I visited the Gold Coast, Australia, for the first time in a long while to see a friend who lives there. I rode the tram, which only cost 50 cents per ride. The hostel I stayed at was very affordable and filled with backpackers from all over the world. I had a great conversation in English with people from Spain, Chile, and Vietnam. People were always smiling, making it easy to start conversations. I also took part in a free English conversation circle held at a local church and library. For sightseeing, I took a cruise along the Nerang River, where I saw jet skis, luxury cruisers, and impressive skyscrapers lining the riverbanks. I also visited a nature park, saw peacocks, and went to the Home of the Arts, a centre for art and entertainment. Overall, it was a really enjoyable one-week trip.    (143 words)

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