Australia's capital is home to a huge student population, thanks to the many universities and technical colleges located here. As a result this small and vibrant city is geared towards a student lifestyle-lively caf? and pub cultures and a buzzing nightlife combine with affordable living, great sports facilities and some of the nation's best arts and entertainment. Countless annual festivals, such as the National Folk Festival, the National Multicultural Festival, Floriade and the Canberra International Film Festival, are also held in Canberra every year.

Known as a 'green' city, Canberra is a haven for people who love the great outdoors. An excellent network of bike tracks covers the city, while kilometres of lakeshore and suburban nature reserves contain great jogging trails and picnic spots. The location of numerous national parks outside the city offer countless opportunities for camping and hiking in some of Australia's most beautiful wilderness.

Canberra is also a city of great historical and political importance. The location of the National Library, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Museum and many other landmark buildings keep many of Australia's most important cultural and educational resources here.

Canberra is totally accessible via its public bus system. The city area is safe and easy to get around on foot, with pedestrian malls making up much of the city centre. Affordable living costs and well-paid jobs mean that Canberrans have a higher rate of disposable income than inhabitants of any other Australian city. So as a student in Canberra you can pocket some of your living expenses and spend your spare change on something worthwhile!

Canberra is also a gateway to some of Australia's most beautiful destinations. With the Snowy Mountains two hours away, day trips to the snowfields are a popular winter activity. For those who prefer the beach, some of Australia's most pristine coastline is close by-white sandy shores, Pacific ocean coves and coastal bushland are only two hours south of Canberra.

A three-hour drive will take you to the sights of Sydney, while a slightly longer trip (6-8 hours) will see you in Melbourne. Buses from Canberra service all of these destinations daily with discounts for students.

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