From Buenos Aires to a dream inspired by Finding Nemo
Jessica left Argentina at 30 and spent two years in Australia. Her wish to see the Sydney Opera House went back to childhood: she says Finding Nemo sparked that dream.
She arrived in Sydney and spent a year and a half in Adelaide during another part of her trip. In the webinar, she recalls arriving, speaking English and settling into everyday life: the details that help you picture starting out far from home.
Watch this moment · 36:48 ↗Everyday English and a different routine
Although she had studied English, the Australian accent surprised her. She remembers a conversation at work when she struggled to understand what she was being told. Listening and talking to local people became part of learning.
She also noticed different schedules: early coffees, morning activities and outdoor plans. Even her familiar afternoon snack routine helped her recognise how life differed from Buenos Aires.
Watch this moment · 37:47 ↗A hostel, first connections and lasting friendships
Jessica booked a hostel for her arrival in Sydney. She met people who were also looking for work and finding their feet. One of those connections joined her on a one-off job organising paperwork at an office.
She stayed in touch with some of the people she met after returning home. In her story, accommodation was also a place to share questions, help each other and build friendships.
Watch this moment · 40:05 ↗Finding her first jobs included unsuccessful attempts
Jessica says it took her around two weeks to find work, with occasional tasks in the meantime. She also recalls a café trial after which she was not called back. Later, she worked in hotel housekeeping.
This is her personal journey of contacts, applications and attempts. Her timeline and jobs reflect her circumstances and do not predict another person’s job search.
Watch this moment · 43:07 ↗Returning with friendships and greater independence
Travel was one of her motivations. During her stay, she took short trips around Australia to see more of the country.
Looking back, she highlights learning to manage her money, handle situations on her own and become more independent. Her story continues after returning home, through what she learned and the people she stays in touch with.
Watch this moment · 49:04 ↗In her words · Translated from Spanish“I was motivated by the chance to travel”
Jessica Armesto · Original interview, 45:02
Jessica’s story at a glance
How long did Jessica live in Australia?
Two years. She confirms this in her introduction and the webinar questions, although the original video title mentions her first year.
Which cities did she spend time in?
She arrived in Sydney and says she lived in Adelaide for a year and a half.
Where did she stay when she arrived?
She booked a hostel in Sydney, where she met other travellers and began building connections.
Did she already speak English?
Yes. She had studied English, but the Australian accent brought a new challenge in everyday conversations.
Does she explain how she found work?
Yes. She discusses occasional tasks, a café trial that did not lead to further work and a hotel job. These are her individual experiences.
What language is the video in?
The original video is in Spanish. The player starts at 36:48, when Jessica introduces her story.
Nōmadas editorial team
An edited written account of the original interview. The personal story is Jessica’s; the questions to help you plan your trip are editorial suggestions.
Interview published on the Nōmadas Experience channel on 24 July 2026. Jessica was part of the team when it was recorded; she no longer works at Nōmadas. Her account reflects her personal experience at that time.
