Three CEA CAPA Excursions That Transformed My Australian Experience
When deciding where I wanted to go for my term abroad, I already knew that I wanted to experience everything Australia had to offer. From its rugged wilderness to the rich, renowned art scene, I wanted to have it all. However, juggling my academics with planning intricate weekend trips with my friends, all while trying to make new friends, seemed daunting. I chose to focus this photoset on the excursions offered through the CEA CAPA program, as they provided a seamless bridge between my student life and the cultural experience I craved.
Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park and the Blue Mountains
One of my most memorable CEA CAPA group excursions was at the Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park, where I checked off a massive Australian bucket-list item: hand-feeding a kangaroo. Experiencing that alongside other study abroad students from all different home institutions in the US immediately brought our cohort together.
Morning at the Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park. Checking off a massive Australian bucket-list item: feeding a kangaroo!
From there, we ventured out into the Blue Mountains, which is about a two-hour drive from our accommodation in Sydney. Even the commuting experience was fun as it included all students from all of the CEA CAPA Sydney programs in a coach bus. Guided by an expert tour guide, we hiked through the lush rainforests and learned about the rich history of the land.
Afternoon at the Blue Mountains National Park. Our initial ascent into the mountains while navigating the incredible rock formations and cascading waterfalls as a group.
Pausing for a photo with friends in front of a misty waterfall through unpredictable weather.
Taking in the breathtaking views of the Jamison Valley.
One of the most memorable moments was when our guides brought us inside an ancient Aboriginal cave and had us chant together, listening to our voices echo across the mountain valleys. After our hikes, we concluded the day with a group outdoor lunch alongside many photo opportunities to capture our memories.
Our entire CEA CAPA group gathered inside an Aboriginal cave, shouting chants together and hearing our voices echo across the mountain valleys.
Pausing for a photo as we hiked alongside the dramatic cliffside trails.
The whole CEA CAPA group in front of a stunning waterfall, serving as the ultimate bonding experience.
Sydney Opera House: Gatsby at the Green Light
The following evening, we were fortunate enough to gather at the iconic Sydney Opera House to attend the “Gatsby at the Green Light” show. Until then, most of us had only captured picturesque shots of the Opera House from afar, only dreaming of seeing the inside.
Evening at the Sydney Opera House. Taking our seats for the “Gatsby at the Green Light” show in a unique set inside the world-famous venue.
However, that night wasn’t just about seeing a spectacular performance, but it was also a gateway to Sydney’s nightlife and arts culture. Having this organized perfectly by CEA CAPA meant that we could simply show up with prepaid tickets, dress up in fancy dress shirts and dresses, and be amazed by the performers. This experience truly set the tone for a term of saying “yes” to new experiences.
Posing with props from the Gatsby performance at the conclusion of the show to capture the memories of the night.
I want to conclude by letting prospective students know that studying abroad with CEA CAPA means you don’t have to navigate a new country alone. These curated excursions took away all the hassle of travel logistics, allowing me to focus entirely on making connections. Looking back, I would not easily have been able to plan out a trip to the Blue Mountains myself, considering its two-hour distance from inner Sydney. So whether it’s connecting with Australian wildlife or bonding with other students from all over the United States over a night at the Opera House, I am excited to carry forward this appreciation for CEA CAPA.
