Expert: Frank Denison - 4/4/2008

Question
Hi Frank,
My husband is applying for a job in Brisbane within his company and this would mean a move for our family of four from our home state of Texas to somewhere near Bowen Hills (maybe?). Maybe this is silly of me to ask, but I am wondering how well Americans are received by Aussies? Our children are little and I don't want this to be a negative experience for them, because we don't have to move, we want to move and show them there is a great big world out there. I would also appreciate any advice you have concerning areas to live that have public transportation to the market and possibly the beach since we may only have one vehicle for some time. I am wondering to, about commute time. We live in the Dallas area which is also a large city and though Charlie's office is only 19 miles away, it take an hour for him to commute by car. Thank you so much for your help!
Rachelle

Answer
G'day Rachelle and Charlie,
                         The area of Bowen Hills is mostly apartments and units. It is less than 3 km from the city, and would take less than 10 minutes to get to the city. So the commutting would not be an issue if you settled in Bowen Hills.  There are not a lot of houses in Bowen Hills though, so that may not suit a family of four.

I would suggest suburbs adjacent to Bowen Hills, which are Albion, Wooloowin, and depending on your budget Hamilton and Clayfield. All of those suburbs would take less than 15 minutes to get to the city.

You can get to the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast very easily using public transport. Shopping centres are also very close to Albion, Wooloowin, Hamilton and Clayfield.

On to your statement " how well Americans are received by Aussies". Aussies are very laid back, and I feel we welcome people from all nationalities. In any place, you will get small pockets of people that may not make you or any other nationality welcome. On the whole, I think you will enjoy your time if you decide to move.

We have just made friends with a couple from USA who live in our building, and we enjoy socialising with them. If you decide to move, and need any assistance contact me anytime. Our email is franksue@bigpond.net.au

It can be very daunting arriving in a new country, but you will have 2 Aussies to help your any time you need it.

Regards,
Frank & Sue