What to expect from Canberra..

By Nina Vincent, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia

If you’re lucky enough to have been offered a year abroad at the Australian National University (ANU), you’re probably wondering what to expect from Canberra. When I first got into ANU, I had no idea what Canberra would be like either.

Even though Canberra is Australia’s capital, it doesn’t feel like a typical big city. It’s unique, with a design that feels straight out of a Lego set. Canberra was built from scratch in 1907, with everything meticulously planned. Instead of choosing between Sydney and Melbourne as the capital, Australia went for a fresh start and built Canberra right in between the two. As a result, you’ll find the city full of organized streets, striking government buildings, and sculptures dotted along the roads – all adding to its “planned city” vibe.

Canberra is famously clean and has a uniform look, with buildings from the same era giving it a cohesive feel. Known as the “bush capital,” the city is surrounded by incredible mountain views from almost anywhere you stand. Plus, it’s sunny all the time – locals call it the “Canberra blue” sky. This endless sunshine really brightens up daily life, especially if, like me, you’re used to the grey skies of Manchester winters. I find myself way more motivated and active here, just from the change in weather.

One of the best things about Canberra is how walkable it is. From ANU’s campus, it’s just a 20-minute stroll to the city center. There, you’ll find a big shopping center and tons of amazing food options. Canberra has a reputation as a food hub, with a huge selection of Asian cuisine that’s both affordable and authentic, along with some standout Italian spots and sandwich shops. Some of my favorites are Lazy Su, Sando Bros, and Amici Italian.

Nature lovers will also have plenty to explore. Canberra is home to Australia’s beautiful Botanical Gardens, where you can see native trees, wildlife (including lizards and snakes), and incredible scenery. For a bit more adventure, you can hike up Black Mountain or Mount Ainslie for some breathtaking views. Another highlight is Lake Birley Griffin, a beautiful spot for a barbecue with friends or a scenic run along its trails. Overall, while Canberra might not be the biggest or most famous city, it’s a charming place with a lot to offer.