Experience in Sydney, Australia by Sophie

What is it like to live in Sydney? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Sydney is amazing! The constant beautiful weather, living a stone's throw away from the beach and the relaxing lifestyle of Australians is such a comfort to be surrounded by. The city is a bustling centre full of high-rise buildings - we're not accustomed to the low skylines of Europe. But each part of Sydney gives you a different worldview. If you're living near Bondi or Coogee you certainly have the advantages of the beach lifestyle, but step into Newtown and you'll find a little urban hub which is again totally different to the business-minded city centre.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Sydney?

Student life is really well developed. There are a lot of universities, high schools, etc. scattered around the whole of Sydney, so everywhere you go there's something happening. My university, UNSW, constantly has student events to socialize and meet people. There is an array of clubs, bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants too, so you'll never be short of choice.

How much does it cost to live in Sydney?

The one downside to this amazing place is the cost. Unfortunately it is quite expensive to live here - from rent, transport and food, it all adds up. Of course some places are cheaper but the average rent can be around $400 a week for a one-bed apartment. House sharing is often the way to go, which will cut that down quite a lot.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Sydney? Is there any advice you can give?

Accommodation can be tricky to find depending on what you're looking for and when you're searching; however, the housing market is always rising (along with the population). I don't have much advice because I've lived in student residences for university since moving out of home - but these are a great option.

What is the food like? What are your favorite dishes?

Food is amazing, it's one of the things I miss most about home. We're quite international so a lot of places you'll find Asian, Italian, Mexican... done really well. Being in such a warm climate has the advantages of fresh produce, though. So in Summer we're always drinking smoothies and eating salads - vegetarian and vegan food is now popping up all over the city.

What places would you recommend visiting in Sydney?

There are the obvious sights of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Circular Quay which are amazing, but definitely one of my favorite spots is Surry Hills. A quaint neighborhood full of great food, excellent coffee and a quite arty vibe. Newtown and Bondi are other favorites. If you're up for a road trip then head North to Palm Beach and the Northern Beaches of Manly - breathtaking ocean views.

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Is it good to eat out in Sydney? Can you tell us your favorite spots?

Surry Hills, Newtown and Bondi are my personal favorite places to go find food, but there are constant new arrivals of restaurants and cafes around the city.

Is the nightlife good in Sydney? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is pretty good, I prefer the Oxford Street area and also near Bondi. The one downside is the different party atmosphere to Europe because of the lock-out laws so we party much earlier!

What advice would you give future students heading to Sydney?

Definitely go, I only have good things to say about Sydney and it is of course a place you'll want to return to later on!

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