Seven “Must See’s and Do’s” While in Sydney, Australia
ECHO POINT/SCENIC WORLD – Approximately a two-hour bus ride from Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD), the Blue Mountains are a magical place any time of the year. Here, you can see one of Australia’s most famous natural landmarks, Three Sisters rock formation, take a ride on the steepest passenger railway in the world (52 degree incline) or hike along the numerous trails that will lead you to the beautiful Katoomba Falls. If you have extra time, make sure you visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre to learn about Australia’s Aboriginal culture. Don’t forget about those hand-painted boomerangs or aboriginal art – very cool.- SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE – One of Australia’s most famous landmarks, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is known to be the largest steel single-span arch bridges in the world. Although a bit pricy, I would highly recommend the “Bridge Climb” – it is an experience you will never forget.
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE – Known as one of the most famous performing arts centers in the world (over 40 shows per week), the Opera House is definitely a place you should visit. The Opera House Tour takes you through the interior, giving you facts and figures that make up the incredible story behind how the iconic structure came to be. If you have the time, make sure you see a show – tickets are not too pricy and if you did the tour, you can get show tickets at a discount. Make sure you check out the Royal Botanic Gardens, which are located just outside the house – simply beautiful!- SYDNEY FERRIES – Providing transportation from Circular Quay in the CBD, the Sydney Ferries serve as one of the main means of transportation and trace back to 1789. There are eight routes; I managed three of the eight during my visit to Australia. The route to/from Manly (approximately a 30 min ride) is very beautiful as the Sydney Skyline, Harbour Bridge and Opera House are all easily able to be in one photo.
- TARONGA ZOO – Take a ferry and travel on the Safari Cable Car to arrive at one of the largest zoos in the world. The Taronga Zoo overlooks the Sydney skyline and is a very popular tourist spot, as well as a preserve for endangered species. Pay attention to the feeding schedules of the various animals and you may be fortunate enough to see the Sumatran Tigers in action.
- FEATHERDALE WILDLIFE PARK – Want to pet a koala, hand feed a kangaroo or walk among the wallabies? If so, the Featherdale Wildlife Park is where you want to go. Approximately a one hour bus ride from Sydney’s CBD, you can interact with various native animals up close – definitely a worthwhile experience!
- SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK – The location of the 2000 Winter Olympic Games, Olympic Park is just a train (or ferry) stop away from Sydney’s CBD. While visiting, I attended a rugby match in ANZ Stadium where the South Sydney Rabbitohs defeated the Brisbane Broncos. Although I wasn’t familiar with the rules of rugby, it was easy to catch on and a fun night out.
By Nicole DeRosa, CPA, MAcc | 732.828.1614 | [email protected]
