Hi, I’m Soo Lee, and I’m so glad you found my website – Next Chapter Sydney.

I’m the voice behind Next Chapter Sydney, a website dedicated to helping migrants settle easily into their new lives. I share my experiences and insights through writing, focusing on practical advice for navigating daily life in Sydney, Australia. Oh, and I wrote a guidebook too!

Next Chapter Sydney reflects my passion for helping 1st generation migrants thrive in this incredible city. I believe in providing practical, insightful, and inspiring content to guide you on your journey.

Practical guidance: I share clear and concise information about essential topics like housing, transportation, healthcare, and education, making your transition smoother and less stressful.

Honest reflections: I offer personal perspectives and observations on Sydney life, culture, and communities, helping you understand the nuances of your new home.

Inspirations: I share stories of migrants who found their place and built fulfilling lives in Sydney, showcasing the diverse opportunities this city offers. These stories will encourage you to explore, connect, and create a life you love.

My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace your next chapter in Sydney.

Born and raised in South Korea, I landed in Sydney more than 20 years ago with a suitcase full of dreams and a head full of questions. Like many of you, I was a first-generation migrant, eager to embrace this vibrant city. But let’s be honest, starting over in a new country? It’s an adventure, but not without its challenges.

In my early days, I juggled job hunting, battled homesickness while deciphering bills, and even questioned if I’d made the right choice. Watching others who seemed to have it easier made me wonder what I was doing wrong. Then I realised – we weren’t starting from the same place. As a 1st generation newcomer, the challenges are different. We often have to work twice as hard to catch up. It might not be fair, but that’s the reality for many of us.

Next Chapter Sydney was born from my own experiences as a migrant in this city. It’s about going beyond the glossy brochures and tourist attractions to provide real-world advice and support for navigating the complexities of building a new life in Sydney.

• The Local Scoop: Sydney life through the eyes of a fellow migrant, with insights you won’t find in tourist guides.

• First-Gen Focus: Content specifically tailored to the unique challenges and triumphs of first-generation migrants.

• Practical Guides & Advice: From navigating public transport and budgeting to understanding local customs and mastering everyday life in Sydney.

• Real & Raw: Honest conversations about the highs and lows of migrant life, no sugarcoating allowed.

• Opinions & Perspectives: My take on things, which might sometimes challenge the status quo or offer a different point of view.

• Visa & Residency How-Tos: This isn’t the place for visa application guides or residency advice. For that, please visit a registered migration agent.

• Travel Guides & Tourist Hotspots: We’re not about the best cafes or picnic spots. There are plenty of other resources for that!

Drop me an email and say hi! I cannot respond to every one. However I do my very best to reply where I can (unless you’re SPAM!). One thing I can assure you is that I will see your message! You can contact me here.

“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” – C.S. Lewis

~ Soo xx