Discover a Different Side to Sydney

That’s just what Austravel’s James Wilson did during a short visit home to Australia’s famous harbour-side city.

Although I left when I was just eight, I had a lot of fond memories of Sydney trips to the beach with my Dad on weekends, walking the leafy suburbs of Mosman barefoot in the summer and the great views from our balcony overlooking the harbour towards Taronga Zoo. This time though, I was keen to experience a more exhilarating side of life in Sydney.

So off I went in January, at the height of the Australian Summer, as the Sydneysiders celebrated Australia Day and the culmination of the fantastic Sydney Festival! With the chance to enjoy outdoor cinema by the harbour, concerts in front of the Opera House, fireworks off the bridge and theatre in the park, I really couldn’t help feeling privileged to be there.

The highlight of my stay was undoubtedly an Australia by Air day-long safari from Sydney into the captivating New South Wales hinterland. The plane set off over the Blue Mountains where we could really appreciate the blue haze caused by the eucalyptus oil in the leaves of the gum trees below. From there we banked left, gradually reduced altitude and prepared for a scheduled landing on the Middlebrook Cattle Farms private airstrip.

After a traditional Aussie welcome, Sue and Hendo took us on a whiz around various parts of their enormous 11,000-acre property. Hendo showed us his skills in rounding up the sheep, shearing them and explained why, unlike Nessy, Spunky and Slasher, Brian the big poof sheep dog refused to work and spent the warm hours of the morning in the shade of the Blue Gum Tree!

The couple put on a superb BBQ and we even got a spin in Hendos old Model T Ford that had famously circumnavigated Australia. They shared more fantastic stories of rural Aussie life and after a couple of cold beers and a short doze on the shady patio, it was time to say farewell. Our next stop was a short hop to the heart of the picturesque Hunter Valley where we strolled leisurely through the vineyards before sampling a range of stunning wines. You know you’re in Australia when your expert host says; And this Semillon is my personal favourite. Why? It’s just bloody good mate!

Back on board, our captain informed us we had the all clear from air traffic control to fly low over the beaches before gliding on towards the City. As we arrived, the harbour was tinted a brilliant orange from the setting sun, the beautiful Opera House sparkling like a jewel and ferries and boats were dotted magically below the proud Harbour Bridge. What a spectacular city and a wonderful way to spend a day.

While in Sydney, James also recommends

Surfing at Bondi Beach
Spend a day learning to surf with the guys who’ve been doing it for years. Big Wave Dave got me up on the board in no time and they practically had to drag me out of the water!

Try the Golden Century Seafood Restaurant
With limitless supplies of fresh seafood, Sydney’s China Town is a must if picking your own live fish, crab or lobster appeals to you. The frenetic atmosphere and excellent value eateries make for a great evening out.

A personalised Sydney Harbour Boat Cruise
Carrying no more than ten passengers, Sea Sydney Cruises offers a more personalised, intimate way to experience the harbour sights. Sharing with just a handful of passengers, I enjoyed a swim; tasty lunch and a glass of ice cold Semillon aboard a luxury 52' cruiser.

Enjoy a cocktail at Bar Horizon
You don’t have to stay at the best hotels to enjoy what they have to offer. I’ve never seen views of Sydney to beat those from the top of the Shangri-La at Bar Horizon. Sipping a fine cocktail overlooking the stunning Sydney Harbour at night is not to be missed!

Climb the Harbour Bridge at Dawn
Take a dawn BridgeClimb and youll be struck by both the scale of the Bridge, and the breathtaking views as the morning sun rises and kisses your face.