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Sydney accommodation There are loads of hostels in Sydney, so whether you want to stay in the centre of town, by the beach in Bondi, Manly or Coogee, beside the boozer in Kings Cross, close to the cafés in Glebe, Surry Hills or Newtown, or in Central – close to all the action and where there are most backpacker beds – you’re sure to find a hostel that suits your needs. Dorm rooms usually range from about $25-$40 per person, per night, depending on season. If you’re planning to stick around, you’ll probably prefer share or rental accommodation. You can find classified ads for long-term stays in the local papers, while websites like sydney.gumtree.com. au also have plenty of options. The Sydney Morning Herald has a real estate section with rental and share accommodation listings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and at domain.com.au. The Daily Telegraph runs classifieds every day (realestate.com.au).
Around town Darling Harbour: One of Sydney’s top tourist attractions, offering shopping and eating facilities, parkland, and a boat-filled bay. Site of superclub Home, the world’s biggest IMAX cinema screen and restaurant-bar-crammed Cockle Bay Wharf, it’s the golden child of Sydney’s after-dark scene. Easy access by ferry, monorail, bus or foot. Check out darlingharbour.com Royal Botanic Gardens: Situated between the Opera House and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Walking through the gardens is a good introduction to Australia’s natural beauty and gives a great view of the harbour. Details at rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au Sydney Harbour Bridge: This world-famous Sydney landmark (sometimes known as “The Coathanger”) gives a spectacular view of the city. Head to the top of the southern pylon or walk across to Milson’s Point. You can also do the BridgeClimb, complete with full-body boilersuit, for top views of the city. Sydney Opera House: It’s as impressive in the flesh as on any postcard. Home not only to opera, theatre and dance, but numerous cafés and bars. Free and paid-for concerts are also regularly held on the forecourt throughout summer. For more information check out sydneyoperahouse.com Sydney Tower: One of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of Sydney is from the observation deck of one of the tallest buildings in the Southern Hemisphere (304m). Sydney Aquarium: Fantastic aquarium with over 11,000 aquatic animals in its care. Check out the crocs, seals and sharks in the oceanariums. Sydney Wildlife World: Home to more varieties
WORD FROM THE STREET
Becca Ratcliffe, England FAVOURITE NSW DAY SPOT? “It has to be the Bronte to Bondi coastal walk in Sydney. It feels like you are on holiday even though you are in a big city. The rocks there are amazing and I could just sit on them all day watching the surfers in the water – it truly is an iconic Australia sight.“ FAVOURITE NSW NIGHT SPOT? “Definitely Oxford Street in Sydney – I love the variety of people you see going out and the energy of the area. Something is always happening and it feels very alive.”
of native Australian plants and animals than anywhere else. Taronga Zoo: Arguably has the best views of any zoo in the world and it’s home to 2,000 different types of animals. The Rocks: This is the oldest bit of Sydney and it has been beautifully restored to incorporate many shops, markets, restaurants and great pubs. Check for more info at therocks.com Watsons Bay: Hang out with Sydney’s posh people and taste some scrumptious seafood at the famous restaurant, Doyles. Or just have fish and chips on the beach.
Sydney beaches There are more than 30 ocean beaches to choose from in the Sydney metropolitan area, with the two most famous being Bondi, in the eastern suburbs, and Manly in the north. Many tourists head for the relative glamour of Bondi. The wide range of restaurants along Bondi’s Esplanade will also deal with any hungry punters. TNTDOWNUNDER.COM
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