Exploring Sydney: A 16-Day Aussie Adventure with Friends

Sydney's Wild Side and Dark History

Today was a whirlwind of experiences, a true testament to the diverse offerings of Sydney. From the captivating wildlife at Sydney Zoo to the intriguing history at the Justice and Police Museum, and finally, the unique heritage of Cockatoo Island, it was a day packed with exploration and discovery. Élodie would have loved this day filled with such diverse experiences!


Experience the extraordinary at Sydney Zoo, where wildlife conservation meets an unforgettable adventure in the heart of New South Wales.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Leo. Nestled in Angel Place, this Italian eatery was a delightful start to our adventures. The space felt faintly Parisian, and the service was welcomingly familiar. I opted for one of their pasta dishes, which was delicious. It's no wonder Restaurant Leo has become an integral part of the CBD; it's a beautiful thing.

Fuelled up, we headed to Sydney Zoo. Located a bit outside the city center, the zoo was a fantastic experience. It was designed from the ground up with a cage-free philosophy, offering excellent views of the animals. The African section was a highlight, with an elevated platform providing a bird's-eye view of the exhibits. It felt like venturing on a real-life African Safari! I particularly enjoyed the primate boulevard, where you could see baboons, chimpanzees, orangutans and spider monkeys within arms' reach, separated only by a moat and glass fencing. The zoo was easy to navigate, with wide and flat footpaths, making it accessible for everyone. It was a great way to spend the morning, surrounded by the wonders of the animal kingdom.

 

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Next on our list was the Justice and Police Museum. This place was a fascinating dive into Sydney's dark history. The museum is housed in a former police station and courts, which adds to the eerie atmosphere. It was intriguing to learn about the city's crime history, from bushrangers to razor gangs. The museum relies heavily on text to deliver information, but it employs a significant amount of artifacts and photographs to make the stories more interesting and tangible. I particularly enjoyed the Crime Museum, with its interesting range of weapons confiscated by NSW Police. Élodie, with her interest in history, would have been captivated by the stories and artifacts on display.


Discover the intriguing history of law enforcement at the Justice and Police Museum in Sydney, where stories of crime and justice come alive.

After immersing ourselves in the history of law and crime, it was time for a late lunch. We chose The Restaurant Pendolino, located in The Strand Arcade. This place exudes elegance from the moment you step out of the lift. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was refined. I opted for one of their artisanal pastas, which was made onsite and absolutely delicious. The Restaurant Pendolino is definitely a place to be taken care of, a true fine dining experience.

Our final destination for the day was Cockatoo Island. A short ferry ride from the city, this island has a remarkable history as a convict gaol and a major shipbuilding and repair facility. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it's easy to see why. The remnant structures from the former penal establishment offer insights into a period when criminal offenders were transported to Australia and put to work on the colony's building projects. It's a place of enduring significance, connecting to the waterways and homelands of the Wallumedegal, Wangal, Cammeraygal and Gadigal peoples.


Explore Cockatoo Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with history, culture, and stunning views of Sydney Harbour.

I explored the convict precinct, with its solitary cells and barracks, and imagined what life must have been like for the prisoners. I also wandered through the industrial precinct, admiring the massive cranes and workshops that stand as monuments to the island's shipbuilding days. The island offers panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and city skyline, making it a photographer's dream. It was a perfect way to end the day, reflecting on the diverse history and beauty of Sydney.

Before heading back to the hotel, I decided to do some shopping at The Galeries. This trendy mall features independent stores, boutiques, and cafe-bars. It's a popular spot with Sydney's hipster brigade, and I enjoyed browsing the unique offerings. I picked up a few souvenirs for Élodie and the kids, hoping to bring a piece of Sydney back home with me.

For dinner, we chose SOUL Dining, a sleek and almost secret spot tucked away in Surry Hills. This restaurant offers contemporary Korean cuisine with modern Australian techniques. The menu is thoughtfully curated, and the dishes are incredibly flavorful. I opted for the tasting menu, which allowed me to experience a variety of the restaurant's best offerings. The prawn tteokbokki and the Korean chilli poppers were standout dishes. The service was warm and efficient, making for a memorable dining experience. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our trip, and we plan to make the most of it. Our itinerary includes visits to Circular Quay, The Domain Sydney, and Mrs Macquarie's Chair. I'm looking forward to soaking in the last moments of this incredible Aussie adventure before heading back to Montreal. It's been an unforgettable experience, filled with wildlife, history, culture, and culinary delights.

This trip has been a wonderful reminder of the beauty and diversity of our world. Each day has brought new adventures and discoveries, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you. As I prepare for our final day in Sydney, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what tomorrow holds. I can't wait to see what memories we'll create as we explore the last few gems of this amazing city. Until then, à bientôt!

Reflecting on today's journey, I am struck by how each location offered a unique lens through which to view Sydney. The zoo reminded me of the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity, while the museum served as a stark reminder of the city's complex past. Cockatoo Island was a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the human spirit, transforming from a place of punishment to a hub of industry and innovation. These experiences have enriched my understanding of Sydney and its place in the world.

As the sun sets over Sydney Harbour, I am filled with a sense of contentment and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. Tomorrow, we will delve deeper into the city's iconic landmarks, capturing the essence of Sydney in our final moments here. I am eager to share these experiences with you, as we bid farewell to this vibrant and captivating city. Until then, may your days be filled with exploration and discovery, wherever you may roam.

The blend of history, nature, and culinary experiences has been a hallmark of this trip, and today was no exception. From the delicate flavors of Restaurant Leo to the bold tastes of SOUL Dining, each meal has been a celebration of Sydney's diverse culinary scene. The animals at Sydney Zoo reminded me of the interconnectedness of all living things, while the stories at the Justice and Police Museum offered a glimpse into the complexities of human nature. These are the moments that make travel so enriching, broadening our perspectives and deepening our appreciation for the world around us.

As I close this entry, I am reminded of a quote by Gustave Flaubert: Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world. This trip to Sydney has indeed been a humbling experience, revealing the vastness and diversity of our planet and the countless stories that make up its rich tapestry. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore and share these experiences with you, and I look forward to continuing our journey together in the days to come.

Tomorrow, we will embark on our final adventure in Sydney, exploring the iconic landmarks that have come to define this vibrant city. From the bustling Circular Quay to the serene Mrs Macquarie's Chair, we will soak in the last moments of our Aussie adventure, capturing the essence of Sydney in our hearts and minds. I am excited to share these final experiences with you, as we bid farewell to this captivating city and prepare for our journey back home. Until then, may your dreams be filled with wanderlust and the promise of new discoveries.

And so, with a heart full of memories and a spirit eager for more, I sign off for the night, ready to embrace the final day of our Sydney adventure. The city's charm has woven its way into my soul, leaving an indelible mark that will stay with me long after we've departed. Thank you for joining me on this incredible journey, and I look forward to sharing our final moments together as we explore the last treasures of Sydney. Until tomorrow, may your travels be safe and your experiences be unforgettable.