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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.

Must see Australian movies

The article is written by Loren Howarth

In Australia, many iconic movies have been produced and a visit down under wouldn’t be complete without seeing some of the most famous ones. So why not have a cozy day indoors, grab some snacks, and see for yourself what these classic flicks have to offer!

Study Anywhere_Crocodile Dundee

Crocodile Dundee (1986)

Inspired by Rodney Ansell who became famous in 1977 after he was stranded in the Northern Territory, Crocodile Dundee is a must see Australian movie. The movie follows an uptight New York journalist who falls in love with rough living bushman Mick Dundee, while she is on an assignment in the Australian outback. You may have heard of the iconic quote, ‘That’s not a knife…THAT’S a knife.’

STUDY ANYWHERE_ The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the desert

The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)

This movie follows two drag queens and a transgender woman as they travel from Sydney to Alice Springs, in a bus they nicknamed ‘Priscilla’, to perform their unique cabaret performance. Along the way, the group encounters several groups and individuals, which creates some problems for the group as they make their way through the outback.

Study Anywhere_Mad Max

Mad Max (1979)

A dystopian action blockbuster, Mad Max introduces us to Max Rockatansky who is a police officer in a future Australia. The country is experiencing societal destruction as a result of war and a necessary supply shortage. Max’s wife and child are murdered by a vicious bike gang, and the lone warrior soon finds himself seeking revenge and helping himself and others in civilization. Definitely, a must see, especially if you’re a science fiction fan!

Study Anywhere_Rabbit Proof Fence

Rabbit Proof Fence (2008)

Rabbit Proof Fence shines a light on the Stolen Generation, which is a period of time in Australian history where the government attempted to ‘breed out’ Aboriginal mixed children. The film replicates a true story of three children who attempt to escape authorities on a 2,400km journey back to their home. You’ll definitely need some tissues for this one!

Study Anywhere_Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek (2005)

Supposedly based on true events, Wolf Creek revolves around an Australian serial killer who despises backpackers in the outback. Three tourists find themselves at the hands of the killer, Mick Taylor, and become his hostages. This horror film will certainly make your skin crawl!

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.

Study Anywhere_Benice

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.

Study Anywhere_Smile

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.

Study Anywhere_Be genuine

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.

Study Anywhere_Be helpful

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.

Study Anywhere_Skip the small talk

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.

Study Anywhere_Listen

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.

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!

Study Anywhere_Kangaroo

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.

Study Anywhere_Koala

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.

Study ANywhere_Rainbow Lorikeet

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!

Study Anywhere_Dingo

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!

Study Anywhere_Quokka

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.

6 tips on how to stay positive over the winter

The article is written by Pamela Choo

Winter is upon us in the land down under, and if you’re the kind of person who can’t function without the sun and warmth (believe me, I feel you), here are some ways you can beat the winter blues and be productive, happy and healthy during the colder months.

Study Anywhere_Stay Active 1. Stay active

This is probably my number one go-to method on keeping your energy levels up when you’re feeling a little down in the dumps. It might be the last thing you want to do, but we all know the benefits of exercise and how it leads your body to release endorphins. Trust me when I say you want to be good buddies with endorphins because they trigger positive feelings and will help you feel heaps better.

It can be the hardest thing to bring yourself to go outside when you’re not a fan of the cold. But you’ll be surprised how a quick run or walk in the mornings will lift your mood. If you don’t want to be active outdoors in the cold, hit the gym or a fitness class. That way you’ll be able to work up a sweat without feeling the chills. When you start exercising, your body will also begin to feel warmer!

Study Anywhere_Have hot food and warm drinks

2. Have hot food and warm drinks

Use this time to treat yourself to comforting foods such as stews, soups, and curries. The other day I got myself a cup of kale and lentil soup for lunch and it instantly warmed me up. Yes, there are healthier options out there if you feel that dishes such as curries can be a little heavy for those with sensitive tummies.

Hot beverages are amazing as well. Nothing like a hot cup of tea on a cold night, or a hot chocolate when you need to satisfy a sweet craving.

Study Anywhere_Try to maintain a healthy diet 3. Try to maintain a healthy diet

It can be easy to indulge a little too much during winter. Reaching for a sweet treat or having more carbohydrate-rich foods is only natural when we need to cope with the cold.

Try to incorporate good nutrients in your diets, such as adding some greens to your stews or a side of salad with every meal. You can also opt to add more protein or good carbohydrates to your meals to fill you up, such as sweet potatoes, chicken, and fish.

Study Anywhere_warm clothing 4. Wear enough warm clothing

When I moved away from home to a colder country when I was a teenager, I struggled with the cold and often felt very down. In hindsight, I realized that a big part of it could have been that I didn’t know how to dress appropriately for the winter.

Everyone copes with the cold differently; some may not be as bothered by it and for others, the cold can affect their daily lives. Your friend may be able to wear a coat and a pair of tights, but you might need more layers than that. Don’t be afraid to bundle up with a couple of extra layers and scarves so that you feel cozy and comfortable when you’re outside in the cold. Better to look a little puffy on the layers than to let the cold get you down.

Study Anywhere_social activities 5. Keep up with social activities

As much as I love staying indoors, having a cup of tea and reading a book on a cold night, I have also found that it’s important to make the effort to meet your friends and family even if you don’t fancy the cold weather. Meeting up with people can lift your spirits (and maybe even distract you from feeling cold), and maintaining your social relationships will make you feel better and happier.

Study Anywhere_do what you love 6. Take up a hobby or engage in something you love

When you have a job, class or activity that you absolutely love, it’ll give you something to look forward to throughout the week. If you love playing music, reading, writing or drawing, make it a point to carve out some time to be creative. Take up a new class in something that you’re interested in. It can also be fun to bring a friend along so that you’ll have good company as well.

Dealing with the winter can be a struggle, for some more so than others, but know that there are ways you can help yourself to feel better. Sometimes it’s about trying different things out and finding ways to cope with it that suits you best. Before you know it, you’ll be a pro! Now, time for a cup of hot peppermint tea…

Five of the best beaches in Queensland

The article is written by Loren Howarth

Even though the winter blues have hit, you can still grasp onto the last rays of sunshine at some of QLD’s most beautiful beaches. And while you don’t have to necessarily go for a surf, beaches are the perfect place to relax, exercise or even to just watch a picturesque sunset. But with 6,973 km of tropical coastline to choose from, the list of beaches to visit seems endless. Here are some of our favorites that will really make your jaw drop.

Study Anywhere_noosa beach

Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast

Noosa Main Beach is one of the very few beaches along Australia’s coastline that faces north. This beach is home to gentle waves and glowing sands, with the famous Hasting Street shopping precinct only a few steps away. And if you’re feeling adventurous, this is also the best spot to take surfing lessons, as the water is calm and life guards are on duty all year round.

Study Anywhere_nudey beach

Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island

Don’t be put off by the name, there are no legal nude beaches in QLD, so it’s perfectly fine for you to leave your clothes on. Although it is a bit of a trek to reach the beach, the 1.8km walk through the dense rainforest is well worth the view, with other lookouts also along the way. And once you’re there, you will think that you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise.

Study Anywhere_Burleigh heads

Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast

Situated between the glamour of the north and the more relaxed vibes of the south, the beach at Burleigh Heads is not one to miss. Although this is one of QLD’s busier beaches in summer, you’ll be sure to find a nice spot on the sand, have a picnic and watch the sun go down behind the skyscrapers which line the coast from Broadbeach to Surfers Paradise.

Study Anywhere_surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise Beach, Surfers Paradise

A visit to QLD would be incomplete if you didn’t stop by to see the famous Surfers Paradise Beach. With rolling waves, high rise buildings and a bustling nightlife only minutes away, this spot has it all. If you are feeling brave you can take a swim, try whale spotting or go for a relaxing walk along this show stopping beach. And don’t forget to take a picture in front of this iconic sign! Best of all, with Study Anywhere you can study right on the beachfront.

Study Anywhere_Whitehaven beach

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands

With sparkling blue waters and irresistibly white sands, Whitehaven Beach is a real show stopper. You can choose to go for a walk along the beach, or better yet, why not see a birdseye view via helicopter? Pack a big lunch, some warm clothes, and your camera to capture once in a lifetime images. You can even camp on the beach if you’re looking for an overnight escape!

Interested in starting a new life in Australia? Why not try it right now and study at one of the coolest cities in Australia. For more information, feel free to contact Study Anywhere.

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