Ava Smith: Blog Post #2

My first two and a half weeks in Sydney have been amazing. I have made many memories so far while also learning a lot about myself and this city.

My favorite memories so far:

Celebrating Australia Day by going to the beach and then watching fireworks after
Asking a random professional photographer to take a picture of me and my friend and getting amazing results for free
The Bondi to Coogee beach coastal walk
Seeing the Opera House for the first time
Finding parks within the city (they are all over!)
Going to pilates
Hosting a taco night with my new friends
Figuring out how the oven works here (it is so confusing) to make brownies
My summer class- Sport and Learning in Australian Culture- meaning going to sporting events!

What I have learned so far:

Make sure to put sunscreen EVERYWHERE including on your back- ask a stranger if you have to. Also don’t forget the top of your hands, feet, and your ears.
It is super easy to spend money here so be mindful of that
Rain for the first time in a long time = shark attacks so stay away from beaches on those days
Aussies love to wake up early and stay active
Carousels go the opposite way here…
Solo exploring can be really fun
Time flies by here!

Overall, these past two and a half weeks have been full of growth, adventure, exploration, and memories that will last me a lifetime. I am looking forward to when the summer session ends and my new classes begin in a couple of weeks, and my parents coming to visit next week!

Stay tuned for more about my adventures!