Going down under
There was so much to see, yet so little time. Sydney's a fantastic holiday destination. These are a few reasons why.
1. Bondi Beach: Although we spent most of our time galivanting the city, what really blew me away was the one day spent at Bondi Beach. The atmosphere was an impeccable mix of liveliness and leisure - people were walking their dogs or sprawled on the beach sun-tanning and surfer dudes were riding the crashing waves with style. But what made Bondi Beach picture-perfect was the deep, clear-blue sea and the fine (literally and metaphorically) sand. Walking on the cooling bed of sand, my feet would sink into this soft, beige cushion with every step taken. So, keeping balance was a mighty huge challenge.
2. The food: So ya think Singapore is a food haven? I declare cosmopolitan Sydney on par, if not, surpassing us in this arena. We were so spoilt for choice. Fresh seafood from the Sydney Fish Market, traditional dim sum in Chinatown, sloppy joe himalayan-style, turkish kebabs, home-made chocolates and jams, smooth gelato, beef pie from Cafe de Wheels ... the list of gastronomical delights go on.
3. The weather: Goodbye sweltering heat and unbearable humidity. Welcome chilly morning breeze and warm sunshine.
4. The flea markets: Paddington, Bondi, The Rocks! It was such a thrill visiting these flea markets. Here, designers and artists sell their hand-crafted accessories, one-of-a-kind clothes and unique art pieces. The most awesome thing was watching this artist, Darren Germaine create his art work on the spot (wah, this guy is lucky, getting free publicity here) at The Rocks. He took about fifteen minutes to make a piece of spray paint art and the results are simply amazing! I was so utterly marvelled that I bought one home.
5. The architecture: Apart from the skyscrapers that mark the economic prosperity of this city, there were also contemporary architectural wonders like the Sydney Tower and the Sydney Opera House. Furthermore, the fancy clock-towers with intricate engravings and quaint churches lent an archaic touch to the streets, reminding us that this is a place rich in history.
6. The people: Lucky for us, people there speak english, so we could stop anyone on the street for directions. Also, the sales people were so friendly! They'd greet us with a cheery smile or an animated "hello" and if you made a purchase, there would be a hearty word of "thank-you, have a nice day". What great service!
However, Sydney is not without flaw. My main complaint is that most shops close at an ungodly, early hour. By 6pm, the city is transformed into a ghost town. Only eateries, pubs and super markets are opened. It certainly didn't help that the winter sky became a dark blanket by about 5pm.
Minor laments aside, the vacation was truly revelling. I'd also have to give credit to the good company I had, right Aud?
Posted by quirkyditz at 10:23 pm
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