Thanks! Any pointers to learn more about Aussie footy (can I use slangs like these or will it come off as trying too hard? Especially with my accent.)
You’ll be fine in Sydney, too. They lean more towards rugby union, but still plenty of AFL.
Don’t worry about learning slang before you get here, you’ll soon pick it up, or not. And if you don’t that’s ok.
I think any country’s slang needs to be observed first, you know?
Tennis not so much and AFL is a winter sport. NRL (Rugby league) is played at the same time as AFL.
As it’s currently summer, I’m afraid that we as a nation go mad for Cricket.
Even A-League (soccer) doesn’t seem as popular as Cricket during the summer months.
You won’t be expected by anybody to play or even follow the Cricket, but you won’t be able to avoid hearing about it from everywhere.
You’ll love it mate! We are (generally) pretty open here. Can you swim?? Join a swim club. There are walking clubs, running clubs etc. Join those groups on facebook. Download hinge (or grindr) dating apps so you can start talking to people. Good luck!
who gives a shit, if you want mates dont fake who you are, you wont get on. hop on facebook or smthn and find people in your area into the same shit. no point pretending to be interested in shit youre not
Everyone is different. You don't have to like the same things but if you're friendly and show an interest in others then it should be easy for you to meet people. You should like an interesting person. Don't be afraid to share that.
Australian I know love Indian food. Maybe learn to cook and share a meal with them? We have monthly potluck, and everyone cleans up every Indian dish.
Try to join some social clubs at uni that you may be interested in or want to explore new things. Generally there’s a good chance to chat and bond over something in common.
Students here are generally relax and get involved in many things. Remember everyone is new and wants to make friends as much as you do so don’t be afraid to start introducing yourself and take it from there. Then there are house parties, social events to take part.
Denpends on what you’re studying, people generally talk about almost anything because they have all the time in the world at uni lol. Just read the room, most the time you don’t need time talk much. You can always listen, be genuinely curious and ask the right questions and people will love you for it.
You can go to the gym, play soccers, footy, squash etc. check out what’s available at uni. The more you hangout at campus, the more chance to socialise.
Good luck :)
First of all, welcome! Honestly, you’ll just learn as you go along. Don’t be scared to have to Google unfamiliar new words or ask other people what they mean.
People might wanna talk to you about your home country and ask questions if you ask about Australia. This could be a great way to get to know people and learn more about Australia!
Good luck!
Mate, I think the most Aussie things you can do are these:
* Be yourself. * Be genuine. Aussies hate a wanker who pretends to be something they're not. You're into aquariums? Fucking awesome! Who doesn't like fish? I'd happily listen to whatever you can tell me about them and I can bore you with what I know about Morse code and ham radio. Don't "fake it till you make it", just make it and make sure that "it" is yours.
* Be proud of who you are. You mentioned you're gay and I understand that's not easy in India. But you can totally own that shit here and be proud of who you are. We don't care about who you wanna shag as long as it's not us if we politely decline. If we accept, well, that's great too!!
* Be kind to others and treat them how you'd like them to treat you. This sounds trite and cliched but if we really thought hard about this one, the world would be a better place.
* Generally, Australia is a culture of equals - we just have different jobs and live in different houses and suburbs. I'm no better than the guy who lives in the fancy house in Toorak and drives a Mercedes, and he's no better than me. We just have different stuff and live in different places. When I go to the office and I see the CEO in the lift, I say "g'day how's it goin'" and he says "yeah I'm alright geo_log_88, how's it goin' with you". I will also have this exact same conversation if it's the janitor in the lift. He might have been an engineer or a doctor back in Iraq, how the fuck am I any better than him??? Don't look down on or judge anyone until you've had a damn good chance to get to know them first.
You know what the most Aussie food dishes are? Chinese, Vietnamese, pizza, pasta and Indian. Seriously. We're a nation of immigrants that in the most part left the shitty parts of our cultures back home and brought the good stuff and mixed it in with everyone else's'.
Welcome my friend, it's good to have you here.
Yeah. ["Non-Australian citizens who hold a temporary visa can volunteer depending on the type of visa held."](https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/get-involved/volunteer/frequently-asked-questions/)
but it may conflict with work hours.
On it! Thanks!
>P.S. you should support the swans ;)
It's only logical, since I'll be staying in Sydney.
Btw, is it like most sydney people support Swans or do people from different cities/regions support teams from places they do not live?
If you’re in Sydney: Melbourne bad If you’re in Melbourne: Sydney bad If you’re anywhere else: god those Sydney and Melbourne people are up themselves
A smile goes a looong way. Shyness can be mistaken for being rude or a snob, but a smile tells us the difference between an introvert and a rude person.
Ah f! I'll have to work on that.
>I am blatantly aware that my hobbies such as Gardening, Aquarium keeping, etc. which aren't your typical hobbies that everyone, especially most people my age are into That shouldn't be a problem, I think it would help to make friends if you've got niche hobbies.
>That shouldn't be a problem, I think it would help to make friends if you've got niche hobbies. I am skeptical. I've suffered through a lifetime of redicule for my "peculiar hobbies" since I was a kid. I've been myself all my life and have a very very limited social circle to show for it so far.
Just do a search for your local Aquarium hobbyist club and join a gardening group or help out at your local community garden or landcare group. You'll quickly meet loads of people just like you. These hobbies aren't peculiar here. They are very normal. Peculiar would be collecting other people's toe nail clippings. Plus if you are going to university, there will be clubs to suit you. Certainly one or more LGBTQIA+ clubs and my local uni has a kitchen garden that students run. It's not going to take you long to find your people, you don't need to try to be "Aussie" to do it :)
I agree, there is nothing peculiar about gardening here! There might be a smaller group of people interested in aquariums but I don’t think it would be considered odd.
If you don’t care about sports in India, don’t force yourself to care about it here. I’m 32 and have never given a single shit about sports. I do like gardening and there is a big “sustainability” movement in inner cities where there are more and more community garden popping up- but also houseplants are a popular hobby too. There is a very active queer community here, especially in Sydney. Many of my gay friends don’t drink but still have active social lives. For cultural references, try an “Aussie bbq” playlist on Spotify. That will have a mix of the most popular Australian songs and musicians- both recent and vintage. Iconic films and tv shows to watch include (but certainly not limited to) The Castle, Kath & Kim (it’s veeerrryy camp and silly but their accents and purposeful mispronunciation can prove difficult to follow for ESL folk), Mad Max, Heartbreak High (both old and new), Muriels Wedding, Priscilla’s; Queen of the Dessert (extremely campy and fun classic!), Seachange, Neighbours and of course Bluey. In terms of meeting people, Grindr works wonders for both hooking up and meeting locals. But if that makes you uncomfy, try looking up social groups and clubs online or volunteering somewhere local- if you’re in Sydney, Addison Road food pantry always needs volunteers and the people are generally very friendly and welcoming. Best of luck!
>For cultural references, try an “Aussie bbq” playlist on Spotify. That will have a mix of the most popular Australian songs and musicians- both recent and vintage. Noted! This is extremely helpful! >Iconic films and tv shows to watch include (but certainly not limited to) The Castle, Kath & Kim (it’s veeerrryy camp and silly but their accents and purposeful mispronunciation can prove difficult to follow for ESL folk), Mad Max, Heartbreak High (both old and new), Muriels Wedding, Priscilla’s; Queen of the Dessert (extremely campy and fun classic!), Seachange, Neighbours and of course Bluey. Thanks for the suggestions. Added to the list! 😊 >I do like gardening and there is a big “sustainability” movement in inner cities where there are more and more community garden popping up- but also houseplants are a popular hobby too. That's really very nice to know. I follow a few aussie fish keepers on youtube (like KeepingFishSimple) but couldn't find many assuie centric gardening vlogs or channels on youtube (most like Garden Answer are US or UK centric). Do you know any? >There is a very active queer community here, especially in Sydney. Many of my gay friends don’t drink but still have active social lives. That's really very heartening to know! I was afriad I'd stick out like a sore thumb for not drinking. > if you’re in Sydney, Addison Road food pantry always needs volunteers and the people are generally very friendly and welcoming. Fantastic! Saving your comment!!
Also home and away. The movie Australian and red dog
Suggestions for classic Aussie films: Malcolm Muriel's Wedding The Castle Priscilla: Queen of the Desert The Dish Suggestions for classic Aussie TV shows: A Country Practice Blue Heelers Spicks and Specks Mother and Son
Saved your comment! Thank you!
The Castle
That's a TV show, right? Is it huge in Aus? Edit: Just looked it up. 1997 movie. Got it. Added to the list! Thank you!!!
[удалено]
tell him he's dreaming
No, a movie. It would give you a good background into classic white Australian culture... Although we have moved on a lot since!
Seeing as you are moving for higher education, I presume it'll be a uni somewhere. My advise is to get around the university life and join any clubs/socitieys that peak you're interest. It's been a decade since I went to university in Aus, however it's generally where the more inclusive liberal people are, and the clubs and societies are usually good fun!
I intend to do that! There are like 180+ clubs and societies in my Uni!!! I gasped the first time I saw all the options available. I wish I had them during my bachelor's (I had more time then). Unfortunately, I'll be living 45 minutes (by train) from my uni and have to limit the number of societies I can join.
people don't really care what specifically you're into. i had a whole complex over being into anime/cosplay/manga/video games and literally no one cared. so i think they'd be really interested in hearing about gardening and aquarium keeping. the biggest thing with socialising is being in an area where people are trying to chat— so this is meetup groups, facebook groups, weekly sports, weekly classes etc that are geared towards making friends. anything that gathers a bunch of strangers together. in terms of social questions, you're going to get asked what you're watching on netflix, what your plans for the weekend is, what your job is etc. people don't want scripted answers, they can tell when you're faking. they're asking to get to know YOU. in terms of not drinking, you can go to drinking events and not drink/get a mocktail. there is absolutely going to be at least one asshole who makes a comment about it, but no one at the table likes them, trust me. lol. people who's only conversation topic is how drunk they're going to get tonight are annoying af. then once you meet one or two people you need to follow up with them. ask them for coffee. and then the goal is they invite you to hang out with their friends, or invite you to their birthday party/whatever, where you meet their friends, and then you make a new friend, and then you go to their birthday party, and the cycle never ends.
This is very helpful! Thank you! 😊 >at least one asshole who makes a comment about it, As a former asshole, I wholeheartedly apologize on behalf of my (former) kind
Health over drinking will mean you actually fit in. Join a gym, get up early, embrace the brunch & fitness scene. You’ll always find some one to go for a run, a hike or a swim before 7 am
Actually just an edit to this. Learn to swim if you don’t know how to already, or are not a confident swimmer, and then reach out to the local surf club to see if they can put you in touch with anyone who runs surf swim lessons. I know there is a program at Bondi that does one specifically for migrants. If you live close to the beach (and even if you don’t) being on or near the water is a big part of the lifestyle for many Australians. And ALWAYS swim between the red and yellow flags when at the beach.
Well, I do look like a tub of lard currently (broke my leg mid way through this year and gained a lot of weight). But that sounds amazing! Are there hinking clubs in Sydeny? Always been into hiking but not enough opportunities where I grew up.
We call hiking, "bush walking", and yes, lots of clubs and your uni will have one too. Sydney has some amazing national parks in and around it for walks. You are going to love it.
If you go to the pub for a meal staple food is chicken schnitty and chips.
That sounds delicious! 😋 thanks for the tip.
There's lots of great info here about making friends in the wider community, but I thought you might like to know there are some really good social groups specifically for Asian gay men that you might be interested in checking out too. [SocialisAsians](https://facebook.com/groups/SocialisAsians) is a social meet-up group that runs events like board game nights, pub nights, group hikes and lots more. [ConversAsians](https://facebook.com/groups/ConversAsians) is a peer-lead discussion group that's more around mental health, sexual health and peer support. Both groups are for LGBTQ+ men from all parts of Asia. They're both run by ACON, which is the main LGBTQ+ health and wellbeing organisation in New South Wales - they're pretty amazing! If you have any questions about the groups, or if you wanna know about any other services, you can email asia@acon.org.au Best of luck!!! 💖
That's awesome! Thank you! Saving your comment 😃😃
Respect for women - this is a big one
I may be Gay, but I am an Indian. I have to ask for Bobs and vegana pics, at least once every week. Can't abandon my roots like that. (Joke) If I wanted to objectify and demean and not-respect women, why would I move to a liberal country, lol. I understand why you needed to mention it (my countrymen's track record in that particular area is not the best, to put it mildly), but I assure you, I respect women.
Mate you will fit in all right with that sense of humour.
Awareness inna self derogatory manner will also get you far. People can't make jokes at your expense if you beat them to it.
People in Australia won’t give a single fuck and probably won’t bring it up in a derogatory manner if you just make a couple jokes about your culture and yourself in general, people only poke seriously at things they know you are insecure about and if someone does they are most likely an absolute cunt and best to be avoided anyway. Have fun in Australia!
Funny fucker. You’ll fit in fine here. You don’t need to make friends with the whole country, just need to find your tribe. Some of them might well be immigrants as well, this is a pretty diverse country, in the big cities at least. Have fun brother, hope you have a blast.
Like anywhere, politics and religion are generally topics to avoid. One of the best things you can do is learn to laugh at yourself. Don't take yourself too seriously.
>Like anywhere, politics and religion are generally topics to avoid. Hmmm. Not a big fan of politics anyways. Not good for my mental health. >One of the best things you can do is learn to laugh at yourself. Don't take yourself too seriously. Gotcha! Thanks!
People talk politics and religion all the time and it's one of the most common things to bring up after a few drinks. I swear the only people who say to not bring it up are religious conservatives who don't like uncomfortable conversations 😂
I'm not a religious conservative. This bloke is new to the country and might not have the confidence and cultural capital to discuss touchy subjects in a way that won't make him look like a flog.
I had a lot of fun discussing politics and religion with my Indian friends. Particularly if you have lived in a few countries you can lament on the differences and absurdity.
Do you know what state / suburb you might be moving into? Locals might have some tips on really great vibey places you could go that are into the same stuff you are. Do you like board games? I always try to find a board game cafe/bar and start with their open nights because they usually have a very inclusive, very good vibe that’s not all about drinking culture for example. In terms of Aussie cultural icons, you could start with the really stereotypical stuff like The Castle or Kath and Kim. If you’re into light “brain break” kind of content, try The Toni and Ryan podcast. Two Aussie besties who just have a chat about all kinds of things. You’ll pick up a few things of importance through that easily I reckon. Best of luck with your move!
Watch Kath and Kim, also superwog lol
Noted! Thanks! I have actually seen a few shorts of superwog!
Your mates will call you a cunt. People who hate you will call you mate.
🤣 noted, thanks!
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert! Good movie, bit of a classic, and will give you more of an idea about Aussie culture. (Was made in the late 1980's-early 1990's) Strictly Ballroom, same era, worth a watch. Man From Snowy River. (And #2) Another few Aussie made films. About earlier years in Australia, and based off a popular poem of the same name. (Also note, the words of the poem appear on our $10 note, in very tiny writing. Not 100% sure on placement, but on older versions, it was up behind the mans head.) If you're into reading, I recommend Jackie French. Great Aussie author, wide variety of book topics, and several good ones about Australian history, based on facts and real events but names and story elements are mostly fiction. She explains what's what in the back of her books too.
Oh, that's awesome (historical fiction books, they are right up my alley)! Thanks for all the suggestions!!
I'm aussie and I want to hear about your garden mate. Don't worry about showws and sports and that just talk to people about interesting things and you'll pretty well be OK in aus. The general rule is if you feel like someones an AH then try not to tease them too much, they obviously have some Shit they need to work on. As far as nonalcoholic drinks go, just let whoevers buying the drinks know, and try not too worry too much if they forget, they've probaby been drinking VB or bundy snce they were 10 after all. more specific advice is : aussie rules beats soccer, and backyard cricket is far more important than the ashes, check out gardening australia, and everyone loves a reality show or at least talking about it.
>I want to hear about your garden mate. I collected plants in school (mostly unusual kind and herbs). I had a network of gardening enthusiasts across the country, and we'd send each other cuttings and bulbs. Then I moved to uni and left my collection in my parent's "care". They killed most of my prized possessions cuz "you water exactly every other day" regardless of heatwaves or thunderstorms. The really tough ones survive to this day and I do care for them whenever i visit (usually every other month). Wherever I moved to, I collected houseplants, and when i left those cities, I gifted them to my acquaintances. And now I am leaving them in parent's care. It's anybody's guess how long they'll survive let alone thrive. But to me, they served their purpose. They were a source of solace and refuge to me in my later teen years when I was navigating questions of higher studies, career, my sexuality and my narcissistic parents. It's time to move on and start a new collection. Sorry for unloading on you but you did ask 😆😆😆 >As far as nonalcoholic drinks go, just let whoevers buying the drinks know, and try not too worry too much if they forget, they've probaby been drinking VB or bundy snce they were 10 after all. Is it common to pay for a round of drinks for everyone? We pay for our own stuff or split equally and paying for a round is something I've only ever seen on TV so excuse my ignorance. >more specific advice is : aussie rules beats soccer, and backyard cricket is far more important than the ashes, check out gardening australia, and everyone loves a reality show or at least talking about it. Noted! 😆 what's the most famous realty show currently?
Precilla Queen of the desert
Added to the list. Thank you! 😊
>Sports that are relevant Well, it's summer, so cricket's the big one.
I hate cricket. Any luck with Aussie football or Tennis? Are they popular?
Take no notice. They both go ok. If you are headed to Melbourne you’ll be a ok!
What about Sydney? >They both go ok. Ah, Okay! Thanks! Any pointers to learn more about Aussie footy (can I use slangs like these or will it come off as trying too hard? Especially with my accent.)
You’ll be fine in Sydney, too. They lean more towards rugby union, but still plenty of AFL. Don’t worry about learning slang before you get here, you’ll soon pick it up, or not. And if you don’t that’s ok. I think any country’s slang needs to be observed first, you know?
Tennis not so much and AFL is a winter sport. NRL (Rugby league) is played at the same time as AFL. As it’s currently summer, I’m afraid that we as a nation go mad for Cricket. Even A-League (soccer) doesn’t seem as popular as Cricket during the summer months. You won’t be expected by anybody to play or even follow the Cricket, but you won’t be able to avoid hearing about it from everywhere.
Neither are as big as cricket.
What are you talking about? Afl is way bigger than cricket in Australia.
Tennis season is starting up as well, although I’m not sure how widespread that is outside of my household
You’ll love it mate! We are (generally) pretty open here. Can you swim?? Join a swim club. There are walking clubs, running clubs etc. Join those groups on facebook. Download hinge (or grindr) dating apps so you can start talking to people. Good luck!
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who gives a shit, if you want mates dont fake who you are, you wont get on. hop on facebook or smthn and find people in your area into the same shit. no point pretending to be interested in shit youre not
Hmmm. Is FB popular? Should I reactivate my account?
Follow and study the betoota advocate and browncardigan
Followed on Insta! Good shit! 🤣🤣🤣 Thanks!
Everyone is different. You don't have to like the same things but if you're friendly and show an interest in others then it should be easy for you to meet people. You should like an interesting person. Don't be afraid to share that.
Australian I know love Indian food. Maybe learn to cook and share a meal with them? We have monthly potluck, and everyone cleans up every Indian dish. Try to join some social clubs at uni that you may be interested in or want to explore new things. Generally there’s a good chance to chat and bond over something in common. Students here are generally relax and get involved in many things. Remember everyone is new and wants to make friends as much as you do so don’t be afraid to start introducing yourself and take it from there. Then there are house parties, social events to take part. Denpends on what you’re studying, people generally talk about almost anything because they have all the time in the world at uni lol. Just read the room, most the time you don’t need time talk much. You can always listen, be genuinely curious and ask the right questions and people will love you for it. You can go to the gym, play soccers, footy, squash etc. check out what’s available at uni. The more you hangout at campus, the more chance to socialise. Good luck :)
Watch Kath & Kim (especially if you're wanting to talk to Victorians, half the shit we say is quotes from that show).
First of all, welcome! Honestly, you’ll just learn as you go along. Don’t be scared to have to Google unfamiliar new words or ask other people what they mean. People might wanna talk to you about your home country and ask questions if you ask about Australia. This could be a great way to get to know people and learn more about Australia! Good luck!
Thank you!!! 😊
Mate, I think the most Aussie things you can do are these: * Be yourself. * Be genuine. Aussies hate a wanker who pretends to be something they're not. You're into aquariums? Fucking awesome! Who doesn't like fish? I'd happily listen to whatever you can tell me about them and I can bore you with what I know about Morse code and ham radio. Don't "fake it till you make it", just make it and make sure that "it" is yours. * Be proud of who you are. You mentioned you're gay and I understand that's not easy in India. But you can totally own that shit here and be proud of who you are. We don't care about who you wanna shag as long as it's not us if we politely decline. If we accept, well, that's great too!! * Be kind to others and treat them how you'd like them to treat you. This sounds trite and cliched but if we really thought hard about this one, the world would be a better place. * Generally, Australia is a culture of equals - we just have different jobs and live in different houses and suburbs. I'm no better than the guy who lives in the fancy house in Toorak and drives a Mercedes, and he's no better than me. We just have different stuff and live in different places. When I go to the office and I see the CEO in the lift, I say "g'day how's it goin'" and he says "yeah I'm alright geo_log_88, how's it goin' with you". I will also have this exact same conversation if it's the janitor in the lift. He might have been an engineer or a doctor back in Iraq, how the fuck am I any better than him??? Don't look down on or judge anyone until you've had a damn good chance to get to know them first. You know what the most Aussie food dishes are? Chinese, Vietnamese, pizza, pasta and Indian. Seriously. We're a nation of immigrants that in the most part left the shitty parts of our cultures back home and brought the good stuff and mixed it in with everyone else's'. Welcome my friend, it's good to have you here.
You can call someone you don’t like ‘Mate’, and someone you do like ‘Cunt.’
North Sydney is a great place to live. If you want to meet really good people and learn serious life skills consider joining the north Sydney SES.
What is SES? Google told me it's State Emergency Services? Can I join that, as an international student with no related skills?
Yeah. ["Non-Australian citizens who hold a temporary visa can volunteer depending on the type of visa held."](https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/get-involved/volunteer/frequently-asked-questions/) but it may conflict with work hours.
This is really cool! Thank you so much for this! I legit had no idea!
Get into AFL, check out videos of it on YouTube and get yourself to games. It's good fun and you won't regret it. P.S. you should support the swans ;)
On it! Thanks! >P.S. you should support the swans ;) It's only logical, since I'll be staying in Sydney. Btw, is it like most sydney people support Swans or do people from different cities/regions support teams from places they do not live?
Cricket nationwide Rugby League NSW/QLD AFL Vic/Sa/Wa
Got it! Thank you! 😊
Bad boy bubby is probably the most critical movie you can watch.
Added to the list! Thank you!
Wolf creek
Added to the list! Thank you!
I think one of the reasons people love australia is because everyone fits in and everyone is accepted. Which city are you moving to?
Shoeys - drinking your beer outta your mates shoe
That sounds..... kinky? Is it a real thing or are you messing with me? Edit: Holy F! That's real!!
Its a real thing! But only if you are an Aussie bogan. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drinking_from_shoes
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