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travel

INTO THE WILD: Adventures Out Of The City

The article is written by Candice Locklee

Living in a city is exciting. There’s always something going on, the shops are open until late and the opportunities to meet new people are endless. But sometimes, you’ll find that some of the best adventures lay outside the city lights where nature is waiting for you to experience all of the many natural wonders that this country has to offer.

The region between South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales boasts a landscape of valleys, mountains, bushland, waterfalls and winding rivers. With a ton of National Parks, World Heritage sites and hiking trails to be explored, you’re spoilt for choice for those days when you’re feeling up for a different kind of adventure.

If you’re ready to leave the city behind and take a break from urban living, escape on a day trip to one of these places:

Study Anywhere_TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN RAINFOREST WALKS

TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN RAINFOREST WALKS

About 45 minutes from the busy Gold Coast, is a pretty little town called Tamborine Mountain that is located in the heart of the spectacular Scenic Rim region. Up in the clouds, you’ll feel like you’re the world away from the city and can easily spend a day enjoying the cafes, country lanes, wineries and peaceful atmosphere.

However, Tamborine Mountain is famous for its rainforests and no visit is complete without taking on one of the many hiking trails available. The Curtis Falls, Palm Grove Circuit, and Witches Falls walks are some of the most popular hiking trails on the mountain that will take you into the heart of the rainforests and surround you with native flora and fauna.

Tamborine Mountain Skywalk also offers the unique experience of being able to walk through the rainforest on bridges that will take you soaring over the top of the tree canopies and Cedar Creek rock-pools.

For those after the view, there’s a number of lookouts to choose from around the mountain that offer panoramic views of the Gold Coast and surrounding valleys – take your camera, the sunsets are spectacular all year round!

THINGS TO KNOW:

There is no general public transport from the Gold Coast to Tamborine Mountain, so be sure to plan ahead and either book a full day tour bus online or arrange your own transportation.

Study Anywhere_MOUNT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK

MOUNT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK

Mount Barney National Park is one of a number of National Parks in this region that showcases the beauty of the Gondwana Rainforests. Listed as a World Heritage area, the ancient Gondwana Rainforests stretch across a vast area in South-East Queensland and Northern New South Wales and are home to many plants and animals that are both rare and endangered.

Mount Barney is a true Australian wilderness experience. Hikers are able to take one of the many tracks available and make their own way past rocky mountains, caves, creeks, sweeping valleys and subtropical rainforests.

Camping is common in the Mount Barney region and there are also guided opportunities to take the adventure to the next level by engaging in some rock-climbing, abseiling, lake paddling and horse riding to name a few.

Study Anywhere_NATURAL BRIDGE IN SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

NATURAL BRIDGE IN SPRINGBROOK NATIONAL PARK

The Natural Bridge is a popular tourist attraction set in the midst of the Springbrook National Park. After an easy walk through the stunning Gondwana rainforest, you’ll reach the Natural Bridge, a spectacular rock formation formed into the shape of a curved bridge by the powerful force of the waterfall over time.

You can walk down to the cave below and take some great photos of the water and sunlight hitting the green-blue pool beneath the bridge. If you choose to come at night, the cave becomes a wonderland of tiny lights from the many glow worms that have made the cave their home.

Don’t forget to check out the rest of Springbrook National Park while you’re here. There’s a multitude of walking trails, both guided and independent, that range from 300m to 54km in length so you can pick and choose according to your ability.

Study Anywhere_MOUNT WARNING

MOUNT WARNING

As you’re driving over the Queensland border into New South Wales, you may notice a distinctly crooked mountain peak looming on the horizon. Situated between Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, Mount Warning has become a popular destination for adventurers looking for something a little more challenging than the average bushwalk.

The Mount Warning trail usually takes about 5 hours and will lead its hikers through some of the most captivating scenery of the region, including thick subtropical rainforest, heath shrublands, palm forests and a short rock scramble towards the top that will end in breathtaking coastal views from Byron Bay to the Gold Coast.

You don’t need to be a pro to take on Mount Warning, but you should be prepared for some strenuous effort. All ages attempt the climb and you’ll be sure to pass fellow hikers along the way that are quick to give you encouragement to the top.

For those who aren’t up for climbing a mountain in their spare time, don’t worry. There’s a number of short, easy walks through the palm forests to enjoy and picnic areas situated around the area for a more relaxing day in the sun.

TIP:

Bring your own water and suitable footwear for climbing.
It’s advised to start this hike early in the morning so that you’ll have plenty of time to hike up, enjoy the view from the top, and make it back down before dark. Visitors should never attempt the mountain in the night as unseen obstacles and uneven ground makes it too dangerous.

6 tips on how to stay positive over the winter

The article is written by Pamela Choo

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

Study Anywhere_Stay Active 1. Stay active

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

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

Study Anywhere_Have hot food and warm drinks

2. Have hot food and warm drinks

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

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

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

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

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

Study Anywhere_warm clothing 4. Wear enough warm clothing

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

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

Study Anywhere_social activities 5. Keep up with social activities

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

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

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

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

Eat like an Aussie or 7 the most Australian foods you have to try

The article is written by Candice Locklee.

One of the best things about being in a new country is getting to try out all of the foods that the locals love to eat.
From the weird to the delicious, here are our top 7 picks for the most Aussie foods you need to try while you’re here:

Study Anywhere_LAMINGTONS

7) LAMINGTONS

The delicious lamington cake has practically become an Australian icon for bakeries all over the country and there’s plenty to love about it. The original lamington is a vanilla sponge cake that’s cut into squares, rolled in chocolate and coated in coconut.

A popular version of the lamington is to cut the square in half and spread a layer of strawberry jam and cream in between before rolling it in chocolate and coconut. There are also places where you’ll find people turning the lamington into something fresh and modern with all different flavors and all different kinds of fillings.

Get them from bakeries, supermarkets, market stalls or anywhere else you happen to spot them – the lamington never goes out of style.

Study Anywhere_ANZAC COOKIES

6) ANZAC COOKIES

The humble ANZAC cookie has a long history – Australians have enjoyed eating them since they were eaten by our soldiers in World War 1. The traditional ANZAC cookie is made with ingredients such as oats, golden syrup, and coconut that is melted together and baked into heavenly treats that taste like butter and toffee.

Give them a go – the best ones are crispy and golden on the outside and chewy on the inside.

Study Anywhere_PRAWNS ON THE BARBIE

5) PRAWNS ON THE BARBIE

While in Australia, you’re almost certain to hear the phrase, “prawns on the barbie”. Don’t be alarmed – it simply translates to “prawns cooked on the barbecue”.

This is a favorite for a lot of Aussies, especially during the summer months. When the weather is good and the sun is out, grab a pair of thongs and get some friends together in the backyard to enjoy some prawns on the barbie. You’ll be feeling like a local in no time!

Study Anywhere_TIM TAMS

4) TIM TAMS

Tim Tams are a classic Australian chocolate biscuit that everyone has to try at least once. They come in all different flavors, but nothing really beats Original with its creamy chocolate filling in between two layers of light chocolate biscuit and a thin coating of chocolate on the outside.

Try doing what Aussies often call the Tim Tam Slam – take two small bites from opposite ends of the Tim Tam and dip one end into a hot drink. The creamy filling and the biscuit will soften and you’ll be able to use your Tim Tam like a straw to enjoy your drink.

Buy yourself a packet (or two) the next time you’re at the supermarket and try not to eat them all at once!

Study Anywhere_MEAT PIE

3) MEAT PIE

Sure, you can get a meat pie nearly anywhere in the world but Aussies love eating the classic meat pie and it’s a great choice for when you’re in a hurry and looking for some lunch.

Meat pies are sold everywhere in Australia – from supermarkets to bakeries, service stations to restaurants – and enjoyed anywhere you can think of – from cafes to football matches, to schools or the beach.

The next time you’re feeling hungry, grab a meat pie and don’t forget the big splash of tomato sauce on top.

Study Anywhere_WITCHETTY GRUBS

2) WITCHETTY GRUBS

Although you’re unlikely to find these in your regular supermarket, witchetty grubs are a native bush food and commonly eaten by Indigenous Australians in central parts of the country.

If you ask someone what a witchetty grub tastes like, you’ll often hear the answer that they “taste like chicken”. This is true if they are lightly cooked and the skin becomes crispy, but witchetty grubs can also be eaten raw where they have a slightly nutty flavor like almonds.

The sight of a witchetty grub can turn a lot of people away, but if you’re looking to try some authentic native bush food, why not give it a go? – we dare you!

Study Anywhere_VEGEMITE 1) VEGEMITE

It doesn’t get more Australian than eating Vegemite.

In a jar with the famous red and yellow logo, vegemite is a thick black paste made from yeast extract that most Aussies have eaten since they were kids. With its strong flavor that’s hard to describe – salty? sour? a little sweet? – a lot of overseas visitors are hesitant to try the popular spread and will either love it or hate it.
The most important thing about vegemite is to not overdo it. It works best when a little is spread with butter on a thick slice of warm toast.

No matter what you’ve heard about it, vegemite is THE most Aussie food to try in Australia. So, pick some up at your local supermarket – you might just find that you love it as much as we do!

For more info about being an international student living in Australia, be sure to check out the official webpage at www.studyanywhere.com.au

Best Sydney cafes to beat the study time blues

The article is written by Loren Howarth.

Studying for exams can be stressful, especially if you’re living in a foreign country away from the support of your family and closest friends. But don’t worry, Sydney has many amazing cafes that will help you to unwind, with the help of delicious food and a relaxing atmosphere. Oh, and did we mention the food?

Study Anywhere_Clipper Cafe

Clipper Café, Glebe

Known for good coffee and even better eggs benedict, Clipper Café is the perfect breakfast destination. The comfortable interior is filled with bric-a-brac, including bikes mounted on the walls and bright plastic flowers. This café will leave you feeling inspired, and you can unleash your creative flair with Study Anywhere and study in an arty environment.

Study Anywhere_Ampersand Café and Bookstore Paddington

Ampersand Café and Bookstore, Paddington

Studying can take the fun out of reading, but rediscover this enjoyment at Ampersand Café and Bookstore. Nestled in the city, you’ll feel the world away as you explore the wonders of second-hand books while enjoying a delicious meal in the upstairs library.

Study Anywhere_Caffe Tiamo

Caffe Tiamo, Sydney

Caffe Tiamo is a contemporary, split level café with the interior inspired by the luscious great outdoors. You can choose to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi from the inside or escape the bustling CBD in the open courtyard at the back. The café serves food throughout the day, including delicious pasta meals, but we recommend enough room for a sweet and scrumptious dessert!

Study Anywhere_Maximus Café, Martin Place

Maximus Café, Martin Place

Located on the ground floor of the GPO building, Maximus Café is a stunning tiled space with high ceilings encompassed by Sydney’s history. The café serves their own organic and fair trade Arabica coffee, making it the ideal spot if you’re looking for a good cuppa to get your mind off studying. To accompany your hot drink, there is also a variety of croissants, bread, and assorted quiches.

Study Anywhere_Café Hernandez Potts Point

Café Hernandez, Potts Point

Since 1972, Café Hernandez has been serving gourmet coffee and Spanish style food. And with the café being open twenty-four hours, seven days a week, there is never a bad time to go relax and unwind with some delicious food in a homely style atmosphere. Plus, if you’re caffeine lover there are so many varieties of coffee beans to choose from, including Swiss decaf, Caramel Espresso, and a unique Spanish blend.

Best markets on the Gold Coast

The article is written by Candice Locklee

So, you’re stressing out over studies and feeling overwhelmed about living in a new country. If you’re lucky enough to be on the sunny Gold Coast right now, what better way to unwind than to check out one of the Gold Coast’s diverse markets?
The Gold Coast boasts a large number of markets to be enjoyed at all times of the month, day and night. To help get you started, we’ve got 5 of the best markets on the Gold Coast to visit:

Study Anywhere_Surfers Paradise Market

Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets

In the heart of Surfers Paradise, the Beachfront Markets are a great option for those looking to combine their love of markets with the sand and surf. Stretching out along Main Beach, you can stroll past over 120 stalls selling everything from fashion, jewelry, food, art and one-of-a-kind gifts.

There’s plenty of bargains to be found if you care to look and you can usually expect some live entertainment that adds to the relaxed atmosphere. After you’re done, why not head across the road and into the heart of Surfers to experience all that this vibrant city has to offer?

Things to know:

Where: The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise

When: Every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, 4pm-9pm

Cost: free

For more info, check out their web page.
Study Anywhere_Carrara Markets

Carrara Markets

As Queensland’s biggest permanent market, Carrara is a must-see for anyone looking for a bargain. With over 400 stalls of fashion, art, accessories, beauty products, plants and furniture, souvenirs, tasty food and everything in between, you’re bound to find something to take away without breaking your budget. These markets are spread over a large area, so take your time to see it all. Carrara Markets is on every weekend, rain or shine, so there’s no excuse to not pop in and have a look around.

Things to know:

Where: corner of Manchester Rd and Gooding Drive, Carrara

When: Every Saturday and Sunday, 7am-3pm

Cost: free

For more info, check out their Facebook

Study Anywhere_Nightquarters

Nightquarter, Helensvale

Nightquarter is the Gold Coast’s biggest street food market where you can dine beneath the stars in an outdoor setting – it’s a lively multicultural experience with flavours from around the world.

From the healthy and organic, to the not-so-healthy but oh-so-delicious, Nightquarter has something for every appetite with its street food stalls, small restaurants and plenty of undercover communal dining areas where you can sit and eat with friends.

For those looking to spend a bit extra, Nightquarter also offers a good range of market stalls that sell a wide range of products from local designers. For those looking for great music, the Paddock is a popular live music venue situated on the grounds that showcases great artists from Australia and overseas.

Be sure to view the website first to check upcoming gigs and pre-purchase your tickets.

Things to know:

Where: 1 Town Centre Drive, Helensvale

When: Every Friday and Saturday

Cost: $3 entry fee per person

For more info, check out their website

Study Anywhere_Miami Marketta

Miami Marketta

For something a little cozier and laid back, try out the Miami Marketta. Popular with locals, this night market is tucked away in the industrial area of Miami and offers home-cooked street food, live music, and friendly people.

You can chill out beneath fairy lights and enjoy food from all parts of the world, with delicious savoury dishes served outdoors and a large undercover dessert hall. Long tables are provided for seating to create a real community vibe and make it easy to socialise with everyone around you while you sip on that Mojito and soak in the sounds of the live band.

As if that wasn’t enough, Miami Marketta is also a vibrant art space where up and coming designers open their boutiques for those looking to buy something a little different and support local talent.

Things to know:

Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami

When: Every Friday and Saturday, 4pm-11pm

Cost: free

For more info, check out their website

Study Anywhere_village markets

The Village Markets

What could be better than getting up early on a Sunday morning and heading to the trendiest market on the Gold Coast?Located in the fashionable Burleigh Heads, the Village Markets has become a haven for all bohemian beach babes and lovers of vintage chic. If you love locally handmade jewellery, art, fashion and accessories from emerging designers – this is the place to be.
You can wander through stalls packed full of quirky charm and pick up something special, from beach dresses and earrings to shoes and bohemian handbags. For those who are after pre-loved items, keep an eye out for the baskets full of vintage wear to grab a bargain.

There’s also a selection of healthy food stalls available if you get hungry. Bring a blanket and relax on the grass where you can listen to some local talent sing some tunes in the sun and enjoy the good vibes.

Things to know:

Where: Burleigh Heads State School Oval, 1750 Gold Coast Highway

When: First and Third Sunday of the month, 8:30am-1pm

Cost: free

For more info, check out their website

Five of the best beaches in Queensland

The article is written by Loren Howarth

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

Study Anywhere_noosa beach

Noosa Main Beach, Sunshine Coast

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

Study Anywhere_nudey beach

Nudey Beach, Fitzroy Island

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

Study Anywhere_Burleigh heads

Burleigh Heads, Gold Coast

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

Study Anywhere_surfers Paradise

Surfers Paradise Beach, Surfers Paradise

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

Study Anywhere_Whitehaven beach

Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Islands

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

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

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