Sydney

Still in transit to the delightful sunshine state, I thought I'd take this moment to give Sydney a little look in... it is the #1 tourist destination after all (I don't know why, but perhaps that is because I am spoiled)

I was born in Sydney and spent a few years of my childhood living there. Can't say I remember it in too much detail but apparently it was a laid back lifestyle. I still live to visit Sydney, but the traffic is so soul destroying I can't imagine ever living there. Still, it's a great place for a mini-break and the sights in the city are stunning.

Of course Sydney Harbour is the highlight of any Sydney tour. It is pretty impressive when you see it in real life. I think it's hard to conceptualize the size until you're standing under it. Walking over it is also good, because you get such a great view of the sprawl of the city. I've never climbed up the bridge, but it is something you can do if you're so inclined (too many stairs for me to be enticed).

The Opera House is such a strange building. I know it's built for the acoustic value as much as for the facade, but it just screams '1980's' to me. Unlike a lot of your big city attractions, the Opera House, like the Harbour Bridge, are very accessible. I've never seen any lines to visit either, you can go right up and touch them and they're big enough that there is always a photo op available.

I've written about Luna Park before on this blog. It's creepy as hell, but I like it a lot and, as far as cultural markers go, it is one of the most iconic images in Australian history. By modern standards the theme park itself isn't much chop, but you can walk down the main thoroughfare without having to pay admission, so if you have the chance it's a pleasant way to spend a half hour.

Here's a sunny day time shot, the others were a little gloomy. This is a great spot to sit with some fish and chips, just to take in the view and the weather (when it's agreeable). Not being very familiar with the area, I can't recall the name of it, but I think it's either at The Rocks or Milsons Point.

Just go exploring till you find it. The Harbour isn't that big, but it's filled with interesting characters and historical sites. Don't try and plan, don't take a map, just head out for a walk. See where you end up. The landmarks are all big enough for you to be able to orientate yourself ;)

Thanks for reading!

Racheal