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Australia

48 hours in: Adelaide

The article is written by Taryn Feldmann

Adelaide, South Australia is known as one of the smallest and quietest cities in Australia but there’s still many exciting things to do and beautiful things to see. The beaches and the hills (known as the Adelaide Hills).

Need a quiet relaxing holiday before returning to the stressful and busy life of studying, Adelaide will be the perfect destination to spend 48 hours in. As it’s a short period of time, here are our top things to do:

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Glenelg Beach

There are many beaches in Adelaide but Glenelg is the favourite hang out spot. Why? Well, before the beachfront, you can walk along the walkway filled with shops and cafés. As you walk, you can listen to musicians and before hitting the beach, have an ice cream to quench your hunger and thirst.

You can take a long walk along the beach and there are many spots to sit on the grass or on a bench for a break. Want to exercise there’s a volleyball net set up on the sand.

There’s many to do here and it’ll be a fun way to spend your day.

Directions to Glenelg Beach

It is 12 km from the city but doesn’t be disheartened, as you can take a tram from the city centre all the way to Glenelg. Get on at Tram Rundle Mall (Stop Code: 18514) and it’ll stop at 17 Moseley Square (Stop Code: 18537), which is at the centre of all the shops and cafés. The journey will take about 40 minutes.

Rundle Mall

Rundle Mall is a long straight stretch of a walkway filled with shops, but what makes this mall so famous is the art.
As you walk, you’ll see two pig statues and the most famous, the Rundle Mall Balls. There are two shiny, silver balls resting on top of one another. Many tourists like to snap selfies, so take a selfie in front of these iconic Adelaide landmarks and post it on all your social media sites.

Directions to Rundle Mall

It’s located in Adelaide’s city centre and super easy to get to. All you need to do is find Rundle street.

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Adelaide Hills and Wineries

Adelaide is famous for its wineries. Want a peaceful day out away from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Adelaide Hills is the perfect place.

There are many small country towns in the hills but we’ll focus on the two, which are iconic for tourists:

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Barossa Valley

This is a must-see, as all the wineries are located here. There’s also plenty to see, rolling hills and rows and rows of growing vines.

Stop off at some wineries, take a tour of the vines and learn about its history. Yes, it’ll be all about wine, but this is a hot spot to visit and the scenery alone makes the trip worth it.

Directions to Barossa Valley

Unfortunately, you can’t take public transport but there are many tour buses. We recommend a bus tour, as you will learn more and you won’t get lost. All you need to do is catch the bus in the city. All information will be available on their websites.

Helpful links: https://tastethebarossa.com.au/, http://www.bumsonseats.com.au/, https://trailhopper.com.au/

Hahndorf

Hahndorf is a small town with a German theme. Every day, this town, filled with shops and restaurants is teeming with people (mainly tourists). Everyone that comes to Adelaide visits Hahndorf, as it’s an iconic town due to its charm and hospitability.

You can buy collectables of famous Australian animals, sweets, chocolates, and candles. After a few hours of browsing or shopping, go to one of the many restaurants and have an iconic German meal; sausage, pretzel, and Sauerkraut.

For fun, there’s a German family cardboard set up without faces. Put your face where their faces are meant to be and take endless selfies.

Directions to Hahndorf

Luckily, you can take a bus. Just walk to stop F1 Grenfell Street (Northside) and take the 864F bus to stop 55 Mt Barker Rd (Eastside).

Bus timetable and directions, click this link.

For more great tips and tricks on being an international student living in Australia, visit Study Anywhere

5 things You Need to Know About Switching from a Work and Holiday Visa to a Student Visa in Australia 

One or two years not long enough for you in Australia? No worries! Here’s all you need to know if you want to study in the land down under.

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1. Is it better to apply onshore or offshore? 

Long story short: Onshore if you can, although the application might be a bit more expensive.

At the moment, a standard single Student Visa application fee is $560 plus a credit card surcharge (that’s the fee that the Immigration charges, Study Anywhere won’t charge you anything extra). But, if this isn’t the first time you’ve applied, you will also be charged $700 on top of that by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection.

Typically, if you are switching from the second year of Work and Holidays, you will pay $560 + $700 + credit card surcharge.

But before you book that flight to Bali or New Zealand to apply from there, consider this: Most of our Work and Holiday clients still prefer to apply for a Student Visa onshore. Why?

Bridging Visa is your friend. When Student Visa is lodged onshore, the applicant typically receives a Bridging Visa A almost instantly. This allows them to not only stay in Australia but with the same conditions as their current Visa. Essentially, until you hear from the Immigration regarding your Student Visa application, you can work under the same conditions as you have on your Work and Holiday Visa. How neat is that!
Last minute lodgment is possible. If you are running out of time and your Work and Holiday is about to expire in a few days, we probably can still make it.
Waiting offshore could be frustrating. Itʼs hard to know how long it will take for the Immigration to let you know about your Student Visa application. And while drinking smoothies in Seminyak might sound like the perfect way to kill some time, your holiday could be longer than you would like it to be while you wait to hear from Immigration. So mindful exercises in Ubud wonʼt be helping that much if your bank account is getting slimmer every day.
If something goes really wrong. Should your onshore student visa get refused you have the option to appeal this decision with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). When you are applying offshore, you donʼt have this option.

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2. Not everyone can apply onshore

 If youʼd like to apply onshore, you need to check your current Visa conditions. Just find your current Visa in your e-mail, and check if you have or don’t have ‘No further stayʼ listed among your Visa conditions.

If not, happy days! You can apply onshore. If yes, book that flight to Thailand or back home and surprise your parents. Our registered migration agent can lodge your Student Visa application from anywhere.

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3. Your course must start no longer than 8 weeks after your Work and Holiday Visa is about to expire

If you have made a firm decision and would like to apply for your Student Visa onshore, you can get into the course selection. Finding and enrolling in a course is pretty easy with the Study Anywhere platform and you can always send us a message if you have any specific requirements.

There is just one thing to keep in mind: make sure your course will start no longer than 8 weeks after your current Visa is about to expire.

Before you start searching for courses that commence exactly 8 weeks after your current Work and Holiday Visa expires, consider this: In the case your onshore application for a Student Visa gets approved really quickly (which doesnʼt happen very often) and your course has not commenced yet, you are not allowed work at all because the work permit on a Student Visa only starts when your course has started.

Not a situation you would like to be in, right?

Applying for a course that starts within 4 weeks after your Work and Holiday Visa expires, is usually the best option.

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4. How expensive it really is to study in Australia?

 Long story short: It can be really expensive but it doesn’t have to be.

Majority of our Work and Holiday clients who are applying for a Student Visa pick a course from a sector that is called Vocational Education and Training (VET): Certificates, Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas…

These courses are usually much more affordable than universities and much more flexible with the attendance. You can find your ideal course via Study Anywhere, see the reviews and apply to get the free Visa assistance by the migration lawyer.

All the courses listed on the page are part of CRICOS, which is a must for a Student Visa application.

The most popular courses for people switching from Work and Holiday Visa are Leadership and Management, Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Travel and Tourism, Event Management, and Early Childhood Education and Care (eligible for a Graduate visa).

Some of these courses only cost around $1,350 every three months and would allow you to study and to apply for a Student Visa for up to 4 years.

The minimum upfront payment for a course would be somewhere around $1,550 ($1,350 + $200 enrolment fee).

Then you just need to take in account that you will need an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to be able to apply for a Student Visa in Australia which cost around $500 for a 1-year policy when we wrote this. Prices have gone up since, so check today’s cheapest OSHC prices before you budget.

Only some applicants from Sweden, Belgium and Norway donʼt need to get an OSHC to be able to apply for a Student Visa. Feel free to send us a message for a free quote so you can see the full breakdown of costs you need to expect when transitioning from the Work and Holiday to a Student Visa.

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5. Myth busted: ‘You can only work 20 hours per week on a Student Visaʼ

Long story short: There is a work limitation, but in some cases, you can work more.

This is where people often get it wrong. Australian Student Visa will let you work up to 40 hours fortnightly (e.g. you can work 20 hours one week and 20 hours the next week) when your course is on. What people often forget though, is that during the holidays you can work unlimited hours, which is when students usually try to save up some money. Most of the VET courses have up to 16 weeks of holidays per year to give students the opportunity to work and travel.

Please note: This article is an observation of questions that our Work and Holiday applicants usually have and answers our migration lawyer gives them. Feel free to send us a message or an e-mail (hello@studyanywhere.com.au) if youʼd like to get a migration law advice from a registered migration agent.

How to Spend New Years Eve in Sydney

The article is written by Loren Howarth

With 2017 almost over (the years just seem to go quicker and quicker!), it’s time to start thinking about how you want to bring in the New Year. But with so many celebrations happening across the city, it can be hard to put together a list of what to see and do. Don’t worry! We’ve done all the work for you, with some must-see events as well as the top spots to see the fireworks. Let’s welcome 2018 in style!

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Celebrate at Barangaroo Reserve

For just $40 a ticket per person, you and your friends can bring in the New Year in style. From 6pm, you will be able to access the park, lay down a picnic blanket and secure a great spot to watch the fireworks. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy the delicious food options available, from freshly shucked oysters to smoking burgers and ribs. The event is limited to 10,000 people, so book in quick to avoid missing out!

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Party into 2018 at Victoria Park

If you want to dance your way into the New Year, look no further than Victoria Park. The Park is hosting a giant garden party with a host of Australian and international performers, including Hot Dub Time Machine, Tiga, and an aerobics set from Retrosweat. With gourmet food available, music, and an epic view of the city’s skyline and fireworks, this is perfect if you’re looking for a fun night out! Tickets are also reasonable at just $79 per person.

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Scoring the Best Fireworks Spot

If this will be the only time you’ll be in Sydney for New Year’s Eve, then you definitely should try and get a good spot to watch the fireworks. But it isn’t as easy as it sounds because everyone else has the same idea. For the ultimate viewing spot, try and get down to the area in front of the Bridge and Opera House. There is a maximum capacity set for this area, and so once it starts looking full it will be closed off. So try and get there around 12pm, and although this seems like a long wait, it will be totally worth it.

Here are some other great spots which you can visit for free:

Birchgrove Park
Bradfield Park
Campbells Cove
Cremorne Point
Duff Reserve

Tip: Before arriving, bring along a picnic blanket as well as heaps of snacks and drinks to share with your friends! However, some locations prohibit BYO drinks, so always check in advance.

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Throw your own party!

If you don’t want to spend the night out in Sydney, then why not throw your own New Years Eve party? You can start up a BBQ, play some music, and have the TV on for the 9pm fireworks and then also the midnight ones. This way you can save money, avoid the busy city crowds, and bring in the new year the way you want to!

48 HOURS IN: WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

The article is written by Candice Locklee

If you find yourself spending your study breaks wishing you were relaxing beneath swaying palms on white sandy beaches and snorkelling the kind of blue water that dreams are made of? We’ve got the perfect solution for you. Grab your sunscreen and a pair of thongs and hop on a plane to paradise, AKA The Whitsunday Islands.

Located off the central coast of Queensland about 900km north of Brisbane, the Whitsunday Islands are a chain of 74 tropical islands of varying sizes that boast stunning beaches, dense rainforests, rocky mountains and a range of world-famous destinations, including being home to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

The area is renowned for its limitless opportunities to swim, snorkel, dive, cruise and sight-see your way across the islands no matter what budget you’re travelling on.

It’s the perfect place to spend a much-deserved break this summer. Here’s our helpful guide on how to get the most out of 48 hours in the Whitsunday Islands.

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SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is a must-do activity when visiting the Whitsundays. With the Great Barrier Reef stretching over 2000km along the coast of Queensland, the Whitsundays is located near the centre of this natural beauty and they are the perfect place to explore this underwater wonderland of coral and marine life.

There are many snorkelling spots all over the islands that you can dive into, but we’ve collected a handful of the best ones for you to try out.

Hook Island is a popular island for snorkelling and diving due to its abundance of stunning coral reefs and sea animals, including fish, turtles, dolphins, manta rays and humpback whales. It’s full of bays and coves that are perfect for dipping into the pristine water. Some of the best are Manta Ray Bay (where you can spot Manta Rays in their natural habitat from around May to September), Butterfly Bay (famous for its colonies of beautiful butterflies during certain months of the year as well as its spectacular underwater world), Luncheon Bay (which offers a huge variety of coral and reef fish) and the Pinnacles.

Other popular spots for snorkelling are Blue Pearl Bay on Hayman Island and Cateran Bay on Border Island, both relatively shallow reefs full of striking coral and marine life which make them perfect for underwater exploring.

BEACHES

It goes without saying that the beaches in the Whitsunday Islands are the best you’ll find in this country. It’s almost impossible to pick a beach that isn’t Instagram worthy, but we’ve gathered together some of the ones that will really make your jaw drop.

Whitsunday Island, the largest island in the Whitsundays, is home to the world famous Whitehaven Beach. If you haven’t seen any pictures of this dreamy destination, go ahead and google it. We’ll wait. Whitehaven Beach is a glorious 7km stretch of powdery white sand (among the whitest sand you’ll find in the world) and endless aqua sea that swirl together in amazing natural patterns as the pure sand shifts through the water.

You can see this at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach at a place called Hill Inlet.

Another beach worth checking out is Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island. With its long stretch of white sand and swaying palms, it’s a popular spot for weddings and offers plenty of spots for relaxing and water sports.

Horseshoe Bay in Bowen is in the northernmost part of the Whitsundays. With picturesque beaches and opportunities for snorkelling, it’s worth the journey up there.

For a bit more privacy, Chalkies Beach on Haselwood Island is a neglected paradise that lies opposite the more popular Whitehaven. With the same white silica sand and aqua water, Chalkies is just as photogenic without all of the tourists getting in the way of the perfect shot.

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HIKING

While there’s plenty to do underwater, there’s also no shortage of fun things to do on land too. The Whitsunday Islands is a national park that features lush rainforests, hills and mountain ranges, dense bushland and waterfalls for you to explore on foot.

They are home to many hiking trails that range from short 1km strolls to lengthy bush treks for a real challenge. The Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail is considered one of Queensland’s Great Walks and it features many of these bush walks on Whitsunday, Hook and South Molle Islands. The walks will take you through beaches, eucalypt forests, rainforests and grasslands, with many ending in spectacular views over the island and beyond.

Some of the best ones to try are Passage Peak trail on Hamilton Island (for those spectacular views we mentioned), the Great Whitsunday Walk (a crazy 28km trek that has many smaller trails leading off of it so you can pick and choose your starting point) and the Honeyeater Walk on the mainland (a very popular 8km return bushwalk that begins in Airlie Beach and boasts some of the most spectacular views over the entire Whitsunday Islands).

Keswick Island and Lindeman Island also offer some great options for walking through green rainforests, as well as any of the diverse trails on Long Island.

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CAMPING

If you’re after a true wilderness experience that you can brag to all of your friends about when you get home, camping under the stars is a great way to go.

Camping is available at a number of different locations around the islands: Whitsunday Island, Hook Island and the Molle Islands being among the most popular. Some campsites are located on the beach so you can wake up to your very own glorious sunrise, others are situated further back in the bush which is a great option if you prefer a bit more shade during the warmer months.

Wildlife and nature are all around you and there are countless opportunities to spot native animals on the many walking trails on the islands.

While some campsites offer eco-toilets and picnic tables, others are more remote for a true camping experience. You won’t find toilets, drinking water or reception at these sites so make sure you prepare beforehand!

If you decide camping is for you, visit the Queensland National Parks Booking Service to select your location and dates and get your camping permit: https://qpws.usedirect.com/qpws/

Once you’ve booked your spot, check out this website for great prices that will give you everything you need to start your adventure: https://www.whitsundaycamping.com.au/ They offer camping kits to set you up with all the necessary equipment, such as tents, gas stoves and an esky, as well as return transfers on a water taxi to your chosen site starting at $65.

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HELPFUL LINKS

To plan your trip, we suggest checking out this link for some great deals on tour packages to suit any budget. Tours are a fantastic way to see the islands and you can pick one that includes everything you have your heart set on doing while there. They even offer backpacker and student deals, so you can grab your friends and head off for a party in paradise you’ll never forget!

Be sure to also download the Visitor Guide which is packed full of important information on everything you can see and do on the land and under the water, including detailed info on all hiking trails in the area.

For more great tips and tricks on being an international student living in Australia, visit Study Anywhere

5 CHRISTMAS MUSTS

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

While studying and living here in Australia you will find that us Aussies love Christmas time. So we’ve come up with a few things you must see and do while spending the jolly season down under.

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Christmas Decorations and Lights

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, you’ll see the shops become filled with decorations and lights for your home. If you’re feeling in the Christmas spirit already then go ahead and decorate your house and home with pretty, colourful lights and be sure to hang a wreath on your door.

Tip: You can find great, inexpensive decorations and lights from stores such as Kmart, Big W, and Target.

Another Christmas must is to grab a few friends and go Christmas light looking in your local suburbs! You’ll find that some people go all out and cover their houses from top to bottom in bright lights.

Tip2: Head online to Christmas Light Search to find the best displays near you.

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Christmas Tree

Here in Australia, it is a tradition that we put our Christmas Trees up on the 1st of December and leave both our trees and lights up until the 1st of January. Decorating your tree can be super fun to do with your housemates and friends and really gets you into the spirit of Christmas.

Tip: Put on some Christmas carols so you and your friends can dance and sing-a-long while you decorate.

Tip2: You can also experience the magic of Christmas at the Martin Place Christmas tree in Sydney, where you will find a huge tree that will light up Martin Place from dusk till 1:00 in the morning starting on Saturday 25th November 2017.

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Christmas Carols

One of the best things about Christmas time is Christmas carols! These definitely a must for a jolly season and you can experience them first hand, singing with Australian stars at the annual Woolworths Carols in the Domain 2017.

Tip: Bring all your friends and pack some nibbles and a picnic rug. You’ll have a great night out under the stars singing along to some great Christmas classics.

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Pavlova

Pavlova is a meringue-based dessert topped with cream and fresh fruit and extremely popular at Christmas time. Pavlova is a D.I.Y dessert meaning you can top your pavlova with anything such as berries, mangoes, kiwi fruit, peaches, and passionfruit. There has been a long debate as to whether the Pavlova is originally an Australian or a New Zealand creation but who cares? The main thing is that it tastes absolutely delicious!

Tip: You can purchase all your ingredients for a Pavlova at your nearest Coles or Woolworths. Check out this simple and easy recipe on how to make your own Pavlova.

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Aussie Christmas Day BBQ

If you’re unsure of how you want to spend Christmas Day then having an Aussie BBQ is the best way to go! Just gather around with friends and/or family and cook up a giant feast. It’s always good to cook some chicken, prawns, sausages, and steak on a BBQ. Having a range of food is always good especially if you want to eat yourself into a food coma.

Tip: A BBQ is always best accompanied by some alcohol such as beers, light spirits, and wines. Be sure to make some summery garden salads which will go down nicely with your meal as well.

Gathering around with friends and food to celebrate Christmas is a great way to sit back and relax, to enjoy the company of others. Be sure to have nibbled on the table such as crackers, cheese, and salami and finish off with a Pavlova for dessert.

Tip2: Learn how to make the perfect cheese board platter here to entertain your guests.

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Study Anywhere wish you MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! MAY ALL THE DREAMS COME TRUE.!

SYDNEY ATTRACTIONS YOU NEED TO VISIT

The article is written by Loren Howarth

There is so much to see and do in Sydney, and the seemingly endless range of possibilities can be a bit overwhelming. But if you’re planning to visit sometime soon, there are some iconic attractions which are a must see. So we’ve put together a list of some of our favourite spots to check out. And best of all, visiting these locations won’t send you broke!

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Sydney Harbour Bridge

You might have seen the Sydney Harbour Bridge in pictures, but in real life, this Australian landmark is even more impressive. The bridge is the world’s tallest steel arch bridge and runs across the Sydney Harbour carrying rail, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic. You can walk across the bridge and get amazing harbour views, or if you want to an experience a once in a lifetime opportunity, you can also climb the bridge. But it will set you back a couple of hundred dollars.

Fun fact: The bridge is nicknamed “The Coathanger” because of its arch-based design.

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Sydney Opera House

Along with the Harbour Bridge, there’s no doubt you would have also seen the Sydney Opera House. This multi-venue performing arts centre is one of the 20^th century’s most famous and distinctive buildings and is also the land down under’s most recognisable. You can view this architectural icon from the air, from a ferry, or even get a closer look on foot. If you’re interested in seeing a performance, there are several which run throughout the year.

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Queen Victoria Building

A real gem of Sydney, the Queen Victoria Building (known as QVB for locals) is a late nineteenth-century building which retains historical charm in an area filled with modern skyscrapers. A number of shops now occupy the premise, but even if you don’t spend, this is one unique shopping experience. And be sure to head up to Level 3 on the hour to watch the building’s clock chime!

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Luna Park

With free entry, Luna Park is certainly something to check out. The amusement park has heaps of fun rides from a Ferris Wheel which overlooks the Sydney Harbour, to more thrill-seeking ones such as the Tumble Bug. If an attraction catches your eye, you can buy single tickets or there are unlimited ride passes available.

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Bondi Beach

Our list would be incomplete if we didn’t include one of the most famous beaches in Australia: Bondi Beach. This is one of the most beautiful beaches with great sand and strikingly clean water, all while sitting close to the largest population centre in the country. Although the beach can get quite busy due to its reputation, this is a must-see attraction. And don’t forget to slip, slop, slap!

Hint: At the southern end of the beach, is the Bondi Icebergs Pool which is the most photographed ocean pool in the country, so don’t forget to check it out!

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Sydney Tower Eye

This is Sydney’s equivalent of New York’s Empire State Building, offering magical 360-degree views of the city. It is only $26.50 to be 250 metres above ground level in the heart of Sydney, with binoculars also available at the top of the tower free of charge, as well as a bonus 4-D show which is included in the ticket price.

Hint: The tower was formerly known as Centrepoint Tower, and many people still call it this. So if someone refers to the Centrepoint Tower, they are referring to Sydney Tower Eye.

TIPS AND TRICKS WHEN IT COMES TO SAVING MONEY

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Living and studying abroad is not always cheap. Sometimes you might find it hard to be saving a bit of extra cash in your pocket. When there is constantly payments going out of your bank that you require living comfortably, it can sometimes be a struggle. To help you out we’ve come up with a few handy tips that might be worth your while when it comes to saving money and smarter shopping. One of the easiest savings happens before you even arrive: every basic OSHC policy meets the visa requirement, so compare OSHC prices and buy the cheapest cover.

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Money Boxes
Now it might sound like a thing you would have done when you were a little kid trying to save some pocket money, but having a money box is actually a really fun and effective way to save those dollars. Simply find an old jar or you can purchase a cheap money tin from a discount store. You can decorate your money box however you desire, and the best way to make sure you don’t go picking out those unnecessary dollars from your savings is to put a little lock on there and hide the key in a special spot. Any spare change you have, just keep putting it in your money box. You will be surprised how much you can actually save over time from this little trick.

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Smart Shopping
Sometimes when you are doing your regular grocery shopping you will find that things can be quite expensive. Not to worry though, because there is an easy solution to finding bargains on the shelves. Check out the best places to shop below:

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ALDI

If you are someone who loves bargains then you should definitely give shopping at ALDI a good go! ALDI is a discount supermarket and offers you with smarter shopping, giving you high-quality items at the lowest possible prices. That’s definitely what you want to hear!

Tip: Not only will you find cheap groceries here, ALDI also offers some great outdoor equipment, clothing, and other accessories, including household items.

Coles
If you like reduced prices then a trip to Coles later at night is for you! Coles usually have marked down salads, sweets, and savouries of a night time and this is a really great way to stock up for those late night nibbles you get.

Tip: If you are going to stock up on these insanely good treats for an insanely good price, just be sure to remember that the expiry dates on them are fast approaching. They usually last a day or two before you have to throw them out, which is why they become reduced in the first place. Just remember to shop smart!

Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are another great way to find cheap goodies. Most areas hold regular farmers markets on weekends. Here you can find farm fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables, as well as local wines and other delicious goodies, all for a great price.

Tip: If you are up for it, traveling around to different farmers markets in different areas could turn into a great day trip, so be sure to bring a few friends along for some market shopping fun!

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Extra Tips

If you’re living in shared accommodation, sharing bills as well as paying for groceries is an effective way to keep living comfortably on a budget. Be sure to split grocery bills equally to ensure there is fairness for everyone.

If you ever feel the need to grab dollars out of your money box be sure to evaluate whether you really need the money or if it is just for something you want. Only break into your money box if there is an emergency need for some cash.

When shopping at Coles or Woolworths buying the no-frills brands which are the brands provided by the companies can actually be cheaper than buying big brand name products. It’s always best to compare prices when shopping in supermarkets.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DRIVING IN AUSTRALIA

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

When making the decision to move overseas to study, you will find yourself making lots of plans and decisions. It can get hectic organizing your things and ensuring you have all that you need while studying abroad. One of these things is knowing what to expect when it comes to driving a motor vehicle in a different country other than your own. To make it easier, we’ve come up with a few handy tips that could help you out when it comes driving while living and studying here in Australia.

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Getting your International Drivers Licence

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is proof that you hold a valid drivers license in your home country. Most countries require you to have one so you can legally drive a car or ride a motorbike, it also comes in handy if you need to rent a car.

In Australia, driving regulations differ from state to state because some states require that you carry an international license along with your current license from your home country. Other states request you carry your current foreign license together with an English translation of your license.

Tip: Here you can check the state you’re living in Australia (for example, NSW) and find out which laws relate to having an overseas license in that location.

Drivers in Australia require a valid driver’s license. You can drive with a foreign (English language) license for three months. But if you are here for longer than that, you need to get a license from an Australian state.

Tip2: If your license is not in English, you’ll need to get an International Driving Permit from the Automobile Association in your home country before coming to Australia.

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Finding yourself a cheap car

While living here in Australia it can be a bit hard to get around with no car, especially if you’re wanting to head out on your own for an adventure or simply drive to the shops. Rather than catching public transport, a car might be the easier option for you, depending on your budget of course.

There are heaps of ways to find a cheap car, including online sites such as Car Sales where you’ll find new cars and used cars and prices ranging from $2000 to $30 000 and are posted regularly. Everyday people and car yards post cars on this site to be sold, so even if you don’t find something that catches your eye immediately, just keep refreshing.

Thanks to the evolution of social media, Facebook is another great way to connect and find yourself a cheap car on buy, swap and sell sites. Wherever you are living, be sure to join the available groups in your location. People are always posting their vehicles that they’re wanting to sell. You could even post that you’re looking for a cheap car to run around in. You’ll be surprised by the power of social media.

Tip: Social media like many things in life, can be a risky business so be sure to take someone with you if you plan on going to look at a car. Never go by yourself.

Tips for driving on Australian roads

Australia is a large and beautiful country and usually, it takes long distances to get between different towns especially away from the city. It is important when driving long distances to Stop Revive Survive every 2 hours.

Here in Australia we drive on the left-hand side of the road and use the metric system of distances and speeds. Speed limits are clearly sign-posted and you will find that 50km/h is the speed limit that applies in suburban areas. School zones are also something to watch out for between the hours of 8-9:30am and 2:30-4pm where 40km/h is the limit. If you succeed the speed limit you will find yourself in trouble with the law as speeding is an offense.

Australian cars are right-hand drive, with automatic and manual transmission both available.

While travelling away from the city you will see signs of Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, possums, and wombats. It is important, especially at night to keep your eyes peeled for these furry friends out on the roads. Here in Australia, we share our home with these animals too. Hitting a kangaroo can cause some serious damage not only to them but to your safety and car too. So always drive carefully!

Tip: For more tips on driving while here in Australia head to TripAdvisor.

How to settle into Australian life

The article is written by Loren Howarth

Moving overseas for study can be daunting, especially if you’ve never visited the country before. And if you’re coming to Australia, you’ll soon find out that this place is full of surprises, with unique slang and foods you’ve probably never heard about (or heard about for the wrong reasons, we’re looking at you Vegemite). But don’t freak out! We’re here to put your mind at ease and help you settle in the land down under.

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Adopt the “no-worries” attitude

If you didn’t know already, Australians are known for being laid back, and friendly people. Often when things don’t go their way, they just simply accept the situation as it is and get on with it. Although this might be hard to adapt to at first, try it out for yourself. Soon enough, you’ll also find yourself more relaxed due to the influencing energy of the people who surround you.

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Learn the lingo

As we said before, Australia is certainly home to some interesting language. Although “crikey” isn’t said as much as you might expect, there are words such as Yewy (U-Turn), Arvo (afternoon), and Esky (Ice cooler) which may leave you thinking that Australians don’t even speak English at all. So become familiar with some of the most used phrases, to make settling in that little bit easier.

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Set aside time to talk to loved ones back home

Settling into a foreign country where you don’t know anyone can be very overwhelming and lonely at first. That’s why it’s important to set aside time each day to connect with family and friends. Although it may be difficult due to the time differences, this is an essential step for you to become more comfortable in your new home.

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Get to know where you live

Before moving to Australia, you might’ve seen the Sydney Harbour on your screen. But there’s so much more to this city and others around the country, which you probably don’t know about. Step outside and take a long walk around, and don’t be worried if you seem lost as you will probably discover some amazing places. Becoming familiar with the area will really help you to become more connected and comfortable.

Sometimes you might wish that you never moved to Australia, but just remember why you decided to in the first place! You did it for a reason, so be sure not to doubt that.

48 HOURS IN: BYRON BAY

The article is written by Candice Locklee

Nestled along the Pacific Ocean about a 45-minute drive south of the Gold Coast airport, the super chilled coastal town of Byron Bay in NSW has earned its reputation as one of Australia’s coolest places to live in the country.

There’s a lot to love about Byron Bay, from the food and the fashion to the iconic beaches and annual festivals held in the area, and it’s the perfect place to escape to for those looking to experience a healthier, alternative Australian lifestyle. While you won’t find massive shopping centres here (or even a McDonalds!), there’s plenty to keep you entertained no matter what time of the year you arrive.

So pack some thongs and sunscreen and let us plan your trip with our guide to spending 48 hours in Byron Bay:

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THE SHOPPING

Byron Bay is a town that calls all free spirits to its shores and it’s safe to say they’ve developed their own unique fashion style that can only be described as beach-bohemian. While you’re bound to come across countless surf shops all over town that stock all your favourite international beachwear brands, it’s the local independent fashion boutiques that really grab your attention and offer something special to stand out in a crowd.

Check out local brands like Spell & the Gypsy Collective and Arnhem Clothing for dreamy collections of summery clothes that embrace that inner hippie and perfectly sum up the breezy-boho vibe of Byron Bay.

If you’re the creative sort, you’re going to want to head to Byron Bay’s Art and Industry Estate, a mini shopping extravaganza for those looking to find something that really showcases the talent of the town’s thriving art community. Walk around the Estate and stumble upon everything from artist galleries, handmade jewellery and accessories, emerging indie fashion designers and a bunch of quirky stuff to really remember your time here. There are also some great healthy cafes that use local, organic produce to serve homemade meals, smoothies, and coffee for whatever mood you’re in.

DIRECTIONS

SPELL BOUTIQUE:

Spell Boutique is located at 15 Browning St, Byron Bay. From Jonson St (Byron Bay’s main shopping street in the heart of town), just walk south towards Carlyle St and make a slight left onto Browning St.

ARNHEM CLOTHING:

Arnhem Clothing is on Lawson St. On Jonson St, head towards the beach and turn right at the roundabout onto Lawson.

ARTS AND INDUSTRY ESTATE:

The Arts and Industry Estate is a walkable district that includes a lot of small streets and hidden gems. Head down Ewingsdale Rd and turn right into Sunrise Boulevard where you can then wander your way all over the maze of boutique shopping and galleries in the area.

Check out this useful PDF of a map of the Estate with highlights

THE BEACHES

No trip to Byron Bay is complete without a visit to one of its famous beaches. Main Beach lives up to its name and is the one you’re most likely to step foot on first. Situated directly in front of the town, Main Beach is a glorious stretch of white sand and glittering ocean, perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkeling or just plain lazing around. The beach is very family-oriented, there are surf lifesavers around in the summer and you can (must!) make the trek up to Cape Byron to visit the iconic Cape Byron Lighthouse that towers over the headland with stunning views of the coastline.

Just next to Main Beach is Clarkes Beach. This beach has some great rocky areas that are perfect for snorkeling. For the adventurous, there are also opportunities for windsurfing, body boarding and paragliding, as well as amazing whale spotting if you arrive at the right time of year.

For all the surfers out there, check out the Pass, a famous gap of water between Fisherman’s Lookout and the headland. This is the most popular surf break on the Northern NSW coast and calls surfers far and wide.

Another must-see beach is Wategos Beach, a sheltered, picturesque beauty of a beach that is fantastic for gathering a group of friends and making use of the BBQs on the site after a full day of soaking up paradise. For a bit more privacy, continue on to Little Wategos Beach situated beneath the Cape Byron Lighthouse.

There are plenty more beaches in the Byron area, both tourist-friendly and hidden, so check this website for more info.

DIRECTIONS

All of the beaches listed here are within an easy walking distance of each other. If you’re in the heart of Byron Bay, just head to the main street in town (Jonson Street), where you’ll find the iconic Beach Hotel at the end of it. From here, Main Beach is easily accessible and stretches into Clarkes Beach, the Pass, and Wategos Beach.

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WHALE WATCHING:

If you’re in town between June and November and want to try spotting some whale-watching, book a tour with one of the many companies offering half and full day tours. This company is a great option.

If you’d rather go solo, you can head up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for free which provides a popular vantage point to spot some whales as they head past the headland. Just don’t forget to bring your binoculars!

THE HEALTHY LIVING

The folks in Byron Bay enjoy a generally healthier way of living and there’s a whole range of activities on offer if you want to try living it up like a local.

Why not try out some surfing lessons? There’s a lot of surfing schools in Byron Bay that can get you up on a board and on the water in no time, no matter what your level of experience. We recommend Soul Surf School. They offer a half day lesson with all equipment included for just $65. Or if you’re really keen, go ahead and book a multi-day pass and learn to surf like a pro.

If you want something a bit more relaxing, take a yoga class. Yoga is huge in Byron Bay and it’s a great way to unwind and put a little balance back into your mind, body, and soul. The Byron Yoga Centre has over 30 yoga classes on offer each week starting at $18 for a casual class, whether you’re an early morning person or late afternooner. Check their schedule for classes.

Of course, you’re going to need to eat during your stay and what better time to try out some healthy options than at one of the many super trendy organic cafes around town? There’s a lot to choose from, so walk around and read menus to find one that really makes you drool. Whether you’re in the mood for a raw vegan cheesecake, a turmeric latte or kombucha on tap, Byron has it all. Check out our top picks: Combi Byron Bay, Folk Café, and The Roadhouse.

DIRECTIONS

COMBI BYRON BAY:

Combi Byron Bay has an amazing assortment of healthy and delicious vegan dishes. Find them on Fletcher St. From Jonson St, turn onto Marvell St and then left onto Fletcher.

FOLK CAFÉ:

Gluten-free, paleo, vegan, vegetarian, raw…you can find it all here at Folk Café with a funky 70s interior design to match. They’re on Sunrise Boulevard, just off Ewingsdale Rd.

THE ROADHOUSE:

The Roadhouse is a popular coffee house and healthy café famous for their wholesome dishes using fresh organic produce. They are located on Bangalow Rd, just 5 minutes from town.

THE FESTIVALS

Byron Bay is home to three of Australia’s most iconic annual music festivals and if you plan your trip ahead of time, you could find yourself in town when one of them is going down.

There’s Bluesfest, Australia’s biggest annual blues and roots music festival, held every year over the Easter weekend that draws huge crowds from all over the country to see the biggest international and local acts around. Then there’s the Falls Festival that comes around at the end of December (without a doubt the coolest way to bring in the new year), and Australia’s favourite winter music festival, Splendour in the Grass.

The best thing about these festivals is that they are spread over multiple days, so it’s the perfect excuse to get yourself a multi-pass ticket and spend a few days camping (or glamping) with friends, lazing in the sun and listening to some scorching tunes.

If surfing is more your thing, Byron Bay also hosts the three-day Byron Bay Surf Festival during the summer. The festival combines surfing with music, art, film, and lifestyle so have some fun and celebrate the surf culture that makes Byron Bay famous.

There’s plenty of other fun festivals in and around the Byron Bay area every year including film, fashion, food, writing, art, and culture. You name it, there’s something for everyone.

Check out their website to stay in the know.

IMPORTANT WEBSITES

http://www.bluesfest.com.au/

https://www.fallsfestival.com/byron-bay/

https://www.splendourinthegrass.com/

http://www.byronbaysurffestival.com.au/

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