Khabarovsk became home for an Englishman (VIDEO)
British-born Nick Luka Darlison traded astrophysics for English teaching and life in the Russian Far East. Here is how he found his true home and a soulmate in Khabarovsk.
Nick Luka Darlison, a British—born astrophysicist by training, suddenly found himself in Russia. At first, he came to St. Petersburg as a tourist, not expecting to stay forever. Barely knowing Russian, he began learning the language during the pandemic and today he reads and writes confidently, although he is still embarrassed by mistakes in his speech. His love for Russia and its people changed his initial plans to return to the UK or go to live in Japan.
Later, Nick moved to the Far East, to Khabarovsk. At first, the city was a bit disappointing. But the land, the atmosphere and most importantly meeting with his future wife Alexandra in English class changed everything. Their relationship developed rapidly: a year later they got married with the ceremony at the Transfiguration Cathedral. For Nick, this big decision was not just a personal happiness, but a sign of fate.
Today, Nick teaches English and his schedule is full. He has no plans to work in his scientific field: it is difficult to find any positions for an astrophysicist in Russia. But he fell in love with the Russian way of life, especially family gatherings and spending time outside the city to barbecue. Despite all the rapid changes, Nick feels very much at home in Khabarovsk!
