With the 2011 academic year over and the summer holidays in full swing, our international students have plenty of time to relax and explore Sydney.
Macquarie students enjoy the opening night of last year’s Sydney Festival.
In our cosmopolitan city, there is always something to do. For students on a limited budget, here are some fantastic activities you can enjoy for no cost at all.
1. Sydney Festival. For 3 weeks in January, Sydney comes out to play, with performances, exhibitions and events galore. Don’t miss the festival Opening Night, free concerts in the Domain, and the annual Australia Day ferry race on Sydney Harbour.
2. Harbour walks. You are spoiled for choice for beautiful walks and hikes along Sydney’s coastline. Try Bondi to Bronte, Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Beach or Manly to the Spit. You can even walk the whole way around Sydney Harbour if you have four days spare.
3. New Year’s Eve fireworks. Tickets to some New Year’s Eve parties can cost hundreds of dollars, but everyone can park their picnic rug for free at a vantage point on the Harbour and be one of the first in the world to welcome 2012.
Sydney’s New Years Eve fireworks are among the most spectacular in the world. (Photo: Shutterstock)
4. Movies by the Boulevard @ Sydney Olympic Park. Sydney’s summer climate is perfect for watching a movie under the stars. You can do it for free at Sydney Olympic Park.
5. Galleries and museums. Most galleries and museums in Sydney are free of charge and are a great way to learn more about our country. The Art Gallery of NSW, adjacent to the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens, is open late on Wednesdays with music, movies and lectures.
6. Unforgettable views. Bridgeclimb is a breathtaking experience, but you can get a much cheaper view from the Pylon Lookout Museum, situated in the bridge’s southeast pylon.
