7 reasons why studying in Sydney will change your life

It is the city of sun, surfboards, and BBQs on the beach: Sydney, Australia. If you haven’t visited yet, chances are high that this city by the sea is on the top of your list. While traveling for work or pleasure are certainly good options, one of the best ways to experience the laid-back Sydney lifestyle is to live and study there. But, be warned, it may change your life – here are seven reasons why.

1. Beach time

Want to surf before or after class? Sydney is the spot to be. Australians love surfing and spend a lot of time at the beach. Sydney itself has over 100 beaches to choose from. For those interested in surfing, the world-class Bondi, Bronte, and Coogee beaches are all close by. Looking for a sunset stroll? Head to Cronulla beach, where you can walk for kilometers along the sandy shore. The number one rule in Sydney is not to leave the house without your bikini or boardies. After all, you never know when that spontaneous beach BBQ might appear.

2. Did someone say coffee?

Australians love coffee. No, maybe that’s an understatement: Australians are OBSESSED with coffee. As a result, Sydney is dotted with endless cafés extending through its Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Newtown, Chippendale, and Brickfields districts. For Sydneysiders, coffee is a way of life. And, with new cafes opening up every week, you’re almost certain to find at least one in your neighborhood where you can do homework or hang with friends.

3. Get your vitamin D

Sydney has some of the best weather in the world. With its mild winters and Mediterranean-style climate, the city averages 340 days of sun per year, making it a top destination for sun-seekers year round. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!

4. Sydney loves diversity

You won’t be the first one to fall in love with Sydney. Wandering the city streets, you’ll see and hear the influence of culture from across the world. The most common nationalities represented in Sydney are Italian, Chinese, Irish, Lebanese, Greek, Indian, and German. The city loves to celebrate this wealth of diversity through its endless festivals and parties, like its Chinese New Year (#CNYSYD) and Indian Spring (Vasant Panchami) festivals.

5. LGBTQ friendly

Not only does Sydney embrace international diversity, Sydney also proudly represents one of the largest gay populations in Australia. Wandering Oxford Street, you’ll find yourselves in a whole street devoted to the LGBTQ scene. On top of that, the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade is a city-wide rainbow celebration.

6. Day trips

Worried you’ll get bored of the beach? Not a problem. Rent a car, and, in just a few hours, you can find yourself hiking through the Blue Mountains, Jervis Bay, Port Stephens, or the Royal National Park. Also, if you are into wine tasting, the Hunter Valley is full of world-renowned vineyards where you can taste and learn about the wine.

7. Christmas at the beach

Alright, let’s be honest. It might seem a little strange to celebrate Christmas in the middle of the summer, especially if you’re used to hot chocolate by the fireplace during this time of the year. But, let’s be real, it’s not so bad to celebrate Christmas under the sun with a cold drink in your hand and a BBQ on the beach. Aussies know how to celebrate “Chrissie,” and who knows? The experience may just change your life.