By Michelle Crean

Luciano Oliveira came to Killarney to learn English but five years on he has well and truly embedded himself into the community.

Moving here has been life-changing to say the least as he is now a well-known face at Killarney Racecourse after taking over the running of Nave Cafe which he has since renamed Iguana Cafe.

"I came here to learn English," Luciano told the Killarney Advertiser. "Even though I couldn't speak English, people were very patient. The plan was to stay two years and then travel to Australia and New Zealand."

The Brazilian met his Polish wife Barbara, a GP, set up home in Firies and the couple have since had two children.

He previously worked in Nave Cafe for Adrian and Elaine and was looking to set up his own coffee business when he heard they were looking for a change in direction.

"The transition was very smooth," Luciano, who employs eight staff part-time, said.

He added that he has been warmly received since taking over the cafe.

"We're very busy. We get good passing trade from the new footpath linked with Muckross. People come here also as we have a free car park which is very large."

And he has a love of Killarney too especially, he says, the scenery outside the window of the cafe which looks out onto the racecourse and the mountains.

Iguana is open seven days a week to the public from 8am to 5pm serving tea, coffee, iced-drinks, soup and toasted sandwiches and offers vegan and gluten free options.