Considering Living Near the Beach as a Newcomer in Sydney
The title pretty much sums it up! I’ll be moving out of my hotel into a shared house at the beginning of May, and I’m torn between living near the beach to fully enjoy my two years here or opting for a shorter commute. My job is located near Redfern train station.
For some context, I previously lived in a city where long commutes of an hour or more were common. I found that living closer to work made life feel more like my own, since spending 10 hours on work and travel can be draining. However, my previous home was landlocked, and I feel like I might miss out on the full Sydney experience if I don’t live near the beach.
Should I stick to neighborhoods like Newtown or Surry Hills to save energy and ensure I have more weekend time for beach outings? Or would living by the coast actually energize me, even if the commute is a bit longer? I’m also thinking about the fact that I’ll be moving before winter, and I wonder if that might impact my experience for a few months.
These questions are tough to answer objectively, so I’d love to hear your personal experiences and perspectives on this. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
Moving to Sydney, especially with its beautiful beaches, is an exciting opportunity! Here are some perspectives to consider:
Commute vs. Lifestyle: Since you’ve experienced long commutes in the past, you understand how they can drain your time and energy. Living near the beach can definitely enhance your quality of life, giving you more time to enjoy the outdoors and the vibrant beach culture of Sydney. If you choose a place like Bondi or Coogee, even a morning walk to the beach can become a refreshing start to your day.
Impact of Seasons: While it’s true that winter in Sydney isn’t as harsh as in other places, the beach may not be as appealing during the colder months. However, beach suburbs often have a unique charm year-round, with cafes and scenic spots still bustling even in winter. Plus, the coastal lifestyle can be invigorating, regardless of the season.
Living Closer to Work: If you choose to stay in areas like Newtown or Surry Hills, which are more centrally located, you’ll benefit from a shorter commute to work. This could allow you to be more sociable during the week and make the most of your evenings. This balance of living close to work while still being able to visit the beach on weekends could be ideal.
Personal Priorities: Ultimately, you should consider what matters most to you. If a beach lifestyle, sunrises, and the ocean environment are important, it might be worth a slightly longer commute. However, if you value a manageable work-life balance during the week, staying closer to your workplace could be better.
Trial Period: If it’s feasible, why not try living near the beach for a few months and see how it fits your lifestyle? You could always move to a more central location if the commute becomes too much.
In summary, both options have their pros and cons. It’s about weighing what aspects of life in Sydney will bring you the most happiness and fulfillment. Good luck with your new adventure!