Australia: It's my home, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
While Australia isn't known for it's BJJ or MMA scene, mainly due to our small population and massive distance from the rest of the world, there's actually an enormous amount going on.

With Ronda Rousey scheduled to fight Holly Holm at UFC 193 here in November, it's time to learn why Australia is great for a bit of BJJ tourism.

Sydney has just been named the world's friendliest city, and is home to most of the major teams, as well as quite a few independent gyms. You'll also find large BJJ scenes in the other metropolitan areas around the country, and in many a regional town (come drop into Armidale - we've got great pubs too!).

In terms of competitions, there are also a lot of opportunities: namely the Pan Pacific Champs in October, which are always a huge event.

If you do decide to visit though, keep in mind that the wildlife hates you and wants to kill you - yes, absolutely every animal is out to get you. Might be good to cure any arachnophobia, too:


Don't roll with the wildlife though, they've got that covered themselves:

I know the drop bears koalas aren't very technical grapplers, but they make up for it with heart.

Hope to see you down under soon - it's warm, sunny, friendly, and a great place to learn BJJ (though not quite SoCal or Brazil, I'll admit).
- George