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How studying abroad can broaden your thinking

The article is written by Pamela Choo

Studying abroad can be a great investment as it can broaden your perspective simply by immersing yourself in a different environment and culture. If you’re considering studying abroad, read on for more reasons why you should take the opportunity to do so.

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Making friends from different parts of the world

One of the perks of studying abroad is the new friends you’ll make from various countries. There are usually international student events or societies that you can be involved in, allowing you to meet people from different backgrounds. The friends you make while studying abroad become your second family, and they can turn into lifelong friendships.

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Becoming more open-minded

Studying abroad can also make you more open to different ways of thinking. When you’re mostly in the comforts of home, you’ll be less exposed to other kinds of cultures. However, when you’re living abroad, you’ll be more likely to come across situations or conversations with others that can open your mind to different opinions and lifestyles.

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Learning to be independent

You can also grow to become more independent when you live away from home. This is because you’ll have to fend for yourself such as buying your own groceries, taking care of yourself when you’re feeling ill and keeping up with university classes and assessments. You’ll learn more about yourself through being independent, too.

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Travelling more

When you’re studying abroad, you might also be encouraged to travel more. Many international students will take the opportunity to explore the new country they’re in. For instance, visiting different states or checking out the local cafes and bookstores. It’s a great chance to visit new places and to gain new experiences.

The opportunity to study abroad can be a life changing experience as it enables you to experience new cultures as well as to meet people from different parts of the world. It can also broaden your thinking and you’ll be able to develop your own sense of self through living independently.

How to balance study and a social life

The article is written by Loren Howarth

Trying to keep on top of your studies, having a social life, and exploring Australia can be difficult. Although maintaining good grades is important, it is also essential that you have time doing your favourite things and hanging out with friends. Finding this balance can seem daunting, but don’t worry we have you covered with our top tips to have the best of both worlds.

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Plan a weekly schedule

Leaving assessments to the last minute creates unnecessary stress. Instead, create a weekly schedule so you can plan what assessments you need to do. You’ll be able to see how much time is required for each task, also allowing you time to consider what can be left until a later date. This will help you organise your social life as well, as you will be able to work out when you are free to hang out with friends.

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Know your limits

Sometimes trying to balance study and a social life can become a bit tricky, and seem completely overwhelming. This is when you need to look at everything you have planned and see where you can cut back, to ensure you don’t overwork yourself. This can be as simple as taking some breaks during a study or having a night off from doing assessments to go out and have fun with friends. It will ensure you come back refreshed for study with a clear mind, as well as having the social life you deserve.

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Eat at home, but not alone

When you catch up with friends, you don’t have to go out to a cafe and spend money on an unforgettable meal. Instead, why not invite some friends or people in your course over for some lunch? This way you will be fitting in some social time and you can also help each other study. Plus, you’ll have much more fun trying to put a meal together!

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Do one thing every day

For some students, just the thought of studying can send them into a wave of procrastination. Instead, break up your workload into smaller chunks and do bit by bit each day. This is also useful to do if you are struggling to stay on top of your studies. This will also help you to maintain your social life, as you can dedicate time to hanging out with friends. Your list might look something like this:

social: catch up with Samantha
studies: read one chapter of a textbook
studies: write down notes from a reading for another subject
relaxation: watch an episode of a favourite tv show

THE RSA: WHAT IT IS, WHY YOU NEED IT AND HOW YOU GET IT

The article is written by Candice Locklee

One of the first things you should be thinking about when starting your exciting new life in Australia is how to get a job. It can be a stressful time when you’re applying for a job in a foreign country, but there are things you can do to improve your chances.

You may have heard of the term RSA. If you plan on getting a job in the hospitality industry where they serve alcohol to customers, you’ll need to take a short course in RSA training and hold a certificate before you are allowed to work there.

If you’ve never heard of an RSA or just want some more info, read on to find out what exactly an RSA is and why it’s a great idea to get one.

Study Anywhere_What is RSA

WHAT IT IS

RSA stands for Responsible Service of Alcohol. If you plan on working in an environment that sells, serves or supplies alcohol in any form, it is a legal requirement in Australia that you have completed RSA training and hold an RSA certificate. Whether you’re planning on working in a restaurant or a café, a bar or a nightclub – an RSA is essential, even if you’re only cleaning up empty glasses rather than serving customers alcohol directly.

WHY YOU NEED IT

By listing an RSA on your resume, you are giving yourself a much greater chance to secure a job in Australia by opening yourself up to a wider range of opportunities. As the majority of overseas students will find work in the hospitality industry, having an RSA will make it much easier to gain the attention of potential employers and help you get that job you have your eye on.

Aside from being a requirement, RSA training will teach you all about alcohol laws in Australia and instruct you on how to react in any number of situations that can arise in an environment that serves alcohol.

By the end of the course, you will understand important things such as the amount of alcohol in each drink that is served, the amount of alcohol that can safely be served to one individual, and what to do when dealing with someone who has had more drinks than they should. Health and safety rules are essential to know, as are laws such as the times of alcohol service (these are different for each state) and the fines you can be facing for serving alcohol to an intoxicated person.

HOW YOU GET IT

The process of getting an RSA is different for each state and territory in Australia, so it’s a good idea to visit the correct website to check what is required for the area that you plan on working in.

An RSA course can be taken in person or ~~online~~ (excluding Victoria) and can be completed in around 4-6 hours.

Update: Student Visa holders can now only get the RSA certificate at a CRICOS registered school.

Generally, the process requires you to pay a fee and read through the course materials provided to you either online or in a training center. You will then need to pass a test based on your understanding of the material that will be assessed by a registered trainer. Depending on your location, signatures and photo ID may be needed.

Once you pass the test, you can usually have your certificate of completion handed to you on the same day.

Study Anywhere_THINGS TO KNOW about RSA

THINGS TO KNOW

Update: Student Visa holders can now only get the RSA certificate at a CRICOS registered school.

It’s possible to complete the RSA course online and receive your certificate the same day in all states and territories of Australia, excluding Victoria. If you plan on working in Victoria, you’ll have to visit a training center and complete a face-to-face course to get your certificate.

Before you start, check that the service provider is an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) and the course is Nationally Accredited so that your certificate is recognized in Australia.

In NSW, you will need a Photo Competency card in order to work. Similar to a driver license, the Photo Competency card is proof that you completed your RSA training. After you have passed the RSA test, you will be given your RSA Interim Certificate (valid for 90 days) which you can use to start work right away. You must then apply for your Photo Competency card as soon as possible which can be used for up to 5 years.

Here you can request an application form for the RSA course in Sydney or in Gold Coast and Brisbane.

BEST RETAIL EXPERIENCES ON THE GOLD COAST

The article is written by Candice Locklee

If the white sands, rolling waves and endless summers haven’t been enough to lure you here yet, the Gold Coast also boasts some of the best shopping locations in Queensland for tourists and locals alike to indulge in some serious retail therapy.

From designer handbags and high-end fashion to all you could dream at bargain prices, the Gold Coast draws visitors to its shopping centers all year round with a unique and diverse retail experience that is bound to suit any budget.

There’s nothing like buying yourself something nice to feel better and chase away the study blues – you deserve it!

For those days when you wake up with an urge to spend your hard-earned cash, we’ve got five of the best spots on the Gold Coast to keep you shopping all day long.

Study Anywhere_ROBINA TOWN CENTRE

ROBINA TOWN CENTRE

As the second biggest shopping center on the Gold Coast, Robina Town Centre is a great option for an all-day out shopping experience. With over 350 stores, including specialty stores, department stores and supermarkets, two large food courts and an outdoor dining extravaganza known as the Promenade, there’s plenty to keep you busy as you search for that perfect bargain.

Thanks to ongoing developments, Robina has also expanded to include big name international brands such as Zara and the soon-to-open H&M, along with a newly styled eating area called The Kitchens where you can feast on dishes from around the world and enjoy the frequent live cooking demonstrations performed on stage as you dine.

Robina Town Centre is going to keep getting bigger and better as new stores are opened throughout this year and next, so get on down there and pick yourself up something special!

SURFERS PARADISE

As the central heart of the Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise has always been a hotspot for tourists and locals alike. Perfectly situated alongside the iconic beachside, Surfers draws millions of sand and sun loving people from all around the world to its shores each year who want to combine their love of retail with the beach culture that has become synonymous with Gold Coast living.

Pick up cheap souvenirs in one of the many tourist friendly stores throughout the district, browse through countless surf shops and fashion outlets, score a bargain at vintage and second-hand stores and don’t forget to visit the famous Cavill Avenue – the main shopping strip in the city packed full of shopping malls, eateries and fun things to do while in the city. You’re sure to pick up the perfect outfit to hit one of the many clubs you can find in the area.

Study Anywhere_JAMES ST, BURLEIGH HEADS

JAMES ST., BURLEIGH HEADS

When you’re over the crowds at the shopping centers, head on down to Burleigh Heads for a more relaxed and alternative retail experience.

James St. is a popular short one-way street jammed with beachy boutiques and hidden arcades where you can find anything from furniture and homewares, old books, vintage clothes and handbags to scrumptious cafés, health food stores, and artisan bakeries.

The fashion stores on James St. offer visitors something a little different from the popular brands you can get in shopping centers, often at very reasonable prices. Here you’ll find quirky brands and up-and-coming designers who offer designs that stick to the laid back Burleigh fashion code – think bohemian gypsies and Coachella casual – perfect for the chill vibes you’ll get in this area any time of the year.

After you’re done browsing and buying, there’s a great selection of lunch options around Burleigh, including plenty of vegan and organic meals for the health conscious. However, we suggest grabbing some fish and chips, a cold drink and heading for the beach across the road. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day of shopping!

HARBOUR TOWN OUTLET SHOPPING CENTRE

Harbour Town is a must for those looking to buy high-end labels at fantastic bargain prices. Situated at Biggera Waters, Harbour Town is a unique outdoor shopping experience like no other you’ll find on the Gold Coast.

Here you can find big international and local brands that are sold at a fraction of the cost – if you’re lucky you can find items up to 70% off the original retail price in a regular store. There are over 240 outlet stores currently opened at Harbour Town, including Victoria’s Secret, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Hugo Boss, as well as iconic Australian labels such as Oroton, Mimco, and UGG.

There’s also a great selection of dining options available, from restaurants to cafés, and a big cinema complex that offers movies at a cheap rate.

Harbour Town is easily accessed by bus and is only fifteen minutes from the heart of Surfers Paradise – so there’s no excuse for not popping in and grabbing a massive bargain.

Study Anywhere_PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE

PACIFIC FAIR SHOPPING CENTRE

After a huge redevelopment, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre is the largest shopping center on the Gold Coast and it’s easy to spend an entire day here. You’ll find anything from big global brands here, such as H&M, Zara, Sephora, and Uniqlo, to iconic designer labels, to homegrown brands and everything in between.

It’s also good to note that Pacific Fair is a nice looking shopping center. It’s sprawled between two large main indoor centers and an outdoor area that connects the two with plenty of comfy seating and dining areas to relax in between.

There’s a real resort vibe at this shopping center with the numerous fountains, bridges, lighting and tastefully decorated outdoor space – it will make you feel like you’re relaxing by the poolside with a fancy cocktail after a hard day’s work.

There isn’t much you can’t find here and there’s always bound to be a sale going on somewhere for those looking for a bargain. It’s official – Pacific Fair is a retail lover’s dream and your ultimate shopping experience on the Gold Coast.

Would you like to live and enjoy the lifestyle in Gold Coast as an international student? We can help you to find the right school to match the desired lifestyle. Send us a message to receive more information.

This is how you can make friends instantly—wherever you may be

The article is written by Pamela Choo

Making friends can be a hard task for some, especially when you’re in a foreign country. You’re focused on settling in and getting used to the new environment that socialising may not be your first priority. However, making good friends in a new place that you’ll be living in for a while can be pretty vital. It can make your experience living abroad a more positive and memorable one. So here are some tips on how to instantly make friends.

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Be nice

Yes, just be nice. I’m not saying go ahead and be a pushover, but simply be a nice person when you encounter a new human being. Say hi, or compliment them on something you noticed. When you set the intention to be a nice person, you’ll naturally be a magnet to other people.

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Smile. And do it often.

This, I find, is simple yet really effective. If you’re not the smiling type, I suggest trying to practice smiling more often. When you’re at a social event and you meet new people, start with a smile. You’ll find that most times people will smile back and feel more at ease around you. This could also lead to an engaging conversation—you never know! But a smile can be all it takes to make a new friend.

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Be genuine

All these tips won’t really make a difference if you don’t appear genuine. In anything that you do, let your words and actions come from a real place. If you’re going to compliment someone, mean it. If you’re asking someone, ‘how are you?’ genuinely take the time to be interested. Make eye contact with the other person. If you’re looking to make new friends, it’s important to be open to random encounters and to be truly present in them.

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Be helpful

If you see someone who is lost around campus or if someone appears to be ill, take the initiative to help him or her out. It doesn’t have to be a big move. The first step can be asking if he or she needs help with anything. It can be difficult for a person to ask for help, especially if it’s with someone he or she doesn’t know too well. So let them know it’s no trouble and that you’re willing to help!

Study Anywhere_Be lighthearted

Be lighthearted—don’t take yourself too seriously

In the initial stages of getting to know someone new, it can be good to keep things light and to even have some silliness or jokes in the conversation. When you appear lighthearted, it will help the other person to feel more comfortable around you. We all want to be around people who are positive and easy to be around.

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Skip the small talk

At the same time, though, your conversations with someone new doesn’t necessarily have to be revolved around small talk about the weather or how your day went. If you feel comfortable enough, sometimes skipping the small talk can enable you to make new, and possibly more lasting, friends. You can ask them about their backgrounds, their interests and hobbies. You might find that the other person is willing to share simply because you asked.

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Listen

With that, it brings us to the next and final tip, which is the importance of being a good listener. Most of my closest friends are amazing listeners, and I think this is a quality that you can’t find in just anyone. Everyone likes to be heard. And it’s easy to tell when someone isn’t really listening (we’re all guilty of that, am I right?). So being more conscious of listening whenever you’re speaking to a new acquaintance can attract new friendships into your life.

If following all these tips seems a bit daunting, just go with the flow when you meet someone new. The most important thing of all is to be yourself. The kind of person you are attracts the kind of people you become friends with, so just be you. You’ll meet the right people in due time and you might just surprise yourself with the new friendships that you make in a foreign place. They may just be your ‘home’ away from home.

SYDNEY AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION: HOW TO GET FROM HERE TO THERE

This article is written by Candice Locklee

You’ve just arrived in this big, beautiful city and are ready to start your new life in Australia. You get off the plane, pass through customs, collect your luggage and leave the terminal – only to be faced with a whole bunch of options about how to get from the airport into Sydney’s CBD.

In a new country, it can be tricky to find the right choice of transport that will get you to and from the airport without doing too much damage to your budget.

Whether you’ve just landed or are set to leave on your next adventure, we’ve got you covered with the pros and cons of Sydney airport transfer options:

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TRAIN

The Sydney Airport Link train can easily get you from the airport and into Sydney CBD in about 13 minutes. The best thing about this option is that the train runs from both International and Domestic terminals and leaves every 10 minutes – so you won’t be waiting too long if you happen to miss it the first time. It can also take you to over 300 stations in around central Sydney and surrounding suburbs.

If you plan on travelling between the Domestic or International airports and any of the central city stations, a one-way ticket will cost an adult $17.90.

It may not be the cheapest option, but the Airport Link train is fast, super convenient and an easy way to get you where you need to go.

BUS

Catching a bus is a popular choice when you’re short on cash and looking to save some money. The bus that passes through both International and Domestic terminals is the Route 400 bus from Burwood to Bondi Junction and it can get you to and from the Eastern suburbs of Sydney.

While this is a great budget option for those looking to save money, the downside is that the trip takes around an hour to reach the destination as it travels all around the suburbs before reaching the airport.

Sydney buses run on a frequent timetable, so make sure you check the NSW transport website for the most current information on prices and stops – https://transportnsw.info/#/

TAXI AND UBER

Taxis are plentiful at Sydney airport and are an easy option for those looking to step out of the terminal and get to their accommodation without any trouble. A one-way fare from the airport to Sydney CBD will cost you around $45-$55.

Of course, this price can go up or down depending on what time you decide to travel, the traffic and the distance to your final destination. The unpredictable cost of a taxi makes it an option that you should think about before you get in, especially if you’re travelling solo and are unable to split the fare.

A slightly cheaper option is Uber. A one-way fare from the airport to the CBD should cost you around $32-$40 if choosing the low-budget option of UberX or UberAssist.

SHUTTLE

If you’re looking to avoid the trouble of walking with large amounts of luggage strapped to you, a shuttle bus is another great option. The KST Airporter is a popular pickup and drop off service that can take you from the airport to the front door of your accommodation and back again.

There’s a long list of venues around the CBD and surrounding suburbs that KST Airporter can get you to, so all you need to do is select your venue from the list on the website and pay for your ticket online.

Shuttle buses can really take the stress out of getting from here to there. The only potential downside is that you don’t know how long it will take to get to your destination as there could be other people to pick up and drop off around the city before your stop.

A one-way ticket from the CBD to the International airport will cost an adult $14. Visit their website to easily arrange a transfer and purchase your ticket – http://www.kst.com.au/

DON’T FORGET…

Buy an Opal card! As soon as you arrive in Sydney, you need to purchase an Opal card in order to use the public transport system. You can get them from the airport, stations, online and selected venues around the city. Just top up the card with the amount you need and you’re good to go.

TIP

If you’re travelling around Sydney on a Sunday, fares are $2.50 for all Opal customers using the train, bus, ferry and light rail. Check the website for more details – https://www.opal.com.au/

For more great tips and information aimed at international students living in Australia, visit http://studyanywhere.com.au/

The cutest Australian animals you’ll ever see

The article is written by Loren Howarth

Australia has a bad reputation for dangerous and scary animals, but our country is also home to some of the cutest critters you’ve ever seen. And don’t worry, they won’t bite!

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Kangaroo

Although Kangaroos are the largest marsupial in the world, they are one of the cutest Australian animals with their big brown eyes and soft and cuddly coat. This animal is also on the Australian coat of arms, symbolising our country’s progress as they are always moving forward and struggles to move backward due to the unusual shape of their legs and bulky tail. You can meet kangaroos in many zoos around Australia, as well as feed one! So don’t be frightened and make friends with this native.

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Koala

You might have heard of drop bears, which is a hoax revolving around an imaginary animal designed to scare tourists. But have no fear, in the bushland or zoo, you will encounter the cute and cuddly koala! Although they are a bit smelly, it’s impossible to pass up a photo opportunity and a pat with these friendly tree hugging herbivores.

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Rainbow Lorikeet

This friendly parrot is one of the most colorful and beautiful birds in the world, and are native to Australia. Although they spend most of the time in trees eating pollen, nectar, fruit seeds and insects, if you visit a wildlife park and have some bird seed in your hand, you might be lucky enough to have a visitor appear on your hand!

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Dingo

Dingoes are wild canines found in Australia, and unlike dogs, they cannot bark but can only howl. This cute canine has unique paws like hands, meaning they could even turn door knobs. These animals can also be domesticated, although they are harder to train than other dogs due to their independence. But in popular tourist destinations like Fraser Island, these friendly creatures aren’t shy to come up and say hello!

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Quokka

The quokka may just have to be the cutest animal you have ever seen! This cuddly creature is about the size of a cat, with a long skinny tail. Although they are commonly mistaken for rats, there’s no missing their adorable trademark smile. Quokkas are only found in the southwestern part of Australia on the island of Rottnest near Perth.

INTO THE WILD: Adventures Out Of The City

The article is written by Candice Locklee

Living in a city is exciting. There’s always something going on, the shops are open until late and the opportunities to meet new people are endless. But sometimes, you’ll find that some of the best adventures lay outside the city lights where nature is waiting for you to experience all of the many natural wonders that this country has to offer.

The region between South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales boasts a landscape of valleys, mountains, bushland, waterfalls and winding rivers. With a ton of National Parks, World Heritage sites and hiking trails to be explored, you’re spoilt for choice for those days when you’re feeling up for a different kind of adventure.

If you’re ready to leave the city behind and take a break from urban living, escape on a day trip to one of these places:

Study Anywhere_TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN RAINFOREST WALKS

TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN RAINFOREST WALKS

About 45 minutes from the busy Gold Coast, is a pretty little town called Tamborine Mountain that is located in the heart of the spectacular Scenic Rim region. Up in the clouds, you’ll feel like you’re the world away from the city and can easily spend a day enjoying the cafes, country lanes, wineries and peaceful atmosphere.

However, Tamborine Mountain is famous for its rainforests and no visit is complete without taking on one of the many hiking trails available. The Curtis Falls, Palm Grove Circuit, and Witches Falls walks are some of the most popular hiking trails on the mountain that will take you into the heart of the rainforests and surround you with native flora and fauna.

Tamborine Mountain Skywalk also offers the unique experience of being able to walk through the rainforest on bridges that will take you soaring over the top of the tree canopies and Cedar Creek rock-pools.

For those after the view, there’s a number of lookouts to choose from around the mountain that offer panoramic views of the Gold Coast and surrounding valleys – take your camera, the sunsets are spectacular all year round!

THINGS TO KNOW:

There is no general public transport from the Gold Coast to Tamborine Mountain, so be sure to plan ahead and either book a full day tour bus online or arrange your own transportation.

Study Anywhere_MOUNT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK

MOUNT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK

Mount Barney National Park is one of a number of National Parks in this region that showcases the beauty of the Gondwana Rainforests. Listed as a World Heritage area, the ancient Gondwana Rainforests stretch across a vast area in South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales and are home to many plants and animals that are both rare and endangered.

Mount Barney is a true Australian wilderness experience. Hikers are able to take one of the many tracks available and make their own way past rocky mountains, caves, creeks, sweeping valleys and subtropical rainforests.

Camping is common in the Mount Barney region and there are also guided opportunities to take the adventure to the next level by engaging in some rock-climbing, abseiling, lake paddling and horse riding to name a few.

Study Anywhere_NATURAL BRIDGE IN SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

NATURAL BRIDGE IN SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

The Natural Bridge is a popular tourist attraction set in the midst of the Springbrook National Park. After an easy walk through the stunning Gondwana rainforest, you’ll reach the Natural Bridge, a spectacular rock formation formed into the shape of a curved bridge by the powerful force of the waterfall over time.

You can walk down to the cave below and take some great photos of the water and sunlight hitting the green-blue pool beneath the bridge. If you choose to come at night, the cave becomes a wonderland of tiny lights from the many glow worms that have made the cave their home.

Don’t forget to check out the rest of Springbrook National Park while you’re here. There’s a multitude of walking trails, both guided and independent, that range from 300m to 54km in length so you can pick and choose according to your ability.

Study Anywhere_MOUNT WARNING

MOUNT WARNING

As you’re driving over the Queensland border into New South Wales, you may notice a distinctly crooked mountain peak looming on the horizon. Situated between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, Mount Warning has become a popular destination for adventurers looking for something a little more challenging than the average bushwalk.

The Mount Warning trail usually takes about 5 hours and will lead its hikers through some of the most captivating scenery of the region, including thick subtropical rainforest, heath shrublands, palm forests and a short rock scramble towards the top that will end in breathtaking coastal views from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast.

You don’t need to be a pro to take on Mount Warning, but you should be prepared for some strenuous effort. All ages attempt the climb and you’ll be sure to pass fellow hikers along the way that are quick to give you encouragement to the top.

For those who aren’t up for climbing a mountain in their spare time, don’t worry. There’s a number of short, easy walks through the palm forests to enjoy and picnic areas situated around the area for a more relaxing day in the sun.

TIP:

Bring your own water and suitable footwear for climbing.
It’s advised to start this hike early in the morning so that you’ll have plenty of time to hike up, enjoy the view from the top, and make it back down before dark. Visitors should never attempt the mountain in the night as unseen obstacles and uneven ground makes it too dangerous.

Markets you should visit while in Sydney

There is always something going on in Sydney. But if you are want to slow down and just to walk around some areas with some shopping feel, we recommend you to visit one of these markets. Each of them is known for their special atmosphere and specific offers.

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1. Glebe

Glebe markets are for you if you are after some second-hand clothes. This vibrant market located in the heart of Glebe will welcome you with some nice food and music and you will get this little hippie feeling. Once when the sun is up, this is a place where you can hang out all day long. Be ready to negotiate, some of the people love to do it, some not, but it’s always worth to ask for a better price – you never what will the answer be.

The Glebe Markets

When: Every Saturday from 10am to 4pm

Location: Glebe Public School, 9-25 Derwent St

For more info click here

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2. Rozelle

Rozelle known for their Collectors Market are for you if you are looking for a place where you can find anything that you could think of. Very similar to those flea markets in Berlin, where you can walk around and we will bet that you won’t find the same thing twice. This market is all about recycling items, where for someone it can be a trash and for other a total treasure.

Rozelle Collectors Market

When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 3pm

Location: Rozelle Public School, 663 Darling St, Rozelle

For more info click here

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3. Bondi

This cool market brings you everything you can think of from fresh produce to original fashion and jewellery pieces all just steps from most famous Bondi beach.

Bondi Markets

When: Every Sunday from 10am to 4pm

Where: Located in the grounds of Bondi Beach Public School

For more info click here

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4. Paddington

Looking for an edgy fashion scene or emerging artist collections? Well, here you are at the right place. This market located in the middle of Oxford street will surround you with art, fashion and craftsmanship of the local producers.

Paddington Markets

When: Every Saturday from 10am to 4pm

Location: 395 Oxford St, behind the Paddington United Church.

For more info click here

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5. The Rocks

Located in the picturesque area in between Harbour Bridge and Opera House. This market offers you over 200 stalls full of handmade goods, prints, jewellery or delicious international food. Also walking around The Rocks will give you a nice cozy feeling and a little glimpse into a historic part of Sydney.

The Rocks Markets

When: Every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 5pm

Location: Located on Playfair Street, George Street and Jack Mundey Place

For more info click here

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6. Chinatown

Chinese markets, well known among tourists who want to buy cheap souvenirs. You can find all koalas, kangaroos key holders, pens, magnets, tees, just to name few.

Also, it’s worth to have a look in the part where the fruits and veggies are sold. You can find pretty good deals over there. Especially if you go on Sunday afternoon before closing, the stall holders are trying to get rig of the stock so you will be able to shop even cheaper. All you will hear is “One dollar!” deal.

Paddy’s market

When: Wed – Sun 10am-6pm

Location: Market City, Hay St & Thomas Street, Sydney NSW 2000

For more info click here

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7. Kirribilli

Kirribilli Art and Design market combined to Kirribilli Fashion market give you combined forces. Over 100 stalls will offer you vintage, recycled and new fashion, but also accessories, collectibles, and home wares.

The Kirribilli Markets

When: Every second Sunday of the month, 9am to 3pm

Location: Alfred Street and Burton Street, Milsons Point

For more info click here

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8. Fish Market

If you are after something completely different as just arts&crafts, you should definitely go to a fish market. Go there in the morning to experience the real life, taste some wine and baked goods and shop some fresh seafood. And by the way – they do offer the cooking classes for how to prepare the real seafood.

Sydney Fish Market

When: Mon-Sun 7am-4.30pm

Location: Bank St & Pyrmont Bridge Road, Sydney NSW 2009

For more info click here

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9. Farmers Markets

Farmers markets are held pretty much in every bigger area over the weekends. You should definitely look for them if you are interested in fresh and organic produce, vegetables, fruits that come from local farmers.

Which one do you prefer? Let us know in the comment below or tell us about your favourite one!

4 things you should take care of when you arrive in Australia

Your life in Australia is starting…NOW

Finally, the time’s come and you are moving to Australia. All the documentation and visa is set up, you’ve just landed in the new land. You feel all excited for the new life you are going to have, maybe tired and jet lagged after the long flight. And here we go, your new life is starting RIGHT NOW.

What are the first steps you should take? Where to start? What will you need to take care of in terms of documentation?

We recommend you to start as soon as possible to save you some troubles. Here is a little checklist of the things you should think of:

aussie sim
Get an Australian SIM card
To get your Australian phone number is one of the first things you should do. As you start filling up all the documentation and registering your accounts, bills,..everywhere you will be asked for your phone number. There are many mobile operators, it’s good to do some research and compare the offers of different companies to choose the right one for your needs. You will most likely need to go to the nearest shopping area and there will be plenty options to choose from.
Health Insurance
As you are living in Australia, you have to have an access to your health insurance – Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) . Before you have had booked your trip and set up everything, one of the conditions is that you need to have your student health insurance registered before you go. There are several health insurance companies, but their requirements are pretty much the same. Once you arrive in Australia, you need to register for your and ask for your OSHC card.

This card can save you some money if you need to see a doctor or something happens to you.
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Australian Tax File Number

One of the things you will need to register for is your Tax File Number (TFN). This let you to work legally and all your employers will ask you to have this number. With this number you will be recognized as an Australian resident who can work in Australia – but be aware – students are permitted to work 40 hours per 2 weeks. And at the end of the each financial year, you can lodge your tax return (that’s the happy time for those who work on the contract and their employers pay the taxes for them).

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Open a Bank Account

It’s part of the new life in any country you want to live a proper life. Opening a bank account is an important step for being legitimate to get paid at work, pay your bills, accommodation and so much more.

Well, there are always some things you need to take care of when you arrive in Australia, but that’s how it is. Don’t be scared of it, the sooner you do it, the quicker you can enjoy the benefits of the life in Aussie land.

Good luck with everything and for those ones who’s just arrived we wish you smooth transfer from your country to Australia!

Do need any help or you have any questions we are here to help you. Please, feel free to contact us

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