Expert shares biggest surprise Brits have when moving country

Posted by author February 2, 2025 Travel

Brits are often shocked by this one change when moving abroad to a specific popular country.

As a record number of Brits head to a new life in Australia – new research from international health insurance expat experts William Russell have revealed the biggest culture shocks for Brits moving down under.

Nearly 50,000 Britons moved on working holiday visas in 2024 out of more than 200,000 applicants overall.

Australia is the most popular destination for Brits looking to move to a different country, with annual search data of 46,100.

The most significant cultural shocks people find there are related to Australian food.

These include eating kangaroos, which are seen as cute exotic creatures in the UK rather than pests or food sources.

Another shock is the wildlife – Australia has a varied range of biodiversity and many more creatures that can be harmful to humans, including black widow spiders, great white sharks, and saltwater crocodiles.

Although the mullet has returned to popularity worldwide in recent years, people are still shocked by its prevalence in Australia, especially among young men.

While some Brits have found this fashion trend to be surprising, it’s likely to be less of a shock in future, as the trend has begun to make its way to the UK.

It is a widespread trim for an Aussie, helped after being popularised by famous sports stars such as NRL star Ryan Papenhuyzen and top golfer Cameron Smith.

Many Brits plan to move down under for a change in lifestyle, beautiful beaches and for more sun.

Another common reason is to enjoy a better work-life balance which is often cited as a reason for making the big move.

But others looking to become an expat prefer somewhere closer to home such as Spain which is a popular choice for Brits wanting to stay closer to home.

The 10 biggest culture shocks for Brits moving to Australia are: