|
Australia is one of the most alluring countries in the world, and as such is a focal destination for travellers and students. Natural beauty, magnificent architecture and a hugely diverse array of nature and wildlife. What other country has 40 millions kangaroos, over 100 million sheep and more than 10,000 beaches?! You will most likely be based in one of the bustling cosmopolitan cities - often with a beach within a stone’s throw of your apartment. The government’s relaxed viewpoint on immigration – with almost a quarter of the population having been born overseas – brings a unique, fascinating, and exciting aura and influence to these cities.
As an international student studying abroad in Australia, you will not only enjoy the vibrant city life, but venture from the urban neighbourhoods and you will be met with a wonderfully eclectic mix of environments – from sun-drenched horizons, to the rugged wilderness of the Outback; the majestic underwater world that is the Great Barrier Reef, to the surfers’ paradise beaches of the Gold Coast.A Western culture has been adopted with regard to the arts and food, although the multicultural population also have their influence. The laid-back attitude and love of the outdoors could not be seen better than in the vast array of major sporting events passing through the continent each year. Australia most notably hosted the 2000 Summer Olympics. The Australian Open (one of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments), and the Formula One Australian Grand Prix are annual events, whilst other popular sports include Australian rules football, soccer, and surfing. The underlying magnetism of this country is that one night you can find yourself strolling round Sydney Harbour, and the next ‘crocodile hunting’ or lazing on one of the many picturesque beaches the country has to offer. The incredible Blue Mountains are just over an hour from Sydney. Having said this, distances between some places can be huge. Australia is the sixth largest country in the world, spanning three time zones. (see below for details on travel). With one of the lowest population densities in the world, it is not hard to escape the hustle and bustle should you need some time out. It is indeed the sheer vastness of the country and the great diversity of different regions that is the foundation to Australia’s character
Weather
Seasons in Australia are the opposite of the northern hemisphere. Summer begins in December, and winter in June. However, winters tend to be pleasantly warm and being one of the driest countries on the planet means that whatever your pastimes, they can generally be enjoyed all year round.
Summers can be uncomfortably hot up north, which can bring wet and very humid weather – watch out for the swarms of box jellyfish in the sea around this time. This is, however, the perfect time for the southern beaches. Winter allows skiing in New South Wales and Victoria.
Transportation
Australia is very well connected. Depending on how far you are travelling and on your preferences, there will be an option to suit you. Domestic airlines cover most routes between cities, and due to the distances and size of the country, this may often be the best option. However, the road and rail networks are comprehensive, and with some of the most spectacular drives in the world – the Great Ocean Road is a must – a road trip can prove exciting and rewarding.
Public transport is efficient and affordable. From the ferries and monorails in Sydney to the trams of Melbourne, you will never be short of options. Bus and trains are commonplace in most cities.
Cost (In Australian Dollar A$)
| Item |
Price |
| litre of petrol |
A$1.20 |
| small bottle of water |
A$2.50 |
| small bottle of beer |
A$3.00 |
| Movie ticket |
A$18.00 |
| Souvenir t-shirt |
A$30.00 |
| Postcard |
A$2.00 |
| litre of milk |
A$2.00 |
| cup of coffee |
A$2.50 |
| loaf of bread |
A$3.30 |
| street treat (kebab) |
A$7.00 |
Dialing code: 61
Currency: Australian Dollar (A$)
Time zone: GMT/UTC +10 (Eastern Standard Time), GMT/UTC +9.5 (Central Time), GMT/UTC +8 (Western Time) |
|