Sydney represents the best of New York City and Los Angeles - incredible restaurants and nightlife, excellent shopping, fabulous weather and world class beaches.
A visa is required for most nationalities to enter Australia and can be obtained through the Australian Department of Home Affairs online in advance.
While Sydney is beautiful any time of year, the summer months of December through February are the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
Acquire and load an Opal card to access all public transportation - buses, trains and ferries. Uber is cheaper than taxis..
If it is your first trip to Australia, check out the book Tracks by Robyn Davidson, to better understand the challenges of living on the world’s driest continent (after Antarctica).
EAT
The Beresford Chic pub in Surry Hills with a leafy, garden patio.
The Glenmore Hotel Traditional, three-story pub in The Rocks, one of the oldest parts of town, with a beautiful view of the harbor.
Hugo’s Manly Go for the beach, stay for the pizza and cocktails.
DRINK
The Argyle Hip bar and lounge in a large 1820s building and courtyard in The Rocks.
Burdekin Hotel in Darlinghurst In the heart of the gayborhood, this is a fun place for a night cap.
The Sheaf Sprawling pub and beer garden in Double Bay known for its music.
The Taphouse in Darlinghurst Great craft beers and live music.
PLAY
The Blue Mountains Head west two hours by train for a day hike with stunning views of rolling mountains, waterfalls and eucalyptus forests.
Ferry from Circular Quay to Manly or Watson’s Bay
The Hunter Valley Head north for wine tastings in the bush.
Hyde Park and the Royal Botanic Garden Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns while admiring views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.
Oxford Street in Paddington Great shopping. Skip the masses on Market Street in the CBD and head to Paddo. Check out Paddington Market, an outdoor, multi-vendor market.
Newtown Sydney’s hipster capital. Check out King Road’s used bookstores, thrift shops and Middle Eastern and African food.
Paddy's Market Novelty souvenirs and produce at this Chinatown institution.
Sydney Beaches Explore world class beaches from Bondi to Maroubra. The six kilometer coast walk from Bondi to Coogee Beach is one of the prettiest in the world. Swim between the flags on the beach.
Sydney Opera House
STAY
For good food, shopping and easy access to the CBD, stay in one of the trendy neighborhoods of Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Paddington or Woolloomooloo.
For beach-life and relaxation, any of the beach towns from Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte, Clovelly and Coogee will do.
