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Study Anywhere

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/

PICKING THE PERFECT PHONE PROVIDER

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

While studying abroad you probably want to know who the best phone operator is to go with so you can keep contact with your family and friends back home as well as get the greatest deal on data, international calls, and the best mobile service. So we’ve come up with a few phone providers and tips to make your decision just that little bit easier.

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Phone Tips

While studying and living here in Australia it is best to purchase a SIM card or an Australian mobile number when you arrive here, as using your home phone number can actually be quite costly.

There are two types of mobile phone accounts you can choose from:

Pre-paid:

A pre-paid service gives you heaps of flexibility because you can control how much you spend and can stop using the service anytime. You simply top up with credit as needed which can be purchased at service stations, shops and even over the phone and online. You can purchase pre-paid SIM cards in many shops and supermarkets as well as the mobile phone providers listed below.

Contract:

If you’re going to be studying and living here in Australia for a long period of time then a contract might work out cheaper for you. There are numerous mobile phone operators such as the ones listed below which offer phone plans with a fixed price per month for a certain number of calls, texts, and data.

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Telstra

Staying in touch with loved ones and friends is the most important thing, no matter where either of you is. Telstra is Australia’s largest mobile network and they have some amazing international packs on offer allowing you to make calls as often and as long as you like.

Telstra also offers the best service even when you’re in the most rural and remote areas, they will have you covered. It’s also the best in case of an emergency.

To check out what coverage and data speeds are available in your area head online to Telstra.

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Optus

If you’re calling overseas a lot in Australia then an Optus International Minute Pack is what you need! An International Minute Pack is an easy and inexpensive way to save on calls to mobiles and fixed lines in 32 countries while you’re here in Australia.

For more information head over to Optus online on how to create an account and start making those phone calls!

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Vodafone

Vodafone offers easy and affordable calls from Australia either on a plan or pre-paid.

If you’re after a plan with no lock-in contracts check out more information here and if you want something where you recharge on the go then a pre-paid Vodafone gives you a 35-day expiry on selected Data and Talk Combo Packs and recharges. This is a cheap and effective way to go.

Tip: Data combos have heaps of data, and Talk Combos give you 1000 standard international minutes from Australia to either 15 or 25 selected destinations. How good is that!

Virgin Mobile

Virgin mobile includes standard international calls as part of all of their post-paid plans. You can check out their call rates here.

One of the best things about Virgin Mobile is that they offer International SMS. Sending a text to anywhere overseas from Australia should not cost much more than sending one to your neighbour!

Tip: You can find more info on how to set up mobile plans or how to use pre-paid at Virgin Mobile.

WHERE TO FIND A SUMMER JOB THAT SUITS YOU

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Looking for a job over the summer? Great, because we’ve come up with a few handy tips on how and where you can find the perfect summer job while staying here in Australia that suits you!

The thought of looking for a job for the summer can put a buzz kill on your holiday vibes, but the truth is having employment means having money, plus you can meet new people and make new friends. While over here in Australia you’ll need the extra cash to enjoy your time while on a break as sometimes the fun things Australia has to offer aren’t always cheap or free.

Tip: If you’re ever wondering what events are on in Sydney or other areas, head over to Visit NSW.

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Cafes/Restaurant

Living in busy city areas you will find that there are a huge number of cafes and restaurants to choose from when you’re after a nice cup of hot coffee or dinner with friends. But have you ever thought about working in one? Working in a cafe and/or restaurant is a great experience, you can make coffees and be a waitress or a waiter taking food and drinks out to customers. These kinds of places have a busy atmosphere so if you’re up for a challenge then this is the right area of work for you.

To apply for a job at a cafe/restaurant, you should print out a few copies of your resume and walk around to your local businesses, dropping them in.

Tip 1: Be sure to walk in with a smile and say that you would like to drop your resume in and ask if they have any jobs going at the moment.

Tip 2: When working in a cafe employees are usually required to have a barista certificate, meaning that they have basic coffee making skills and know how to use an espresso machine. Not to worry if you don’t have one yet, just jump online at TAFE NSW or Barista Basics for more information.

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Pubs

Gaining bar work is another great place to get some extra cash in your pocket. All you need is your RSA and RCG to guarantee getting hired in this area of work, where you will be pouring beers, making drinks and dealing with gambling games. If you don’t have either you can head online and find a location near you.

Most places such as CBD College offer packages that are cheap and affordable for students like you.

The best bit about working in a pub is that the hours are super flexible and the money is pretty good, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy other activities with your friends.

Retail

With Christmas coming up over the summer break there are always more jobs available for those interested in clothes and jewelry. This is mainly because the shops can get pretty hectic with everyone wanting to buy gifts and do their Christmas shopping.

If you think you would like to work in retail you should definitely print out your resume and drop them into local shops that you are interested in. However, a more efficient way to look for a job in retail is to use job sites such as SEEK, Indeed, and Adzuna.

Tip: Job sites allow you to create a profile and add a CV which you can send through to employers when you apply for a job online. They also send you emails with jobs that suit you.

Harvest/Fruit Picking

Harvest and fruit picking are extremely popular for backpackers and international students who are looking for a change of scenery and love to travel. It is becoming increasingly popular and work is available all over Australia, especially in the summer. The farming industry needs tens of thousands of casual laborers to help pick fruit.

You can work and play by traveling around to different locations and often, you will be paid calculated by the amount of fruit you pick to per full bucket or cart. However, sometimes it is $10-$30 an hour depending on speed.

If you’re interested in experiencing something new and exciting then head online to Harvest Trail for more info and to find the next fruit picking location for you!

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTH WHILE STUDYING ABROAD

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

You are studying and enjoying life in Australia and with many of the new challenges you face it is quite easy to overlook your health and the environmental changes that may affect it. You’re embarking on this great adventure in an environment which may differ in culture, food, climate, and lifestyle. All of this can impact upon your physical and emotional well-being. Remember you have to balance things to result in a healthier and happier you!

It’s important to know your health rights when being an international student in Australia. Health is so important and it is vital that you know how to maintain it when you’re so far away from home. To help you out we’ve come up with some ways you can keep yourself healthy and safe while studying here in Australia.

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Health Insurance

International students undertaking studies in Australia and your dependents (if you have any e.g. partners and children) must get Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration that you are over here. OSHC is an insurance to assist international students like you when it comes to covering costs for visits to the doctor, some hospital treatment, ambulance cover and limited medicines if you ever need it while studying here.

There are a number of insurers here in Australia who offer OSHC. Every basic policy meets the visa rules, so it is worth checking which OSHC is the cheapest before you buy.

These include:

Australian Health Management
Allianz Global Assistance
BUPA Australia
NIB

Tip: Check with your host university for recommendations of who to insure with and for more information visit The Department of Health and OSHC Australia.

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Body Health

It is important that you remember to look after yourself while studying abroad. Living in a new country often means diet changes and a western diet tends to be higher in fat than diets from other regions. This can have a bit of an effect on your health and nutritional state. But not to worry there are plenty of ways to keep yourself healthy and still be able to enjoy the yummy foods Australia has to offer. You need to have the energy to exercise, socialise and study the best way to do this is to drink plenty of water, get enough sleep, exercise about 30 minutes of day and maintain a healthy diet! Check out some healthy recipes at Nutrition Australia.

Tip 1: The best way to exercise is to join in on one of the local sports teams at your host university. Don’t be shy, it’s also a great way to make new friends!

Tip 2: Keeping your body healthy also creates a strong immune system which is your body’s defence to fight off any infection or illness you may get.

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Mental Health

Studying in a new country is a very rewarding experience however sometimes it may be a bit daunting. Even though you are keeping busy with your studies and making new friends, you may be faced with times where you are feeling uncertain in an unfamiliar environment. You may feel lonely away from your family and friends and the pressures of studying. This is perfectly natural to experience.

However, if it seems to be drowning you in constant negative emotions then you may be suffering from stress, depression or anxiety or other mental health problems which can lead to tiredness and other health issues. If you’re feeling down please don’t be afraid to speak up. You can talk to your host university’s counsellor or you can get some more information online from support services such as Beyond Blue and Reach Out.

Tip: The best way to deal with feelings of depression and/or stress and anxiety, is to talk to someone about it! Bottling your feelings up is not good for your mental or physical health.

Staying safe in the Australian Environment

Changes in the environment can have an effect on your health so it’s important to be aware of how to keep yourself safe.

Sun Safety

Australia’s sun is harsh and protection from it is pretty vital. So to save yourself from ending up like a bright red tomato and exposing yourself to the risk of skin cancer we’ve come up with some tips.

Tip 1: Avoid being in the sun directly between 10am and 3pm as this is the peak time when UV rays are out.

Tip 2: When in the sun, always remember to put on a sunscreen of at least SPF 30, you can find this at the local grocery store or a chemist.

Tip 3: Slip on a shirt, slop on the 30+ sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade or shelter and slide on some sunnies. Check out the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide campaign here.

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For more information on how to keep yourself safe visit SunSafe and if you’ve been unlucky and need to treat some nasty sunburn, check out the Sunburn and Skin Cancer section.

Surf and Water Safety

Australia offers many beautiful coastlines, therefore it is extremely important to understand surf and water safety when visiting popular Australian beaches.

Tip 1: If you want to swim, only swim at beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards. You can locate one here.

Tip 2: It’s important that you only swim in the designated areas, between the red and yellow flags.

Tip 3: It’s best to stay out of the water if you’re unsure of the surf conditions or there are no safety flags as this usually means that the water is not safe to go in. It’s vital that you obey the instructions of life guards and signage around the beach as they are there to protect you and to prevent anything bad from happening.

For some more Surf and Beach safety tips check out Surf Lifesaving Australia.

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Up to date with Vaccinations

There are no specific immunisations required for entry into Australia, however, your host university may recommend that all of your routine vaccinations are up to date. If you’re not sure when you are meant to receive shots, don’t stress here is a schedule.

The easiest way to check if you’ve had vaccinations is to review your medical records and make sure that you have been vaccinated against Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Hepatitis A and B and have received a tetanus shot in the last 10 years. This will minimise your risk of catching anything while studying abroad. You can check out the Immunise Australia Program for more information.

Tip: You might also want to get a flu shot while in Australia as flu season hits pretty hard between the months of May and October.

Overall, the key is to look after yourself physically and mentally while studying here in Australia. However, don’t be scared if you have to enter the Australian Health Care System. Whether it’s an emergency or routine medical care, you may do it with confidence. Doctors undergo years of medical training, using the most advanced technologies for diagnosis and treatment. Nothing to worry about! Remember to enjoy yourself while studying here in Australia, keeping your health as one of your top priorities. Safe and happy travels from us here at Study Anywhere.

48 HOURS IN: PERTH

The article is written by Candice Locklee

As one of the most isolated cities in the world, visiting Perth may not be at the top of your list when you first move to Australia. But with its balmy weather, white beaches, amazing food and wine and laid back Aussie lifestyle, the capital of Western Australia is a scenic paradise just waiting to be explored.

If you’ve only got 48 hours to spare in this vibrant city, here are our top picks of things to do in a short amount of time:

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KINGS PARK

Just outside of the central business district is one of the largest city parks you’ll find in the world and it’s a must-see while visiting Perth. Stretching over 400 hectares (that’s bigger than New York’s famous Central Park!), Kings Park is a spectacular mix of bushland, flat grassy parklands and colourful botanical gardens full of native flora and fauna.

Take a picnic and enjoy a day in the park, get some exercise jogging through the bush or grab your camera and snap some Insta-worthy shots of the city skyline at one of the many lookouts available in the area. Not only is Kings Park the perfect spot for city skyline photos, you can also get some gloriously uninterrupted views of the majestic Swan River, the rolling Perth Hills and endless blue skies that make this city beautiful.

For those who love a tour, there are free guided trail tours on offer that depart daily from outside the gallery shop Aspects of Kings Park at 10 am and 12 pm (1^st Sept-30^th June) and 2 pm. There are also self-guided tours available for those who want to explore at their own pace. Just head to the Visitor Information Centre on the site for all the helpful brochures you’ll need to get started.

DIRECTIONS

KINGS PARK:

Just 1.5km outside of the CBD, Kings Park is easily accessible by public transport. From Perth’s main street St Georges Terrace, catch the 935 bus route to Fraser Avenue Precinct (stop Number 17501). From here, it’s an approximately short 429m walk to Kings Park.

Note: This bus travels within the Free Transit Zone so you can hop on and off for free.

THE BEACHES

Western Australia’s world famous beaches boast miles of pure white sand and clear blue water that is perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkelling or just lazing around any time of the year.

Perth is within easy reach of some of the best beaches. Cottesloe Beach is a popular tourist beach halfway between Perth and Fremantle that has been a favourite holiday spot for generations. With over a kilometre of white sand, there’s plenty of time to have a swim and a snorkel before finding a spot to watch the sun go down over the Indian Ocean. Sunsets are famous in WA and a must-see any time of the year!

Scarborough Beach is another popular spot. Located on the Sunset Coast, Scarborough Beach is a fantastic idea for those who want to soak up the sun and surf before heading off to one of the many cafés along the beachfront for something to eat. Hotels, hostels and shopping are also just a step away.

For something a little more adventurous, take a day trip out to Rottnest Island, a dazzling paradise of bright white sands and crystal waters that’s perfect for whale watching, bird spotting, snorkelling, swimming and surfing. There’s also plenty of hidden beaches if you want something a little more private, such as Strickland Bay, Mary Cove and Catherine Bay which are favourites for surfers.

DIRECTIONS

COTTESLOE BEACH:

There are two main ways to get to Cottesloe from Perth. You can hop on a train by catching the Fremantle line and getting off at Cottesloe. Trains leave every 15 minutes and the ride will take less than 20 minutes. Once there, just follow the signs to the beach just a short walk away.

Alternatively, you can take the bus line 102 from Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Cottesloe Station. The ride should be about 40 minutes and cost less than $5. Check the link for a detailed timetable of all the stops, click here.

SCARBOROUGH BEACH:

Get to Scarborough Beach by catching one of the bus routes 410, 421, 422 and 990 that run past Scarborough beachfront.

ROTTNEST ISLAND:

Rottnest Island can be reached by ferry. You can book your ticket online through one of the ferry companies that leave from Perth, Fremantle and Hillary’s Boat Harbour in Perth’s North. Click on the company links for deals and tickets: Rottness Express or Rottnest Fast Ferries.

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THE WINERIES

If you want to indulge a little, why not head out to Swan Valley and visit one of the many wineries that make this region so famous? Only 25 minutes from Perth’s CBD, Swan Valley is a sweeping landscape rich in art, history, gourmet food and a thriving viticulture that can all be sampled along the famous Food and Wine Trail, a 32km scenic drive that will take you through the heart of the region for you to experience all that it has to offer.

While you’re there, take some time to visit the Caversham Wildlife Park. With over 2000 animals to see, including koalas, dingoes, reptiles, wombats and the super-cute Quokka, it’s a great way to spend the day with friends and take some memorable photos of your time in WA.

DIRECTIONS

SWAN VALLEY:

There is no regular public transport through this region, so it’s best to pre-arrange your transport. Guided tours are a great way to discover the Swan Valley and can take you from Perth city and along the Food and Wine Trail.

Check the link for details.

CAVERSHAM WILDLIFE PARK:

Caversham Wildlife Park is located in Whiteman Park and is open 9am-5:30 pm every day of the year (minus Xmas). Entry is $28 for one adult. From the Bassendean Station in Perth, catch bus number 955 or 956 to Ellenbrook and get off at the Whiteman Park stop on Lord St.

FREMANTLE

No trip to Perth is complete without a visit to the nearby port city of Fremantle, a place that is pretty as a picture and rich with Western Australia history. Once there, check out one of the many popular things to do in town. Visit the foreboding Fremantle Prison that stands as Australia’s largest convict prison still intact, explore the Western Australian Maritime Museum to get an understanding of Fremantle’s interesting history (including its history of surf boards and marine creatures), head down to South Terrace where you’ll find an abundance of tasty cafés, restaurants and craft breweries and visit the popular Fremantle Markets open every Friday/ Saturday/ Sunday for an eclectic mix of great food, drink, Indigenous art and local music.

If you need to burn some extra calories, why not hire a bike for free from the Fremantle Visitor Centre and cycle to all of the places you want to see? Fremantle is very bicycle-friendly and there are bike lanes all over the city that can easily take you to all of the popular tourist destinations within the area.

DIRECTIONS

FREMANTLE:

Transperth, Perth’s public transport system, makes it easy to reach Fremantle. Catch the train on the Fremantle line from Perth Station and get off at the final stop, Fremantle Station. If paying for a cash ticket, it should cost you around $7.40 for a return, or $6.00 if using a SmartRider card. Buses are also available outside of train stations in order to easily meet up with train times and get you between Perth and Fremantle as well as anywhere you need to go in the city.

For details and to plan your journey click here.

NOTE:

Similar to Perth’s CBD, Fremantle offers a free shuttle service called CAT (Central Area Transit) meaning that you don’t have to pay anything to travel around the city. Watch out for the blue CAT that runs every 10 minutes and the red CAT that runs every 15 minutes. Check this link for bus stops and timetables.

How To Find The Perfect Place To Stay

The article is written by Loren Howarth

You’re coming to Australia to study, and life couldn’t seem any more exciting! But there is one thing you do need to work out before you can truly settle into this new adventure, and that’s accommodation. There are several ways to find a place to stay, from living in an apartment for a week or living in a villa for the entirety of your learning. Here are some ways which you can find the perfect place to call home while living abroad.

Study Anywhere_Airbnb

Airbnb

Founded in 2008, Airbnb is a trustworthy community marketplace where you can find short and long term accommodation. You can choose from a range of options, from apartments to townhouses, or even simply a room in someone else’s home. And there’s no reason to feel unsafe either, Airbnb verifies identification with detailed profiles and reviews also available to put your mind at ease. You can also message a potential host to learn more about them, the location of the accommodation, or ask about living in Australia generally. Using Airbnb is a great starting point for finding a place to stay, as you can move around to find an area you love and feel comfortable in.

Study Anywhere_Gumtree

Gumtree

Once you’ve found your feet, it will be easier to search for other accommodation. Gumtree is a great way to find flat share and house share living, and it is a great way to meet new people as well. A lot of the rooms on offer are also furnished, meaning you won’t have to worry about buying a bed for the duration of your stay, if you decide to live there for the long run. Even better, the accommodation is generally reasonably priced, with some starting from as low as $160 per week, with bills also included in the pricing.

Study Anywhere_flatmates

Flatmates

Known as Australia’s biggest share accommodation site, there are plenty of different places to choose from. Similar to Airbnb, Flatmates connects user to user. The best way to secure accommodation is to create a profile of yourself, including a picture, as this will ensure people respond to your queries, as you are identified as a real person and not someone who isn’t serious about renting. Also, try not to have your hopes set on the one property, instead, reach out to several people in case it falls through. This website also allows you to create a listing for yourself, and advertise that you’re looking for a place to stay. If you are successfully chosen to reside somewhere, don’t be shy to ask for an inspection or to meet your potential flatmates, you want to be comfortable where you are living.

Study Anywhere_facebook

Facebook groups

if you are looking for a place to stay and you are quite in hurry, definitely ask in the different Facebook groups. Usually, each living area or group of people has its own group on Facebook, where people share the news, sell the stuff over it and the more often they either look for or offer a room to share. Just type an area in the Facebook search and it should give you some options for the local groups. For example, have you heard about the group International students in Sydney? That group has over 11k of members, so it’s worth to join that type of groups on Facebook.

Study Anywhere_ask around

Ask around

If you find yourself struggling for accommodation, or are just unsure about different locations, don’t be afraid to ask some classmates or even teachers about living possibilities. Someone will be sure to give you advice, and chances are, somebody will know where you could stay and get you living in a more permanent spot instead of somewhere temporary.

How to balance study and a social life

The article is written by Loren Howarth

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

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Plan a weekly schedule

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

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Know your limits

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

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Eat at home, but not alone

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

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Do one thing every day

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

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

Healthy budget meals on the go

The article is written by Loren Howarth

Between attending class and studying, it can be hard to find a moment to enjoy a delicious and healthy meal. Instead, opting for a fast takeaway lunch seems to be the easiest and most convenient option. But it’s important to eat nutritious food while you’re on the go, to ensure you have enough energy and to keep your brain up to speed. Although you may think preparing healthy food is expensive, here are some of our favourite low-cost meals that can be easily eaten on the go.

Study Anywhere_egg fried rice

Egg Fried Rice

Egg Fried Rice is a delicious and very nutritious meal that will keep your hunger at bay. Even better, it can be eaten hot or cold, so you can pack it in your lunchbox for an easily accessible meal.

Ingredients:

o.5 cup rice

2 eggs

1 cup frozen peas and corn (you can also use any other frozen vegetables such as broccoli or beans)

1-2 tbsp soy sauce

Method:

Cook rice according to packet directions and set aside.
Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk until yellow.
In an oiled frying pan, pour in the egg mixture and cook until scrambled. Once the egg is cooked, add in the rice, frozen vegetables and soy sauce to the pan and cook until the vegetables are heated through.

Optional: For a healthy crunch, make a side of lettuce, capsicum, tomato and cucumber to accompany the fried rice!

Study Anywhere_Spagetti carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara

There’s nothing better than having a deliciously creamy Spaghetti Carbonara, especially in the Australian winter. This is an affordable recipe which still has a lot of flavour!

Ingredients:

100g fettuccine (or your favourite type of pasta)

50g bacon strips

2 tbsp minced garlic

1 egg plus 1 egg yolk

50ml thickened cream

1/4 c parmesan cheese

Method:

While the pasta is cooking according to packet directions, heat oil in a frying pan and cook the bacon until crispy with garlic. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and set aside.
Place egg and the additional egg yolk, cream and parmesan in a bowl and gently mix with a fork.
Add pasta to frying pan and quickly add the egg mixture. Leave on heat until the mixture is heated through.

Optional: For something extra, why not make your own garlic bread? Simply mix together some melted butter, minced garlic and parsley, spread onto bread and then bake in the oven until golden.

Study Anywhere_Chicken stir fry

Chicken Stir Fry

For something fast and easy, there really is not a better option than a chicken stir fry. You really can’t go wrong with this tasty and affordable meal!

Ingredients:

1 small chicken breast, sliced into strips

1/2 c Frozen stir fry vegetables

1 small onion, diced

2 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp oil

120g egg noodles, cooked according to packet directions

Method:

In a wok or frying pan, heat oil and add chicken. Cook until brown and then add in onion.
When the onion has turned golden, add the frozen vegetables and half of the soy sauce. Stir-fry for around five minutes or until the vegetables are heated through.
Now place the noodles in the pan, as well as the other tbsp of soy sauce.

Study Anywhere_veggie burger

Vegetable Burgers

Even if you’re not a vegan or vegetarian, these Vegetable Burgers are bursting with flavour. Trust us, you won’t miss the meat!

Note: This recipe will leave you with leftovers for dinner or even lunch for the next day! (Makes 4 patties).

Ingredients:

400g can chickpeas

340g can sweetcorn

1 tbsp cumin

1 lemon

3 heaped tbsp plain flour

Wholemeal buns (or if you like, just use bread)

Burger toppings: lettuce, tomato, tomato sauce.

Method:

Drain the chickpeas and sweetcorn and add to a food processor or blender.
Add the spices, flour and finely grate in the lemon zest. Pulse until combined but not smooth, you want to have some texture.
Divide and shape the mixture into 4 patties, and place on a plate to leave in the fridge for 30 mins. (While waiting, why not do some extra study?)
Add a splash of oil to a warm frying pan, add the patties and cook for ten minutes or until golden and hot.
Once cooked, assemble patties on a bun/bread, and add toppings.

Optional: You could also top the patties with some avocado, cheese or even mustard for more flavour! Serving the burger with a side salad is also another option to fulfil your hunger.

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