The Iglu Guide | Blog
How to make the most of uni holidays without leaving your city
It’s summertime in Australia, the holidays are here, and life doesn’t get any better. So why spend money on travel when there’s so much to do right on your doorstep? Whether you’re studying in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, there’s endless ways to stress down, unwind and explore. Because sometimes, the very best experiences are right outside your front door! Here’s what you need to know.
Sydney
This is the city that needs no introduction. When you’re basically living in a dream holiday destination, you’ll never be short of things to do that’ll see you through the holidays, and out the other side!
Life’s a beach
Sydney is renowned for having some of the best beaches in the country, and she prides herself on maintaining a relaxed, beachy culture at all times – shoes definitely optional. Take some time to explore the different options, depending on the activities you’re after. For surfing and boogie boarding there’s no comparison to Bondi or Manly. But if you’re after calmer conditions for some swimming or paddleboarding, you’ll be better served on the harbourside waters of Balmoral or Fairlight beach. And if you’re keen to meet some of the aquatic residents, pack a snorkel and head to Cabbage Tree Bay and explore the marine reserve!
Iglu Redfern to Manly beach: 1 hour train/bus
Iglu Central to Bondi beach: 45 mins train/bus
Coastal walks
After a hard semester’s study, there’s nothing like getting out into the fresh air and feeling the sun on your face. Fortunately, Sydney has a fair few amazing walks to offer and the best part of all is they won’t cost you a cent. Every student needs to experience the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk, which includes spectacular views and the iconic Bondi Icebergs swim spot. The Manly to Spit Walkway is equally impressive and will take you through tropical bushland and past aboriginal carvings – a reminder of the deep heritage that runs through the city. For more unforgettable harbour views, try out the route from Taronga Zoo through to Balmoral beach. Simply magic.
Iglu Broadway to Taronga Zoo: 1 hour train/bus
Open air cinema
What better way to spend a summer’s evening than picnicking out on the grass with friends, in front of the latest blockbuster? Pick between Paddington’s Moonlight Cinema, North Sydney’s Sunset cinema, and Macquarie’s Chair for starters. Rally your friends, pack your nibbles – and don’t forget an extra layer for when the sun dips down.
Iglu Chatswood to North Sydney Sunset Cinema: 20 mins bus
Hop to Cockatoo Island
The largest island in Sydney’s harbour, Cockatoo Island certainly has some stories to tell. Once a prison, a shipping yard and most recently a festival venue, it makes for a great day trip from the city centre. Catch some magical performances complete with harbour views, and take advantage of the daily ferry services operating out of Circular Quay and Barangaroo.
Iglu Waterloo to Cockatoo Island: 1 hour train/ferry
Melbourne
Truly a city for all seasons, Melbourne has plenty to offer when the holidays come around.
Queen Victoria Night Market
Every summer as the sun goes down, the city turns up the heat with the legendary and original night market. The longest running in the city’s history, Queen Victoria’s iconic sheds spring to life with delicious eats, drinks, shopping and more. Enjoy music, entertainment and a whole lot of holiday fun – just minutes from your door.
Iglu Melbourne City to Queen Victoria Market: 3 mins walk
Festival fever
There’s always a reason to have a bucket hat to hand in Melbourne, it’s the perfect way to let down your hair and capture that holiday feeling. Try out The Good Things Festival which takes over Flemington Racecourse in early December, the Midsumma Festival in January, or head to St Kilda for the foreshore festival in February, completely free of charge.
Iglu Flagstaff Gardens to Flemington Racecourse: 45 mins bus
Relax in Royal Botanic Gardens
With study on a hiatus, there’s no better place to chill out and relax than the tranquil surrounds of the Botanical Gardens. Ride on the Explorer bus, explore the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or get some punting practice in on the lake. Just moments from the city, you’ll really feel like you’ve escaped it all.
Iglu South Yarra to Royal Botanic Gardens: 15 min bus/8 min walk
Explore the city
Make the most of living in Melbourne by exploring city life. Get lost in the laneways, discover your inner artist on Southbank, or take a cycle along the Yarra River. With plenty to see and do, your only problem will be fitting it all in!
Iglu Melbourne Central to Hosier Lane: 12 min walk
Brisbane
If any city knows how to embrace the holiday vibes, it has to be Brisbane.
South Bank beach
For somewhere to chill out that’s uniquely Brisbane, head over to Streets Beach on South Bank. The ultimate summer hangout, you can eat, swim, stroll and watch. Don’t forget to hang around for sunset over the river. And if you fancy some more of the real beachy deal, find the best beaches right here.
Iglu Brisbane City to Streets Beach: 18 min walk/8 min bike
Get active at Kangaroo Cliffs
The holidays are the perfect time to grab some friends, get moving and explore the local environs. Kayak along the mighty Brisbane river on a guided tour, abseil down Kangaroo Point cliffs or simply climb to the top and enjoy the view. You’ll enjoy unrivalled views of the city skyline as the perfect reward.
Iglu Brisbane City to Kangaroo Cliffs: 18 min walk/5 min bike
Enjoy some live music
Quite rightly considered the city’s live music hub, nowhere does the music scene quite like Fortitude Valley. From intimate venues supporting local artists to the largest indoor venue in Australia, from local DJS to pop up street parties. Fortitude Valley has something for everyone – and your name is on the door.
Iglu Kelvin Grove to Fortitude Music Hall: 35 min bus
