Back to the Beginning: Sydney

Going right back to the 5th of March we land in Sydney at around midnight. We had already had a disaster before we even had left the airport and that was lost luggage...great. This was down to our very swift change over at Dubai, where we only just made the flight. So our bags had no chance. Luckily the airport staff were amazing and our bags were put on the next flight to Sydney and were delivered to us the next evening.

We spent the first night their fighting jet lag, but the next morning we were up bright and early ready to see what Sydney had to offer! And we were not disappointed. I for one love Sydney and would jump at any opportunity to go back. There is a wide range of events, activities and places to go and see. Whether that is a free walking tour or deciding to jump on a ferry to see the world famous Manly Beach. 

Our days were spent jammed packed sightseeing and exploring, we would leave our hostel at 8 in the morning with our packed lunches and arrive back late evening. Here is a quick breakdown of what we did:

• Boring admin, haha, such as bank accounts, medicare card. But very important to sort out early on or else you will never get around to doing it!
• Sightseeing...very obvious but so surreal to actually see Australia's most famous landmarks! This includes the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, then the famous beaches such as Manly Beach, Bondi Beach and the beautiful Bondi to Coogee beach walk. 
• Exploring the local markets...in such for cheap food, and it did not disappoint. Paddy's Market for us was the best. 
• Beach days! We both love the beach and there are many hidden gems surrounding Sydney, for me Watsons Bay was my favorite, (a ferry ride away). But the others included Cronulla, and the little hidden coves and beaches on the way to Coogee from Bondi.
• A day trip to the Blue Mountains. I only have one word to describe the Blue Mountains and that is WOW. It has to be one of the most, if not the most breathtaking views ever! The range just goes on for thousands of kilometers and it is the perfect back drop for some beautiful pictures. Whilst we were there we decided to take in the nature and go for a hike. So we took 800 steps down the rock face to actually be stood next to the Three Sisters. We stupidly thought we would not have to walk back up the stairs...and we didn't but if you go down you have to get back up somehow. And that somehow was an additional two hours hike, having to fight a very steep incline back up. So my top tip is when debating a bush walk and a sign says 'Strong Climbers Only' listen to the sign! It was an adventure but it definitely has changed my view on hiking haha. 
• Nights out! Our hostel was in the heart of Kings Cross, and lets just say the area doesn't have the most sophisticated of reputations. The streets are lined with very drunk people, prostitutes, homeless people and strippers. But with those all mixed together it never gets boring, or quiet for that matter.

We had a lot of fun in Sydney, and it really will always be something I look back on with the best memories. The city itself is way more laid back than London, a lot cleaner and a lot 'friendlier'. The transport system they have works very well, with reliable and frequent trains/buses/ferries. Adam and I got a weekly ticket, which entitled us to go on all forms of transport within in Sydney (and some surrounding areas) for only $65, which is just under 40 pounds...bargain! 

Whilst we were there we were each spending an average of around 38 pounds, which is about $68 dollars every day. This for a city is very good, considering we spent most of our days sightseeing and being active. The only way we could have been cheaper is by staying in a cheaper hostel...but we fell in love with Jackaroo and the lovely people there! 

I really wish we could go back, and if the chance arises I will be off!

Sumer x