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The article is written by Jane Churchill

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Macca’s Run
This is perhaps the most famous tradition among young Australians. A ‘Macca’s Run’ is a late night ritual where a group of friends head to the nearest McDonalds drive thru (Macca’s). The tradition is so popular that Buzzfeed wrote an article about the 24 Different Ways to Do a Maccas Run.

 

Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
Every Australian has become obsessed with the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. Bunnings Warehouse is Australia’s most popular Hardware & Garden store and every weekend, all year round, a different local charity, club or organisation runs a sausage sizzle (a BBQ). In reality, it’s just a tent where they serve a sausage with a piece of white bread, grilled onions, tomato sauce and a can of soft drink (soda).

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Schoolies
Schoolies is an annual event held on the Gold Coast that attracts year 12 graduates from across the country. It occurs the following week after high school graduation and is basically 7 days of celebrating, drinking and partying with no adult supervision. Many hotels close to the general public during this week to cater for the thousands of ‘schoolies’ in town.

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Drinking Wine in a Bag, also known as, Goon
Goon is the slang term given to wine that comes in a shiny silver plastic bag, commonly known as a ‘Goon Sack.’ It is most popular among teenagers and university students due to its high alcohol percentage and low price. You can drink it straight from the bag and when it’s empty people will blow it up and use it as a pillow. True Story!

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Wearing Thongs Everywhere
Thongs, known to non-Australians as ‘flip-flops,’ are a vital piece of the Australian wardrobe. Australians will wear thongs to a café, to the shopping centre or even to a party. There is a thong hierarchy here, with Havaianas being on the top. A pair of Havaianas can cost between $30.00 and $45.00.

 

Using Chicken salt instead of Regular Salt
Don’t be surprised if you are asked “Would you like regular salt or chicken salt” by a cashier when ordering hot chips. Chicken Salt was originally created for the purpose of seasoning chicken, however, now it is a staple food seasoning at any takeaway restaurant. It contains regular salt and a mixture of different spices and is bright yellow in colour.

 

Calling Ketchup ‘Tomato Sauce’
To the rest of the world, that sweet tomato flavoured condiment is known as Ketchup. But nope, not in Australia. Here, it is simply, “Tomato Sauce.” Ah, but what do you call the sauce that goes with pasta then? Pasta Sauce. Simple.

 

Adding Beetroot to Burgers
On the topic of food, don’t be surprised if you order a burger and it comes with a large slice of beetroot on it. Many Australians would not consider this to be bizarre, but apparently, the rest of the world does!

 

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This article is written by Sachithri Kodagoda

We’ve said goodbye to our wonderful warm autumn and unfortunately welcomed Sydney’s version of winter. While the idea of snuggling up in bed with some soothing scented candles, lots of soft warm blanket and good old Netflix show are quite romantic, the reality of the sunless, rainy days is quite bleak, especially if you get a nasty cold. And let’s be honest, if you get sick during the start of winter do you ever really get better? Here are 5 tips to look after yourself to prevent yourself from falling sick this winter.

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Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet

It is so tempting to indulge yourself in bowls carbs and cheese night after night with a nice cup of hot chocolate to lift your spirits during this dreary season, but your body and immune system will thank you if you stick to the vegetables, protein and fruit during the cold months. Salad truly sounds like a nightmare even more so in winter so why not try a bowl of delicious vegetable soup and some Asian inspired greens recipes. Also, it’s easy to forget to drink water when it gets colder so remember to keep track of your hydration, as hydration helps ease muscle soreness, back stiffness and overall keeps everything running smoothly.

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Keep moving

Ever heard the say “Summer bodies are made in the winter”. Well while this little platitude may or may not be true moving around during winter is extremely beneficial to your physical health and your mental health. If the thought of gym or going for a run makes you want to just snuggle under your covers a little more why not join a dance class, or join your local sports team. That way you’ll be moving around, learning a new skill and be meeting new people, all of which will motivate you to keep moving this winter. A side benefit, of course, is that you could have a rocking fit healthy body for the summer time.

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Practice good hygiene

Having good hygienic habits is always important, but is particularly important during winter to stop yourself from getting those nasty germs. Wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth when coughing, keep your hands off your face and most importantly stay far, far away from sick people.

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Rest

Yes, finally a tip that includes your comfy warm bed! Try and get at least 7 hours of sleep a night, as a lack of sleep can lead to a weaker immune system and make your body more prone to getting those foul little viruses floating around the air.

Get the flu vaccine

Get the flu vaccine! It is adjusted every year to match the flu viruses going around every new year and is the best weapon in your arsenal against getting sick. You can get from most pharmacies, chemists and of course your local GP.

Hope this information is valuable to all you lovely people and stay warm and healthy this winter!

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The article is written by Rachel Ganczarczyk 

Understanding Australian culture and lifestyle are difficult for any foreigner, especially upon the first arrival. So it’s always a good idea to immerse yourself in the Australian culture, lifestyle activities and traditions in society. One way you can do this is by watching popular Australian TV shows, where you can understand more about the way of life in Australia as well as maybe even end up discovering a new favourite TV show! Below is a list of some of Australia’s most popular TV shows, so be sure to check them out.

MasterChef Australia – Channel 10           

If you’re a foodie or love to be creative in the kitchen, then be sure to watch MasterChef Australia for some unique blends of flavour, thrilling team challenges and spectacular dishes that look more like artwork than food! Watch how everyday Australians cook up a storm in the kitchen and take the ultimate test to be crowned Australia’s MasterChef.

Home & Away – Channel 7

If you’re one for drama and deep storylines, then Home & Away may be the perfect show to tune into and follow. It’s Australia’s most popular soap-opera that’s known for its setting in fictional beach town Summer Bay. Watch and follow the lives of residents and the drama that unfolds in each of their unique storylines.

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House Rules – Channel 7

Are you hands-on, practical, passionate about interior design or have a creative flair? Watch how six teams of everyday Australians taken on the incredible challenge of renovating each other’s homes to outstand the judges, score points and win the ultimate prize. Judge for yourself each house reveal and see what if your favourite team can make it to the top of the leaderboard.

The Project – Channel 10

If talking about current affairs, politics and relevant social issues interest you, then tune into The Project. It’s a panel-discussion show that delivers news differently, with celebrity guest appearances and comedic segments and punchlines to keep you amused throughout the program. Watch how debating interviews, controversial opinions and current social issues are put to the stage and delivered to the everyday Australian in a way that is unique and engaging.

The Voice Australia – Channel 9

Good tunes and blasting hits are what you’ll be in for if you tune into The Voice Australia. See how everyday Australians take on the incredible challenge of singing their way to the top to become Australia’s The Voice winner. See how judges coach them, critique them and motivate them to become professional performers, world-class rockstars and talented artists who want nothing more but than to sing their hearts out.

For more details, episode recaps and some behind-the-scenes footage, be sure to check out the website for each program.

 

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The article is written by Nina Sudnitsin

Exam season has descended upon us university students in Australia and undoubtedly, we’re all feeling anxious.

It’s imperative for your exam success and overall wellbeing to stay mentally and physically healthy during this stressful period. Healthy habits tend to be neglected during intense revision sessions which can result in headaches, soreness and lack of motivation. Instead of hindering your potential success, boost your productivity and wellbeing through conscientiously staying on top of your health game.

Yes, its stressful and you’ll be cramming as much revision as you possibly can 24 hours before your exam, but trust me (and speaking from painfully recent experience), your sleep and nutrient-deprived brain will not be your friend during a torturous two-hour exam of reading and writing. To keep your vision and mental abilities at their peak functionalities take a look at these tips to help you survive exam week and come out the other end relieved and healthy.

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Plan your study sessions

Planning what to do during revision sessions is imperative to stay on top of your study. Prioritising your tasks, such as what lectures to review, which questions to practice and what summaries and outlines to do will instantly clear your head and reduce your inevitably high-stress levels.

That being said, everyone functions differently. You actually might prefer unplanned study where you revise anything you can, especially if you’re running out of time, but keep in mind that to-do lists, schedules, checklists and calendars all work wonders for effective study and ensure that you utilise your precious time efficiently.

Extra tip: to clear your head and further discipline yourself, turn off your Wi-Fi and shut down your phone. There are myriad distractions that detrimentally contribute to your valuable focus, so make sure to remove any liabilities.

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Take time for yourself

If you feel your motivation dwindling, it may be because you’ve been sitting at your desk for 5 hours straight and words just aren’t sinking into your content-saturated brain. This is the time to take a break and do something you enjoy, whether it be reading a favourite book, playing some music or painting.

Taking time for yourself is alright. There is no use mindlessly notetaking and reading content if you aren’t meaningfully processing and understanding it. During the assessment period, it’s very normal to feel stressed and constantly thinking of revising, but burning yourself out is not the way to a great GPA! So, don’t neglect your mental health and take a break.

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Sleep

Yes, I bet you’ve heard this advice many more times than you can count, but sleep is important. Aiming to get at least 7-8 hours each night is ambitious for exam periods, but it’s imperative if you’ve got an 8am exam the next day. Beds are comfy, so call it an early night before that important exam.

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Stay hydrated and nourished

Keep your body functioning during stressful exams with nourishing foods and plenty of water. During study sessions, have a water bottle close by. You’ll find yourself inadvertently sipping on it throughout. Not keen on plain, boring water? Spice it up by adding fruit infusions such as lemon, berries and even cucumber, because it’s definitely better than energy drinks for your health.

Another tip is to consciously snack on healthy food such as fruits and nuts to keep you going without feeling guilty (with an occasional chocolate treat)!

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Don’t forget to move

Of course, sitting, head down and studying at your desk all day is beneficial towards exam prep, but it’s the opposite of your health! Towards the end of your day, your slouching posture is sure to leave you extremely tired and sore. To keep your blood flowing and metabolism working, don’t skip that gym workout. Get up and walk around, walk around the block if you must and then settle back down for some more study. You’ll be thanking that walk, later on, I promise.

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This article is written by Suka Junin

For most students, being in university is their first taste on money management. It’s challenging to deal with finances as it is, but being in a different country as an international student can take some time to get used to.

Check out our list with nine tips on how to navigate through the financial hurdles of student life that is sure to have you spend your money on all the right things, but still have enough for coffees with friends.

1. Find a part-time job
Working alongside your studies is a great way to make some extra income. Once your timetable for the semester is released, you can plan your shifts around it. Although there are working hour limitations (it’s 40 hours per fortnight as of right now) for student visas, it’s also wise to not overwork yourself.

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2. Shop smart
Make sure to keep an eye out for specials when grocery shopping. It’s good to stock up on non-perishable goods when they’re on a discounted price but resist putting things you don’t need in the basket.
Going out on particular days can help, too. Some restaurants may have specials only on a given day of the week or during lunchtimes, and going to the movies are significantly cheaper on Tuesdays.

3. Take advantage of your student card
You won’t be a student forever, so really use the perks you have. With a student card, you’re entitled to almost all concession prices. Check out all the museums and attractions at a slashed price and keep note on what shops give student discounts.

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4. Keep a spreadsheet
You probably don’t need the extra work on top of uni assessments but this one will pay off in the long run. Take note of your expenses during your second month as a student (the first month will mostly consist of one-off purchases to help settle in) and it can help with managing your finances in the future.

5. Avoid unnecessary expenses
You can be tempted to purchase all the latest gadgets or the trendiest clothes, and that’s okay in moderation but try to avoid buying things you don’t need. Purchasing small things won’t seem like much but if you do it often, you’ll get a shocking figure at the end of your spreadsheet!

Here’s a good trick to prevent impulse shopping: keep a list of what you need to buy (e.g. a blouse for an internship interview) but when you want something that isn’t on that list, sleep on it. If you wake up the next day still wanting it, then go for it.

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6. Learn how to cook
Australia is home to one of the best food scenes in the world. It’s delicious but it can be harmful to the wallet. Try to limit the $25 brunches and learn to cook at home. It saves you so much in the long run, it’s healthier, and you’ll even get to acquire a new skill.

7. Share when you can
If you get to live with flatmates, suggest to share things. If the laundry facility in your building requires gold coins, opt to share a wash with a friend because they can add up. Buying groceries and household items together can also be cost-friendly.

8. Ask for financial help
Since studying abroad would be the time for most to deal with personal finances, it’s important to be confident in dealing with it. When in doubt, seek help from your uni’s financial assistance services, as they are highly experienced with situations like these.

9. Don’t forget to save
Savings can often be overlooked by students – most may not think it’s important at this stage in their lives – but it’s vital to think about the future. You may not be saving for a particular thing but it’s handy to know you are prepared for rainy days.

It’s best to put that money aside in a savings account where it can grow with interest. Shop around for the bank that’s right for you but don’t be tempted to get a credit card alongside it; you’ll only be spending money you don’t have!

 

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This article is written by Jane Churchill

When you realise how big Australia truly is, it can seem incredibly overwhelming when trying to arrange some cheap travel plans. Unlike Europe, trains are incredibly expensive here and buses are less accessible. However, don’t fret! Here is some advice on how to travel within Australia without breaking the bank!

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1. Flying

Flights between major cities is actually incredibly affordable in Australia. On websites such as Google Flights and SkyScanner, you can fly return between most major cities (excluding Perth) for under $100.00 on discount airlines such as Jetstar and Tiger Airways. If you jump onto SkyScanner, enter your destinations and search “Whole Month” the cheapest travel dates will pop up for you. Flights can be as cheap as $25 from Brisbane to Sydney or $50 one way between Sydney and Melbourne.

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2. Ride Sharing
If you’re really trying to squeeze on costs, ride sharing is another great option. Some great websites to use are:
Share Ur Ride – shareurride.com.au
Life Social – lifesocial.com.au

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3. Utilise Social Media
Facebook and Instagram are great tools for connecting with other travellers. For example, a Facebook Group titled “Les Francaise en Australie” has over 23,000 members of active travellers who are constantly posting about different opportunities/car pooling. Other groups such as Melbourne Australia Backpacker/Traveler have almost 50,000 members! Search Facebook for groups from your country!

4. Stay in Hostels and Airbnbs
If you’re trying to travel cheaply then staying in a hotel will blow most of your budget. Hostels are not only cheap, but a great way to connect with other travellers. So don’t be afraid if you’re travelling solo, because you will be surprised how easy it is to make friends! A great website to search for hostels is Hostel Word.

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5. Couch Surfing
Couch Surfing is an app available on Android and iOS which allows you to connect and even stay for free with locals in your desired destination. This is a great way to get an authentic experience, however do be careful with who you choose. A good indicator of safety is through the reviews and ratings left by previous travellers who have stayed/met with this person.

6. Venture out from major cities
Although the major cities might seem the most attractive and accessible, if you’re trying to save money they won’t be your best bet. The average cost for one night in a dorm style hostel in Sydney is about $50-$60. Try some other destinations still within a close proximity to a major airport such as the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Wollongong, Newcastle & Nelson Bay and Byron Bay. All these places accomodate to travellers with sights to see and places to stay, but you will be spending significantly less on food and accommodation.

And for the best deals for courses for international students, you better check Study Anywhere or you can contact them directly to hello@studyanywhere.com.au

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 The article is written by Maddison Reynolds

Sydney’s Vivid Festival is back! From May 25 – June 16, Sydney will light up as Australia’s biggest art and culture festival transforms the city into an array of colour and sensory experience. The best way to explore Vivid is by foot. Here’s a guide to some of this year’s must-see locations.

SEE:

Harmony Valley – Rainbow of Peace & Trees of Friendship
The Rocks
I’m guilty of having already selfied with this site prior to the official Vivid Launch, but once you set eyes on this masterpiece of warm-and-fuzzy’s, you’ll understand why.

The piece by numerous Australian, Iranian and Asian artists represents harmony, joy and happiness through a set of large inflatable sculptures. The Japanese ‘kawaii’ references are obvious, as are feelings of youthfulness, friendship and vulnerability.

Event organisers are encouraging visitors to interact with the sculpture by forming a human chain that connects with each end of the rainbow. The sculpture responds to this show of connection with sounds, animation and pulsing light.

 

Hidden Art
Kings Cross
Created by TAFE NSW students, Hidden Art takes visitors on an augmented reality journey through the imaginative worlds of some of Australia’s greatest sculptors and visual artists.

Simply visit the Fitzroy Gardens and open up your Vivid Sydney app to unlock Hidden Art. The stories behind the new-age, media sculptures will come alive as users scan the area.

Installations change weekly throughout the Vivid Festival. _MG_1896

Lighting of the Sails: Metamathemagical
Circular Quay
To celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Vivid Festival, Australian artist Jonathan Zawada has transformed the Sydney Opera House sails into a series of kinetic digital sculptures.

Zawada’s inspiration for the concept came from imagery inspired by the Australian environment. Everyday objects and natural specimens will undergo metamorphosis in Zawada’s creation, featuring alongside a canon of Australian artwork.

 

Skylark
City and Surrounds
There’s little chance you’ll miss this installation by Iain Reed of 32 Hundred Lighting. Skylark incorporates interactive lighting of the Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay skyscrapers. For the first time this year, a fully interactive custom-built laser has been incorporated into the installation.

Every 30 minutes the beacon, skyscrapers, pillars of light and the Harbour Bridge put on a two-minute sky show.

 

Snugglepot and Cuddlepie
City and Surrounds
The iconic Australian characters of Snugglepot and Cuddlepie are celebrated in this year’s event, on their hundredth anniversary. Australian’s are familiar with May Gibbs’ famous children’s characters, who dropped out of a gumtree to a world of adventure.

Gibbs’ work is celebrated on the façade of Sydney’s 1845 Customs House.

 

Tumbalong Lights
Darling Harbour
Tumbalong Lights features four under-the-sea-themed, interactive-play installations. This year’s installation is all-inclusive, meaning that people with disabilities have full access to interact with the displays.

The display features the following works: ‘Beneath the Sea’ by Matt York; ‘Enchanted Garden’ by Lucka Slatner; ‘In the Scale of the Sea’ by George Buchanan and Govinda Webster; and ‘Ride into the Night’ by Antony Neeson and Mark Vincent.

 

Virtual Vibration
The Rocks
Fans of modernism should head to the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia to view the evolving light display created by the Spinifex Group in collaboration with Australian artist Jonny Niesche and composer, Mark Pritchard.

The display transforms the exterior façade of the MCA, lighting up the building with a psychedelic, sensory experience, accompanied by a mesmerising score.

All light installations begin at 6:00pm and finish at 11:00pm from May 25 – June 16.

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EAT:

The Squire’s Landing
Circular Quay, The Rocks
Take in the sights and sounds of this year’s Vivid Festival at the newly opened, The Squire’s Landing. The microbrewery and bar is the latest venture by a master brewer, James Squire. Offering striking views of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, The Squire’s Landing serves up an array of on-tap beer and fresh food.

For a limited time only, The Squire’s Landing is home to the world’s oldest surviving beer, The Wreck Preservation Ale. The beer is crafted using 220-year old yeast discovered upon the wreckage of Australia’s oldest merchant shipwreck, the Sydney Cove.

 

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This article is written by Suka Junin

Student accommodation seems like the dream: you’re abroad, you meet new like-minded people, and who can forget the frequent social gatherings and parties? You’re at home away from home, and definitely not as alone as you think you are.

Of course, with those amazing highlights comes to some lowlights to living in student accommodations. Before diving headfirst into a tenancy application, here are some of the pros and cons you should consider before moving into a student accommodation.

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Pro: It’s super convenient

As much as it’s expensive, it’s also extremely convenient. Living so close to campus with little to no commute time, it can be worth paying a slight premium for it. It also comes in handy when you have long breaks in between lectures and tutorials.

Student accommodations also tend to be located in close proximity to transport, food and shops, which makes day-to-day needs very easy. You should never have to feel lazy to get groceries or have an excuse to miss dinner.

Con: It’s expensive
Rent is generally expensive in Australia, especially if you’re coming from a country where a standard of living costs is lower. But student accommodation is very expensive when compared to living in a normal unit or house.

Generally, most students opt to share their flat or room and the rent is lower compared to having your own private studio room. However, considering the room size and general areas like the kitchen and living area, you will be paying a lot of money for very little space.

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Pro: You get to meet so many new and different people
There’s a high flatmate turnover at student accommodations and because of this, there’s a high chance you’ll meet someone new every few months. More often than not, you’ll be surprised as to how much you learn about the different cultures and places your flatmates come from.

It’s not only the people you share a flat with but you get to mingle with others in the residence, too. Most student accommodations organise weekly gatherings like nights out on the town, barbeque weekends, and movie nights.

Con: Living with other student flatmates can be difficult
Most students staying in these types of accommodations are international students and there can often be differences in the way we live, which can prove to be challenging. This isn’t always the case and most students understand shared responsibilities like cleaning.

Because you aren’t friends at first, it can be difficult to speak out if there is an issue (playing loud music, never cleaning up after cooking) but you have to stand your ground because you pay rent and expect certain conditions. If it does get out of hand, always let one of the accommodation representatives know.

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Pro: You can make the best out of what you get

And what you get is plenty. Student accommodations like Urbanest and Iglu have shared facilities like a gym, study areas, as well as around the clock security. Make the most of these as they’re not so common in non-student housing.

Con: Once locked in, it’s hard to leave

You would probably never want to leave your student accommodation, but if you choose to end your lease early, it can be tricky to get out of it. Make sure you plan and know how long you intend to stay, otherwise you’ll end up struggling to find another student to take over your contract (yes, it has to be a student!).

Before agreeing to anything, make sure to have a viewing of the place. Some flats won’t look like the photos shown on the website and you could be given a false impression, so it’s essential to check the accommodation out in person.

For every downside to living in a student accommodation, you should use these facilities to your advantage because where else will you find a more comfortable student life when you’re new to Australia?

 

 

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The article is written by Paola Bianchi     Cover photo by Sacha Fernandez 

Coffee culture in Australia is a big deal and entirely different from other heavy-coffee-drinkers countries around the world like Brazil, USA or Finland. Not better or worse, but different.

Even though people buy lots of instant coffee (ugh!) from the supermarket, if we are looking for quality and real flavour, what Aussies care about a lot, we should check out the glorious cafe culture that has been arising in Australia since immigrants arrived from Italy and Greece with their coffee expertise.

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Alpha on Flickr

ESPRESSO IS (STILL) THE KING

Espresso is the main (often the only) brew method used to drink coffee in every cafe. Espresso machines are kind of the heart of the coffee shop and require a knowledgeable barista to run it, or two or three baristas during peak hours! Yeah, you hear right.

One barista will be doing the shots of coffee, this means grinding and weighing the coffee with the aim to hit the perfect extraction by balancing grams of coffee grounds and ml of water and avoiding under-extracting the coffee (resulting in a sour flavour) or over-extracting it (getting a bitter flavour).

Another barista will be steaming and frothing the milk. The milk should be silky and shiny. Each type of milk has different tolerance to the heat, and therefore soy milk will burn faster than full cream milk for example.

Market lane coffee facebook page

Pic from Market Lane Coffee Facebook page 

ART LATTE BECAME MANDATORY

In super busy cafes there may be another barista just doing the milk pouring! This person would be the ‘art latte master’ of course. The forms made with milk is absolute no requisite for a flawless coffee, but it has become a required aesthetic in the Australian coffee culture. Hearts, tulips and rosettes. This is known as ‘free pouring’ and there even are competitions!

BARISTAS CAN AGREE ON THIS

Some will say that doing the shots is the most critical part of the job, and others will state that the milk is the most delicate part. But everyone will agree that there is one thing that makes the difference: coffee beans must be ground as close as possible to the moment of the brewing process. The aroma and flavour ­of the coffee starts to degrade as soon as hits the air.

Barista

Tristan Kenney on Flickr

STARS IN THE FLOOR

It is fair to say that (good) baristas are essential to the industry, some courses provide certifications, and any café’s regulars customers will want to establish a friendly relationship with the barista. After all, they are making their coffee hit every day!

Usually, they are called gun-baristas, because of their efficiency in the espresso machine. It’s normal that they will remember almost every face, name and coffee preference of the café’s regulars. Yeap! Good memory these Hospo workers!

Note that saying ‘expresso’ is a common mistake you do not want to make in front of your barista.

Single Origin coffee

Joanne Wan on Flickr

TRENDS ON BEANS

When the coffee is sourced from various producers and countries and then mixed to take the best of each bean is called ‘blend’ and it’s by far the most sold coffee and you will find it in 99% of the coffee shops. Each cafe will use one particular blend that will be distinctive to that specific shop, and what customers will come back for! (besides their friendly service)

Each brand or coffee company has a few blends and cafes that roast their own coffee will often have seasonal blends. Speciality coffee they say! This is what distinguish top-notch trendy cafes from others. These cafes will often have ‘single origin’ coffee which means that the coffee is sourced from one single producer or region in one country, and purists will swear that is the best quality you can find.

Purists will also argue that decaffeinated coffee should be erased from a menu and that alternative kinds of milk like soy, coconut and almond are not acceptable. In reality, most cafes offer them to adapt to what customers actually want, which is their ultimate goal, right?

coffee selection

Alpha on Flickr

BLACK OR WHITE

Do you drink coffee to wake up? Or you wake up to drink coffee? Either way, here are three steps to order your coffee like a genuinely mature, well-informed coffee drinker in Australia.

1. Know your espresso options: ‘black’ or ‘white’.

Black options:

– Espresso or also known as ‘ short black’ (just one shot of espresso)

– Short macchiato (one espresso and a drop of milk)

– Long black (hot water and double espresso on top, like an Americano but the water goes first to avoid breaking the crema)

– Long mac/ long macchiato (double espresso with a drop of milk, some places serve it with a little of hot water at the bottom)

Milk-based drinks are:

– Latte (more steamed milk than foam)

– Cappucino (lots of foam, little-steamed milk, chocolate on top)

– Flat white (no milk foam at all) – This type of milk coffee was actually invented in Australia!

– Mocachino (milk foam, espresso mixed with chocolate and more choc on top)

2. Know how much actual coffee to order:
By default, a regular size of coffee (8oz) has one shot of espresso, and a large size (12oz) will have two shots unless you ask your preference:

– Strong, for two shots in regular or 3 shots in large size.

– Weak, for half shot in regular or 1 shot in large.

3. Know how to express your desired coffee:
All the adjectives of your coffee should be said before the type of coffee itself.

For example, don’t say ‘please a latte with skinny milk, with 2 shots and 3/4 full’.

Better say ‘a strong, 3/4 full, skinny latte please’. Sounds nicer, right?

Oh! When doing takeaway, if you are having sugar in your coffee (yes, you are allowed) make sure you ask for it before the barista makes your coffee. Not wasting barista’s time can be much appreciated during peak hours!

Okay, are you ready to make your order? Pay and sip!

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 The article is written by Maddison Reynolds

Australia’s most populous city is a goldmine for adventurers. While most visitors stick to the Sydney Harbour, CBD, and Bondi areas, Sydney is actually made up of 658 suburbs, 40 local government areas and 15 contiguous regions. So much of Sydney’s beauty is outside of its main tourist hubs, and with a little research and insider knowledge, you can experience an authentic Sydneysider experience.

The Sutherland Shire is located 26 kilometres south of the CBD and borders Australia’s oldest national park, the Royal National Park. The seaside town of Cronulla is a real highlight of this region, combining white, sandy beaches and lively restaurants and cafes. Cronulla can easily be explored in a day by rail from Central Station using the T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra Line.

 

ESPLANADE
Grind Espresso – Shop 4/15 Surf Road, Cronulla.

Start your adventure early to catch a glimpse of the sunrise from the Cronulla Esplanade. The 4.5km paved walkway showcases Sydney’s longest stretch of beach. Grab a coffee from local favourite, Grind Espresso, and begin your journey at South Cronulla beach, walking southward. Stop along the way at Bass and Flinders Point to take in the scenery across the ocean at Bundeena and the Royal National Park and make sure to take a dip in the sparkling water at Salmon Haul or at one of the many ocean pools dotted along the coastline.

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BLACKWOOD PANTRY
Blackwood Pantry – Shop 5/33 Surf Lane, Cronulla; Next Door – 2/4-6 Kingsway, Cronulla; Pilgrim’s Cronulla – 97 Gerrale St, Cronulla; Ham Harry & Mario – 3/17 Gerrale St, Cronulla; LOAF Sandwiches – 89 Cronulla St, Cronulla.

Cronulla truly has something for everyone when it comes to food. Grab your appetite and head up to Cronulla Mall to check out the options.

If you’re after a brunch option that will be sure to appease your Instagram followers, hit up Blackwood Pantry and try out their all-day menu offering. The Surf Lane venue delivers food that tastes as colourful as it looks. Menu highlights include the smashing pumpkins and miso glazed Atlantic salmon. Other noteworthy cafes include Next Door, Pilgrim’s, Ham and Loaf Sandwiches.

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GREENHILLS
One of the best things about Cronulla is the vast array of beaches on offer. If you’re after a quieter spot to try your hand at surfing or just to relax on the sand, Greenhills Beach is the perfect place. The beach can be reached by following the Esplanade north or by car. Greenhills and neighbouring Wanda are also great locations to watch local surfers when the swell is up. Those feeling a little more adventurous might wish to follow the path from Wanda Reserve towards the sand dunes. The natural dunes are believed to be 15,000 years old and are a great workout for those willing to climb them.

CAPE SOLANDER
Just north of Greenhills is Cape Solander, one of Sydney’s best whale watching spots. Stunning, white-rock cliffs and panoramic ocean views surround the lookout point. Cape Solander is located in the Kamay Botany Bay National Park so car entry is recommended. Park entry fees apply.

HAZELHURST GALLERY
Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre – 782 Kingsway, Gymea.

For those seeking a little more culture, the Hazelhurst Regional Gallery and Arts Centre is the hub for art in the Sutherland Shire. Featuring works from local and international artists, the gallery is set on tranquil gardens and is easily accessible by rail to Gymea Station (also on the T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra Line).

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CRONULLA RSL
Cronulla RSL – 38 Gerrale St, Cronulla; Northies Cronulla Hotel – Kingsway & Elouera Rd, Cronulla; Brass Monkey – 115A Cronulla St, Cronulla; Fusion Nightclub – 84 Cronulla St, Cronulla; Sting Bar – 3-7 Kingsway, Cronulla.

There’s no better way to end a day of sun and sand then with a beer or cocktail overlooking the ocean. Head to the historic Cronulla RSL and grab a courtyard table for an unbelievable sunset. The RSL offers food but for those looking to broaden their horizons, Low & Loftys, Alphabet Street, Eat Burger, Queen Margarita and Beach Burrito all put on great dinner offerings.

If you’re keen on continuing into the night, Northies Cronulla Hotel and neighbouring Old Joes are sure to get you in the mood for dancing. If live music is more your thing, hit up the Brass Monkey. Finish your night off at Fusion Nightclub or Sting Bar, just in time for the final train back to Central Station.

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