Cultural shock down under: European dazzled by Aussie lifestyle
Dafne Sartorio, a young businesswoman living in Belgium, recently returned from a trip to Australia and shared her thoughts online. "There were the ten things that had me laughing, wondering if I was in a different universe, and definitely rethinking life back in Europe."
1:53 PM EST, November 26, 2024
Dafne Sartorio shared her impressions of the trip to Australia with netizens. In a post published on Threads, she admitted that she experienced real culture shock. The first thing that surprised her was the vast space and the few people. "We spent a whole day kayaking in the [Noosa] Everglades, and I swear, there wasn't a single soul around in about 43 miles. If this were Europe, you'd be elbowing strangers just to take a decent photo," she reported, as the "Daily Mail quoted."
She also noted that she was surprised by how much coffee Australians consume. "Australia's coffee game is strong. And I mean, strong. I thought I loved coffee, but these guys drink an average of 14 cups a week. I'm still recovering," remarked the surprised European. She was taken aback by Australians' friendly approach to others, emphasizing that everyone who served her smiled and engaged in real conversations. This led Dafne to conclude that she felt like she had been "living in a European customer service desert."
Sartorio doesn't hide that life in Australia seems to move at a completely different pace compared to European countries. "Life is so chill in Australia. No one seems in a rush. People just seem ... Calmer. Slower. Meanwhile, I'm walking around like I've got 17 places to be. Do they know something we don't?" she admitted.
Australia on the plus side, although not everything
The Belgian noted that although Australia is full of attractions that never allow for boredom, unfortunately, their cost can effectively deter you. Surfing or diving is expensive, and even renting a house is. "Australia has some of the best experiences in the world, but they'll have your wallet screaming by day two," said Sartorio, quoted by the Daily Mail.
It was also surprising for the Europeans that everything was sweet. "Bread, snacks, even the butter had sugar in it. I don't know if it's a vibe or a conspiracy, but I came back with a serious sugar high," she admitted, describing her stay in Australia.
Dafne Sartorio did not hide her surprise that food establishments are bustling with life as early as 5 AM, while in Belgium, where she lives, cafes only open at 8 AM. She was also impressed by the prevailing cleanliness everywhere. In conclusion, Sartorio admitted that she is eager to return to Australia and will do so as soon as her "wallet recovers."
