Less Touristy Ways to Experience Sydney
If you’ve decided to visit Australia’s most famous city, you’re probably planning on taking tons of pictures of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge or whatever example of wildlife you can find at the Royal Botanic Gardens. That’s quite understandable, since most fellow-tourists do the same.
However, if you’re looking for something else or if you have enough time once you’re done with all “must-dos”, we recommend you experiment a little bit and try to see a side of Sidney that usually only the residents see and enjoy.
Outdoor places
Locals may be reluctant to admit that Bronte beach is their favorite, because they want it to remain their little secret and leave beaches such as Bondi and Tamarama to tourists.
Another inexpensive way of enjoying beautiful vistas in the Sydney region is to walk around it. There are areas you can reach only on foot and Sydney National Park and Royal National Park are the places where you can get coastal walk guides.
As you walk, you’ll be treated to a wide range of native plants and animals. Though you’ll get an impression that you’re so far from any trace of civilization, you’ll actually still be within the city limits.
Food and drinks
If you prefer cheap eats, you’ll find some delicious treats in Bourke Street, from Vietnamese dishes to famous cakes and pastries. Another option is to visit Chinatown, where you can treat yourself to great seafood and other delicacies.
However, if you would like to sample something more typical of Australia, there are many delis, bistros, pubs and bars, offering the food locals enjoy after a day on a beach.
You shouldn’t forget that Australia is famous for its wines and beers, too. Local craft beers are particularly alluring and one can easily get carried away sampling various types. If that happens, please refrain from driving, you should rent a reliable driver to take you wherever you want to go next, advise the guys at Avalon Express.
Music
Like any other great city in the world, Sydney boasts a remarkably varied range of music offers. From popular to classical music, there’s always something for everyone’s taste. After all, what kind of city would have such a majestic opera house if it didn’t care about music?
What you also need to know is that Sunday is often the day when most urban and raw performances are organized, so you need to check the local listings and announcements for the period of your visit. Needless to say, there are hundreds of smaller places where you can listen to jazz, blues or other type of timeless music.
New Year’s Eve and fireworks
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Sydney around that time, this is a must. Imagine watching the famous Sydney fireworks live instead on TV! Since you’re definitely not be the only one who would like to experience it first-hand, be prepared for unbelievable crowds.
Alternatively, you might strategically position yourself at Woolwich, which should give you a view of both the Harbour Bridge and the pontoon. You’ll also be able to soak up a beautiful view of the city from afar.
Image – flickr.com/creativecommons
Naturally, to make the most of your visit, it would be ideal to have a local friend or guide, who would introduce you to many secrets known only to those living there. If that’s not an option, many forums and websites offer hundreds of suggestions on how to spend time in this most amazing city. Whatever your taste, you’re bound to find something you’ll like here and probably remember it for the rest of your life.
Also Read – 100 Best Things to Do in Australia
