I held off on travel to Australia for a long time because of cost. I discovered an excellent flight deal to Sydney and couldn’t pass up the opportunity. While the cost of food and alcohol was a major culture shock, I was determined stretch my dollars even if it meant eating at Subway a couple of times per week. The major takeaway here is that you don’t have to break the bank to have a great time while traveling. Here’s a few budget friendly activities that were amazing experiences:

Ferry to Manly Beaches

Take a ferry to Manly in Northern Sydney and explore the beautiful beaches. You can also rent a bike to cruise through this scenic coastal town. The best part is catching the ferry back to Circular Quay during sunset; it’s surreal!

The Museum of Contemporary Art

This museum is free and showcases excellent Aboriginal art work. There are also free dance classes. I attended a retro 1960’s themed go-go dance class that was amazing. There’s a cafe and bar with an incredible view of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge so don’t sleep on it.

Day Trip to the Blue Mountains

I encourage you to get out of the city and explore the Blue Mountains. You can go on your own or opt for a tour. It’s definitely worth the experience.