Monday 29 September 2014

Bondi Beach




Bondi Beach is the most famous beach in australia and it is also the closest to center of the city just 8 kms away. Bondi is famous for is crystal clear water, white sand and reliable surf. This is why it is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit.

Quick Info
Cost: free
What to do: Surf, swim, walk, shop and eat
Time: All day

Getting there
Now don't confuse Bondi Beach and bondi junction. Bondi Junction may be the closest rail station but is still 3 km from the beach.
There are direct buses from the city centre to the beach, however you will save about 30 minutes by taking the train and then bus as opposed to just the bus. The cheapest way to do this is to buy a MyMulti pass.


Things to do there

There are many things to do at Bondi Beach apart from swimming and surfing.
Scuba Dive at North Bondi. Meet the protected Blue Groper and visit the Cathedral Cave. Rent scuba gear from Dive Bondi at 198 Bondi Rd. Open Water is $425, Advanced Open Water is $375.



Visit one of the many beachfront restaurants.



Check out the many events that happen at Bondi each year including Sculpture by the Sea, an annual outdoor display of sculpture distributed along the Bondi to the Tamarama coastal walk.






























Or head over to the Bondi Beach Markets held every Sunday from 9AM to 3PM at Bondi Beach Public School.




So theses are my tips and Tricks to have the best time at Bondi Beach. I hope you have a great time.

- Alex

Thursday 25 September 2014

Jewel in the Crown: Queen Victoria Building

From: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:(1)_Queen_Victoria_Building_4.JPG

Stewie here

On a rainy day like this, you're gonna want to head indoors. What better place to do it than the CBD's most exclusive shopping destination, the Queen Victoria Building - or, the QVB as locals call it!

Quick Info



Victoria herself, out front

Cost: free entry, spend as much as you like!
How: enter at street level from any direction, or enter underground from Town Hall train station/Pitt Street mall. Bus stops line the building.
What to do: Architecture, shopping, cafes, walking
Time: pass through in 10 mins or allow at least 30 mins to explore the many adorned levels and enter the occasional shop


Location



All roads lead to the QVB! It fills a city block, surrounded by George, Market, York and Druitt streets. It is a commuter hub especially in peak hour, people rushing to buses and Town Hall station.

See how central it is:




History




http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/imageservices/2010/09/george-street-markets-sydney-nsw-no-2/

Built between 1893-1898 on the site of a former marketplace, the continued that function but later   fell into disrepair. Thankfully, it has been restored to its former glory and is a trendy hangout for anyone wanting some retail therapy.


Upstairs, downstairs





The QVB is an amazing multi-storey building, with many functions and opportunities side by side.


Commuting




The bottom level of QVB (well, besides Victoria's Basement, a department store) is where you'll see busy commuters, food and convenience stores. Make sure to pay attention to the tiling, it's very intricate and is one of the highlights of the building's restoration.


Boutique shopping 





Notice the carpet? Yes, we're getting a little more pricey the further up we go, it appears. Art, antiques, jewellery, fashion and fineries abound. Prepare for some serious envy.



To the sky






The spectacular dome and many stained glass windows are a feat of architecture. Bring your camera and come during the day to observe the lighting and colour.


What is that?




Be sure to keep an eye out for the two giant hanging mechanical clocks, the Royal Clock and the Great Australian Clock. They are intricately designed and are tributes to our history.

If you happen to be here in 2085, you will witness the reading aloud of a sealed letter from Queen Elizabeth II, penned in 1986!


The Final Word



There's no excuse not to visit the Queen Victoria Building while in Sydney!
Oh, and one more thing...




High tea at The Tea Room - need I say more?


Laters,

- Stewie

**

Want to learn more?

Sunday 21 September 2014

The Sydney Opera House

The Wonderful Sydney Opera House

Let me start by saying; The Opera house is one of Australia’s most famous sites, a must for all to see! This amazing building was designed by a Danish architect, Jorn Utzon. It was officially opened by the queen in 1973.  

Photo from the ferry!

Whats on Offer?
Guided Tours of the facilities
Performing Arts and Shows
Restaurants- Opera Bar
Or simply the scenic pleasure!
Wonderful photography opportunities.



Vivid Sydney
If you’re around in July, Sydney’s vivid light show is something you must see.
The Opera House is lit up for all to capture.
Great for people testing out their new camera!

The Opera House lit up!

Location
The Sydney Opera house is located adjacent to Circular Quay in Bennelong point.
Just a 10 minute walk from Sydney’s CBD.
Easily accessible by ferry or bus direct to Circular Quay
Alternatively, jump off the train at Wynyard station and walk down to the water (1km away)
Right next to the harbour Bridge on Nowrozs' map! come and see both for free!


Get There!
The shows are a hit, and positioned perfectly on Sydney’s famous waters.
I cannot stress enough, this is one of the best landmarks worldwide!

What are you waiting for? Come on down!

Friday 19 September 2014

Luna Park Sydney


Sydney is known for its many breathtaking tourist attractions, but many can often seem boring if you’re travelling with children. So why not take a trop to Sydney’s Luna Park, an amusement parked located on the northern shore of Sydney Harbor.  I’ve visited Luna Park numerous times, so I thought to throw a few tips if you’re thinking to take a trip to Sydney’s harbour.

Click here to for Luna Park's Prices 

You must need a mattress as a pillow!
Luna Park's opening hours varies from day to day. To check if its open click the link below!

Transportation Methods

Luna Park is located in the heart of Milsons Point, meaning its very easily accessible by car, ferry, or train. However, in my experiences, the use of public transport is a much better option as it's quicker and less difficult
Carlos' Tips: If you choose to travel by car and there is no other option, be prepared for the rates which apply! They are a little high!  The following rates apply:
  • 0-1 hour  $7  
  • 1-2 hours  $14  
  • 2-3 hours  $20  
  • 3-4 hours  $26  
  • 4 hours +  $32  
Here are some of the available transportation routes to get to Luna Park!

Whats On at Luna Park?

There are soooo many activities and enjoyable things to do at Sydney's Luna Park. Here a some of my recommendations for both adults and children from my visit!

Rides and Attractions
Luna Park offers a range of amazing and unique rides and attractions the whole family can enjoy! With FREE ENTRY who can say they didn't enjoy themselves! Some of the most enjoyable rides at Luna Park include:

A Map of Luna Park's rides!
  • The Moon Ranger 
  • The Spider
  • Wild Mouse
  • The Ferris Wheel 
  • Dodgem City
  • The Rotor
  • AND SO MANY MORE!


If you want to check out the rest of the amazing rides and attractions click here

Unfortunately there is a downside to Luna Park :( For safety issues, height restrictions apply and vary for each ride. However, if you can't get on some (or any) of the rides, there is always the sideshow games!

Sideshow Games
If you're wanting a break from the rides, Luna Park offers a range of sideshow activities and games which are fun for all members of the family! 
For More Information Click Below



Basketball
Buster Ballons
Laughing Clowns
Knockems
An assortment of shooting games
Hi Striker
Crazy Crooners




Food
Luna Park offeres a range of various snacks, beverages and small restaurants! However, it is extremely expensive! If you're paying for rides, sideshow games and more, your budget will slowly depreciate! I recommend having a lunch break and going out for lunch in Milsons Point, where they offer a wide range of cuisine's and restaurants.

However, if you do decide to eat in Luna Park, you can enjoy quick and easy food from the Lighthouse Cafe, Coney Island Cafe, The Deck or Fish 'n' Sips!
The site below guides you to where the various food outlets can be found!
Luna Park Food

- Carlos









Tuesday 16 September 2014

Sydney's icon "THE HARBOUR BRIDGE"


One of the Sydney’s highlights is the harbor bridge. If you been to Sydney at least once, I bet you didn't miss it. It's 1,149m long steel through arch bridge across Sydney Harbor. This spectacular body in the heart of Sydney opened in March 19, 1932.   


By any chance you don't find it here is the direction : 




There are few activities that you can do. Quick and the cheapest way is take a train ride from Wynyard to Milsons Point. Yes, the bridge also have train tracks. it will cost $2.50 only. You can also travel from Milsons Point to Wynyard but I would suggest to do the opposite so that you get a better view. And don't forget to seat in the upper deck and enjoy the view.  

        You can also go for a walk on the bridge. there is a secured path way for walkers. Enjoy the cool breeze and see Sydney's skyline on a background of blue sky. 

         If you have time and want a full on experience then you should go to the CLIMB. Its a wonderful experience can't be explain with words. You just have to go. Plan ahead, it takes quite a time and also energy. 200 steps to the top "Pylon Lookout" so drink some energy drink before, if you think you can't handle. There are four option to choose from, Day climb, Night climb, Twilight climb and Dawn climb. I would suggest go for the Dawn climb for full experience. So that you can experience the day and also the night sky of Sydney. You can book your ticket here: Bridge Climb




YEEEHHH..!! TOP OF THE WORLD 

Good things are always expensive, here are the prices:
STANDARD

ADULT
CHILD

WEEKDAY
WEENKEND
WEEKDAY
WEEKEND
DAY
$198
$198
$148
$148
NIGHT
$248
$258
$168
$178
TWILIGHT
$308
$318
$218
$218
DAWN
$348
$348
$228
$228

         PEAK (December to January)

                     
ADULT
CHILD
DAY
$228
$158
NIGHT
$268
$188
TWILIGHT
$328
$218
DAWN
$358
$228
 
         Last thing that you can enjoy if you timing is right, the new year celebration. A long firework show all over the bridge. The bridge remain close for a period of time.




       I would suggest to travel by train in that time. Late night trains are available on that day. Every year is the show is different and better then the last year. Its a treat for your eyes. A little bit of hassle you have to get in to see this wonderful  show. Many people comes, so to find a sweet spot you need to reach there by afternoon. Make sure you take enough water and food to survive the day. Take also a mat to sit you might need to sit at roads. Some of the good spot that you can go Pirama park, North head, Simmons point etc.. Here is a link where you can see all the good spot and their facilities. Find to your convenient location Here


---------------------------------------------------------ENJOY--------------------------------------------------------