The Benefits of Living in Student Accommodation

One of the decisions a student has to make before starting university is where to live. For some, the choice is easy as they have the luxury to continue living at home if it is an easy commute to campus. However, many students need to travel to a different city, state, or country to attend university

While each student has their unique needs, there are a variety of benefits of living in student accommodation:

Convenience and Distance to Campus

At Be.Accommodation, we are local to all universities in Sydney, in particular the University of New South Wales, the University of Sydney and the University of Technology Sydney. Because our property is located close to various universities, you aren’t trekking hours on public transport to reach campus. This gives you more time in your day for study, work, and your social life.

Our location has a lot more to offer, including being close to supermarkets, great restaurants, and what we love the most – the beach!

All Inclusive Rates

Most student accommodation offer packages that include rental fees as well as utilities like water, gas, and electricity. For students living away from home, this helps to simplify your responsibilities and make living out of home more comfortable. At Be.Accommodation we also provide access to high-speed Wi-Fi to ensure our residents can access the internet.

Building Friendships

One of the best aspects about living in student accommodation are the social opportunities and the network of life-long friendships that you build. Although it is possible to form lasting friendships with your peers in tutorials and lectures, it is a completely different experience making friends with those who live with you.

At Be.Accommodation, we are equipped with common areas where students can cook, eat, and socialise together in a safe environment. Due to our household’s strong focus on study, living with your peers makes group work and collaborative study easier to achieve.

Safety and Security

It can be scary moving to a new city or country to study, and at Be.Accommodation, we understand this, this is why we pride ourselves in providing a secure complex with an on-site caretaker who can be contacted 24/7. We also have Closed Circuit TVs (CCTVs) that add to your security.

Inclusive Environments

With boarders opening back up again, the number of international students coming to Australia to study is on the rise. At Be.Accommodation, we pride ourselves in offering an inclusive environment for all. We support students transitions into their new living and study situation. Our property is also easily booked from overseas.
At Be. Accommodation, it is important to us that our residents have all they need to complete their studies in Sydney. What is wonderful about our student accommodation Sydney, is the location, safety, and wonderful community. For more information contact us on +61 2 9167 9356.

Top 7 Brain Foods

Did you know that staying healthy can promote better academic performance? As a student, you spend a lot of time trying to memorise, and understand a lot of new information, therefore it is important that you keep your body and brain nourished and ready to take on any tasks.

At Be.Accommodation, the health of our residents is of great importance, so we have curated a list of the best brain foods to fuel your body, and help you through your studies:

Berries

Berries are very rich in a variety of compounds that can help promote academic performance and protect the health of your brain. Studies show that berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries, are high in flavonoid compounds called anthocyanins, which are known to improve mental performance by increasing the blood flow to your brain.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits are highly nutritious and eating them has been linked to a number of health benefits, including the promotion of brain health. Studies display that these nutrients can have the ability to promote memory and learning, as well as protecting nerve cells from injury.

Dark Chocolate

This is one for the chocolate lovers. Consuming cocoa products, like chocolate, can have a positive affect on brain health. Chocolate is known to increase blood flow to your brain and improve your memory and reaction time.

Nuts

Nuts are filled with the nutrients that are essential for brain health, such as vitamin E and zinc. Due to their versatile nature, they are easy to pack for an on-the-go study snack. They are also packed with sources of healthy fat, protein, and fibre, keeping you fuelled throughout long study sessions.

Avocados

There are a variety of ways you can enjoy avocados while studying. Whether you are mashing your avocado into guacamole, spreading it on toast, or enjoying it with a dash of salt. Avocados are a convenient study snack and are also known to boost your brain function.

Fish

Fish is packed with Omega-3s, which play an important role in brain health. Fish is also a great source for other nutrients that promote brain health including vitamin B12 and selenium. Adding fish into your diet can help enhance your memory and boost your overall brain health.

Vegetables

Growing up, I am sure most of us heard the words ‘eat your vegetables’ at the dinner table. Well, vegetable intake is known to promote better brain function and your overall health. Vegetables such as carrots and broccoli contain a variety of nutrients that have been shown to benefit mental performance.

Maintaining a healthy diet while studying and taking exams is extremely important. At Be.Accommodation, your trusted accommodation near UNSW, we provide you with the best kitchen facilities, allowing you a space to prepare and store all your brain foods. For more information give us a call on +61 2 9167 9356.

The Best Winter Weekend Activities

The beauty about living at in Sydney while you’re completing your university studies, is that you get to experience Sydney all year round. Australia is best known for its hot summers, especially in Sydney, with the strip of stunning beaches, outdoor bars and restaurants, and gorgeous parks amongst others that have made the iconic city famous. But just because the temperature is getting colder, and winter is amongst us, doesn’t mean that there is nothing to do in Sydney.

The winter season is full of sunny days, and never gets too cold that you don’t want to head outside. So, without further ado, here are the best winter weekend activities to do in Sydney:

Attend Vivid Festival

Vivid is Sydney’s Light and Art festival and has been dubbed one of the most exciting events in the world. The multi-award-winning festival illuminates the city of Sydney, with spectacular light art exhibits being a new life to the CBD as various iconic buildings are lit up showing incredible art displays and light shows. Vivid has rapidly grown into the largest festival of its kind worldwide and is a must visit if you are in Sydney during winter.

Visit Luna Park

There is no greater way to bring out your inner child than to visit an amusement park. Luna Park is enjoyed by people all ages, especially because of its magical views of the Sydney harbour. If you want to get an adrenaline rush by going on a thrilling ride, or you want to try your luck escaping the Coney Island Mirror Maze – it is impossible to get bored at Luna Park. Gather a group of your friends and get ready for a fun filled day.

Explore the Museums

Sydney is very rich in culture and art, resulting in a lot of museums and art galleries which continue to update their collections, or host international exhibitions. Being in Sydney during winter is the ideal time to take a peek inside the world-renowned museums.

Experience the Blue Mountains

Just a short 2-hour drive from the city, the Blue Mountains is one of the best day trips you can go on during winter. The town comes to life with lush forests, and huge waterfalls being enhanced by the heavy rainfall and occasional snow that hits the region. There are so many things to do in the Blue Mountains, such as driving through the small mountain towns, visiting cafes, and enjoying a hot chocolate, and seeing the iconic Three-Sisters. Call your closest group of friends and head to there for a day trip or make a weekend out of it by staying in one of their many hotels.

Keep Warm at the Pub

Sydney pubs are filled with character, cool decorations, and delicious meals. Spend a chilly day in your local pub with a hot bowl of fresh chips, and the company of your friends. The beauty about Be.Accommodation is that we are located right near some of the best pubs in Sydney where you can enjoy a fresh chicken parmi and a game of pool with your mates.

A Be.Accommodation, your trusted UNSW student accommodation, we want to ensure that you are getting the most out of the wonderful city that is Sydney all year round. For more information give us a call on +61 2 9167 9356.

Your guide to getting around Sydney

When living in Sydney student accommodation, it is important to know how to easily get around Sydney. Luckily, Sydney offers a great network of public transport, roadways, and walking paths. Simply hop on a bus, train or ferry and start exploring.

To use the public transport in Sydney, you can either purchase and Opal card from your local newsagent, post office, or supermarket, or use your credit cards tap-and-go function. So, how can you get around Sydney? Here is your answer:

Trains

The City Circle train network runs a loop around the city, stopping at various stations allowing you to easily hop on and off as needed. The City Circle will take you to Central, Museum, Town Hall, St James, Wynyard, Circular Quay, and Martin Place – this is the easiest way to get around the Sydney CBD. To travel to the eastern suburbs of Sydney, catch the T4 Eastern Suburbs and Illawarra line from Central, Town Hall or Martin Place station. If you’re looking to do a fun day trip to the Blue Mountains, catch the Blue Mountains line from Central. You can use this trip planner to map your route.

Light Rail

The Sydney Light Rail network has three main lines, one from Central to Dulwich Hill (L1), and two others which go from Circular Quay to Randwick (L2) or Kingsford (L3). The L1 line is the most convenient if you want to go to Chinatown, Darling Harbour, Pyrmont, or Glebe. The L2 or L3 line is best to reach Sydney CBD, Surry Hills, and Randwick.

Buses

Sydney has a fantastic bus network. What is great about Be. Accommodation is that there is a bus stop right nearby which will take you straight from the property to the city. Simply look up the bus timetable and where you want to go, and there is bound to be a bus that will take you there. If you want to be a tourist for a day, you can also hop onto a Big Bus Tour of Sydney, which will take you to 33 destinations across the city, with services running every 20-30 minutes.

Ferries

With its spectacular harbour, Sydney is the ideal city for ferry travel. Ferry services run around Sydney Harbour from Circular Quay to eight main destinations. To get to the beachside town of Manly, catch the non-stop F1 service, or if you want to spend the day at Taronga Zoo, catch the non-stop F2 service. There are even more services to Luna Park, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, and more!
At Be.Accommodation, our prime location means that our residents have easy access to an abundance of public transportation. We want to ensure that everyone can get around the city with ease and are always available to help our residents with any information they need regarding transport. For more information, and to learn more about the best Sydney student accommodation, give us a call on +61 2 9167 9356.

Study Tips: How to ace your university degree!

It is never too early (or too late) to develop good study habits. The sooner you get into a good study routine, the easier everything will be, and there will be a higher chance of achieving good marks. At Be.Accommodation, we ensure that all our residents have access to all they need to study effectively.

So, without further ado, here are some tips on how to ace your university degree:

1. Choose a Place and Time

Everyone has their own preference on the best time and place to study, whether it is your bedroom in the evening, or the library after class, find a study space, and regular study time that suits you and stick with it. Choose a study space that is quiet, comfortable, and free from distractions. It should also made you feel motivated and inspired. Decorate it with your favourite objects and if you want to listen to music, or light a candle, pick a place that lets you do that. Some people study better in the morning, and others at night, pick a time that suits you and plan to study then.

2. Study Every Day

If you set time aside every day to study, you will be continually reviewing things in your mind. This helps you comprehend information, while avoiding the stress of last-minute cramming. If you are finding it difficult to find time to study, cut back on some (however, not all) of your other activities. Prioritising study means spending less time online scrolling and organising your study around your work and social life.

3. Plan Your Time

To make the most of your study time, it helps to have a set plan. To-do lists are a great way to break down tasks into manageable chunks. At the start of your week, make a list of things that you need to have done by the end of the week. Create a to-do list at the start of each study session so that you can prioritise what needs to be completed during your time.

4. Review and Revise

It is important to go back over the things you studied in class. Thinking things over can help you comprehend the concepts and remember them when you need to most. Team up with another classmate (or a family member, or friend) and have them quiz on your key learnings. Quizzes are a great way to become confident about what you know and find out what you still need to learn.

5. Take Breaks and Look After Yourself

Taking breaks from studying is vital, especially if you are feeling frustrated or tired. Working to long can actually decrease your performance. Make sure you remove yourself from your desk and study space and add a bit of physical activity into your day, even if it is just a short walk. You will study better if you look after yourself, make sure you are getting enough sleep, and that you are eating well.

At Be.Accommodation, it is important to us that our residents have all the resources, and space they need to complete their studies. What is great about our Sydney student accommodation, is that we provide study spaces all over our property, as well as access to scenic walks when you need a study break. For more information, contact us on +61 2 9167 9356.

Preparing for your first year at uni? Here is what you need to know:

Starting university can be a daunting experience but being prepared for what’s to come is the key to making your first year at university run as smooth as possible. From purchasing the right supplies, to learning how to budget your money, and finding the right student accommodation – it is all about knowing what to expect.

To make sure you are prepared for your first year of university, we have curated a list of all you need to know:

Choosing the Right Student Accommodation

Deciding where you want to live while completing your studies is a tough call to make – especially if it is your first time living away from home. This is why it its important to do your research beforehand. Consider the location, facilities, safety and security, and the social aspect of the accommodation you will be living int.

At Be.Accommodation, it is our mission to provide Sydney students with the greatest place to live whilst undergoing their studies. We have curated a safe and inclusive environment for all our residents and provide a comfortable place for students to live while completing their degree.

Gather the Essentials

When moving out of home it can be tempting to purchase every home appliance there is – however, think about if you really need it. Most shared student accommodation will provide the basics, such as a toaster, kettle, stove, microwave, washing machines, and furniture, so before you stock up, find out what is already available.

If you are unsure what you need to purchase, check out your room and common area features to see what your accommodation already provides. Your university should also provide you with a checklist of all you need when beginning your studies. If not, check out our list of five items all students must have before heading to university.

Learn to Budget

Living away from home often comes at a cost – and even with the various student discounts, the price of living can still add up. So, it is crucial to budget your money to ensure you can afford day to day luxuries (as well as a bit of spending money to have fun!). Put aside money each week for any bills, such as your student accommodation, and for the usual cost of groceries.

Stay Connected

Social media is a fantastic way to make sure you’re in the loop about your chosen university. Once you have found the official university pages, you’ll be able to find out everything about orientation dates, tickets for events, and advice on essential university preparation.

You can also join social media groups for your chosen degree, where fellow students can ask questions, and offer help throughout the course. This is also a great way to meet like-minded people who are completing the same degree as you.

Consider a Part-time Job

If you think you may struggle making ends meet even with a strict budget, it may be worth while finding a part-time job. Not only will this help you with your finances, the work experience, and skills you’ll gain will be beneficial to your resume – especially if it is related to your course.

From retail and hospitality work, to internships, there are many options that will allow you to work around your studies.

At Be.Accommodation, your trusted student accommodation near UNSW, we want to ensure our residents are equipped with all that they need to start their first year of university. Contact us on 61 9167 9356 for more information.

Get out and about in Maroubra

Did you know that Maroubra is home to one of the best surfing beaches in Australia? Not only is Maroubra a great place to surf, but there are also an abundance of parks, cafes, and other fun activities to explore. The beauty about living at Be.Accommodation, is that all these wonderful experiences are right at your doorstep.

So, without further ado, here is a list of things to discover when getting out and about in Maroubra:

Visit Maroubra Beach

If you love beautiful blue ocean, scenic views, relaxing by the water, or catching some waves, Maroubra beach is a must visit for you. The beach is popular with surfers given the regular swell and wave conditions. There is so much to do at the beach, including a free outdoor gym and a skate park. You can also gather a group of friends and utilise their free barbeques located in the central part of the beach and towards the south of the beach near South Maroubra Surf Club. If you get peckish, there is also a café area at the centre of the beach, and more restaurants and cafes located on Marine Parade directly opposite the beach.

Swim in Mahon Rock Pool

Located to the north of Maroubra Beach, Mahon Pool is a great place to cool down in the summer. The view is incredible, and it is the perfect place for sun-lovers to lounge about on the natural sandstone platform that surround the pool. Some people even take their laptops there as they soak up the sun – making it the perfect place to relax and study at the same time.

Eat and Drink

Some of the best restaurants, bars and cafes are located in the heart of Maroubra. Check out the Bay Hotel and Diner across from the beach, the pub provides a delectable selection of meals that everyone can enjoy! There is also the Pavilion Beachfront, which is a gorgeous waterside breakfast and lunch spot on the beach promenade which also offers breathtaking ocean views.

Walk Along the Walking Track

Maroubra is a coastal suburb, meaning there are many great walks to do along the water. If you love nature, take a stroll along the nearby Western Escarpment walking track. It boasts an abundance of bird life, wildflowers, and of course stunning coastal views. You may even spot migrating Humpback Whales or Seals during the winter months! The Maroubra to Coogee walk is also a lovely track, with rugged cliff tops, sea views, and various ocean baths making it a very picturesque walk.

Paint and Sip!

If you are looking for a fun activity to do with your friends, visit Pinot and Picasso, dubbed Australia’s number one Paint and Sip experience. Enjoy a night of BYO wine and painting as an expert host provides you with step-by-step instructions on the artwork which you will be painting. This is a super fun experience allowing your creative juices to run wild.

At Be.Accommodation, we are proud to house our residents in the finest student accommodation Maroubra can offer. We want to ensure that you get the most out of your stay with us, if you have any queries, contact us on +61 2 9167 9356 and one of our friendly team members will be able to assist.

Discover Sydney’s Hidden Gems

There is more than meets the eye in Sydney, with an abundance of hidden gems for you to explore. The beauty about Be.Accommodation being located in the heart of Maroubra, is that some of the most spectacular places in Sydney are not too far away.

To make sure you don’t miss out on visiting these wonderful sites, we have curated a list of our favourite unique spots where you can soak up the sun, or have a feast at one of the city’s coolest food spots.

Tramsheds

If you are a self-proclaimed foodie, make sure you visit the Tramsheds. Located in Glebe, the Tramsheds is an old tram depot converted into a home for modern and innovative cafes and restaurants. There is an abundance of choice, meaning you will be going back there more than once! The Tramsheds even hold events such as wine tastings, cooking classes and trivia nights.

Wendy’s Secret Garden

A list of Sydney’s hidden gems is not complete without Wendy’s Secret Garden, located in Lavender Bay north of Sydney. Visiting this spot is an amazing experience, with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour, this is the perfect place to visit with your friends for a picnic, or even for just a stroll through the gardens.

Spice Alley

Another one of Sydney’s most exciting foodie destinations is Spice Alley. The laneway is located off Kensington Street in Darlinghurst, and it is filled with a variety of Asian inspired eateries where you can enjoy dishes such as Singapore Noodles and Hong Kong Yum Cha. You can sit comfortably in the open-air courtyard underneath the hanging lanterns. The stalls are all run by some of the best Asian chefs in Sydney, so you are guaranteed a delicious feed.

Glebe Markets

If you love unique vintage clothing, hand-made crafts, and bespoke jewellery, be sure to explore the Glebe Markets which are open every Saturday. Even if you don’t find something to buy it is still a worthwhile visit due to its great atmosphere, delectable local street food and live music.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout

Are you considering climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge but want to avoid the long queues? Well, the Pylon Lookout is your answer. You can access the pylon from the pedestrian walkway leading away from the Rocks. Inside is a small museum dedicated to the construction and history of the iconic Harbour Bridge, as well as an observation deck which provides one of the most spectacular views of the city.

Angel Place

Angel Place is the home of one of the most Instagrammable art installations in Sydney. Located in a quiet alleyway off George Street, you will see an array of mismatched birdcages hanging from above, and you may even notice the sound of birdsong quietly echoing through the air. You can also find some of the best restaurants in Sydney on Angel Place, including Mr. Wong’s and China Lane.
At Be.Accommodation, the finest student accommodation Sydney has to offer, we want our residents to explore all the wonderful things in our great city! What is wonderful about our student housing, is the location, and knowing that you have the opportunity to visit all the unique places listed. For more information contact us on +61 2 9167 9356.

Why is Sydney the best place to live and study?

If you are considering moving to Sydney to live and study, you probably have a lot of questions. Is Sydney a good place to live? Does Sydney have good universities? Is Sydney a safe place to live in? The answer is simple. Yes, Sydney is incredible! We have amazing beaches, beautiful nature, a thriving nightlife, and a great education system.

At Be.Accommodation, we want our residents to get the most out of what we believe is the greatest city in the world. So, we have curated a list of reasons why you should move to Sydney.

A Great Place to Study

When studying in Sydney at one of the local universities, chances are there’s a great park, nice views, trendy cafes, or a beautiful library nearby, making it one of the most tranquil places in the world to study. Sydney is also home to some of the best universities in the world, including University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, University of Technology Sydney, and Macquarie University, just to name a few, offering an abundance of courses and study opportunities.

Multicultural

Sydney is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world. English is the official language, although there are around 250 languages that are spoken here, due to the wide range of people that have settled here from around the world. Meaning, you will never feel out of place, having English as a second language. You will not only be able to experience the Australian way of life, but also other cultured from all corners of the globe. We welcome international students, and you are sure to find a community that you can join in with to make the most of your time here.

Rich with History

We all know that Sydney is home to famous landmarks including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, however there is so much more to discover. You can embark on historical tours around The Rocks and learn about Australia’s history at the many Museums around the city. If you are a history buff, Sydney is the right place for you!

Employment Opportunities

Many Sydney-based companies actively search for student volunteers and host frequent student society meet-ups and international student gathering events. As a student in Sydney, you will have plenty of networking opportunities if you search for them. Deciding to live in Sydney, could open the doors to building a successful career.

Safety

Moving to a new country, or city, can be scary. When studying in Sydney you will have peace of mind that you are in one of the safest places in Australia. In fact, Sydney, Australia was ranked the fourth safest city in the world in 2021. With such a multicultural and diverse population, there is widespread acceptance for people of all cultures and backgrounds.

Transportation

When living in Sydney, you will have no trouble getting around. There are plenty of buses, trains, and ferries to take you through the city. Sydney’s train, bus and ferry services usually run late into the night, making sure all residents get home safely.

At Be. Accommodation, it is important to us that our residents have all they need to complete their studies in Sydney. What is wonderful about our UNSW Sydney accommodation, is the location, safety, and wonderful community. For more information contact us on +61 2 9167 9356.

Where can you find the best walking tracks in Sydney?

One of the most wonderful aspects about living in Sydney, are the picturesque walking tracks found along the Sydney harbour, beaches, and national parks. When living at Be.Accommodation, our residents have some of the most incredible walking tracks right at their doorstep.

Because there are so many fantastic tracks to choose from, we have curated a list of our top walking tracks in Sydney:

Glebe Foreshore Walk

The Glebe Foreshore walk begins at Bicentennial Park and ends at the Sydney Fish Markets. It is the perfect walk for anyone looking for a peaceful walk by the bay, encompassing incredible views of the Sydney Harbour, Sydney CBD, and the Anzac Bridge. At the end of the walk, treat yourself with fresh seafood and hot chips at the Sydney Fish Markets.

Maroubra To Coogee Walk

If you love cliff tops and ocean views, try the Maroubra to Coogee walk. Not only is it super local to Be.Accommodation, but it is truly one of the best walking tracks in Sydney. The sea views, rugged cliff tops and numerous ocean baths make it a very picturesque walk.

Botany Bay Coastal Walk

If rock formations and cliff tops are your thing, try the Botany Bay Coastal Walk. This walk features views of small sand dunes, hanging swamps, Boat Harbour Aquatic Reserve, and the Cape Baily Lighthouse. When you complete this walk, go for a some in one of Cronulla’s incredible pools or beaches.

Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock

Imagine this: stunning sandstone cliffs, coastal lookouts, and seasonal flowers. If that sounds like something you would enjoy, the Bundeena to Wedding Cake Rock Walk is the trek for you. It is important to know that although this walk isn’t too look, the track can get steep and rocky, so it can be demanding for less experienced trekkers. However, it does offer a decent work out, sightseeing, bird watching and whale watching!

Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay

Looking for a stunning view of the city and the Sydney Opera House? Lace up your sneakers and start at Taronga Zoo Warf and make you way around the coast to Chowder Bay. While walking, you’ll experience the extraordinary views of the harbour, Sydney Opera House, as well as South Head, Rose Bay, Shark Island and Bradleys Head.

Watsons Bay to Hornby Lighthouse

If you are a history buff, this walk is for you. Starting at the Watsons Bay ferry terminal, you’ll follow a path along the beach until you pass through the wonderful Camp Cove. From there, take the cobblestone pathways that lead you to the historic Hornby Lighthouse. You’ll also see a lightkeeper’s cottage, old military cannons and sandstone gun emplacements. While at the lighthouse, you’ll be able to see stunning views of Sydney Harbour, Middle Head and North Head, and if you are lucky, you may even see some whales!

If you need more ideas for picturesque walks in Sydney and for the finest student housing Sydney can offer, contact Be.Accommodation on 61 9167 9356.