SYDNEY
ocated on the east coast, Sydney is a metropolis that has something for everyone. However, if you’re only planning a short visit there, chances are you won’t be able to cover the entire city. Here are some of the must-dos and must-sees.
The picturesque beaches alone are plenty of reason to visit – from the famed, always busy, always lively Bondi Beach with the Bondi Icebergs Pool, to the quieter, calmer Bronte Beach, popular among surfers and those who want to unwind at a less action-packed seaside.
Marvel at the structural beauty that is Sydney Opera House, a tourist cliché for a reason. A guided tour will instil newfound appreciation for complex architecture. The vast dimensions of the majestic Sydney Harbour Bridge are unrivalled by any other. Climb up to the Pylon Lookout on an utterly rewarding but tiring and somewhat vertiginous adventure. The harbourside provides many opportunities for activities such as kayaking, swimming, sailing and picnicking. Make sure you get a chance to witness the spectacle that is the Sydney skyline at night – a panoramic wonder.
Don’t miss out on popping by Brewtown Newtown for its heavenly cronuts – croissant-doughnut pastries to die for – and for an unmatched café experience, head to The Grounds of Alexandria.
Stroll through the Carriageworks Farmers’ Markets, browse the Museum of Contemporary Art, and, if possible, luxuriate in a helicopter tour of Sydney that will cover all the acclaimed tourist spots from atop, providing a high-definition view from the best possible angles, that’ll leave you awestruck. For a more pocket-friendly option, take in the sights on a Red Bus tour.
Accommodation and transport are somewhat pricey in Sydney, so Airbnbs and public transport may be your best bet.
PERTH
Perth, the largest city and capital of Western Australia, is home to an admirable urban skyline, unmissable sights and bountiful opportunities for fun. When in Perth, kick-start your explorations by visiting Kings Park and Botanic Garden, showcasing thousands of varieties of unique flora. Overlooking the serene waters of the Swan River, sitting under cloudless blue skies, you will be tempted to spend a whole day there, but try and resist the urge to melt into the soft lawns as you picnic, in order to make the most of your stay.
Pay a visit to Perth Mint, and witness a collection of coins and gold bars, see gold pours in action, and stand in awe at the sight of the Australian Kangaroo One Tonne Gold Coin, the largest and most valuable coin on earth. The glass spire of the Bell Tower in Barrack Square is one of the largest musical instruments on the planet and your next destination. Dating back to the 14th century, The Bell Tower offers you a chance to view the age-old art of bell ringing – a fascinating event.
When it’s time to stop for a bite, your go-to restaurant should be Bib and Tucker in North Fremantle, serving up incredible Australian dishes and amazing beach views. Grab a dish of popular duck fat potatoes from George Street Corners, which may or may not leave you in a food coma.
Call an end to your visit to Perth by lounging on the pristine, white sand of Cottesloe Beach, where you can also treat the adventurer in you to a spot of snorkelling and/or surfing. Don’t miss out on having a meal and a refreshing brew as you watch the sun set on the Indian Ocean.
CAIRNS
A popular tourist destination due to its coveted tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns lies in Queensland, beckoning travellers with the promise of great outdoor experiences.
Cairns is a great place to see the rainforest meet a modern city. If you prefer the tranquillity of long walks and hikes, you would enjoy making your way along the steep walking trail amidst the rainforest to the Crystal Cascades, a freshwater swimming hole, as serene as the walk to reach it.
Known as the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is the best place to book either a reef boat, island cruise or pontoon to snorkel with the astounding array of marine wildlife at the reef. If beachlife is your thing, Cairns, though not blessed with its own seaside, is just an hour off the exotic Port Douglas, which offers a lovely stretch of sea and sand, perfect for swimming and relaxing. From here you’ll also have easier access to the Daintree Rainforest, to bask in the tropical feel for a few hours, and make use of the photo opportunity, among the ancient ferns and canopy of greenery, that inspired the movie Avatar.
Pass by Cairns’ night markets for some cheap shopping to take home with you, indulge in some pescatarian delights at Dundee’s, try the fresh, local fruit gelati on a stick at Gelocchio (rumour has it the passionfruit and mango ones are two of their yummiest), and make friends with the inviting locals as you enjoy the spirited nightlife.
