Embark on a fantastical Baz Lurhmann-inspired endeavor down under, where baby roo’s and outback Bar-B’s meet harbour-front ballets and wine ‘n’ dined discourse. The stunning concrete jungle of Sydney’s metropolis hub provides the perfect backdrop for a sunset-swept epilogue of newly-wed bliss.
the romance
For a panoramic view that is simply insatiable, shack up along the historic Rocks district, where you’ll be able to view the infamous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge in all of their architectural glory.
For more world-class stimulus, try:
An all-night cruise around Darling Harbour tippled with champagne and magnetic city lights
A twilight-tinged gambol through Lunar Park with a handful of chocolate crackles as a playful munchies fix
An evening with the Sydney Symphony topped off by after-hours schmoozing at an ultra-hip oyster bar
the scenery
Australia is an entire continent unto itself – boasting a breathtaking landscape that ranges from sun-baked outback to bustling commercial-dom. Sydney has been able to masterfully blend both the naturalistic with the prosperous in one fell swoop.
Look for:
Superb cycling routes and walking trails that reveal aboriginal carvings embedded in rocky cliff exteriors
Couple-hearting city beaches such as the luscious Tamarama or cozy Coogee
The Sydney Tower equipped with fine dining hotspots and a 250 meter-high observation deck
the attractions
From boutique inns to cowabunga Bondi Beach, the list of must-sees in Sydney is extensive. Palmfuls of pearlized white sand, pristine coves, and one-stop shopping make an afternoon in this sweetheart of a capital chock full of New South Wales-esque romanticism.
Why not check-out:
The Pitt Street Mall for a new trendy tote or Bondi Junction for cool and casual beach wear
The Royal Botanic Gardens for a mouthwatering picnic and amber bevvies
The Macleay Museum for such kitschy artifacts as an unlikely Charles Darwin specimen and Fijian cannibal fork (for realz)
the adventure
Sydney acts as an uber-convenient go-between when it comes to escaping the daily grind. Climb aboard a guided expedition or private tour and get to know its wet and wild outskirts.
For something truly mind-blowing, try:
A trip into the Blue Mountains where you’ll find the Jamieson Valley and the Three Sister rock formation
Tea and cakes while watching a family of kangaroos from the deck of an eco-friendly cedar lodge
A luxury seaplane ride over Sydney Harbor before delving into the wine cellars of Hunter Valley
the secrets
Photo by Svetlana Zhukova
Whether you opt for cappuccino sips or fish & chip platters, there’s a special hole-in-the wall for every ramblin’ gal. Once you’ve had your fill, take in some of the more underground greats for the complete Sydney-ian experience.
Be sure to check out:
The Open Air Cinema – for a tried and true summer kick-back
The Victorian-esque quarter of Paddington - tree lined and trendy, Paddington is home to numerously cute pubs, bars, and galleries
The beautiful ‘burb of Balmain - hugging the harbour, this little gem is full of swanky cafes and petite eateries
before you go
What to Expect
Spring: September through November are warm and sunny (13-22 C/55-72 F). These
months are also the driest of the year.
Summer: December to February are ideal for beach lounging as they are typically very
hot and receive plenty of sunshine (17-32 C/63-90 F).
Autumn: March through May are lovely (12-26 C/54-79 F). The weather remains quite
warm and skies are often clear.
Winter: June to August are much cooler and winds are strong (8-17 C/46-63 F).
Clothing
Beachwear and light pieces of clothing are recommended.
Currency
The Australian Dollar
The Lingo
English
Documents
Both a valid passport and a visa or authority are required to enter the
country.
Local Delicacies
Damper: a classic Australian flat bread
Pavlova: a sweet dessert made with meringue, fruits and whipped cream.
