By Rama Gaind.
One iconic landmark — Sydney Opera House — takes pride of place in this panoramic view of Sydney. Photo: Rama Gaind
Expectations and vigour still play a big part in life, even though disappointments, at times, keep piling up. One planned visit to Sydney is now postponed, but hopes are high of COVID-19 travel barriers being lifted and state borders being re-opened soon.
Until then, always look to plan ahead as there’s no intention that by “failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail”.
Past visits have proved Sydney has a certain sparkle that cannot be denied, an effervescent energy that’s tangible and an endless number of attractions that are sure to keep us going back for more. The city’s famous landmarks include the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the iconic Opera House, historic Rocks precinct, the beautiful Botanic Gardens, Taronga Zoo, Sydney Aquarium and Sydney Tower.
Shopping in the NSW capital is always a treat as is visiting museums and galleries. There are certain other inducements for families to visit as well. The city is full of surprises and hidden gems.
Here’s one vantage point in Darling Harbour, in Sydney. Photo: Rama Gaind
Sydney Harbour is an aquatic playground, with more than 240 kilometres of shoreline, dotted by unspoiled beaches, picturesque gardens and pockets of natural bush.
Winning a lot of praise are Sydney’s beaches, but it’s the rock pools (coastal swimming pools carved out of rock) that attract additional interest. As the tide comes in and the waves break over the side, they are fun to visit especially for early morning laps or just playing around with the children. All you have to do is add a hearty lunch and a walk along the ocean for a satisfying round of activities.
Bondi Beach remains one of Sydney’s — and Australia’s — must-visit destinations. “It’s hardly a secret spot. Where else can you take a swim in a pool fed by ocean water, have a beer outdoors at a pub, go shopping along Campbell Parade and then have dinner at a world-class restaurant like Bondi Icebergs — all without changing out of your swimming trunks? I think the outlook from Icebergs is among the best views of any restaurant in the world and literally everything on the menu is excellent. It’s the kind of place where you want to order a bottle of nice Australian wine and settle in for a beautiful afternoon.”
Hidden gems
A recognisable Sydney icon is clearly visible in the distance from The Rocks. Photo: Rama Gaind
We had also turned our attention to sunken gardens, laneway bars and ocean baths. A few quirky secrets hide in Sydney. There are plenty of amazing viewpoints of Sydney Harbour, but Observatory Hill stands out as one of the best. This small hill is just a 10-minute walk from Circular Quay, and offers an amazing vista. Visitors will also love Sydney Observatory, which sits atop the hill. The historic building houses a museum with free entry and also offers guided tours for a small fee. On the night tours, there may well be a chance to look through the telescopes at the array of stars and planets in the night sky.
Anchored by modern comforts during our last stay, the ParkRoyal Darling Harbour is conveniently located on the eastern fringe of the Sydney Central Business District, placing it within walking distance of many of the city’s finest dining and entertainment options. With views looking out over the city’s stunning Darling Harbour and across the western side of the CBD, the hotel is a gateway to the best city attractions. At present, it is being used as a COVID-19 quarantine hotel.
The art scene is our preference, and there was not going to be any disappointment — that is, until the latest Public Health Orders also temporarily closed the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Rocks, until 30 July.
Talk a walk along Darling Harbour. Photo: Rama Gaind
It is home to some of Australia’s big-name attractions. We would have gone to check out a number of exhibitions. These include Richard Bell: You Can Go Now that is on until 29 August 2021. It’s the largest Australian solo exhibition by artist and activist Bell, bringing together over 30 years of the artist’s practice.
Another was Vincent Namatjira, P.P.F. (Past-Present-Future), 2021. Namatjira’s semi-autobiographical and political work is an assertion of identity, sovereignty, pride and resilience for the 2021 Circular Quay Foyer Wall Commission.
Amazing choices, all on hold now, but we are learning to be patient!
FACT FILE
Sydney
www.destinationnsw.com.au
https://www.destinationnsw.com.au
www.australia.com
Museum of Contemporary Art Australia
www.mca.com.au
