A Fresh Start Unfolds on Australia’s Sun-Soaked Gold Coast
This post records everyday moments from January 3 to January 12, 2026, marking a new chapter of life in Gold Coast.
From settling into a new home and working housekeeping shifts to small joys like good food, birthdays, and quiet walks, it captures honest emotions during adaptation.
It’s a gentle diary of loneliness, gratitude, fatigue, and healing during the early days of living abroad.
First Day in Gold Coast and a New Home
I arrived in Gold Coast after taking a night bus.
Craving something sweet, I grabbed a Dubai chocolate donut at Janus Deli before heading to my new place with a mountain of luggage.
I was nervous because I moved in without seeing the house beforehand, but thankfully it turned out much better than expected.
Daini helped me carry my things, and honestly, she felt like an angel that day.
Small Encounters and Free Music at the Park
On the way home, I noticed a cute ribbon tied to a tree.
Later, I met Daini and Juyoung at a nearby park where a free music festival was taking place.
The music was okay, so we didn’t stay too long, but it was still nice to sit and listen for a bit.
Comfort Food and Missing Korea
We went to Mr. Jokbal, and the boneless chicken feet set was unbelievably good.
It made me dream about having a proper pig party when I return to Korea, with spicy rice cakes, mala xiang guo, and chicken feet piled on the table.
Introducing My Room and Daily Reality
Let me introduce my room.
It’s cozy, more spacious than I expected, and my housemates are kind, which makes living here easier.
The rent is $350 a week, though, so I keep reminding myself to work hard on housekeeping.
Working on Days Off and Cafeteria Meals
On Sunday, even though I wasn’t scheduled to work, I decided to take a shift because they needed help.
As a broke girl, I somehow spent too much money at the convenience store.
The cafeteria lunch was still terrible, so I chose toast instead, but at least it was free.
After a long shift, all I could think about was Gong Cha.
Birthday Dinner and Small Celebrations
On Wednesday, I had dinner at Hilton’s Catch Restaurant with my best housekeeping partner, Nina.
The gnocchi was amazing, and I completely fell in love with Moscato.
It was Nina’s birthday, and thanks to the reservation, we even received a cake.
Groceries, Kimchi, and Weekend Nights
We celebrated Nina’s birthday at Broadwalk Park, and I had fun watching kids run around.
After work, I rushed to Coles when I heard Bibigo dumplings were half price.
My housemate made kimchi, and sharing it together made me genuinely happy.
Friday morning, I enjoyed a fried egg flower on my way to work, telling myself it’s okay even when the wind blows.
Saturday night was spent at an Irish pub, and the Smirnoff tasted especially good.
Quiet Nights and Emotional Recovery
On my way home, I looked up and saw beautiful stars.
After work on Sunday, I recommended a show to my housemate, and we ended up watching it together.
My fridge is finally stocked, and I found a $5 Moscato that tastes surprisingly great.
On Monday, I slept in and took a short walk at the park, only to realize I walked just 5,000 steps all day.
After feeling empty following my Sydney trip with friends, working has helped me regain some balance.
Here’s to the remaining five weeks of life in Gold Coast.
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