To check another world city off my bucket list, and to ring in 2013 in style, we chose to spend New Year's in Sydney, Australia! After a long red-eye flight on the two-level Airbus A380 from Singapore, we arrived tired but ready for fun. =) (On a side note, the Changi Airport never fails to impress! This time, besides the usual impressive floral displays, moving sidewalks, clean bathrooms, and water fountains, we breathed in the scent of fresh 20-foot pine trees decorated all over with stunning live orchids!)
After dropping off our bags, we walked from our hotel in Darling Harbour through the lovely Hyde Park and enjoyed the cool summer breezes. At the Australian Museum, we learned about some of the world's deadliest creatures that make Australia their home. We toasted the day over a good Western meal at Love, Eat, Pizza, then went to bed early.
The next morning, we only just made it to the Sydney Opera House in time for our Kids' Discovery Tour. It was so neat to be under the world-famous sails and see where the magic takes place!
After, we caught the hop-on, hop off Captain Cook ferry to Watson's Bay, where we marveled at cliffside views from the Gap and ate at the historic seafood restaurant Doyles on the Beach.
In the afternoon, my kids played for hours at the awesome water and land playgrounds in front of Darling Harbour, and we ended the day with a nice meal at Blackbird. Adam enjoyed a crocodile burger, and I tried kangaroo loin---yummy!
On New Years' Eve, we hopped on a bus to Bondi Beach and spent hours soaking up the sun with "all the beautiful people" (as my Sydney-native friend says)! The amazing blue water, the surfers, and the bikini-clad crowds equaled an authentic party atmosphere. =)
That night, we had wanted to watch the world-famous fireworks backed by the Sydney Harbour Bridge, but alas, all viewing spots were full and police would not allow more people in to the park. Though Abigail and I were most disappointed, at least we were able to enjoy an impressive fireworks display at Darling Harbour.
Cheers to all in 2013! May new adventures await, and may health and happiness abound for you and your families. =)
How wonderfully amazing! It looks like a once-in-a-lifetime trip. You are probably going to want to stay over there! And by the way--you look awesome. The East agrees with you!
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