What to do

Ok. Do I really need to mention a wander around the Sydney Opera House, a stroll (or climb) across the Harbour Bridge, and a ferry trip to Taronga Zoo? Even if you’re not into the animals, the giraffes view of the harbour is quite spectacular. Then of course you have the Botanical Gardens, the Sydney Aquarium (which I’ve still never been to, shame on me), Bondi Beach and the ferry to Manly, not to mention tourist-ing it up with the other crazies down at The Rocks or Darling Harbour. And how could anyone forget a trip up to the Blue Mountains..

To me, these are all kind of ‘Australia Day’ things to do. So here are a few of the normal weekend things I miss about Sydney:

The Bronte to Bondi walk. This was always a favourite pastime, made even more special when the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition is on (this is year it’s from November 2 – 19) . The short strip of cafes at Bronte is especially good after the round trip walk; beats the tourist laden main drag of Bondi anyday. Still, the contemporary Israeli food at Yulla (Campbell Parade) is pretty fantastic, as is the great view of the beach from their balcony.

Paddington Markets. I love these markets. Actually, I love any of the shops and cafes along Oxford Street. There are plenty of beautiful people taking up the footpath, and you’re always bound to see some minor Aussie celeb there (the last one? Richard Wilkins. Yep, he’s mighty tall and his head is as big as it seems. I much preferred walking past Geoffrey Rush (twice) at the Seven Dials near London’s Covent Garden).

Belvoir St Theatre, Surry Hills. You know, I don’t think there’s anything much on in November. But I adore this little theatre. It’s where I saw my favourite play ever (Picasso at the Lapin Agile, directed by Steve Martin).

Sydney Fish Markets, Glebe. Now this is a smelly way to start the day, but my visits were always well worth it.

Spit Bridge to Manly walk. Matt and I have only done this once. Be sure to wear your walking shoes, and reward yourself with some fish and chips or ice cream on the boardwalk once you get there. Such wonderful views along the way.

Art Gallery of NSW. Even just walking to the art gallery in the Domain is a wonderful thing to do. Sometimes the exhibitions are terrific; I especially loved catching the Archibald Prize entries. If you go, be sure to stop and enjoy the beautiful views from the cafe.

Centennial Park. This is a gorgeous park to stroll/ jog/ rollerblade around at any time of the day. Again, plenty of beautiful people, and LOTS of dogs.

Harbour Cruise. You know, as cheesy as it sounds, Matt and I thoroughly enjoyed the harbour cruise we went on the day before we flew out for Canada. It’s always so beautiful seeing the homes along the harbour, even better from the water. Most of the harbour cruises are pretty pricey, but Sydney ferries offers some more reasonably priced options.