Tag

work

4 tips to get a job in Australia

The article and cover photo by Paola Bianchi

There are no magic formulas to excel in looking, applying and getting a job in Australia, nor in any place in the world. Is not just about having lucky neither. There is a famous phrase that says: ‘success is where preparation and opportunity meet’. To be successful in getting a job offer we need to get prepared, so when the opportunity arises we are ready to jump right in.

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How are your fine-tuning skills doing? Here are 4 tips to tune-up:

POLISH YOUR RESUME

The resume is your first presentation. It showcases who you are, your work and studies history and your skills. Try to make it different from other boring resumes. Avoid dull designs and focus on a clean structure and refine your grammar. Do not add a photo nor personal details like age or marital status. This does not matter at all. Adding a summery at the beginning is a brilliant way the employer can make a clear idea of who you are and what to expect to read. Also, list two to three referees that can be contacted (one can be personal). Don’t forget to specify keywords on your skill checklist. It Is also a good idea to display a ‘interests’ section that shows a little bit more about you on a personal level. After all, you are a human, not just a resume. Two to three pages are the standard as is expected to be included detailed info about each work or study experience, highlighting responsibilities and achievements.

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REVIEW YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

Nowadays, everyone has at least one social media account to share content…and to check out others! Potential hiring managers can (and will) check your Instagram or Facebook to analyse your behaviour and lifestyle. Do you just have photos showing you as a party animal? Not that you cannot have fun but be careful with your content and comments.

LinkedIn is also a social platform and very popular in Australia. Networking can get you far. Update your profile with your resume info and stay open for potential opportunities. Make sure your profile photo looks professional. If keen, share content and write your own articles. There are free workshops available in the Learning section that can be really helpful.

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ALWAYS CUSTOMISE

Quite often the job Ad will ask for a Cover Letter. The hiring manager wants to know why you are the perfect fit for the role. Identify what the role needs and how you can contribute to that. This is an enormous opportunity to add info that your resume does not have and link transferable skills that can attract the hiring manager. Even though you may have a base, is important to customise the application letter for each job. If you are sending the same letter every time, you are probably not separating yourself from others, and, what is worse, wasting your chance to express more about your personality and what makes you unique. ONE page is enough.

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POPULAR WEBSITES

When all the above is on point, is time to do the work ‘of looking for work’. It can be time-consuming, I know. To make things easier for you, here is a list of the most popular websites to start your search for opportunities in Australia:

https://www.seek.com.au/
https://au.indeed.com/
http://www.ethicaljobs.com.au/
https://www.pedestrian.tv/jobs/
https://www.careerone.com.au/
https://scoutjobs.com.au/
https://www.coffeejobs.com/
https://au.jora.com/

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Nine ways to keep to a student budget

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!

Art on the move? I’m in!

The article is written by Paola Bianchi

Imagine you are walking around with your friends on any street in Melbourne and all of a sudden you see your art displayed on a Tram that is passing by and say to your pals ‘hey, I designed that!’
Oh! I would be so proud of you!

‘Streets are theatres of life, and in Melbourne, the set is always in motion’ the organisers stated.

Melbourne city is calling (gain!) to all artists that live in Victoria to apply to use the Tram as a canvas.
Is the sixth consecutive year that this project is on, having tremendous success. Just 8 participants will be able to showcase. As a condition, participants must be a Victorian resident, based in the state as the primary location in which they live and work. Don’t worry! I double checked with their information department and confirmed that any international student is eligible to apply if currently living in Melbourne. Another good reason to study here.

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Wouldn’t be great to see your artwork moving around the city?
Applications close Tuesday 12th of June at midday and the selected applicants will be announced in July.

Head here to get all the details.

Good luck!

Pictures and information based on creative.vic.gov.au and www.festival.melbourne

10 Fun Things to do in Sydney for Free

The article is written by Paige Murphy

Looking for something fun to do in Sydney? There is so much to see and do here! If you’re on a tight budget or feeling a bit broke (what student isn’t?!), then don’t stress – there are plenty of activities that won’t require a single cent from you. Here are our top ten fun activities to do for free in Sydney.

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1. Catch some waves at Bondi Beach
It’s Australia’s most famous beach – this stop off is a must. The beach stretches from the North Bondi grassy knoll (a great spot for picnics) all the way around to Icebergs (aka the best spot to snap for your Instagram). Have a dip in the water but make sure you stay between the red and yellow flags – or you might end up on Bondi Rescue!

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2. Do a coastal walk
One of the perks to living in Sydney is being right by the ocean. This means we have so many beautiful coastal walks you can do with stunning views. Our favourites are the Bondi to Coogee and the Spit to Manly. The Bondi to Coogee not only offers amazing views but if you don’t feel like walking the whole way or feel like a dip you can stop off at any of the beaches in between like Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly and Gordon’s Bay. The Spit to Manly is a much longer walk but well worth it, taking you along the coastline and through the national park. Just make sure you take some water and comfortable walking shoes with you!

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3. Have a picnic in the Royal Botanical Gardens
Okay, so the picnic part might cost you extra (unfortunately, cheese isn’t free) but the location itself is free for you to visit. Make sure you check out the Rose Garden before picking a spot for your picnic down by the water. You’ll have the best views of the harbour and all the pretty flowers to stare at.

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4. Walk across the Harbour Bridge (via the pedestrian route)
So walking over the actual bridge costs money but to walk across it via the pedestrian path is completely free. Get up close and personal with our most famous landmark and see some spectacular views of Sydney from it. Depending on which way you are walking, you can also stop by the Rocks on the city side or head to Luna Park for fun and games over in North Sydney.

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5. Visit an art gallery
Sydney has some great art galleries that showcase a wide variety of local and international art – and the good news is, most exhibitions are free! Stop by the Art Gallery of NSW and see some of their free exhibitions that range from traditional Aboriginal art to Asian art. For bigger exhibitions like the Archibald prize, you will have to pay but they are well worth the visit. Head over to the Museum of Contemporary Art if you like cool installations, multimedia works and post-modern art. To see some really personal works by one Australia’s most well-known artists, Brett Whiteley, head to his gallery in Surry Hills. For more information, click here.

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6. Stop by the markets
There are SO many great markets on the weekends in Sydney and they are all free… until you can’t resist buying something cool you have seen them! On Saturday’s you have Glebe and Paddington markets whilst Rozelle and Bondi run all weekend. You’ll be able to find everything from new and vintage clothing, accessories, furniture and homewares, food, art and other little trinkets or second-hand goods.

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7. Go whale watching
I guess you have to be lucky with this one but the best spot to see them is up on Sydney’s Northern Beaches between May and November. Head up to Palm Beach to see them where you can also do the beautiful walk up to Barrenjoey Lighthouse, and visit where Home and Away is filmed (if you’re lucky you might even see some of it!).
8. See a classical music concert
If you like classical music, then you’ll love the free concerts put on at the Conservatorium of Music. See some of Sydney’s best musical talent perform in lunchtime and evening concerts. The Conservatorium is right by the Royal Botanical Gardens – so you can have your picnic before or after your visit. To see what is on at The Con, click here.

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9. Check out some street art
Sydney’s Inner West is full cool, hip bars and cafes… and amazing street art! Take a walk through the streets of Newtown to see lanes filled with cool art. There are tours available if you would like to know more about the art, or you can have a look here and take yourself on a tour. No two artworks are the same!

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10. Take a yoga class
Did someone say free yoga? Yes, we did. Lululemon stores hold free yoga classes in-store. Suitable for all levels, if you’re looking to practice but don’t want to (or can’t afford to) pay $20+ for a class, then this is for you. Have a look at their store locator to find your nearest store and when classes are held. Be sure to get there early if you don’t have your own mat as the classes are really popular!

9 STEPS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS TO START A BUSINESS IN AUSTRALIA

Have a business idea? A hobby that you’d like to turn into a job? Have a business overseas and want to start it in Australia?

If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then you must read this blog.

Australia is looking for entrepreneurs!

And yes, you can open a business on a student visa!

“It is estimated that by 2020, 50% of the workforce will be business owners or freelancers”

– Forbes Magazine

For that reason, we’d like to share the 9 steps for you Open a Business in Australia

1. Connect your passion with your strength

What is the formula for entrepreneurial success? Academy of Entrepreneurs interviewed over 1000+ entrepreneurs, from 100+ industries and 50+ countries to answer this BIG question. Step one towards entrepreneurial success is connecting one’s passion with strengths. We live in a world where our passion is meant to be a hobby on the side. Stop that!
There are places such as the Academy of Entrepreneurs that empower you to turn your passion into a thriving business. #BossYourFuture #DoWhatYouLove

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2. Market research

Invest time and effort into comprehensive market research. Do your SWOT analysis;
(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats). Do the SWOT not just for your business idea, but also yourself and your competitors. Click this link for more info.

A little tip: try to avoid just looking within your specific industry. In today’s world of sharing economy, high transparency and globalisation, etc, a lot of industries cross over. For example, if you are planning on launching a drink business, be aware of how the Amazon and their drones can be both a treat and an opportunity for your start-up.

Lastly, get out on the streets, speak to the public & future customers (not just family and friends – who love us too much to give us real feedback), run focus groups, survey monkey, etc. Feedback is vital for idea development and product placement.

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3. Marketing mix

Although Marketing Mix is over 50 years old, it is still very relevant today and allows you as a future entrepreneur to determine your product or service offering.

The Product (or service) should solve a “problem” for your customers… and hopefully, exceed the customer expectation. It has to be positioned and available at the perfect Place where your customer’s shop. The Price positioning has to be chosen thoughtfully, it has to represent good value, however, that does not mean it should be the cheapest available. Cheap can de-value your product/business.

Thanks to the power of online channels the promotional strategy is more affordable and can give you better-targeted results/ROI if you use the right tools. Think about what message do you want to convey and how you will best reach the heart and mind of your customers – and make them take action and buy from you.

Although your businesses may consist of intangible products, physical evidence can very powerful. That doesn’t mean you need to rent a shop, it could be done in the form of printed flyers.

And how effective are your processes? Map out the customer journey & experience to identify opportunities to develop a stronger and more effective customer pipeline, conversion, retention, and referral process.

Lastly, the strength of the business will many times lay in the people. Having the right team is essential. Your team needs to live & breathe your values.

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4. Name Checker

Ready to register the business name? Wait….!

Before you get started with business name registration, buy the domain, design your branding, set up the social media channels, and all of the other exciting stuff done >> go online to https://www.namecheckr.com/ and see what platforms your business name is available.

5. Start-up lawyer

They will help you navigate and understand all laws and legal obligations of your business/industry in Australia. It’s important to get the correct legal structure from the beginning. You don’t want to be raising capital, pitching to investors, negotiating shares meanwhile you aren’t yet legally compliant. Study Anywhere_biz_4 6. Choose your business structure

In Australia, there are four commonly used business structures, which one is best suited for you?

Sole trader – as an individual you are legally responsible for all aspects of the business
Partnership – an association of people or entities operating a business together but not as a company
Company – A legal entity that separate shareholders from the company in regards to legal responsibilities
Trust – an entity that holds assets or income for the benefit of others

7. Australian Business Number (ABN)

On a student visa, you can apply for an ABN. It’s free and takes only a few minutes. Click here to get started.

8. Australian Company Number (ACN)

Thinking big?! Then register your company name. Easy company (easycompanies.com.au) costs around $550 only and will give you all the power to start trading as a structured company (with Board of Directors, a Constitution etc).

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9. Community

Building a personal network of like-minded entrepreneurs has unlimited power (and benefits). Surround yourself with people who are focused, have similar goals, ask the right questions, give you advice, want to see you succeed, and will connect you to their network.

Did you know that 78% of startups say that networking was vital to their entrepreneurial success?

So….what are you doing there?

Focus on what you love, use your talent, do your market research, pick the right name, consult with a lawyer, register your business/company, and network network network!!!

Do you want to know more about opportunities on how you, with an international student visa, can start businesses in Australia or connect to start-ups that have already started their journey and succeeded? Or do you need help finding the right course that will support you on your entrepreneurial journey? You can contact Study Anywhere for more information or request a free Student Visa quote.

The article is written by Anton Fredriksson from the Academy of Entrepreneurs.

App-solutely amazing! Seven must-download apps for life in Australia.

The article is written by Bronte Segota

Made the big move to Australia? Don’t forget to Aussie-fy your phone! There are plenty of apps out there that make settling in in Australia that much easier. We’ve rounded up eight essentials to help you have the best experiences down under!

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Deliveroo
Hungry? Don’t walk all the way to the kitchen! Deliveroo brings you food from all your favourite places in just a hop, skip and jump! Simply order from the Deliveroo app on your smartphone for delivery straight to your door. It’s a lot like UberEats, but the kangaroo logo has us smitten!

Available to download on Android or iPhone

BOM
Don’t rely on temperamental pre-downloaded weather apps to get you through the day. With many Melbourne cities experiencing four seasons in one day – The Bureau of Meteorology app is a saviour. Providing accurate, government-sourced weather forecasts with an easy to use interface, it is Australia’s most reliable weather app. Bonus points for including a real-time rain radar – so you can know exactly when you’ll be needing that umbrella.

Available to download on Android or iPhone

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Australian Slang
Don’t know your Barbie from your Bottle-O? Australia has more slang words than the entire Oxford Dictionary, and for newcomers, it can feel a whole other language to learn! This App has a comprehensive list of uniquely Aussie words and phrases, so the next time you hear someone say that they’re going on a Macca’s run, you’ll know exactly what they mean.

Available to download on Android and iPhone

Gumtree
The perfect place to buy, swap and sell goods online with people in your locality. It’s like eBay, but much more community focussed, meaning you won’t have to pay international shipping costs on items you can buy from vendors in your neighbourhood. Gumtree also has a ‘jobs’ section on their website, where you can search for, and post, jobs in your area.

Available to download on Android and iPhone.

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ABC
Stay up to date with Australian and International news with the ABC App. The ABC itself sets out encourage awareness of Australia and an international understanding of Australian attitudes on world affairs, which makes it the perfect news app for international citizens new to Australia. Unlike many other news apps, it also allows you to customise your news and stories so you can read about what interests you.

Available to download on Android and iPhone

Triplify
Triplify is dubbed ‘the travellers what’s on guide’ and is the perfect app to find events and experiences available around your locality. Listing everything from beach parties to local markets, make sure you don’t miss out on the most exciting events with Triplify – it provides the perfect opportunity to get out and explore your city in social situations.

Available to download on Android and iPhone.

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Party With A Local
This app, partners you up with real-life locals to provide a unique, local experience within the party and entertainment scene of the city. This App is especially good if you’re new to the city and keen to make friends and expand your social circle. Party with a local is a wholly different way to discover your city, with a knowledgeable guide, and potential new acquaintances along the way.

Available to download on Android and iPhone.

Must See Aussie Big Icons

The article is written by Olivia Inwood

If you love road trips, selfies and experiencing the quirky side of Australia, consider seeing some Aussie big icons! Located along highways all over Australia, many of these big things have become pop culture icons and tourist hotspots. Here are our top picks for must-see Aussie big icons:

Big banana

Author of the picture @narissa_campbell

The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour, NSW

The Big Banana claims to be Australia’s ‘first big icon’. Originally created to promote a banana stall, The Big Banana is now an amusement park featuring a downhill toboggan ride, laser tag and an ice skating rink. So, there’s enough entertainment for the whole day!

Big pineapple

Author of the picture @amymacsouthbne

The Big Pineapple in Woombye, QLD

The heritage-listed Big Pineapple is located along the Sunshine Coast. You can climb The Big Pineapple and explore the pineapple museum and observation deck. The area also boasts a train through a pineapple plantation and a Wildlife HQ.

Big merino

Author of the picture @patrickashby_

The Big Merino in Goulburn, NSW

The Big Merino celebrates the wool industry of Goulburn and is often a stopover destination for those travelling to Canberra. You can climb to the top of the Merino sheep and look out through its eyes to see a panoramic view of the local area. The Big Merino also has a gift shop on the ground floor and a wool display!

Big guitar

Author of the picture @geemcv

The Big Golden Guitar in Tamworth, NSW

The Big Golden Guitar is in the heartland of Aussie country music and is over 12 metres high. It was unveiled by Australia’s most popular country music star, Slim Dusty. This Aussie icon is now one of the major attractions at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, held every January.

Big lobster

Author of the picture @kornienko_001

The Big Lobster in Kingston SE, SA

Known locally as “Larry the Lobster” this creation stands at 17 metres tall. It houses a restaurant and gift shop underneath. Kingston is a well-known port and is also famous for its real-life lobsters!

The Big Wave in Newhaven, VIC

The Big Wave is a popular photo spot, where you can pretend you’re riding a wave. Its located at the Island Surf Experience in Newhaven on Phillip Island. This area is a popular resort place and has hosted various surfing competitions in the past.

Pig penguin

Author of the picture @m_szek

The Big Penguin in Penguin, TAS

Only 30km away from Devonport, the coastal town of Penguin is a popular tourist attraction and home to hundreds of fairy penguins. The Big Penguin is located in the beachfront park and is the largest penguin sculpture in the world!

48 HOURS IN: WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

The article is written by Candice Locklee

If you find yourself spending your study breaks wishing you were relaxing beneath swaying palms on white sandy beaches and snorkelling the kind of blue water that dreams are made of – we’ve got the perfect solution for you. Grab your sunscreen and a pair of thongs and hop on a plane to paradise, AKA The Whitsunday Islands.

Located off the central coast of Queensland about 900km north of Brisbane, the Whitsunday Islands are a chain of 74 tropical islands of varying sizes that boast stunning beaches, dense rainforests, rocky mountains and a range of world-famous destinations, including being home to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef.

The area is renowned for its limitless opportunities to swim, snorkel, dive, cruise and sight-see your way across the islands no matter what budget you’re travelling on.

It’s the perfect place to spend a much-deserved break this summer – here’s our helpful guide on how to get the most out of 48 hours in the Whitsunday Islands.

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SNORKELLING

Snorkelling is a must-do activity when visiting the Whitsundays. With the Great Barrier Reef stretching over 2000km along the coast of Queensland, the Whitsundays is located near the centre of this natural beauty and they are the perfect place to explore this underwater wonderland of coral and marine life.

There are many snorkelling spots all over the islands that you can dive into, but we’ve collected a handful of the best ones for you to try out.

Hook Island is a popular island for snorkelling and diving due to its abundance of stunning coral reefs and sea animals, including fish, turtles, dolphins, manta rays and humpback whales. It’s full of bays and coves that are perfect for dipping into the pristine water. Some of the best are Manta Ray Bay (where you can spot Manta Rays in their natural habitat from around May – September), Butterfly Bay (famous for its colonies of beautiful butterflies during certain months of the year as well as its spectacular underwater world), Luncheon Bay (which offers a huge variety of coral and reef fish) and the Pinnacles.

Other popular spots for snorkelling are Blue Pearl Bay on Hayman Island and Cateran Bay on Border Island, both relatively shallow reefs full of striking coral and marine life which make them perfect for underwater exploring.

BEACHES

It goes without saying that the beaches in the Whitsunday Islands are the best you’ll find in this country. It’s almost impossible to pick a beach that isn’t Instagram worthy, but we’ve gathered together some of the ones that will really make your jaw drop.

Whitsunday Island, the largest island in the Whitsundays, is home to the world famous Whitehaven Beach. If you haven’t seen any pictures of this dreamy destination, go ahead and google it – we’ll wait. Whitehaven Beach is a glorious 7km stretch of powdery white sand (among the whitest sand you’ll find in the world) and endless aqua sea that swirl together in amazing natural patterns as the pure sand shifts through the water.

You can see this at the northern end of Whitehaven Beach at a place called Hill Inlet.

Another beach worth checking out is Catseye Beach on Hamilton Island. With its long stretch of white sand and swaying palms, it’s a popular spot for weddings and offers plenty of spots for relaxing and water sports.

Horseshoe Bay in Bowen is in the northernmost part of the Whitsundays. With picturesque beaches and opportunities for snorkelling, it’s worth the journey up there.

For a bit more privacy, Chalkies Beach on Haselwood Island is a neglected paradise that lies opposite the more popular Whitehaven. With the same white silica sand and aqua water, Chalkies is just as photogenic without all of the tourists getting in the way of the perfect shot.

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HIKING

While there’s plenty to do underwater, there’s also no shortage of fun things to do on land too. The Whitsunday Islands is a national park that features lush rainforests, hills and mountain ranges, dense bushland and waterfalls for you to explore on foot.

They are home to many hiking trails that range from short 1km strolls to lengthy bush treks for a real challenge. The Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail is considered one of Queensland’s Great Walks and it features many of these bush walks on Whitsunday, Hook and South Molle Islands. The walks will take you through beaches, eucalypt forests, rainforests and grasslands, with many ending in spectacular views over the island and beyond.

Some of the best ones to try are Passage Peak trail on Hamilton Island (for those spectacular views we mentioned), the Great Whitsunday Walk (a crazy 28km trek that has many smaller trails leading off of it so you can pick and choose your starting point) and the Honeyeater Walk on the mainland (a very popular 8km return bushwalk that begins in Airlie Beach and boasts some of the most spectacular views over the entire Whitsunday Islands).

Keswick Island and Lindeman Island also offer some great options for walking through green rainforests, as well as any of the diverse trails on Long Island.

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CAMPING

If you’re after a true wilderness experience that you can brag to all of your friends about when you get home, camping under the stars is a great way to go.

Camping is available at a number of different locations around the islands – Whitsunday Island, Hook Island and the Molle Islands being among the most popular. Some campsites are located on the beach so you can wake up to your very own glorious sunrise, others are situated further back in the bush which is a great option if you prefer a bit more shade during the warmer months.

Wildlife and nature are all around you and there are countless opportunities to spot native animals on the many walking trails on the islands.

While some campsites offer eco-toilets and picnic tables, others are more remote for a true camping experience. You won’t find toilets, drinking water or reception at these sites so make sure you prepare beforehand!

If you decide camping is for you, visit the Queensland National Parks Booking Service to select your location and dates and get your camping permit: https://qpws.usedirect.com/qpws/

Once you’ve booked your spot, check out this website for great prices that will give you everything you need to start your adventure: https://www.whitsundaycamping.com.au/ They offer camping kits to set you up with all the necessary equipment, such as tents, gas stoves and an esky, as well as return transfers on a water taxi to your chosen site starting at $65.

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HELPFUL LINKS

To plan your trip, we suggest checking out this link for some great deals on tour packages to suit any budget. Tours are a fantastic way to see the islands and you can pick one that includes everything you have your heart set on doing while there. They even offer backpacker and student deals, so you can grab your friends and head off for a party in paradise you’ll never forget!

Be sure to also download the Visitor Guide which is packed full of important information on everything you can see and do on the land and under the water, including detailed info on all hiking trails in the area.

For more great tips and tricks on being an international student living in Australia, visit Study Anywhere

5 CHRISTMAS MUSTS

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

While studying and living here in Australia you will find that us Aussies love Christmas time. So we’ve come up with a few things you must see and do while spending the jolly season down under.

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Christmas Decorations and Lights

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, you’ll see the shops become filled with decorations and lights for your home. If you’re feeling in the Christmas spirit already then go ahead and decorate your house and home with pretty, colourful lights and be sure to hang a wreath on your door.

Tip: You can find great, inexpensive decorations and lights from stores such as Kmart, Big W, and Target.

Another Christmas must is to grab a few friends and go Christmas light looking in your local suburbs! You’ll find that some people go all out and cover their houses from top to bottom in bright lights.

Tip2: Head online to Christmas Light Search to find the best displays near you.

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Christmas Tree

Here in Australia, it is a tradition that we put our Christmas Trees up on the 1st of December and leave both our trees and lights up until the 1st of January. Decorating your tree can be super fun to do with your housemates and friends and really gets you into the spirit of Christmas.

Tip: Put on some Christmas carols so you and your friends can dance and sing-a-long while you decorate.

Tip2: You can also experience the magic of Christmas at the Martin Place Christmas tree in Sydney, where you will find a huge tree that will light up Martin Place from dusk till 1:00 in the morning starting on Saturday 25th November 2017.

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Christmas Carols

One of the best things about Christmas time is Christmas carols! These definitely a must for a jolly season and you can experience them first hand, singing with Australian stars at the annual Woolworths Carols in the Domain 2017.

Tip: Bring all your friends and pack some nibbles and a picnic rug. You’ll have a great night out under the stars singing along to some great Christmas classics.

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Pavlova

Pavlova is a meringue-based dessert topped with cream and fresh fruit and extremely popular at Christmas time. Pavlova is a D.I.Y dessert meaning you can top your pavlova with anything such as berries, mangoes, kiwi fruit, peaches, and passionfruit. There has been a long debate as to whether the Pavlova is originally an Australian or a New Zealand creation but who cares – the main thing is that it tastes absolutely delicious!

Tip: You can purchase all your ingredients for a Pavlova at your nearest Coles or Woolworths. Check out this simple and easy recipe on how to make your own Pavlova.

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Aussie Christmas Day BBQ

If you’re unsure of how you want to spend Christmas Day then having an Aussie BBQ is the best way to go! Just gather around with friends and/or family and cook up a giant feast. It’s always good to cook some chicken, prawns, sausages, and steak on a BBQ – having a range of food is always good especially if you want to eat yourself into a food coma.

Tip: A BBQ is always best accompanied by some alcohol such as beers, light spirits, and wines. Be sure to make some summery garden salads which will go down nicely with your meal as well.

Gathering around with friends and food to celebrate Christmas is a great way to sit back and relax, to enjoy the company of others. Be sure to have nibbled on the table such as crackers, cheese, and salami and finish off with a Pavlova for dessert.

Tip2: Learn how to make the perfect cheese board platter here to entertain your guests.

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Study Anywhere wish you MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR! MAY ALL THE DREAMS COME TRUE.!

TIPS AND TRICKS WHEN IT COMES TO SAVING MONEY

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Living and studying abroad is not always cheap. Sometimes you might find it hard to be saving a bit of extra cash in your pocket. When there is constantly payments going out of your bank that you require living comfortably, it can sometimes be a struggle. To help you out we’ve come up with a few handy tips that might be worth your while when it comes to saving money and smarter shopping.

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Money Boxes
Now it might sound like a thing you would have done when you were a little kid trying to save some pocket money – but having a money box is actually a really fun and effective way to save those dollars. Simply find an old jar or you can purchase a cheap money tin from a discount store. You can decorate your money box however you desire, and the best way to make sure you don’t go picking out those unnecessary dollars from your savings is to put a little lock on there and hide the key in a special spot. Any spare change you have, just keep putting it in your money box – you will be surprised how much you can actually save over time from this little trick.

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Smart Shopping
Sometimes when you are doing your regular grocery shopping you will find that things can be quite expensive. Not to worry though, because there is an easy solution to finding bargains on the shelves. Check out the best places to shop below:

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ALDI

If you are someone who loves bargains then you should definitely give shopping at ALDI a good go! ALDI is a discount supermarket and offers you with smarter shopping, giving you high-quality items at the lowest possible prices. That’s definitely what you want to hear!

Tip: Not only will you find cheap groceries here, ALDI also offers some great outdoor equipment, clothing, and other accessories, including household items.

Coles
If you like reduced prices then a trip to Coles later at night is for you! Coles usually have marked down salads, sweets, and savouries of a night time and this is a really great way to stock up for those late night nibbles you get.

Tip: If you are going to stock up on these insanely good treats for an insanely good price, just be sure to remember that the expiry dates on them are fast approaching. They usually last a day or two before you have to throw them out, which is why they become reduced in the first place. Just remember to shop smart!

Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are another great way to find cheap goodies. Most areas hold regular farmers markets on weekends. Here you can find farm fresh produce such as fruit and vegetables, as well as local wines and other delicious goodies – all for a great price.

Tip: If you are up for it, traveling around to different farmers markets in different areas could turn into a great day trip, so be sure to bring a few friends along for some market shopping fun!

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Extra Tips

If you’re living in shared accommodation, sharing bills as well as paying for groceries is an effective way to keep living comfortably on a budget. Be sure to split grocery bills equally to ensure there is fairness for everyone.

If you ever feel the need to grab dollars out of your money box be sure to evaluate whether you really need the money or if it is just for something you want. Only break into your money box if there is an emergency need for some cash.

When shopping at Coles or Woolworths buying the no-frills brands which are the brands provided by the companies can actually be cheaper than buying big brand name products. It’s always best to compare prices when shopping in supermarkets.

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