Expert: Ian Smith - 3/7/2006

Question
I am about to apply to grad school in australia, and there are a few programs in different cities that I am interested in. I am having a difficult time deciding which to choose. It is between Brisbane, Melbourne, the capital city of Tasmania, and Auckland, NZ. I know these cities will be quite different from eachother, and I don't know where to begin. The most important issue to consider is transportation, since I will not have a car. I need to know which cities have the most reliable and efficient means to get around.
I also want to pick the city that has the best beaches and mild weather. I have lived in Texas all my life, and have had to endure the terrible summers and GIANT sized bugs. I would definately like a break from that!
Any recommendations would be extremely helpful!
Thanks,
Sherri

Answer
Personally speaking, I think you should be heading to Newcastle, the only one that adequately fits your requirements but, since it's not on your list I would probably opt for Melbourne.  
None of them are close to the beach and, as for weather, probably Auckland is your best bet.
Brisbane can get seriously sticky in summer, Melbourne can have 4 seasons in one day, Hobart is the most picturesque but also the coldest overall.
You shouldn't have transport problems at any of them but, rather obviously, it all depends on which school you choose and where you are actually staying.
As I said before, I think you should add Newcastle to your list.
Cheers, Ian