Learn English like a local: Top 5 destinations for learning English abroad

When I first thought about studying English abroad, I’ll admit—I was terrified. Not terrified of the learning part, that was rather exciting. I was terrified of everything else. Coming from Colombia, my dream was to study English in a city like London. But then, my brain hit me with a million "What ifs…"

What if I don't understand the accent? What if I’m too shy to speak? What if I don’t even like the city? Oh, and of course, there was the question that scared me (and my parents) the most: Can I even afford this?

Fast forward a few years, and I look back at my younger self with awe. Yes, I was right to worry about some of those things, but nothing has impacted my career and confidence like learning English abroad. I can confidently say that studying English and International Business at Bayswater is one of the best investments I've ever made. Hi, my name is Katherine and I’m an international student, an immigrant, a dreamer just like you (I hope). And I'm here to help you embrace the opportunities that come with pursuing your dreams abroad.

Embarking on a study abroad journey will mean you’ll learn in a real-world setting, meet people from around the globe, and open doors for your future. So, here are my top five destinations where you can master English, boost your career, and have the experience of a lifetime!

London, UK: Perfect for the ambitious city explorer

I know, I know. London is the classic choice. As in, if you're going to study English abroad, it’s practically expected that you pick London. But hear me out—it’s a classic for a reason. Despite my initial panic about being surrounded by so many people who spoke better English than I did, I soon realised that London is one of the best places to be when learning English.

Yes, the accents can be tricky, but the diversity of the city means there’s no shortage of accents, dialects, and friendly people to practice with. And as for my worries about fitting in—well, London’s population is one of the most multicultural in the world. There’s a little bit of everything here. You’ll meet people from all walks of life, which is perfect for practicing your English and understanding how people communicate in different contexts.

With thousands of international students coming to London each year, mastering English here opens doors to global opportunities. In a city that has shaped business, culture, and history for centuries, studying an English language course in London places you at the heart of one of the world’s most influential hubs. Plus, you’re never short of things to do—museums, parks, pubs, theaters, and yes, the occasional royal wave if you're lucky.

2. Brighton, UK: Perfect for the laid-back language learner

Big cities can be intimidating. So, if London feels a little overwhelming, there’s always Brighton - a coastal city just an hour away by train, but with all the charm of a smaller, less stressful environment. I spent a summer here, and I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I made.

Brighton has the best of both worlds. It’s got the beach, the cool cafes, the quirky shops, and a vibrant cultural scene. People are friendly, and it's easy to strike up a conversation without feeling like you’re getting judged for your ever-evolving English fluency.

Studying English in Brighton means you'll improve your skills in a laid-back environment, ideal for those who want to learn while soaking up some seaside tranquility. After class, grab some fish and chips by the pier, and you'll be speaking English like a local in no time.

(Pro tip: the local accents are pretty nice on the ears, too.)

3. Toronto, Canada: Perfect for the globally minded go-getter

If the UK feels a bit too intense, maybe Canada is more your speed. Toronto is an incredible city to learn English—not just because the people are kind and welcoming (they are so sweet even their pizzas have a sweet sauce), but because the city’s international appeal makes it easy to integrate and practice your skills.

Toronto’s population is so diverse that you'll hear everything from Italian to Mandarin being spoken in the streets, yet English is the city’s primary language. That means you'll get the immersion experience without feeling like you’re completely out of your element.

Let’s talk about career prospects for a second: Canada’s economy is strong, and Toronto is the business hub of the country. By studying English in a city like Toronto, you’ll be learning the language while positioning yourself for career opportunities in a global market.

4. Cape Town, South Africa: Perfect for the adventurous culture-seeker

If you’re looking for a destination that blends history, nature, and diverse cultures, Cape Town is it. Known as the "Mother City," Cape Town offers a unique learning experience where English is one of 11 official languages, making it a vital part of daily life. The city’s rich cultural mix is shaped by African, European, and Asian influences, creating a dynamic environment where you'll hear different accents and expressions.

Beyond the classroom, Cape Town is alive with energy. You can explore the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, known for its Cape Malay heritage, taste local delicacies like bunny chow or braai, or dive into the buzzing creative scene in Woodstock. The city's warmth isn’t just in the climate, the people are incredibly welcoming, making it easy to strike up conversations and build confidence in English naturally.

5. Limassol, Cyprus:  Perfect for the budget-savvy student

This Mediterranean city is where you’ll get to soak up the sun while studying English. And, let’s be real, what’s better than learning a language with a sea breeze in your hair?

Cypriots speak excellent English, and the island’s relaxed pace of life makes it a fantastic place to study and practice the language without feeling overwhelmed. Limassol is a city where you'll feel at home quickly, especially because of the welcoming locals. Plus, the city is home to a thriving international community, meaning you can practice English with people from all over the world.

Cyprus also has one of the most affordable living costs in Europe, making it a great destination if you're on a budget but still want the full study-abroad experience. All in all, Limassol is perfect if you’re looking to improve your English, relax, and explore a new culture.

Why Bayswater Education?

Moving abroad to study English is a big, even huge, step. But when you’ve got a solid, supportive institution behind you, things become a whole lot easier. With over 70 years of experience (thanks to our partnership with Eurocentres), Bayswater offers classrooms without walls, tailored for students who want flexible learning environments. Whether you choose an English language course in the UK or prefer to study in sunny Cyprus, you'll find the ideal programme designed to boost your skills and confidence.

Our average class size of 10 ensures students get personalised attention while learning with like-minded students from around the world. So whether you're in London, Toronto, or Limassol, you'll become the global citizen you’ve always wanted to be. I know I did!

Now that you know about the top destinations, the only question is: where will you go first?  Not sure where your language skills stand? Take our free language test—quick, adaptive, and diagnostic. Test your level in under 20 minutes and find out where you can improve! If you’re ready to get started, make your way to our General English Courses here. Happy globetrotting to you!