Australia is one of those places I had always thought I would visit. It only took 45 years but eventually in February 2019, I finally got the chance through a rare business trip. Meticulously, I planned out a few sightseeing highlights for myself, to fit round the work schedule. The downtown Central Business District happened to be close by the Opera House and Botanical Garden which was handy for some quick after-work sightseeing.
Arriving on Saturday, it was straight down to the Opera House followed by a stroll to The Rocks market. I spent a fair amount of time at The Rocks - browsing through the independent arty souvenirs but it was not cheap. I treated myself to some pink pearl earrings and walked around the area, scoping out restaurants for dinner.
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| Walking around The Rocks Market |
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| Sydney Harbour Bridge with The Opera House Bar in foreground |
On Sunday, I decided to head to Bondi beach to complete some of the Bondi to Coogee cliff walk. It was a beautifully sunny day with good sea breezes.
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| Surf School at Bondi Beach |
Arriving at Bondi beach, I saw glimpses of the relaxed Bondi lifestyle. At the beach, young children were at surf school and there was a public BBQ where you could buy hot dogs and burgers. In town, there were stylish clothing boutiques and healthy avocado toast brunches galore.
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| Brunch at Bill's |
The views of the cliff walk were indeed glorious but I was feeling some twinges of sunburn. Although, I slathered on the SPF, the cool breezes were deceiving and I was out in the sun a lot more than I should have. I passed through Tamarama ("Glamarama" with its beautiful houses) but ended the walk at Bronte beach.
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| Beach Views along the Coastal Walk |
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| Bondi Icebergs Pool |
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| Approaching Tamarama |
Changing outfits quickly back at the hotel, I then hopped on a ferry ride to Manly which gives great views of the Opera House. The plan was to have an early dinner at Manly so I could time the ferry journey back for sunset.
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| Sunset Views on the Ferry |
Although it was a work trip, I was thankful that I got to enjoy the beautiful views, food and lifestyle in Sydney for a few days. It's easy to get around and there is lots to see, do and eat. It felt like a mix of San Fran with some British elements. Hopefully, I'll get another chance to go there!
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| View from The Botanical Garden |
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