Sydney

After some initial confusion with our separate flights delivering us to separate airports, I met with Maggie and Neil once again at our hotel.

We were soon on our way out to Darling Harbour, only a short walk from the hotel, for our dinner. A footbridge led us across the water so we were able to walk the semi circular route back at ground level, stopping at one of the many restaurants along the way. As the daylight dimmed we became aware of several large hearts in lights around the harbour. There was also a ‘loveboat’ ride opportunity, taking out a little rowing boat for 45 minutes for the bargain price of $30. It seemed Australians liked to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a big, and rather tacky, way! In spite of this, we really enjoyed what the harbour had to offer.

The following morning we woke early as we were to walk the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. I had expected to be a little nervous, but actually just felt excited as it grew closer. Our journey across town was eventful in itself, waiting ten minutes for a bus, only to realise once we were on board that walking was most likely the quickest option during rush hour. So jumping back off, we hurried down the streets. Only to be met with the challenge of finding the correct street, and the entrance. We eventually stepping through the door with ten minutes to spare.

Once that obstacle was over we could concentrate on the real task at hand, bridge walk preparation. We were kitted up in overalls (designed in blue and grey with a view of creating less distraction for drivers), harnesses, hats, and even handkerchiefs with elastic to fit around our wrists! After one practice run up and down ladders on a makeshift structure indoors, we were heading onto the bridge itself.

Views throughout the walk were incredible, I hadn’t realised how much water actually surrounded Sydney and its suburbs. As we walked up, the Sydney Opera House was on our right, the harbour stretching out towards the sea. To our left, skyrise buildings were dotted amongst suburbs, all clinging to the water’s edge. We had great fun with our easy going guide, and were really impressed with all the knowledge he shared concerning the bridge build and some of the surrounding architecture.

I took a walk to the Observatory that afternoon while Maggie and Neil took a boat ride, Neil taking the opportunity to climb the mast during their journey. Whilst there, I learnt of the Southern Cross constellation, which can only be viewed from this small part of the world. I am now keeping one eye in the sky at night in the hope I can spot it!

From there I circled through the city, through the oblivious crowds on their march home from work, towards the botanical gardens. It was amazing to be able to get lost within the garden, allowing me to forget I was within a city until gazing up at the sky rise buildings lining the edge.

I met Maggie and Neil in the gardens just after 8pm. We had plans to watch the sunset, but with clouds gathering in the sky we decided to abandon all hope and head for the exit. It was then things got a little interesting, as none of us has noticed the signs telling us the garden shut at 8pm, and it was now 8:30pm! By our third locked gate we were beginning to worry we would have to settle in for the night. However at the next gate we bumped into a displeased security guard about to head home for the night, who set us free. We have since vowed to avoid botanical gardens!

While Maggie and Neil headed down for a day at the famous Bondi Beach the following morning, I was up early and on my way to Manly Beach for the Hurley Australian Open Surf Festival. It was interesting to watch the day’s competition unfold, slowly grasping the basics of the rules and scoring system. I hadn’t realised just how much could be done on a surfboard, letting out a few ooo’s and gasps as surfers and their boards flew above the waves, twisting and turning different tricks.

Our final night in Sydney was once again spent at Darling Harbour, as we had discovered there would be fireworks to mark the beginning of Chinese new year celebrations. We finished our meal just in time to watch the fireworks outside, with a platform in the centre of the harbour providing a base for the display. It was without a doubt the best firework show I have ever seen. And then there was only one thing left to do, visiting the Hard Rock Cafe for the compulsory posh cocktail.