I moved from New York City to Australia a few years ago. These 6 things have surprised me the most.

Living in Australia for just over two years was an interesting experience filled with surprises.

Courtesy of Samantha Vanderhorst

A few years ago, I left New York City and headed to Sydney. I moved to Australia for a job opportunity and because I wanted to experience what it is like to work and live abroad. Doing so also helped me scratch the itch I'd had since college, when I studied abroad in Italy and never wanted to leave. I always knew I'd need to live abroad again at some point.Ultimately, I lived in Sydney for a little over two years before recently returning to the US. Throughout my time there, I found myself surprised by cultural differences, local slang, and so much more.Public holidays vary more by state and region than I was used to

I learned about a lot of new public holidays in Australia.

Courtesy of Samantha Vanderhorst