Student Bloggers

When I first started planning to study abroad, Australia was not on my list. As an East Asian student from the U.S., I’d always been more drawn to exploring Asia. But after two months of living and studying in Sydney, I joke to my friends back home that I’m thinking about extending my Australian visa indefinitely. It turns out, Australia has a lot to offer. If you're considering studying in Australia—or still on the fence about it—here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your time here. 

1. Public Transport and Safety: A Smooth Ride in Sydney
   Sydney is a city that gets a lot right, and public transport is one of those things. Whether you’re traveling on a tight budget or just trying to get around quickly, Sydney offers three main modes of transportation: bus, tram, and train.
   
   In my experience, the tram is the most reliable option. You can easily check routes on Google Maps, which helps when you’re in a rush. A few things to keep in mind: 
   - Distance-based fares: Sydney charges based on how far you travel, so the costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re hopping between neighborhoods.
   - Group travel tip: If you're heading out with a group of 6, consider using Uber—it can be more cost-effective and efficient for larger groups.
   - Ticket checks: During peak hours (10:00 am - 6:00 pm), expect random ticket checks. If you don’t have a valid ticket, you could face a fine of up to $200. It’s not worth the risk, so always make sure you’ve paid your fare.
2. Take Advantage of Free Events in Sydney
   If you love to explore the city but don’t want to spend a lot of money, Sydney has got you covered. Whether you’re into trivia nights, festivals, or clubbing, there’s always something happening with free entry. I found tons of events through platforms like Eventbrite. Just search for “free entry,” and you’ll find trivia nights, bar events, and even cultural festivals like Holi—all at no cost!
3. Traveling Within Australia: Budget-Friendly Flights and Tips
   Sydney isn’t the only city worth visiting in Australia. If you're planning to explore beyond Sydney, flights are relatively cheap if you know where to look. Jetstar is a budget-friendly airline that often has amazing deals. It’s not the fanciest airline, but for the price, it gets the job done.
   
   If you’re a frequent flyer, I’d recommend checking out Jetstar Club. However, do some research before signing up, as not everyone has had a stellar experience with the perks.
   
   A quick travel tip: when flying with budget airlines, make sure to pack light. Jetstar and others will weigh your carry-on, and if it’s over 7kg, you’ll be forced to pay extra fees. Travel light and avoid the hassle!
4. Health & Safety: Bug Spray and Sunscreen Are Your Best Friends
   Australia is home to some pretty interesting wildlife, but not all of it is cute and cuddly. While people always warn you about spiders (and for good reason), I found the mosquitoes and cockroaches to be the more pressing concern. I was bitten by mosquitoes constantly—especially at night when I was trying to sleep.
   
   So, if you’re heading to Australia, don’t forget to pack bug spray. It’ll save you from a lot of itchy nights. Also, sunscreen is a must, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.
   
   A funny but important tip: When you first enter your accommodation, check for cockroaches. My roommates and I encountered three massive ones as soon as we stepped into our new place. It’s just part of life here, so be prepared.
5. Brunch, Happy Hours, and a Better Work-Life Balance
   One of the things I love about Australia is the early schedule. Unlike many countries where people stay out late, Australians tend to kick off their day early. Breakfast spots and brunch cafes are everywhere, and happy hour often starts as early as 2:00 pm. Nightlife starts early, too—expect places to get busy around 8:00 pm.
   
   This early schedule may explain why people here seem to have such a solid work-life balance. You can fit in everything from a morning surf session to an afternoon coffee break and still have time to explore at night.
6. Sydney: A City That Offers It All
   Sydney is a city where you can truly have it all. Whether you’re into luxury shopping, multi- cultural cuisine, surfing, or hiking, Sydney has something for everyone.
   
   One of my favorite days here was when I packed a dance class, a surf lesson, a visit to a market, and a hike to a waterfall all into the same day. The diversity of activities here is incredible, and there’s always something new to try.
7. The Asian Influence in Sydney
   As Sydney is relatively close to Asia, the city has a significant Asian influence. This is particularly evident in the student body. At my university, a whopping 70% of students are Asian, which creates a vibrant and diverse campus culture.
   
   Beyond the university, you’ll also find tons of Asian districts throughout Sydney, filled with Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai, and other Asian restaurants. It’s great if you miss authentic food from home or just want to explore the wide variety of Asian cuisines.

Final Thoughts
Australia wasn’t originally at the top of my list for studying abroad, but now I can’t imagine leaving anytime soon. Sydney has so much to offer—great public transport, affordable travel options, free events, and a unique lifestyle. If you’re considering studying here, don’t hesitate! Whether it’s the natural beauty, the food scene, or the cultural influences, there’s something special about living in Sydney.
So, pack your bags (but not too much—remember that 7kg rule!), get ready to explore, and enjoy everything Australia has to offer!