There are over 1.5 billion people around the world who speak English worldwide, of which only around 400 million are native English speakers. This means that over a billion people speak English as their second language, making it the third most spoken language in the world, after Mandarin and Spanish.
English is the official language in many countries but also a primary language for international organizations such as the United Nations, the European Union, and the World Trade Organization. It has also become the leading language of international discourse and the lingua franca in international business, tourism, and other professional contexts.
If you're looking for ways to boost your English language skills, traveling to an English-speaking country can be a great option. Fortunately, there are many wonderful English-speaking countries in the world, each with its own unique charms and attractions – the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK are five of the best.
No matter which English-speaking country you visit, you are sure to have a memorable and wonderful experience. In the article below, we share the essential information you need to know about each of these five countries, along with some traveling tips. Let’s go!
The United States of America
- Population: over 335 mln people
- Capital: Washington, D.C.
- Official Language: English
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
The United States of America is the largest English-speaking country in the world, located in North America. It is made up of 50 states and a federal district, Washington D.C., where the capital city is located. The population of the United States is over 335 million people, making it the third most populous country in the world.
The United States is a very diverse country, with people from all over the world coming to live there. English is the official language, but Spanish is also widely spoken. The currency is the US Dollar (USD).
There are many things to see and do in the United States. Some of the most popular tourist destinations include New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Orlando. There is also a wealth of natural beauty to explore, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the stunning Niagara Falls.
When traveling to the United States, it is important to have a valid passport and visa. Citizens of most countries can apply for a tourist visa online or at their local US embassy or consulate.
Canada
- Population: 38 mln people
- Capital: Ottawa
- Official Languages: English & French
- Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Canada is a large North American country located to the north of the United States. It is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories, with Ottawa being the capital city. The population of Canada is over 38 million people. The currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).
Canada is also a bilingual country, with not only English but also French being the official language.
There are many reasons to visit Canada. It is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, from Niagara Falls to Banff National Park. Canada is also a great place to experience diverse cultures, with First Nations, French-Canadian, and British influence all present.
Whether you want to go skiing in the Rockies, see Old Quebec, or explore cosmopolitan cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Canada has something for everyone.
When traveling to Canada, remember to bring your passport and apply for a tourist visa if necessary. Citizens of the United States, as well as most European Union countries, do not need a visa to enter Canada.
Australia
- Population: 26 mln people
- Capital: Canberra
- Official Language: English
- Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Australia is a large country located in the Southern Hemisphere. It is made up of 6 states and 2 territories, with Canberra being the capital city. The population of Australia is over 26 million people. English remains the only official language in Australia. The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD).
Australia is a popular tourist destination for its many unique attractions. Some of these include the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru (Ayers Rock), and the Sydney Opera House. Australian wildlife is also exceptionally interesting, with koalas, kangaroos, and duck-billed platypuses being just some of the native animals that can be found there.
When traveling to Australia, remember to pack your sunscreen! The country is located in the sunniest region of the world and experiences very high temperatures during the summer months. However, keep in mind that Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, so their seasons are reversed from those in the Northern Hemisphere.
Citizens of most countries will need to apply for a tourist visa in advance. This can be done online or at your local Australian embassy or consulate.
New Zealand
- Population: over 5 mln people
- Capital: Wellington
- Official Language: English
- Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
New Zealand is a small country located in the Southern Hemisphere. It is made up of 2 main islands, the North Island and the South Island, with Wellington being the capital city. The population of New Zealand is over 5 million people, and the currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). English is the official language of New Zealand.
New Zealand is a popular tourist destination for its beautiful scenery. The country is home to glaciers, fjords, mountains, and beaches. It is also known for being where Lord of the Rings and many other popular movies were filmed.
New Zealand offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and skiing. However, remember to pack your insect repellent! The country is located in the subtropics and experiences high temperatures and humidity during the summer months, which can lead to mosquito problems.
When traveling to New Zealand, you should be aware that the country has strict biosecurity laws. This means that there are strict rules about what food and other items you can bring into the country. Be sure to check the biosecurity website before you travel.
The United Kingdom
- Population: over 67 mln people
- Capital: London
- Official Language: English
- Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
The United Kingdom is a small island country located off the coast of mainland Europe. It is made up of 4 non-sovereign entities – England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. London is the capital city of England and the UK as a whole. The population of the UK is over 67 million people.
The official language of the UK and each of its non-sovereign entities is English. The currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP).
The UK is a popular tourist destination for its many historical and cultural attractions. These include Stonehenge, Hadrian's Wall, and Westminster Abbey, not to mention the world-famous pub culture reigning across the whole country. From cozy country pubs to lively city bars, there's a pub for everyone in the UK.
The UK is also home to some of the world's most famous cities, such as London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Make sure to allocate some time to explore these bustling metropolises on your trip!
Other than that, there are plenty of reasons to visit the United Kingdom. The countryside is stunning, the food is delicious, and the people are friendly. Just be sure to pack your raincoat! The weather can be quite unpredictable, especially in the winter months.
The Bottom Line
If you want to practice the English language with natives, you can't go wrong with traveling to any of the five countries on this list. The United States of America is a vast and varied country with something to offer everyone, from stunning natural scenery to cosmopolitan cities and everything in between.
Canada is another huge country with a diverse array of landscapes and cultures, while Australia and New Zealand offer unique experiences Down Under. Finally, the United Kingdom is a small island country with a rich history and culture that has exerted significant influence on the world.
Whichever of these countries you choose to visit, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience. Download our Langster app to practice English while on the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!