Why is it so hard to make real friends in the UK? In this episode of English & Beyond, Oliver sits down with Antonio from Spanish with Antonio to talk about what it's actually like living abroad - the friendships that never quite happen, the cultural codes nobody explains, and why British politeness doesn't always lead to real connection. Antonio shares his experiences living in Portsmouth (UK) and Lille (France), and together they explore why making friends as an adult abroad is so complicated.

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🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way.

And remember, if this C1/C2 level podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

Is it rude to ghost someone, or is silence sometimes the kindest answer?

In this episode of English and Beyond, Oliver and César explore the modern phenomenon of ghosting - when someone suddenly stops replying in dating, friendships or even professional situations.

This episode is designed for advanced English learners who want to improve their English listening skills through natural conversation. As they discuss why people ghost, whether honesty is always better, and why rejection can sometimes hurt more in friendships than in romance, you'll hear authentic spoken English, real dialogue, and useful advanced English vocabulary and idioms.

Along the way, you'll learn expressions such as hit it off, hold a grudge, and a difficult pill to swallow, all used in real conversational English.

📖 Want to improve your English even more?

• Read the full transcript, access vocabulary flashcards and vocabulary trainers for FREE → www.morethanalanguage.com
• Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond
• Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast
• Email your thoughts or questions → oliver@morethanalanguage.com

🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way.

And remember, if this C1/C2 level podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

In this advanced English conversation, César and Oliver reflect on how birthdays change as we get older - from childhood parties and British birthday traditions to adult expectations, gifts and family gatherings. The discussion explores ageing, social pressure and cultural differences in a natural, unscripted dialogue designed for advanced learners.

Improve your listening with real British English, authentic storytelling and reflective conversation.

📖 Want to improve your English even more?

• Read the full transcript, access vocabulary flashcards and vocabulary trainers for FREE → www.morethanalanguage.com
• Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond
• Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast
• Email your thoughts or questions → oliver@morethanalanguage.com

🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way.

And remember, if this C1/C2 level podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!