Sydney

After such a lot of driving on our trip and a lot of time spent in small places, the prospect of arriving in Sydney was exciting. This excitement was multiplied by the added bonus of friends and family who live in Sydney. Not only do we have old school and university friends that live here but we have new friends and “in law family” since I gained my lovely sister-in-law, Julia, in May 2015 when she married my brother in a beautiful ceremony on Sydney's Shark Island.

Having spent a bit of time in Sydney when we came out for the wedding, we had already seen some of the top sights but the harbour, outside living, fresh food, and vibrance are still great. The food in Sydney is fantastic! Asian influences mix with seafood, fresh produce and delicious wine to make it, in my opinion, a top culinary destination. I really recommend Mr Wong's in the CBD for Asian food or Kingsley's on Woolomoloo Wharf for Sydney Rock Oysters and steak. Sushi pretty much anywhere in Sydney is good and cheap. I can't get enough of it. Newtown is a really good area for cheap eats and laid back bars. We stayed in this area last visit and can recommend it also for its convenience for the city.

As for entertaining Thomas, we took him to the Wildlife Park in Darling Harbour. He loved it! It was perfect as we were in Sydney during a 35°C heatwave and it was inside with air-conditioning. The animals are behind floor to ceiling glass panels meaning that Thomas could stand on the floor and lean up against the glass watching the animals by himself. His favourite by far was the Tasmanian devil enclosure. He laughed his head off at the little devil right in front of him on the other side of the glass.

Sydney's waterfront location is a real highlight and on New Year's Day we went to Balmoral beach with friends. As it is a harbour beach, it is safer for children to swim as there aren't big waves. Beaches are well equipped with showers and many have lifeguards. Just be sure to take note of the flags and swim only when advised it is safe to do so (and avoid early morning and dusk swims unless you want to risk a visit from jaws!).

The opera bar is a great location year round to have a drink outside with views of the harbour bridge and opera house. We used it as a central meeting point to catch up with friends. However, be aware that it gets extremely busy in the summer especially at weekends.

We’ve really fallen in love with the place and will certainly be back soon.