Music Spotlight: Flume

This week’s music spotlight is the wonderfully talented DJ and producer Harley Streten, better known by his stage name, Flume. This Sydney born electric wonder released his self-titled debut album in November 2012, and he shot to fame from there, winning in 2013 ARIA’s Best Male Artist, Best Breakthrough Artist, Best Dance Release AND Producer of the Year. Not too shoddy for a 22 year old…

The top track off this album has to be ‘Holdin On’ – if you like electro, you’re going to love this. It’s the ultimate summer club song to get you going, or even just plug the earphones in, turn it up, and get a good head nod on.

If you’re a fan, give this remix ‘Sleepless Club’ a listen. It’s been reworked by WEKEED, and it layers the New Zealand singer Lorde’s vocals from her track ‘The Love Club’ over Flume’s track ‘Sleepless’. A great new song to get over those winter blues.

If you have any suggestions for Australian artists you think deserve the spotlight, let me know and I’ll be sure to do a post!

5 Tips For A Stress Free Flight

Flying. Whether you love it or hate it, if you’re travelling, you’re going to have to do it.

It doesn’t have to be so drab though, follow these tips and you’re guaranteed to have a great flight!

1. Check the details before you fly

A UK couple were recently in the papers because they bought what seemed like a ridiculously good deal on a flight from Birmingham to the Caribbean – unfortunately on turning up at the airport they discovered their flight was actually leaving from Birmingham ALABAMA, about 4000 miles away…

Moral of this story kids is to make sure you check the details before you head off for your flight! Even if you’ve got the right airport make sure to check which airline you will be flying with, and which terminal you’ll be leaving from; some terminals can be situated a good drive from each other, so it would be a hell of a walk!

2. Plan how to get to the airport

You’ve booked your flight, booked your next hostel, and even booked a table at that new fancy restaurant. What’s left? Oh yeah, book your transport TO the airport! Getting to your flight can be one of the most stressful parts of the journey, so that’s why it’s crucial to make sure you plan it well, not only to get there in time, but to also not get ripped off in the process.

Take a trip to your local transport advice centre to find out the best ways to get to the airport. Although a taxi can seem like the easiest option, you can often end up spending a lot more than necessary booking them when there are cheaper transport options available. In some places there are even regular local buses running to the airport that cost just a couple of dollars. Do your research and you can end up saving a bundle in the long run.

3. Arrive well in advance

This is going to sound like a silly one, but it’s amazing how many people miss their flights because they didn’t leave enough time to get there. You might only live a half hour’s drive from the airport, but don’t forget rush hour traffic, forgotten passports and the dreaded security checks. Get there early and the worst that could happen is you’ll be waiting a bit longer in the airport – better than forking out a load for another flight! The general rules are for domestic flights try to arrive 1.5 hours before you’re flight is due to leave, and for international flights leave about 2.5-3 hours, just to be safe.

4. Bring entertainment

It’s easy to forget how big Australia is, but it’s fair to say you could fit the majority of Europe inside it. Therefore, try to remember when you’re casually booking that domestic flight from Sydney to Perth for example, you’ll be setting yourself up for a 5 hour flight. Now, I don’t know about you, but for me that’s pretty long haul.

Nonetheless, as the flight is still technically domestic, you’ll be flying on a domestic plane. That means, if you book cheap like me, you’re going to be sat on a Ryan Air-esque plane for FIVE HOURS. No entertainment and you’d be lucky to get a small packet of peanuts to satisfy your hunger.

This is why it’s essential to bring some entertainment for the journey. Bring a book, listen to music, or if you’ve got a laptop watch a movie, and definitely bring some snacks. Anything to save you from hearing the life story of the businessman to your left.

5. Wrap up

So this is a sneaky trick I learned from a friend whilst travelling in Malaysia. When you’re flying with super budget airlines they do the most they can to squeeze that extra dollar out of you on the plane. It’s natural that when you’re in a hot country that your general attire would be shorts and t-shirt, why wouldn’t it? Well, those crafty airlines have a trick up their sleeves – once you get all strapped in the plane in your holiday gear they blast on the air-con until the temperature is bordering on winter in the North Pole. “Would you like to buy a blanket madam?”

Cheeky.

Save yourself from getting ripped off by bringing warm clothes so you can wrap up. Plus you’ll feel super smug turning to the air steward and giving them a defiant “No thank you, I’m fine.”

 

 

Follow these tips and you won’t go far wrong…I hope.

Enjoy your flight!

 

 

 

Getting Work – What NOT to Do…

Jobs aren’t so easy to come by these days, and finding the right line of work for you can sometimes feel like a job in itself. That’s why it’s so important when finding work that you know how to go about it, and, more importantly, what not to do.

So, in keeping with this, I’ve compiled a short list of the most common mistakes made that could make the difference between getting the job of your dreams or sleeping on a park bench…

1. DON’T Dress like you’re off to the beach

I once went to apply for a job in a restaurant, and a guy had gone in before me, dressed in shorts, t-shirt and flip flops. When the manager came out, he just looked him up and down, said “Don’t even think you’re going to ask me for a job dressed like that” and walked off. It really is that easy to miss out on a job for something so simple, yet it’s amazing how many people make this mistake. You may love the beach-bum lifestyle, but your potential employers will not.

2. DON’T Make mistakes on your CV

It’s very easy whist travelling not to put as much effort in to your CV as you would at home…you’re not going to be working for that long so why bother? Well, for many reasons, but mainly because lack of care in a CV can lead to easy mistakes, and this can lead to no job. Accidentally putting your home number instead of Aussie mobile number, not updating your address, and silly spelling errors are all small mistakes that could cost you the chance to get that perfect job – so make sure you take care!

3. DON’T Be unprofessional

You’re living the dream, casually steaming through life without a care in the world…it’s easy to think that everyone around you should be this laid back too! Unfortunately, not everyone is, and when you’re being interviewed for your job it’s important to remember that your employer is going to be looking for someone who’s going to take their job seriously, not someone who’s going to turn up an hour late because they ‘forgot’. Pull your socks up, give a little, and you’ll get a lot back!

4. DON’T Ask for a job with a friend

Just, don’t. As perfect as it would be to get a job working with your best mate, in reality, it rarely happens. And if you apply at the same time the chances are even slimmer. Turning up with a friend makes you look unconfident, unprofessional and, to be honest, kind of lame. So do it by yourself, and you’ll more than likely end up working with awesome people that could become your new best mates anyway!

5. DON’T Have high standards

There comes a time in everybody’s life when you have to roll your sleeves up and get your hands dirty – so when it comes to work, especially in the short term, you can never be too fussy. Whether it’s scrubbing toilets or working all the graveyard shifts; if it pays, you should do it. When you’re sunning yourself on a holiday paid for with those hard earned savings, you’ll be thankful you accepted the job!

So that’s just a few tips for you…follow these and use a bit of common sense you’ll be guaranteed a job in no time!

Like free books? Well here’s one for you!

I’ve had some wonderful support for my blog and book since beginning ‘Work Anywhere: Australia’ in December, and so to say thank you to everybody, I’m running a super-duper promotion: from today until 8th January you can download the book from Amazon absolutely FREE. No cost. Zip. Zilch. Nothing.

Brilliant.

Get it here! http://amzn.to/1kgNx7H

The book is in Kindle format, so if you want to give it a read on an Android or iOS phone/tablet, just download the Kindle reader app and read away!

If you don’t know what the book is about, it’s a work and travel guide for Australia, packed full of information covering every aspect of your trip, including:

– Applying for your visa

– Getting set up on arrival 
– Insurance 
– Medical 
– Accommodation options 
– Getting a job 
– Tax and pension rebates 
– Saving money 
– Travel 
– Extending your visa

And loads more!

If you think that this sounds like your cup of tea, or you know anyone who’s planning on travelling to Australia, download the book – you’ve got nothing to lose!

All I ask in return is that you leave a review on Amazon after reading, to let all those other travelling folk know if it’s any good 🙂

Thank you all and happy reading.

Music Spotlight: San Cisco

This week’s band is the wonderful San Cisco, a cheeky indie 4-piece band all the way from Fremantle, Western Australia. With Jordi Davieson and Josh Biondillo leading the band with some gorgeous vocals, their happy-go-lucky style makes them a band that’s impossible not to love. Imagine if The Maccabees and Vampire Weekend got together and made sweet, sweet love – this would be their baby. Their self-titled album is only 40 minutes long, so well worth a sit down and a listen, but if I had to pick 2 favourite songs they would have to be ‘Awkward’ and ‘Rocket Ship’ – videos below. Give them a listen and roll on Summer!

For loads of handy information on making the most out of your Working Holiday Visa, check out ‘Work Anywhere: Australia’ the book on Amazon here.

Top Australian Road Trips

The Road Trip. These words alone conjure up visions of dusty roads off the beaten track, discovering hideaways and finding out ‘who you really are’. Well, if you’re into that kind of thing. Truthfully, road trips are simply one of the best ways to see a country on your own time, without the company of a hundred other pushy tourists.

Australia is notorious for it’s many stunning drives, unsurprising really for a country bigger than Europe. With so much to see, the real question is where to begin, and so to save you the trouble, I’ve compiled a wonderful list of the top trips you have to take when you’re Down Under…

The Great Ocean Road (Victoria/South Australia)

Easily one of Australia’s most famous drives, the Great Ocean Road spans from the small beach town of Torquay all the way through to South Australia’s Warrnambool. Now there are many variations of this trip, and you find different people telling you it ends in different places, but this is the core of the GOR drive. This has to be one of the the most sensational  ocean drives in Australia, if not the world, hence why it’s my number one Aussie Road Trip. It will take you through national parks home to some incredible waterfalls and walks, down to chilled beaches, big rocks, and the opportunity to see more wildlife than you can shake a stick at. And don’t forget the ‘I’m driving next to an ocean with my hand out of the car window’ picture. Classic.

Snowy Mountains Drive (New South Wales)

So who would have thought that Australia had snow? Or even mountains? Well, luckily for you winter bunnies, it has both. The Snowy Mountains drive takes you around Australia’s highest mountains, showing you a side of the country you most likely never would have thought you’d see. Take your time to enjoy the views (and the snow) as you tour the area; just make sure to plan it well, as unlike the GOR it’s not just one long road, and it can sometimes take a while to get from one destination to the next! But hey, it’s all about the journey right?

Nullarbor Plain (South Australia/Western Australia)

Fun fact: This road was named in 1867 from the Latin words “nulls arbor”, meaning “no trees”. Standing true to it’s name, this tree-less road will take you all the way from Norseman to Ceduna, though it’s not for the faint of heart, as with a distance of 1201 kilometres between these destinations, you’ll have to be in for the long haul. As the road is incredibly flat, it does make for great driving though, and you’re bound to catch some amazing wildlife in their natural habitat. Ever wondered what Skippy the Bush Kangaroo did after retirement? You can probably ask him. Also, make sure to check out the Great Australian Bight – with the longest cliff face in the world it’s got to be worth a visit.

Fraser Island (Queensland)

Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, and it’s great to drive on. Why? Because on this terrain you can only get around in a 4×4. It’s pretty awesome. You will need to get on a tour to make the most of this one as there are no real roads, and joining others to drive a 4×4 is much cheaper than renting your own. Oh, and there are dingos. Don’t forget the dingos. But it’s still pretty rustic as far as tours go – you’ll spend 3 amazing days camping, driving along beaches and swimming in the bluest fresh-water lakes in the world. Not too bad at all.

The Great Tropical Drive (Queensland)

This is another drive that seems to be different lengths depending on who you speak to, but if you fancy a short(ish) trip I would recommend you do the drive from Cooktown down to Townsville, around 8 hours of straight driving that can easily be spread over 4-5 days. This really will give you a great insight into the tropical side of Australia, as this drive will take you through rain forests, past waterfalls, and most likely, through some of the most amazing storms you will ever see. It’s a great drive, and if you’re really enjoying it you can continue and do the whole loop back up to Cairns, a total journey length of 2080 kilometres and around 12 days to complete.

All that’s left to say is…happy driving!

For loads of handy information on making the most out of your Working Holiday Visa, check out ‘Work Anywhere: Australia’ the book on Amazon here.

New Year’s Resolutions…

The new year has arrived, and with most of us waking up with sore heads and empty pockets it’s time to start pondering our new year’s resolutions. I, for one, will not be boozing again until February, which is probably a good idea as over the last couple of weeks I appear to have consumed enough alcohol to kill a small horse. And with a £5 bet on it there really is no going back.

How about we just keep it simple this year and just hope for health and happiness? Oh, and a winning lottery ticket too. Obviously.

Writing with such a poorly head isn’t easy, so that’s enough babble from me for today. Hope you all have an amazing 2014, but if not, just remember, there’s always next year.

What’s On: New Year’s Eve in Sydney

The holiday season is nearly over, but before it is the age old question has to be raised – “What are you doing for New Year’s?” For some, the question brings fear to the heart; just the pressure in itself of having to have ‘the best’ New Year’s Eve can be enough to make you want to turn around and go back home. Personally, I’m not one for hitting the clubs to celebrate; the idea of spending all night queuing to squash into a bar with ridiculously over-prices drinks just gets me too excited and I have to go home early.

My idea of a good New Year’s Eve has to include fireworks. And if you’re in Australia there’s only one place to see them.

(It’s a very small photo, but you get the idea)

So today’s post is going to be dedicated to where you’ll need to be if you want to see this wonderful show.

Mrs Macquarie’s Point

This is undoubtedly the most popular viewing point for the fireworks, so if you want to get a good spot, you’ll have to get in early. Situated on the edge of the Royal Botanic Gardens, this prime location will let you see both the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, easily one of the best views in the city. Because of the large crowds the area will be cordoned off, so make sure you arrive in plenty of time to make sure you get in. P.s. it’s also no B.Y.O alcohol, so bring a bit of cash if you fancy doing some boozing down there.

Cremorne Point Reserve

A bit further away from the action, but a great viewing point nonetheless, Cremorne Point Reserve will certainly be buzzing come 12 o’clock tonight. This is a great place to go if you want to get part of the action without getting squashed by the crowds. Again, there’s no do-it-yourself boozing, but food and drink are on sale to keep you going through the night.

The Daily Telegraph Observatory Hill (The Rocks)

If you know Sydney then you’ll know that The Rocks is about as close as you can get to the action on NYE. The Observatory Hill is a great vantage point for the fireworks, but being in such close proximity might be a bit of a blessing and a curse – you’ll be close to the show but maybe so close you’ll end up looking at a lot of smoke (you know what they say, no smoke without fire-works). As I’ve never been, you’ll have to take this one with a pinch of salt, but I still reckon it’s going to be a good’un. Get there before 5pm to ensure access before they start closing off the areas around the harbour.

(Might be a few more people there on the night…)

Milsons Point

Milsons point is another up-close viewing point, but at the opposite end of the bridge to The Rocks. Situated next to Lunar Park, once again you’re guaranteed great views if you get here in good time. You’ll need to enter via Art Gallery road as the other roads will be closed off due to the crowds, and they’ll be closing any entrance off after 5000 people enter so it’s recommended you arrive before 5.

Watsons Bay

Watsons Bay is a personal favourite of mine, because it was my viewing point for last year’s NYE celebrations. There’s so many reasons why I love this place (definitely go for a visit and do the cliff walk one day and you’ll see why) but for New Year’s it’s just a great place to see the fireworks in a nice, chilled environment. Bring a picnic along, and alcohol is (like everywhere) prohibited, but it seemed the sound of bottles being cracked open was coming from all directions – as they always say, if you can’t beat them, join them for a drink! It’s a good distance from the city so you won’t be so up-close to the action when the fireworks go off, but being far away has it’s pros; the good people at Sydney city council sync up the fireworks over the whole city, so you’ll have an amazing view of the city skyline covered in fireworks. From what I can remember.

And so there you have it, the top places to see the fireworks this New Year’s Eve. If you think you know any interesting and different places to spend the night in the city, let me know!

For loads of handy information on making the most out of your Working Holiday Visa, check out ‘Work Anywhere: Australia’ the book on Amazon here

Music Spotlight: Gang of Youths

Now, seeing as Music Spotlight is here to introduce new music to you lovely people, and my last post wasn’t exactly focussed on the ‘new’ part, I’ve decided to go super obscure with this week’s band choice.

Gang of Youths are a Sydney born collective, started in 2012 and who seemingly have only recorded one song so far. That I could find, anyway. It’s near-impossible to find out much about them (Google them if you don’t believe me) apart from that their song ‘Evangelists’ is an absolute belter.

Luckily for them, their obscurity hasn’t stopped them getting anywhere, as they were signed by Sony Records TODAY. Fancy that for good timing!

Anyway, there’s not much more to say about them (that I can really think of) apart from saying you need take a break from whatever you’re doing and give this song a listen; I promise it’ll be worth it.

For loads of handy information on making the most out of your Working Holiday Visa, check out ‘Work Anywhere: Australia’ the book on Amazon here.

Saving and savouring your dollar…

Money is always at the forefront of every traveller’s mind (even hippies) – whether it’s planning where you’re going to stay next, travel next or go out next weekend…

Therefore, it’s really important to know how to save your money. No idea how? Well, you lucky, lucky person, I’ve just compiled a superb list of the top ways to save money whilst living in Oz for yours truly. How nice is that?

1. Choose the right bank – This may not seem hugely important as you might only be in the country for 1 or 2 years, but  many people don’t realise the amazing interest some banks have on their savings accounts. To hook in new customers, some banks offer around 4-5% interest on your savings, which may not seem like a lot, but if you have AU$2000 in your account you can get up to $100 in interest a year. Now how’s that for a bit of extra cash?

2. Book travel well in advance – As laid back as those cheeky Aussies may seem, they do like to be well prepared when it comes to travel. Unlike the airlines we’re used to at home that often offer last minute cheap deals on flights, in Australia flight prices only go up the closer it gets to the departure date. Domestic flights can be super cheap if you book them well in advance, so don’t leave it until the last minute or you’ll end up paying double what you should be!

3. Eat in – Now this may seem like an obvious one but it’s amazing how those little trips out for a’cheap’ meal really add up in the long run. If you eat out for AU$10 twice a week, you’re actually spending AU$1040 a year on that alone! Bet that makes those microwave noodles look a bit more tempting now…

4. Skype home instead of phoning – It’s always tempting to check in with home with a quick phone call now and then whilst you’re away, but doing this on a regular basis can really run up big bills! The simple solution? Ditch the family and move on. Or use Skype. Your choice.

5. Get a backpacker discount card – You’ll find on your travels that many travel companies, hostels and car rental companies offer discounts to backpackers (who have a valid backpacker card), it may not always be a huge amount, but any saving is good in my books! There are 3 main companies (who own hostel chains) that sell backpacker cards:

VIP

YHA

NOMADS

Check them out and see which one’s best for you!

Happy saving 🙂

For loads of handy information like this and to find out how to make the most of your Australian year abroad, check out ‘Work Anywhere: Australia’ the book.