Aussie Coffee…
Coffee is an Art Taken to a Whole New Level in Australia
This may sound ridiculous, but I get extremely excited about having a cappuccino every morning here in Australia… and sometimes I let myself have another in the afternoon too, if I really want to indulge.
Back in America, I never chose to drink a cup of coffee for the taste.
But here in Australia, a cup of coffee is a treat I look forward to everyday.
Sure, a small cup of coffee does not seem like a big deal. But it is such a simple thing that makes my day that much better.
To me, it has become a reminder of how happy and grateful I am everyday that I am in a wonderful new country and that I need to continue to make the most of my experience here.
I will try to explain the difference, but you really have to taste Australian coffee yourself to fully understand.
First of all, Americans tend to drink drip-brewed coffee, it takes less time and money and it is able to be produced on a larger scale. Most homes and cafes in the United States brew a large pot in the morning and drink or serve it throughout the day as needed.
On the other hand, Australian coffee is espresso-based, and it is way stronger than American coffee. Each drink is made individually and to order, meaning the coffee is not waiting in the pot for the next customer’s order.
Basically, you can get the same caffeine effect from a small sized Australian coffee as you would from a 12-ounce (tall size at Starbucks) American coffee.
Historically, Australia’s coffee culture is partly influenced from the large Italian immigrant population. They brought with them their barista skills and excellent coffee, and you can find some of the best Italian baristas in Sydney; notice the Italian brands of coffee everywhere, such as Segafredo Zanetti, Vittoria and Lavazza.
Local cafes serve artisan Australian-roasted coffee too. Some of the best are known to be Campos Coffee, Toby Estate and Single Origin. You will be sure to get a great cup of coffee at the cafes serving these!
To get to enjoy this amazing taste, you first need to learn all the different names and ways to order each style of coffee here. To clear up any confusion you may have when you arrive from overseas, here is an Aussie coffee guide to help you order your first drink:
Short Black: A single shot of espresso
Macchiato: Espresso with milk froth on top
(In case you didn’t know: "Froth" is the common name for micro-foam, which is created when steaming the milk, it is smooth and creamy)
Long Black: Espresso with hot water – about 1/3 espresso and 2/3 water
(If you want a close approximation of a regular cup of American coffee, order a long black)
Cappuccino: Espresso, steamed milk, milk froth and chocolate powder on top J
(This is my go to, it is delicious!)
Latte: Basically a cappuccino without the chocolate powder, usually served in a glass
Mocha: A latte with hot chocolate
Flat White: Espresso with steamed milk—about 1/3 espresso and 2/3 milk
(The closest approximation in America would be a latte with no foam)
Piccolo: Same as a latte but with less milk
Iced Coffee: Generally means cold espresso, milk and a scoop of ice cream :-)
(Definitely better than in America, the scoop of ice cream is a great touch!)
If you are going to drink a cup of coffee here in Australia, you are meant to fully enjoy it. I luckily discovered the joyous experience of drinking an Aussie cappuccino my first week here, so now I can take advantage of having one (or two) every day that I am here in Australia.
New Path, Same Feet
Being new to Sydney, I want to see and do as many different things as I can, and there are endless places to explore. But at the same time, having somewhat of a routine helps me feel more comfortable and makes the adjustment of living in a new city much easier. I have learned that it is all about finding the balance between my adventurous spirit and a regular activity that keeps me grounded.
In order for me to see as much of this city as I can while also maintaining a healthy habit, I have combined my desire to explore with my running routine. I love to run on a regular basis, so I try to go somewhere new on each run. Even if it is finding a new street, I am still getting to know my neighbourhood better and, when I have enough time, I can really find some exceptional beauty. On my runs, I have discovered three of my favourite places in Sydney: The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, The Royal Botanic Gardens (with the amazing view of the Opera House), and the Centennial Parklands.
I can not pick one favourite! They are all equally and uniquely amazing places that look beautiful at all different times of the day. They are all must see places while in Sydney and they are all FREE!
Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk
The Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk is about 6 kilometres along the cliff tops in Sydney’s eastern suburbs. The views of the beaches, parks, rock pools, bays and cliffs are stunning. Along the way you see several beaches. If you start in Bondi Beach, the closest ocean beach to the centre of Sydney and just a bus ride away, you will see Tamarama Beach next, then Bronte Beach, Clovelly Beach and end at Coogee Beach. Most beaches offer a place to change, rest, swim and eat at one of the cafes, some even have free eclectic barbecues!
The Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens are wonderful. The first time I saw them, I was, indeed, running. I just stumbled upon them; it was the most breathtaking surprise! The Royal Botanic Gardens were established in 1816 and they are the oldest scientific institution in Australia as well as the home to an exceptional collection of plants from Australia and overseas. These gardens are a haven of 30 hectares in the heart Sydney. They are in a brilliant location, right along the Farm Cove at the edge of Sydney Harbour. In addition, there is a great running path along the water where you get a beautiful view of the water and Opera House.
Centennial Parklands
Centennial Park is also magnificent. It is a grand public park and recreation area in the heart of Sydney’s busy eastern suburbs. It is a playground for people of all ages. It opened in 1888; it is full of history as it was a grand park in the Victorian period tradition. Today is still features gardens, grand avenues, ponds, statues, sporting fields and historic buildings. Furthermore, it is one of the only inner city parks among the world that offers facilities for horseback riding.
For more info, check out:
http://bonditocoogeewalk.com.au/
https://www.centennialparklands.com.au/
Or go for a run or walk yourself to discover the spectacular beauty in person!
Lose the Worries, Find the Waves
When you think of Australia, what comes to your mind? Besides kangaroos and BBQs, it's probably surfing and the beach.
Visualize a beach seven miles long, nothing but the tan sand, the blue waves, and the bright Australian sun captures your sight. You have a sun-faded green surf board in your hand for the first time and you are about to try to catch your first wave. Your wettie (that's Aussie for wetsuit) is zipped up tight; nothing but your bare feet and smiling face are exposed to the blazing sun. As you make your way towards the waves, you brace yourself before you decide to join the refreshing ocean. The waves welcome you and any slight bit of discomfort you might feel fades with the wonders of the water.
It is invigorating, and it makes you feel ALIVE.
Fresh from a lesson on the shore with the coolest instructors, you put your new knowledge to the test. After a couple of tries and some assistance from the pros, you are surprised you are already standing up. By the end of the week, you will not be able to believe how far you have come.
Being in Australia for the first time, I was feeling overwhelmed with the endless new opportunities now available to me. Life is all about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, facing challenges so that you can change and learn new skills and make memories. One of my favourite quotes is, “Take chances when you are young so that you can tell stories when your old.” You do not want to be one of those people when they are 80 years old saying, “I wish I had done something like that.” Now is the time to make your life Unforgettable.
If you never try, you will never know how much you are really capable of.
Going to Surf Camp Australia was an exhilarating new experience and kicked off my journey in the best way: New Moves, New Mates, and New Memories.