Exploring Sydney: A 16-Day Aussie Adventure with Friends

Beneath the Surface and Beyond

Today was a whirlwind of aquatic adventures and culinary delights here in Sydney. It's amazing how a single day can pack in so much, from the serenity of the underwater world to the bustling energy of the city's finest restaurants. It's days like these that make travel so rewarding, offering a blend of excitement and relaxation that rejuvenates the soul.

Our day began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at 10 William St in Paddington. Apparently, there's a new chef in the kitchen, but I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype. The place is small and cozy, just off Oxford Street, and it had a great vibe when we walked in. I had read that the pretzel with whipped bottarga was a must-try, so of course, I had to order it. It was incredible! The staff was friendly and the food was delicious, making for a perfect start to our day.

With our appetites satisfied, we headed off to Matraville for our Sydney Dive Safari experience. I was excited, but also a little nervous, as it had been a while since my last dive. Elodie would have loved this, she always enjoyed snorkeling back home. The team at Sydney Dive Safari was fantastic. They were professional, patient, and made sure we were all comfortable and well-prepared before taking the plunge. The weather was a bit challenging, with showers and southerly winds, but the underwater visibility was surprisingly fair, around 5-8 meters. The water temperature was a comfortable 22°C, so with our wetsuits on, we were ready to explore.


Dive into adventure at Sydney Dive Safari - your gateway to exploring Australia's vibrant underwater world with expert guides.

Diving into the unknown reveals not only the mysteries of the deep but also the hidden depths within ourselves.

The dive itself was incredible. We didn't go too deep, which was perfect for easing back into it, and we were immediately surrounded by vibrant marine life. Schools of colorful fish darted around us, and we even spotted a couple of wobbegong sharks lurking among the rocks. The instructors pointed out various species and shared fascinating facts about the local ecosystem. It was an immersive experience that reminded me of the beauty and fragility of our oceans.

After our dive, we decided to explore the beaches of Manly. First up was Shelly Beach, a beautiful spot known for its calm waters and abundant marine life. It’s part of Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, which is the oldest marine reserve in Sydney. Although the weather wasn't ideal for sunbathing, the beach was still bustling with activity. Families were picnicking on the sand, and snorkelers were exploring the clear waters. I couldn’t resist taking a dip myself. The water was refreshing, and I enjoyed swimming around, watching the fish dart among the rocks and kelp.


Experience the beauty of Shelly Beach in Manly, NSW, where pristine sands meet vibrant marine life in a stunning coastal paradise.

Next, we strolled over to Manly Beach, a larger and more iconic stretch of sand. Manly is known for surfing, so the beach was full of surfers riding the waves. We walked along The Corso, checking out the surf shops and boutiques, and soaking in the lively atmosphere. It's amazing how much the area had to offer. I could see why locals are reluctant to leave this 'insular peninsula'.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Manly Beach, a premier destination for sun, surf, and unforgettable coastal adventures in New South Wales.

For lunch, we headed to Carte in Glebe. This European restaurant was the perfect place to relax and refuel after our busy morning. I opted for one of the specials of the day, and it was absolutely delicious. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, and the service was excellent.


Experience exquisite fine dining at Carte in Glebe—where seasonal flavors and elegant ambiance create unforgettable moments.

After a bit of shopping at Westfield Sydney, it was time for our final culinary adventure of the day: dinner at NEL restaurant. This was an experience I had been looking forward to all day. NEL is known for its innovative and theatrical degustation menus, and tonight was no exception. The restaurant is located in an underground bunker, which added to the unique atmosphere. The set menu changes periodically, and each dish tells a unique story with engaging and thought-provoking elements. It was like a culinary odyssey, with each course plated to perfection and bursting with flavor.


Discover NEL Restaurant: A Culinary Gem in Sydney Redefining Modern Australian Cuisine with Innovative Flavors and Artistic Presentation.

The service was impeccable, with the staff explaining each dish in detail and ensuring that we had everything we needed. It was a truly memorable dining experience, and I would highly recommend NEL to anyone looking for a special night out in Sydney. I had read some mixed reviews, but I was not disappointed.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am struck by the diversity and beauty of Sydney. From the underwater wonders of Sydney Dive Safari and Shelly Beach to the culinary masterpieces at 10 William St, Carte, and NEL, this city has something to offer everyone. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore new places, and to experience different cultures and cuisines.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras exhibition at the Museum of Sydney, followed by a visit to the Art Gallery of New South Wales. In the evening, we have reservations at Infinity at Sydney Tower, which should offer stunning views of the city. I'm also hoping to check out Kittyhawk, a bar known for its unique cocktails and vintage ambiance. It sounds like another exciting day ahead!

I'm so glad I decided to come to Sydney with my friends. It's been an incredible experience so far, and I can't wait to see what the rest of our trip holds. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers. I hope my blog inspires you to explore the world and to discover the beauty and wonder that awaits us all.

À bientôt!

Thomas