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public transport in Sydney

Hot Spots in the Blue Mountains

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Are you in need of a study break or a change of scenery? Or maybe you just need some time to clear your head because coming to a new country can be quite overwhelming and scary. A day trip to the Blue Mountains located here in NSW is just what you need. Here you will find yourself taking in the stunning views of the mountain valleys and sandstone cliffs on offer and getting up close and personal with the breathtaking nature that has been created for you to enjoy.

The Blue Mountains is a rugged region west of Sydney and takes approximately a 2-hour drive to get there. It’s the perfect excuse for a day trip! The Blue Mountains are known for their dramatic scenery and you will not be disappointed.

Tip: If you don’t have a car or a license don’t fret because you can also get to the Blue Mountains via train. You just catch a train at the Central station and it will take you to every stop up the mountain. To plan your trip jump online at NSW TrainLink

Study Anywhere_Lincoln’s Rock

Lincoln’s Rock, also known as ‘Flat Rock’

Lincoln’s Rock is located at Wentworth Falls and is quite breathtaking. From here you can see the stunning views of the Jamison Valley which change colour throughout the day as the sun and clouds move, so be sure to take a camera with you! If you’re feeling brave enough, Lincoln’s Rock is also known for its impressive optical illusion photo taken by many tourists where you appear to be sitting on the edge of a cliff… the truth is you are! But, the ledge is quite thick and fairly safe so nothing to worry about. It makes the perfect photo to show your family and friends how tough you are!

After you’ve finished discovering the views Lincoln’s Rock has to offer be sure to venture out into the main street of Wentworth Falls, where you will find antique shops and the most delicious German Bakery ever with lots of sweets and savories on offer.

Tip: Sitting at a cute little cafe with a hot cup of coffee is the best way to study so if you feel like bringing some of your books along, go for it!

Study Anywhere_Echo Point, Three Sisters

Echo Point, Three Sisters

Echo Point lookout is located in the heart of Katoomba and is one of the most popular lookout points for tourists. Here you will find yourself looking at the famous Three Sisters among the forests of eucalyptus trees giving off the mystical blue effect in the distance, as well as witnessing other sandstone rock formations. The Three Sisters is essentially an unusual rock formation representing three sisters who according to Aboriginal legend, were turned to stone!

Tip: Be sure to check out the short 20-minute walk which actually takes you under the Three Sisters, it’s truly magical!

Don’t forget Katoomba is destination central for backpackers and tourists so make sure you check out the main streets of the town as you will find many quirky hidden cafes, antique shops, and parks which also make the perfect location for a picnic lunch.

Study Anywhere_Hassans Walls Lookout

Hassans Walls Lookout

Hassans Walls Lookout is located in Lithgow. It is the highest lookout in the Blue Mountains sitting at approximately 1100 meters above sea level. You can either take a 5-minute drive to the top or park your car at the bottom, and walk or ride up the mountain which takes about 40 minutes. And if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of the native animals that inhabit the bush.

Once at the top of the lookout you make your way down the metal boardwalk taking in a peaceful, magical view of the Hartley Valley below, the best time for this is especially at dusk, where the sky is amber and purple in colour… it is magical and mystical and of course another photo opportunity!

Tip: While travelling through the Blue Mountains you will find that each lookout offers plenty of bush walks, so PLEASE be sure when undertaking one of them that you let someone know where you are going as there is limited phone reception in the Blue Mountains National Park. Always plan ahead! Check out Blue Mountains Australia online for more info.

The real cost of studying and living in Australia

This article is written by Loren Howarth

Full of beautiful beaches and friendly charm, Australia is the perfect destination to study and experience the world away from home. But before you pack your bags for an adventure of a lifetime, you should consider the costs.

As the standard of living in Australia is increasing, so too is the cost of living. To help you get a bit of an insight, we’ve worked out living costs for several major cities. So get saving and start drawing up a financial plan!

Study Anywhere_Sydney

SYDNEY

Earlier this year, Sydney was ranked as the most expensive city in the world. But don’t let that deter you from studying in this great place. There are several housing options to choose from, including a shared house or unit which costs roughly $200-$300 per week, or a one-bedroom unit which can set you back $400-$550 per week. While looking for where to stay, be sure to choose an area close to where you’re studying so you can walk or easily catch public transport. Sydney also has some irresistible food on offer, as well as an energetic night life. But try not to blow your money all at once, as this could cost you over $200 a week! Plus, you’ll need to put some money aside for electricity and gas, which costs between $35-$140 per week.

Study Anywhere_Mlebourne

MELBOURNE

Choosing to live in Melbourne is relatively cheaper than Sydney, and overall it will save you around $200. In the city, it will cost $200-$300 per week for rent in a shared house, $40-$100 for power costs and around $80-$150 in food. One of the great characteristics of Melbourne is the city’s public transport facilities. In the central business district, you will have access to the free tram system which gives you easy access to where you need to go. By catching these free trams, you’ll save a lot of money which you can spend on more activities and adventures!

Study Anywhere_Brisbane

BRISBANE

If you want to study right near the beach, then Brisbane is the perfect study location for you. But this dreamy destination does come at a cost week rent in a small yet furnished studio in a reasonably priced area is around $380, and add that with $40 a week for utilities, it certainly isn’t cheap. And as the city is quite expensive, you’ll be looking to find somewhere in the outer suburbs, which means you’ll mainly be relying on public transport. These costs certainly all add up!

Study Anywhere_Perth

PERTH

Perth is a beautiful city that has an easygoing character, as well as plenty of nightlife. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s Worldwide Cost of Living Survey last year, Perth was found to be more affordable than Brisbane, Melbourne, and Adelaide. With international students also receiving a 40% discount on all public transport services. A one-bedroom apartment outside the city centre costs just over $300 a week while residing in an apartment in the heart of the city will set you back around $400.

Although all of this might sound daunting, don’t let the numbers put you off! If you have your sights set on studying in Australia, draw up a financial plan, put aside any spare change, and see if there are any scholarships you are eligible for. And if you ever need a hand, the people at Study Anywhere are always here to help you find the right course!

SYDNEY AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION: HOW TO GET FROM HERE TO THERE

This article is written by Candice Locklee

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

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

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

Study Anywhere_train

TRAIN

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

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

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

BUS

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

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

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

TAXI AND UBER

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

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

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

SHUTTLE

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

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

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

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

DON’T FORGET…

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

TIP

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

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

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