What’s that I hear - you don’t know where to go and you don’t have a lot of money to spend? Never fear! A student budget might not leave much for you to spend but it leaves a lot to your imagination - all you need to know is where to go and the best ways to get there.
In terms of travelling, my top three tips would be:
1. Know your budget and shop around. Many places allow free entry, for example the Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens, the City Botanical Gardens, workshops at the State Library, certain performances at QPAC, the beach, the list is endless! If you have some money to spend, consider going to the cinemas (Southbank has really cheap student tickets!) or Australia Zoo (Sunshine Coast), watch a show at QPAC, eat all you can at Sizzler, art, music, sport, food, education - there will be something for everyone!
2. Use public transport. Fuel is expensive, having a car is expensive and parking can often be very expensive. Public transport, such as buses, trains, and ferries can be very useful in taking you to where you want to go because they are relatively cheap, especially student fares and they don’t get lost. Research online on the Translink website using the Journey Planner or, if you can, ask the place you want to go to - often they include directions for public transport. They may take a little bit of time but you get to see parts of Brisbane and have access to free Wi-fi on certain trains.
3. The more the merrier! Invite your friends for an awesome day out at a BBQ at the park or to a dinner party at your place (after checking with your housemates first, of course). I often find that it’s what you do but who you do it with, that makes the difference. Talk to people, catch up what’s going on in your life, reminisce about old times and plan time to make new memories in the future.
Make these holidays the best ever! Take a break from your studies to relax, enjoy some good food and good company and come back refreshed and ready to tackle the crunch as the end of the semester draws near. Good luck on your adventures and leave a comment below with where you might go or questions, if you have any!