Adam44

Yes, 25 min walk. Tried and tested.

Thanks for your comments. Very much appreciated. I did opt for Manly Vale in the end!

Thanks for putting my mind to rest on the transport front. In terms of Manly Vale atmosphere, it is certainly inferior to Manly but then again is only a short walk to the Steyne and the vibrant centre of Manly. Decision decisions. Thanks again!

I arrived in Sydney on 23 January and think I have find a really nice flat share to move into. The only concern I have is that it's situated in Manly Vale and I am worried that this might be a pain for transport into the CBD (I am likely to be based there for work) and also slightly isolated. If anyone has any general advise about the area etc I would be grateful. Thank you! I did consider Bondi, Coogee etc but just felt that the north shore would be a better option.

Hi all. I have just got back from a three week reccie in Oz and have now made the decision to make the move permanently in February next year. Given the nature of my work (I am a commercial real estate consultant) and based on the advice received from recruitment agents, it is unlikely that I will be able to find work before I arrive. Consequently, it is looking like I will have to take the bold step of arriving with no job and no immediate source of income (don't worry, I have savings!). This is naturally causing me some anxiety so I want to make sure that I do things right when I get there. I am planning to move to Sydney as that is where the opportunities are most extensive in my line of work and I was wondering if any one has any advice that they may be able to give on what would be the best thing for securing immediate accommodation? I don't know what the most common plan is for new immigrants because clearly, it takes time to secure an apartment. I guess I just need some general advice. If anyone has any thoughts, they would be gratefully received!

Thanks for all of the advice. It really is very much appreciated!! Looks like taking a suit is definitely the best way forward! Thanks again. (I am in the commercial property consultancy sector)

I was granted a 175 visa in May of this year and I am going over for a three week reccie in October. This may or may not seem like a stupid question but I really am not sure whether to take a suit with me (I am in the professional services sector). I expect to attend an interview or two whilst out there and I am not sure what will be expected of me (i.e. smart casual given my circumstances or a suit). I am hung up on this because lugging a suit and and work shoes around is going to be a hassle but I would rather get this one right! If anyone can provide any advice it would be very much appreciated.

Hi Hells, I totally agree that there is absolutely nothing to be lost by giving the Oz experience a shot. As you rightly say, the worst that can happen is that it doesn't go to plan and I have to come back home. Even then, at least I can say that I had the substance to give it a go. To some it up "life is short, live it!" I'm just grateful that i'm in a position to make the move. I hope everything goes well for you too. I will let you know how the reccie goes! Adam x p.s. being reckless isn't always a bad thing!

I'm also making the move alone. Started the process of applying for a 175 visa in early 2011 and got the visa in May of this year. Then it all became a reality! I'm a commercial property valuer which is on the SOL. Going to oz for three weeks in October on a bit of a reccie and hoping to make the move early next year. Its incredibly daunting but equally exciting!

Thanks for the post Tony. Just glad I was able to produce a normal(ish) reading in the end! Finger crossed for a positive result! Cheers

Had my medical today. Thought I would sail through only to be disappointed! Gave two consecutive high blood pressure readings so the doc sent me into a quiet room to rest as the view was taken that it was due to anxiety. Gave a normal reading after that (still on the high side though!) and doc said he would prefer to have another normal reading (ideally slightly lower) just to be sure. Had another lie down for 15 mins only to give another high reading!!!! I was very concerned that he was going to refer me but he said that on this occasion he was prepared to "let it go" and use the lower reading. I guess it was because he sympathised with my concern that the high readings were due wholly to anxiety. Even though he said he would let it go on this occasion I am still concerned that he will put a caveat on my submission. Stressful isn't the word!! I'm 28, normal weight, exercise once a week (could be better I know!). Has anyone had a similar experience to this?