Sydney, Australia

Had the opportunity to take a short trip away with friends between Christmas & New Year to Sydney. Decided to stay somewhere new and chose the Intercontinental 117 Macquarie St Sydney. Its position is near Circular Quays, and that was a different area for us to stay. It's a beautiful hotel. Arrived very early and our room was ready, thankfully. Dropped off my carry-on luggage & headed straight out to re-explore Sydney.

Coffee lounge and the generous buffet breakfast

Regardless of how many times I visit Sydney, I am still awed by the beautiful harbour and always seem to head in that direction first. The harbour bridge & the Sydney Opera House framed by the water is a place I enjoy just to sit and watch all the comings & goings of the day.

At this time of year, you can see all the cruise ships disembarking or receiving new passengers before they head out in the late afternoon to their fabulous destinations.

The many faces of Sydney Habour

Did the touristy things, jumped on a ferry to Manly and enjoyed a typical beach lunch of 'fish & chips' walked along the waters edge and just felt myself relaxing as we people watched while listening to the waves crash onto the shore. After a hectic Christmas period, it's wonderful to be able to take some time out. We visited the market at Argyle St and stopped at Lowenbrau Kellar for a bite to eat. The food is stated to be typically German but having been in Germany; I can say it's a fair imitation of what you'd get there.

Sydney at night

Loved Sydney at night and our new camera managed to capture it at its best! We enjoyed a delicious dinner at Darling Habour and enjoyed a walk along the new boardwalk with its Christmas lights.
When it rains head for the stores, try the QV building and Westfield along with many of the other great brand named stores at the mall. Don't miss out on the little lanes and arcades as they have some of the loveliest boutiques.
Always plenty to do in Sydney, with its easily accessible beaches, great restaurants, fabulous shopping malls and activities. My suggestion for activities is to take a tour of the Opera house it's well worth it and if you're up to it & happy to pay the cost walk to the top of the Habour Bridge for an incredible view.