Friday, April 11, 2014

Study Abroad Destination Sydney!



Sydney, Australia is a destination many students choose when planning their semesters studying abroad. It’s no surprise - Sydney has been voted “world’s best city” two years in a row by Travel and Leisure magazine! Located on Australia’s south east coast, Sydney is the capital of the state of New South Wales. According to the IES study abroad website, Sydney also has more than 70 white sand beaches and is one of the world’s most multicultural cities.


This gorgeous city is known for its Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The Opera House has been internationally acclaimed as an architectural icon in the 20th century and a natural cultural centre. The Opera House includes a concert hall, opera and drama theaters, a playhouse and a studio. Many of the world’s top performers have performed here. Sydney is full of art museums and theaters just waiting to be explored.


The Harbour Bridge is the world’s largest steel arch bridge, and has been standing as one of Australia’s leading landmarks since 1932. Daily traffic is estimated at 160,000 vehicles per day. Daring tourists have even climbed the massive monument to see the breathtaking views from the top. Find out more about the bridge’s history on the Australian Government’s website!  


Sydney’s multicultural vibe is reflected in the food, and the city is called one of the world’s great dining destinations. Fresh seafood can be found in five star restaurants on the harbor or you can dine on a rooftop bar. Italian, Greek and Turkan cuisine can all be found here as well. Check out this CNN article on the best Australian foods to eat while you’re there! The list includes macadamia nuts, witchetty grubs, crocodile, fantales and hamburger with beetroot!


Beautiful parks run through Sydney, including the world’s second oldest national park Royal National Park or the Royal Botanic Gardens. Take a hike on a coastal trail to see stunning views of the ocean and shorelines. You can take a ferry to explore nearby islands or kayak to a harbour beach! Sydney’s beaches are world renown and you can enjoy popular Bondi or Manly beach all year round.


Here are some tips to help you stay safe as you enjoy the adventure of a lifetime in Sydney!


  • Only swim in designated swimming beaches and between the flags. Many Australian beaches have red and yellow flags showing you where it is safe to swim and where lifeguards can see you. Rip tides, irregular water depths, box jellyfish and other deadly sea creatures could be a hazard to you if you swim in uncharted waters.
  • Read more about Australia on the State Department’s website and learn about what vaccines you may need, visa and passport requirements, crucial embassy information, helpful safety and security measures, the country’s local laws and more!
  • Educate yourself on rip currents and what to do if you or someone near you is caught in one.
  • Study abroad? Alcohol is involved! Learn how to drink responsibly to keep yourself safe as you spend time overseas.
  • Enroll in the STEP program today!
  • Drink lots of water and wear sunscreen. If you aren’t used to Sydney’s high temperatures, you will need to make even more efforts to make sure you stay hydrated and healthy as you stay there. Don’t underestimate how powerful the Australian sun can be.
  • Be careful as you cross Sydney’s busy streets. Watch traffic signals carefully to avoid being in danger.
  • Download the ASAPP S.O.S. app from the Apple store or Google Play to make sure you stay safe as you explore Australia.
  • Watch out for pickpockets. Stay alert in crowds and on public transit. Make sure you keep your possessions in sight at all times, and don’t carry large amounts of cash on you.
  • Download the free ASAPP Checklist to make sure you are ready to go!




No comments:

Post a Comment