Sydney vs. London: Is This Aussie Dream Actually Worth the Flight?
okay, so like, let’s be real. i’ve been staring at this screen for, what, 48 hours? fueled by instant coffee and the vague hope that someone, anyone, will actually read this. i’m a touring session drummer - yeah, that’s a thing - and i’ve bounced around more cities than i’ve actually played gigs in. and lately, i’ve been obsessing over Sydney. is it actually better than London? i’m trying to figure it out, and honestly, it’s a tangled mess of sunshine, overpriced avocado toast, and a surprising amount of existential dread.
seriously, the map. it’s… intense. all that water. i’m picturing myself on a tiny sailboat, dodging sharks and contemplating my life choices. which, let’s be honest, are currently revolving around finding a decent drum kit that doesn’t sound like a dying walrus.
Right, let’s get into the data. because apparently, that’s what people want. i’m not saying i enjoy spreadsheets, but my accountant’s been giving me the side-eye lately, so here we go.
*Cost of Living Comparison (Rough Estimates - as of Oct 26, 2023)Category Sydney (AUD) London (GBP) Notes Rent (1-Bedroom) $2,500 - $4,000 £1,200 - £2,000 Sydney’s rental market is bonkers. Groceries $1,200 - $1,800 £600 - £900 Aussie produce is decent, but everything’s marked up. Transportation $150 - $300 £80 - £150 Public transport is pretty good, though. Entertainment $300 - $600 £160 - £320 Drinks are expensive. Like, really expensive.
(Source: Numbeo - https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/)
Okay, okay, numbers. but they’re just… numbers. what about the vibe? i spent a week in Bondi, and it was… chaotic. beautiful, yes, but also a constant stream of bronzed bodies, overpriced smoothies, and people trying to sell you something. i overheard a guy yelling about “authentic Aussie surfboards” - like, dude, we’ve got a whole ocean.
Overheard Gossip #1: “I swear, the rent in Surry Hills is going to bankrupt me. I’m seriously considering moving back to my mum’s basement.” - a stressed-out graphic designer, 27, at a rooftop bar.
Then there’s the weather. it’s… weird. like, one minute it’s scorching hot, the next it’s raining sideways. it’s like the city’s actively trying to mess with your mood. but honestly, i kind of love it. it’s unpredictable, which is good for a drummer. you need a little chaos in your life, you know? it’s currently a “sticky summer” - that’s what everyone’s calling it. basically, it’s humid and you’re sweating through your clothes.
And the beaches! man, the beaches. manly beach is a solid 45-minute drive north, and you can practically smell the salt in the air. you can also find some pretty decent pubs there, which is a win.
Overheard Gossip #2: “Don’t go to Darling Harbour at night unless you want to be swindled. Seriously, the restaurants are tourist traps.” - a local bartender, 32, at a dive bar in Newtown.
I’ve been checking out some Reddit threads - r/Sydney and r/Australia - and the consensus seems to be that Sydney’s great for outdoor stuff, but the job market is a bit of a grind. it’s competitive, and wages aren’t amazing. but, you know, you can always busk. i’ve been practicing my drum solos in Hyde Park - it’s surprisingly good for exposure.
Pro-Tip: Learn to love the ferry. It’s the best way to get around and you’ll get some amazing views. Also, invest in a good rain jacket. Seriously.
Overheard Gossip #3:* “The lockout laws are a bloody disgrace. You can’t even get a decent drink after 10 pm in the CBD. It’s a total drag.” - a frustrated musician, 24, complaining about the nightlife restrictions. https://www.sydneysleepslater.com/
Look, i’m not saying Sydney is perfect. it’s expensive, it’s crowded, and it’s got a weird obsession with eucalyptus. but it’s also got a killer energy, stunning scenery, and a surprisingly good coffee scene. and, let’s be honest, it’s a pretty damn cool place to be a touring drummer.
Ultimately, it boils down to what you’re looking for. if you want a gritty, fast-paced city with a thriving arts scene and a decent chance of finding a gig, Sydney might be your jam. if you’re after a more established, traditional European vibe, London might be a better fit. but honestly, both cities are pretty amazing in their own way. just… be prepared to spend a lot of money. and maybe invest in a good dehumidifier.
And, you know, check out some local gigs. https://www.sydneyfuntivities.com/events/live-music
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