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Australia

Best Things to Do in Sydney for Active Travelers

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You’re an avid traveller who can’t wait to visit Sydney and explore everything this city has to offer? Look no further because we’re here to help you out! Here are the five best things to do in Sydney if you’re an avid traveller, so keep on reading and take notes!

Go kayaking both in Sydney and out of it

As Sydney is surrounded by water, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore this city at its finest. This is particularly true if you want to explore Sydney from the water – but without getting wet. If that’s the case with you, skip surfing and swimming and rent a kayak instead. This is a unique way to explore Sydney Harbour and the exciting ocean. Of course, just be sure not to go all by yourself, so opt for a guided kayaking tour. There are numerous tours that’ll take you in front of the Sydney Opera House and under the Sydney Harbour Bridge. On the other hand, there are kayaking tours out of Sydney as well. Kangaroo Creek in the Royal National Park and Lane Cove River in the Lane Cove National Park are just some of them, so give them a try and you won’t regret it! 

Sydney kayak

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Speaking of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is one of the most famous symbols of Sydney you simply mustn’t miss. However, if you’re an adventurer who wants to experience an adrenaline rush on their trip, you shouldn’t stop at seeing this bridge from the ground. That’s right – you should climb it! This will make your entire trip a lifetime experience, so don’t skip it and you’ll see what we were talking about! Of course, there are several different types of climbs. So, make sure to pick one according to your personal preferences and current physical abilities. For example, the ultimate climb is a fully guided tour that takes around 3.5 hours. You’ll even get a certificate of achievement once you’re done with it! On the other hand, the summit express tour takes about 2.5 hours. However, don’t worry because this tour offers a certificate of achievement as well!

Work out in some of Sydney’s best gyms

Are you an active traveller who simply can’t skip their everyday workouts? If your answer is yes, you should keep up with your routine and continue working out while on the road. Finding a great gym in Sydney CBD doesn’t have to be as challenging as you probably think. This is particularly true when you know exactly what you want according to your preferred type of workout. For example, if you prefer strength training classes designed to boost your strength and improve athletic performance, you should definitely look for a gym that offers a LIFT program. However, if you simply adore HIIT training classes based on sweating and burning fat, look out for a gym that has a SWEAT program. Or why wouldn’t you opt for a gym that offers both? It’s a great way to stay fit and in shape when in Sydney!

Sydney surf

Go surfing at some of Sydney’s finest beaches

Many people will agree that your trip to Sydney can never be complete if you haven’t surfed, and you know what? We completely agree with them! So, try not to skip this amazing water sport while in Sydney, no matter if you’re an experienced surfer or just a novice. However, you must know that some beaches are ideal for beginners, whereas other ones are perfect for professionals. Manly Beach is a great choice for novices at surfing. The best thing about it is that there is Manly Surf School that offers both private and group lessons for kids, adults, and entire families. On the other hand, Tamarama Beach is a good choice for experienced surfers only. There are no surfing schools and you can’t rent a board at this beach, so try to stay away from it if you aren’t a complete pro!

Go hiking in the Blue Mountains

Last but certainly not least, hiking in the Blue Mountains is another amazing option for all active travellers. Truth be told, the Blue Mountains are a real paradise for bushwalkers. There are hundreds of amazing hikes to choose from, and a Three Sisters Walk is one of them. It’s only 1km long, so you’ll explore its natural wonders without breaking a sweat. The Honeymoon Bridge provides access to the first of the Three Sisters. There is also a Wentworth Pass, which is a 5km long circuit walking track. This one starts and ends at the Conversation Hut. It then passes through the Valley of the Waters and takes in multiple creek crossings and small waterfalls. However, if you want to make this experience even more extreme, you should go canyoning in the Blue Mountains instead. You won’t go wrong with this activity either!

Sydney Blue Mountains

As you can tell, there are so many amazing things to do in Sydney when you’re an active traveller who is always on the go. These five undoubtedly are the best ones of them, so make them a part of your itinerary and you won’t make a mistake. Trust us when you say that you’ll enjoy exploring Sydney while staying fit and active at the same time!

Australia

7 Places You Should Visit in Sydney if You Love Animals

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If you’re planning on visiting Sydney and you absolutely love exploring animal wildlife, then you’re coming to the right place. Sydney offers one of the most diverse spectrum of Australian wildlife that any animal lover will simply fall in love with. Explore these 7 places with your friends and family to get to know Australia’s most majestic animal species.

Experience a heap of native wildlife in Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo may actually be the most iconic place for meeting Australia’s wildlife Sydney has to offer. Many different species show up every day. If you choose to visit this place, you will get to see platypus, get really close to cuddly koalas, and see many other animals such as penguins, giraffes, and owls. You also get to take the Nura Diya Aboriginal Wildlife Tour through Taronga, where you’ll have a chance to hear all about Australian wildlife from the point of view of an Aboriginal guide. This is a perfect destination for someone who loves to explore wildlife and its entire amazing species. 

Australia animals

Meet Exotic Animals at Symbio Wildlife Park

If you drive another hour from Sydney, you’ll easily find the Symbio Wildlife Park. This place is home to many exotic and native species such as meerkats. Visiting this place is one of the best ways to explore Australia’s finest native fauna and more. Fun fact: their reptile house holds the world’s most venomous snake varieties, and they have a fanatic koala breeding sanctuary as well. 

Visit the Magical Sea Life Sydney Aquarium

Of all the incredible Australian natural attractions, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium is the one that you should definitely visit. It is located in Darling Harbour, not far away from Town Hall Station. This place is home to thousands of various tropical fish as well as turtles, stingrays, sharks, and seahorses. However, this place’s biggest pride and joy are its two dugongs. These are the two out of three dugongs displayed in the world. Their names are Wuru and Pig and they love getting visitors. Also, if you want to explore more, you can take a behind the scenes tour or even go snorkelling with beautiful Australian marine life. 

Speaking of sea life, Sydney also offers some of the most amazing places for foodie travellers who enjoy seafood. 

Go on a Backpacking Adventure at Featherdale Wildlife Park

In case you are heading towards the Blue Mountains, you must visit Featherdale Wildlife Park. This is one of the most beautiful places for backpacking where you’ll get to encounter the most exciting Australian wildlife. Here, you will get to cuddle with koalas and feed the wallabies and kangaroos. This place is home to more than 1,700 animals and over 280 different species live here. They also have some not so well known, yet very fascinating endangered species such as Australian Bilby. 

Don’t Miss the Australian Reptile Park

If you love animals with scales, forked tongues, and several eyes, then this is a perfect destination for you. The Australian Reptile Park is located on the NSW Central Coast and it only takes about an hour to get there from Sydney. This place offers so many activities, so make sure you leave a full day free that you can spend there. This is where you can check out almost all of Australia’s native animals such as Tasmanian devils and wombats. Not only that, but their reptile collection will completely leave you in awe. 

If you visit on the weekend, you’ll get to see Elvis the crocodile being fed his tucker. This rare occasion is something you can’t miss out on. Also, for those who are especially passionate about creepy crawlies, there is an amazing spider world exhibit too.

Sydney animal whale

Once in a Lifetime Experience: Whale watching on the harbour

If you love marine life, then you will definitely enjoy the whale watching cruise around Sidney. It will take you only about 15 minutes to get out of Sydney Harbour to some of the best watching spots depending on the cruise you pick. This experience is the one you definitely shouldn’t miss. The feeling of summer breeze and sun on your skin as you soar through the waves watching majestic whales is irreplaceable. 

Dare to Swim with Sharks 

Lastly, if you want to experience a truly extreme Australian adventure, try swimming with sharks. There is an amazing Shark Dive Xtreme tour in Manly you can try out. The best part is that you don’t need any previous scuba diving experience since this place offers scuba training as well as a safety briefing before going on a guided tour. This easy training will last about 2 to 2.5 hours and then you’ll get to embark on your guided tour through mystical shark tunnels. You’ll dive in Shark Harbour where you will get to come face to face with some of the most majestic species such as three metre grey nurse sharks, sea turtles, fish, and stingrays.

Conclusion

All things considered, there are many options out there for animal lovers. No matter what kind of journey you want to embark on, you will definitely find something that you like around Sydney.

Australia, Travel Tips

Australia’s East Coast Highlights

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Australia’s East Coast Highlights

Words: Len Rutledge Images: Phensri Rutledge

Australia continues to attract many visitors because of its animals, lifestyle and sunshine but just about all are surprised at its size. Australia is larger than Europe so don’t expect to be able to see the whole country in one visit unless you are planning on a three month vacation or a two year working holiday. The East Coast is the most populated area so this is not a bad place to start. From Melbourne in the south to Cairns in the north is around 3000 kilometres but there are several great places to visit in between.

Melbourne

We start in the World’s Most Liveable City and quickly see why it has scored this award for several years. Melbourne is Australia’s sporting, coffee, restaurant and arts capital. Depending on your interest you can attend the Australian Tennis Open, the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, the AFL Football Final Series, the Melbourne Cup Horse Racing Carnival and international cricket tests. A recent study found Melbourne hosts over 60,000 live concerts annually, making it one of the live music capitals of the world. The city has more theatres and performance venues than anywhere else in Australia. There are approximately 5000 cafes and restaurants in the city, the highest per capita in the world. Many are top class.

East coast

Flinders Street Railway Station, Melbourne

Canberra

Australia’s little-known capital is well worth a visit. There is nothing old here but there are modern buildings aplenty. Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Library of Australia, the National Science and Technology Centre, the National Zoo and Aquarium, the National Museum of Australia and more, will have you extending your stay.

east coast

Looking towards Parliament House from the Australian War Memorial, Canberra

Sydney

Located on the East Coast of Australia, Sydney is the oldest and largest of the Australian cities and today the city’s attractions are dominated by the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. There is a guided walking tour of the Opera House and you can join a guided ascent of the bridge. Between these two is Circular Quay, the city’s main ferry terminal and just nearby is The Rocks where more than 100 heritage sites and buildings jostle along the narrow streets. Elsewhere, Darling Harbour is a waterfront pedestrian precinct packed with shops, restaurants, museums, exhibitions, and entertainment venues. Sydney is famous for its beaches from tiny harbourside strips of sand to Bondi, Coogee, Bronte, Tamarama, Maroubra, Manly Collaroy, Dee Why, and Narrabeen on the Pacific Ocean.

east coast

Circular Quay with fountain, Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney

Brisbane

Once it was called a big country town but Brisbane has now grown up. Across the river from the CBD, South Bank is home to the Cultural Centre with its world-class galleries and entertainment. You can climb the Storey Bridge, cuddle a koala at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, while Morton Island is the place to feed wild dolphins and snorkel around an old ship wreck. One hundred kilometres to the south is the famous Gold Coast with its excellent beaches, theme parks, restaurants and nightlife. To the north is the Sunshine Coast for more beach activity.

east coast

South Bank artificial beach looking towards Brisbane CBD

North Queensland Islands

With rugged coastlines and surrounding reefs bursting with life, you are spoiled for choice when choosing an island off the coast of North Queensland. Many are wholly or partly National Parks and many have nature viewing, snorkelling and sailing opportunities, and bush trails. Quite a few have accommodation. Some are very up-market such as One & Only Hayman, Hamilton, Orpheus, Badarra and Lizard while others have a range of rooms from excellent to budget. Magnetic Island off Townsville is the easiest to reach with ferries and car barges making the crossing multiple times a day.

east coast

Visitors to our room on Daydream Island

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. This is one of the seven wonders of the natural world, larger than the Great Wall of China, and the only living thing on earth visible from space. A visitor can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, aircraft or helicopter tours, bare boats (self-sail), glass-bottomed boat viewing, semi-submersibles and educational trips, whale watching, and swimming with dolphins. Townsville is the headquarters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and it is home to the world’s largest living coral reef aquarium. Reef trips leave from many other northern towns including Cairns and Port Douglas.

east coast australia

The headquarters of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Townsville

www.lenrutledge.com

Australia, Editor's Picks

The Humpback Whale Come-Back: An Amazing Success Story

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The Humpback Whale Come-Back: An Amazing Success Story

We have been protecting the Humpback Whale since the 1970s, and many conservationists are understandably very happy with the results, which has effectively removed the species from the endangered list in 9 separate global locations. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOA) has confirmed that the numbers of Humpbacks have increased sufficiently to remove them from the endangered list in 9 locations.

Complex Intelligence

These majestic creatures can migrate up to 16,000 km and research has shown that they are very intelligent creatures that can problem solve, and they are still using the same routes in their migrations, only now they are not being hunted. One of the reasons for the Humpback’s popularity is the way they put on a show for whale watchers, and that’s why Sydney Whale watching is such a popular day out.

Worldwide Hunting Ban

The year was 1970, and finally the US declared the Humpback Whale as being an endangered species, and in 1982, The International Whaling Committee put an end to whale hunting, and that ban is still in effect today.

South Africa

Perhaps the best results are found in the waters off South Africa, where it is believed there are more than 30,000 Humpbacks in the Western Indian Ocean, and this was one region where the whale hunting was so prevalent. For the species to have bounced back is a reflection of the right actions that were taken by governments and international bodies.

Queensland and New South Wales

Off the Sydney coast, the Humpbacks can be seen on their migratory routes to and from the Antarctica, and if you would like to have a close-up experience with these amazing animals, book a whale watching trip that leaves from Sydney and you are likely to witness the breaching and many other surface behaviours the Humpback Whales exhibit. From April to November offers the best chances of seeing these creatures perform, as they use this route to give birth to calves and also to feed on the rich krill deposits found in Antarctica. The whales were almost hunted to extinction in the past century, and no one would have thought that in a few years, they would recover so quickly. Of course, there are similar success stories of the Humpback numbers increasing in many parts of the world, but the waters off the coast of Sydney have been particularly productive, with numbers rising steadily. The females are breeding every few years, and with tighter fishing controls, less young whales are accidently caught by commercial fishing boats.

Sydney Whale Watching

Every person that experiences a day out whale watching is affected by the presence of these unique creatures, and they are aware they are being watched and very often like to put on a show. If you would like to book a whale watching trip, search online for the established whale watching company that is based in Sydney, and you can literally choose your date.

humpback whale

A secure online payment reserves your space, and this is something you won’t forget in a hurry, as 30 tons of mammal comes crashing down nearby.

Australia

Discover 8 Secret Places in Sydney

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Sydney is, without a doubt, one of the best cities in the world – if not the best. With a vivid cityscape bustling with life, gourmet places, amazing architecture and a unique mixture of art and culture wherever you look, it is certainly a dream destination for many. However, there is so much more to Sydney than just the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. To experience a different side of this city that goes beyond the usual tourist attractions, you’ll have to do your research beforehand. To help you with that, here are eight secret places in Sydney you will love.

Paddington Reservoir Gardens

The Paddington Reservoir Gardens is certainly not what you’d expect in the middle of the busy streets. This park, that was once a water reservoir, is a calm and serene retreat that will make you forget you are in Sydney! It is a great location to take a breather or even have a picnic while taking pictures among the many plants and interesting structures that were restored and are now a unique mixture between the old and new. The place also has a lot of stories to tell!

Paddington Reservoir Gardens Sydney

Milk Beach

If you’d rather chill and sunbathe on a beach but you want to avoid the overcrowded surfers’ hotspots, check out Milk Beach, which is a lesser known, small Sydney beach that boasts a great view of the city. It can be a challenge to find it at first, which is exactly why it can still be called a hidden gem in the middle of the bustling city. It’s also great for afternoon picnics with your family if you want to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Wendy’s Secret Garden

Located in Lavender Bay, Wendy’s Secret Garden is just as magical as it sounds. It was originally just a piece of unused land at the foot of Wendy Whiteley’s and her husband’s, the late artist Brett Whiteley’s home, overgrown with shrubs and rubbish. Following the death of the renowned artist, Wendy started to clear out the land and construct a beautiful garden in its place. While no longer a “secret”, this place remains a hidden paradise, which is easily accessible if you find accommodation in serviced apartments in Lower North Shore.

Wendy’s Secret Garden Sydney

Collins Flat Beach

Another hidden little beach is Collins Flat Beach, located in the Sydney Harbour National Park. It’s a beautiful spot with little waterfalls and clear, calm water perfect for taking a refreshing dip. You can even embark on a short bushwalking adventure here – the track is easy enough for kids to enjoy as well, and the views are really worth it!

Bradley’s Head

If you’re up for a little more difficult hiking adventure in Mosman, only 20 minutes away from the CBD, check out Bradley’s Head and the amazing views from this spot over the harbor. Then, consider taking on a hike to Chowder Bay: this grade 3 track will walk you all the way along the coast, so you can marvel at the ocean while enjoying the cooling shadows of the trees.

Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Barrenjoey Lighthouse

Located on Palm Beach, this lighthouse is a scenic view in itself, but what you can see from up there will take your breath away! The walk can be a little tiring, so come prepared, but the 360-degree view is well worth it. Moreover, you can stop by at Palm Beach and enjoy a dinner at one of the many great restaurants or even go for a kayak tour in the area!

Auburn Botanic Gardens

Another magical garden that will make you feel like you are on a different continent is Auburn Botanic Gardens. It boasts a beautiful Japanese garden with Cherry Blossoms, a maze that can be fun for kids and adults alike, and even some native animals such as kangaroos and emus. In the spring, you can take some amazing photos here!

Shark Island

Shark Island is a little piece of land located one kilometer away from Rose Bay, accessible by taking a ferry. With beautiful beaches, it is a great spot for both watersports and relaxing in silence. The view is amazing, so you can spend hours exploring the foreshore or swimming in the calm water. It’s a good day-trip destination for those who want to get away from the city.

Sydney is amazing, yes, but sometimes you just want to slow down for a day or two and enjoy a different side of it – a calm, natural paradise that makes you forget about your daily responsibilities. This list is a good starting point for both tourist and locals who feel like they never got to explore some of the hidden gems of this huge, colorful city.

Destinations, Editor's Picks, Sport and Adventure, Travel Blogging, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

3 Extreme Sydney Adventures You Can’t Miss

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In the land down under, there is no shortage of things to do. If you’re traveling to the most populated city in this land of extremes, you may be searching for the most extreme experiences to write home about. Here’s a few of the adventure sports Sydney has to offer your starved adrenaline glands.

Shark Dive in Sydney

Great_white_Dyer_island_2010-07
This Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary shark dive will take your breath away. Well, not literally, as they do provide oxygen for all divers. But when you dip your toes into the main oceanarium and you see sharks, stingrays, and turtles circling you, you’ll wish everyone could witness you frolicking in this underwater wonderland. At 30 minutes long, this dive may seem short, until you remember you’ll be surrounded by sharks with sharp teeth that might bite you if they weren’t well-fed. After contemplating that, 30 minutes sounds like more than enough time to get a shot with your favorite enormous sea creature.

Jetboat Sydney Harbour

Jet_Boat_Sydney_Harbour_(15967179529)
If you haven’t heard of jetboating, imagine sitting in a boat with your closest family and friends. Now imagine a madman takes the wheel. That’s the gist, and it’s way more fun than it sounds. This boat is designed for maximum speed and maneuverability, so you’ll be getting drenched as your skilled driver makes 180 and 270-degree spins, intense fishtails, turns and powerslides at high speeds. Every now and then, you’ll get a chance to breathe and take in the beautiful sights of Sydney Harbor as well. Just hold on tight!

Canyon in the Blue Mountains

Jamison_Valley,_Blue_Mountains,_Australia_-_Nov_2008
If you’re looking for a challenging abseiling experience that mashes the thrill of witnessing pristine nature and adrenaline-pumping physical activity, canyoning in the Blue Mountains is for you. You’ll adventure through the highest and deepest of the canyon as you navigate the breathtaking terrain. Trek, climb, jump, swim, and rappel your way through Australia’s most beautiful region to get a personal look at untouched caves and magnificent waterfalls. There’s two difficulties to choose from, so if you aren’t up for the challenging Rainforest Canyoning experience, the beginner-friendly Empress Canyon welcomes you.

There’s plenty to do in Harbour City, but these experiences are guaranteed to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re an underwater adventurer, fan of extreme water-sports, or a hiker who enjoys a challenge, you’ll be happy you made it to Sydney.

Australia, Destinations, Editor's Picks, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

5 Interesting Places to Visit in Sydney

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With its outstanding skyscrapers towering against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, Sydney, Australia, is considered by many as one of the most beautiful metropolitan areas in the world. Sydney is bustling with life and energy and provides a broad range of attractions and activities in which visitors can indulge when on holiday. Tourists can choose from a variety of options with something to please everyone. Below are five fun things to do in Sydney city:

The Sydney Opera House

Sydney

Sydney boasts one of the world’s most renowned theatres, called the Sydney Opera House. Here, more than 1,000 performances take place on an annual basis. The Opera House, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to multiple stages where performances occur every day of the year. Anyone visiting the city will not want to miss a trip to this outstanding theatre.

The Harbour Bridge

Sydney_harbour_bridge_new_south_wales

The Harbour Bridge, which is arguably Australia’s most well-known symbol, is another attraction holidaymakers should place on their must-see list. This one-of-a-kind structure can be used as a viewing platform from where visitors can take in the spectacular landscape that surrounds the bridge. Walking across the famous arch is a popular activity among local residents and holidaymakers alike, and such an experience will never be forgotten.

Shopping and Nightlife

Across_Circular_Quay

Sydney is also considered one of the world’s most fashionable cities by numerous designers across the globe. Australian Fashion Week, which is hosted by the city each year, is a favourite event of both consumers and those who own shops, boutiques, discount outlets or other apparel establishments. The city is also well known for its exciting and boisterous nightlife, where something can be found to please all travellers, from trendy nightclubs to traditional restaurants and bars. Kings Crossing and Circular Quay are two of the best areas for nightlife and shopping opportunities in Sydney.

Sydney’s Darling Quarter

Sydney_sunset_darling_harbour

The Darling Quarter should not be overlooked by any Sydney visitor, as a trip to this interesting and beautiful area is sure to be an intriguing experience. Sydney’s Darling Quarter is a new and vibrant community created by local builders and architects. It features beautifully designed buildings in contemporary style, as well as green open spaces, a vast array of cafés and bars, a wide selection of eateries featuring cuisine from around the world, and numerous children’s playgrounds and recreational areas.

The Rocks

Sydney_The_Rocks

Situated in the Circular Quay area is the city’s oldest and most beautiful colonial district. Often referred to by local residents as “The Rocks,” this part of the city is home to numerous pubs, shops, restaurants, art galleries and even a small museum. Settled at the end of the 18th century, The Rocks is a terrific starting point from which holidaymakers can begin a day of sightseeing and shopping.

With all the fun things to do in Sydney city, it is easy to find something to please any type of traveller. For this reason, a sojourn in this lovely and engaging Metropolis is guaranteed to be a one-of-a-kind experience.

Australia

Springtime Events in Sydney: Culture and Taste buds

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The spring season is upon us and joie de vivre is all around while Sydney is brimming with events and things to do and see. With so much going on, it can be difficult to choose, so we’re giving you a short guide through the season and we hope you find something of interest.

September

  • Sydney Fringe festival – during the entire month – September the 1st through September the 30th, this is the largest independent arts festival in NSW, spreading across five cultural villages. Check out the festival e-guide to plan your route from over 300 productions in over 50 venues. http://www.sydneyfringe.com/ticketing/festival_e-guide/

sydney fringe festival

October

  • Balcony Styling workshops – a well known garden designer ,Judith Sleijpen, will be teaching about design, furniture, accessories, plants and everything you need to know to make a great garden and patio for yourself. This is a 3 hour workshop including brunch. http://www.petiteretreat.com.au/

balcony styling workshop

  • The Greats: Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland – Sydney is home to many exquisite galleries the whole year round, with both regular and guest exhibitions to fascinate even the most critical of enthusiasts. You should book a Sydney tour and see them all, but take special note of the Art Gallery of NSW this spring and summer – October the 4th through February the 14th, 2016, is the right time to feast your eyes on the sight of 70 masterpieces from the greatest European artists including Botticelli, Leonardo, Cézanne, El Greco, Gauguin and Monet. The exhibition will be presented exclusively in Australia by the Art Gallery of NSW as part of the Sydney International Art Series.

The Greats: Art Gallery NSW
Sandro Botticelli
The Virgin adoring the sleeping Christ child, c1485 (detail)

  • Sydney Morning Herald Growers Market – October the 3rd through November the 7th, held in Pyrmont Bay park, this market has been a tradition for the last 14 years, selling everything from seafood, vegetables and fresh fruits to locally roasted coffees on tap. Specialty breakfasts are served outdoors by the harbor, and a special celebrity chef cook-off will take place at the Market Chef Stage.

Growers' Market Best of the Brunch
Growers’ Market Best of the Brunch

  • Night Noodle Markets – October the 8th through October the 25th, held in Hyde Park, with over 50 food stalls as part of the Good Food Month, the world’s largest food festival and the best time for outdoor cooking and dining. Enjoy the rich flavor, sounds and smells of Asian cuisine and the buzz of a festival.

Good Food Month in Sydney
Photo by Shannon Reddaway

November

  • Twilight Racing – October 30th sees the start of the sailing season that will continue till March. You can join the Pilgrim Sailing crew on a beautiful yacht and help sail the boat or just sit back and enjoy. You will get sailings instructions if you want to get involved but the crew will try and win the race. Races are held on Wednesday and Friday nights. Book in advance.
  • Sydney Open – this November the 1st, presented by Sydney Living Museums, this event gives visitors the chance to see some of the city’s best heritage, architecture and urban design. This year, the focus will be on buildings across the CBD, Ultimo and Chippendale.

Sydney Living Museum

  • Chinatown Night Market – going on from mid September to January, every Friday night as part of Good Food Month, take a moonlit walk among food stalls and lanterns along Little Eat Street and enjoy the flavors, from Hong Kong to Hanoi, with yum cha, tepanyaki, takoyaki, sushi, Sichuan, pho and more!

Springtime is here, the buzz is on, get out and enjoy all the wonders this amazing city has ready for you!