Cheap isn’t exactly the first word that pops to mind when you think about Sydney. An image that might be a little more imaginable is a bunch of 20 something’s driving around the city in expensive cars, even more expensive shoes, the worlds best brewed coffee in one hand and smashed avo on toast in the other.
Well we have news for you. Sydney doesn’t have to be all about the high rollers. The city has plenty on offer that won’t involve you having to profit from your kidney. So treat yo’self to some of the cultural wonders this city has on show, minus the organ selling.
Laughs All Round
Australia has some of the best comedy in the world on offer, so if you wanna take a break from the party scene and have a laugh with some mates, then this is the one for you. It’s the perfect place to go and wind down after a long week at work or uni, plus you get to immerse yourself with the crazy world that it comedy. Monday’s at The Comedy Lounge is a great place to start. Tickets are 10 bucks plus there are great cocktails and pizzas on offer.
Put Your Records On
Music lovers, this one’s for you. Don’t be thrown off by the vintage vibes because record stores hold many hidden gems. Just browsing through these musical oases can be exactly what you need on a cold winter day. Check out Egg Records, located in Sydney’s cultural hub of Newtown. Their walls are bursting with musical legends just waiting to be listened to, plus you can even grab a sneaky discount from the shop owner, if you’re lucky.
Grab Some Food In Chinatown
If you’re looking for some cheap eats then Chinatown is where you need to go. There are heaps of Asian cuisines on offer from Japanese to Thai, but of course Chinese is the fave. Hit up Emperor’s Puff for sure, little custard filled pastries for literally less than a dollar. And for dumplings head to Chinese Noodle House. You’ll get 12 dumplings for $10. Talk about a bargain. You’ll even stumble across some cheeky little stalls on the main strip on weekend nights.
Hit Up The Markets
Of course Sydney is full of fashionistas, designer brands and high priced boutiques. But this doesn’t mean picking up some quality items of clothing when you’ve got a tight budget is out of the question. There is an abundance of markets that are worth checking out. Glebe Markets is the natural go to, filled with a mix of factory seconds, emerging designers and vintage fashion. There’s even free music every Saturday from 12 – 3pm.
Check Out A Warehouse Party
The house and techno scene is booming like never before in Sydney and warehouse parties, well they are all the rage. Small and intimate, great crowds and killer DJ’s can be found in the industrial corners of the city. The Mantra Collective are renown for throwing a sick party and they are held on the regular around the Inner West. If your strapped for cash and all about the BYO then get amongst it.
Hit The Coast
Let’s be real, one that Sydney-siders have over Melbournians is the weather. Sydney has had some gorgeous sunny days this winter, so why not maximise on it. With some of the most spectacular coasts on offer, grab some mates and go for a stroll. If you’ve done the classic Bondi to Coogee, try the bushwalk at Balls Head Reserve. There are also plenty of places along the way to picnic.
Arty, Farty
If you’re all about the art then why not hit up some galleries around the city. It’s also a great date option, not only will they be impressed by how worldly you appear, you wont be breaking the bank either. The Museum of Contemporary Art is a classic go to, and admission is free. If photography is your thing then try Black Eye in Darlinghurst. Featuring contemporary artists and spectacular photos.
Cult Classic Films, Yes Please
A night at the movies is pretty exxy these days. A ticket can cost upward from 15 bucks, plus drinks and snacks. So why not settle for something more chill, laidback and accessible. Soda Factory are hosting some great movie nights every Monday this July. Free popcorn, $5 snacks and drinks on offer before the movie starts. They are showing all sorts of film faves from Guardians of the Galaxy to The Breakfast Club.
Winter Wonderland
Chuck on your skates and head to Parramatta for Winterlight. On until the 17th July, the festival has everything on offer, from ice skating lessons to workshops and even live DJs. Entry to the festival is free, free, free, so all you’ll be paying for is ice rink access, food and a little booze. There is an abundance to see and do, and hey, it makes for the perfect date night (on the cheap too, naturally).
Image Sources: Travel Weekly Asia, The Comedy Lounge, TripAdvisor, Glebe Markets, Mantra Collective, Best Sydney Walks, Black Eye Gallery, Winterlight.