Weekend Getaways: Sydney

Yes, it seems a really short time to tour the largest and the most vibrant city of Australia. But, you will be surprised at how much of the city you can traverse in just three days’ time if you plan your trip well. In just three days, this city will captivate you and you would want to visit again. Sydney, with its outdoor lifestyle, is a thriving metropolis by the ocean. It is not without reason that the Sydneysiders (as the inhabitants are called) take pride in the magnificent harbor. The beautiful scenery makes it one of the most iconic cities in Australia and, maybe, even the world. But this is not the end, there is plenty to explore in and around Sydney. Discover the culture and art that the city is embellished with, along with the multitude of finest dining choices and the most therapeutic shopping. Is there any way a weekend can get better?

Friday- I started with this mini-weekend trip on Friday. First things first, if you’re visiting from overseas, your first stop should be at a Travel Money Oz store to exchange your foreign currency at the best exchange rates. My initial destinations for the day were the Royal Botanic Garden and Mrs. Macquire Chair. It had a breathtaking view of the entire harbor with Sydney Bridge and Opera House. The view turned beautiful as the sun descended, leaving an amber trail in the sky and a shade of positivity in your heart. After cherishing the sundown, I made my way along the Woolloomooloo Bay and landed on one of the most quirky and cozy restaurants- Mrs G’s Asian restaurant. A long day in the sun was wrapped up with a great food and a fine drink.

Saturday- It had been a long day and a short night, and it’s completely unfair to be sleep deprived on a weekend. Right? Waking up late, I grabbed brunch at the Bird and Bear Boathouse. Sitting here, I was greeted by the most amazing view of Elizabeth Bay under the sun. Once I had my fill of the food and the view, I headed to Glebe Markets. Once I managed to get myself away from the market, I headed to Museum of Contemporary Art. There is no way I could have left Sydney without a quick halt here. Since I was on a tight schedule, I really had to keep an eye on the watch since I didn’t want to miss the many pleasant explorations awaiting me. With the amount of purchasing I had done, it was only sane to go back to the hotel to drop them off. A little time by myself and evening was already knocking on my doors. It was time to get dressed for a night on the town! The wonderful second evening in the city started on the Crown Street at the very famous Toko Japanese restaurant. It had been an incredible day and had to have a unique end to it. And so I went to the most magical atmosphere I had seen by far in Sydney- The Winery. Though it was just a short walk down the road, the contrast in the setting surprised me.

Sunday- I started the last day of this trip not cuddling up in bed, but with a fresh walk along Oxford Street and leading my way up to the famous 5-ways in Darlinghurst, finally ending it with an undisturbed breakfast at Gusto Café. I was in a mood to be left alone, away from the crowd, the sweat and the honks. The ideal place for me to be was the Coogee beach. I then headed back to Surry Hills. This is one suburb you shouldn’t miss. Food for thought, food for the soul and food for the mind and cheap food is welcome every time, everywhere. I decided to bid adieu to Sydney with cheap (but delicious) food and drinks at The Norfolk Hotel on Cleaveland Street.