Exploring Sydney: A 16-Day Aussie Adventure with Friends

Bonjour Sydney! A Whirlwind Start to Our Aussie Adventure

After what felt like an eternity in the air, we finally touched down in Sydney! The city welcomed us with open arms and a crisp autumn breeze. The excitement was palpable as we stepped off the plane, ready to dive headfirst into our 16-day adventure. This trip, planned with some of my closest friends, has been a long time coming, and I couldn't wait to see what Australia had in store for us. Forget jet lag; we were on a mission to soak up every ounce of Sydney's charm from the get-go.

Our first stop, after checking into the YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites, was the iconic Sydney Opera House. You simply can't come to Sydney and not visit this architectural marvel. As a software developer, I appreciate the complex engineering and design, but even more so, I was captivated by its sheer beauty. The way the sunlight danced on its sails was mesmerizing, and I couldn't resist snapping countless photos. I even learned that Heather Mitchell will be reviving her award-winning performance in RBG: Of Many, One at the Opera House this month - I'll need to see if Elodie would be interested in attending!


Experience unparalleled comfort and convenience at YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites, perfect for both business travelers and holidaymakers alike.

From the Opera House, we strolled through the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. The gardens were a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. The vibrant colors of the flowers, the scent of eucalyptus in the air, and the stunning harbor views made it a sensory feast. Apparently there's an outdoor theatre show called Plant Hunger Games here this month - perhaps something to bring the children to if Élodie and I decide to start a family. It was the perfect place to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Sydney. I also learned that volunteers contribute to conservation research within the gardens, which is inspiring.


Discover the artistic essence of Sydney at the iconic Sydney Opera House, where architecture meets world-class performances in a stunning harbor setting.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

Next on our list was the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It loomed majestically over the harbor, a testament to human ingenuity. While some of my friends were keen on climbing it right away, I opted for a leisurely walk along its pedestrian path. The panoramic views of the city, the Opera House, and the harbor were simply breathtaking. I even saw some construction work going on - apparently they're building a new cycleway ramp, which is great news for those who prefer to explore the city on two wheels. I must admit, though, the thought of scaling that bridge is growing on me, especially with the family bundle offers available during these school holidays. Perhaps I'll convince the group to give it a go later in our trip.


Explore the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, a stunning oasis with diverse plant species, breathtaking views, and a perfect escape in the heart of the city.

After a morning of sightseeing, our stomachs started to rumble, and it was time to indulge in Sydney's culinary scene. We had breakfast at Cafe Sydney, known for its modern Australian cuisine and stunning harbor views. The food was exquisite, the service impeccable, and the view, of course, was simply unforgettable. It was the perfect start to our culinary journey. It's no wonder people rave about this place!


Discover the breathtaking views and rich history of Sydney Harbour Bridge, an iconic symbol of Australia's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.

For lunch, we ventured to The Little Snail Restaurant in Pyrmont, a charming French restaurant that reminded me of home. As someone who grew up in Reims, France, I have a soft spot for classic French cuisine, and The Little Snail did not disappoint. From the escargots de Bourgogne to the magret de canard, every dish was a delight. It was a taste of France in the heart of Sydney. The staff were also incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. I'll have to bring Élodie here one day, as I know how much she misses French food.


Experience modern Australian cuisine at Cafe Sydney with stunning views over the Harbour and exceptional service in a vibrant atmosphere.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Aria Restaurant Sydney for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its fine dining experience and its stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The food was exceptional, a true culinary masterpiece. From the fresh seafood to the succulent meats, every dish was prepared with precision and passion. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was simply magical. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day. Perhaps I'll even try the popcorn cheesecake next time!


Discover exquisite French cuisine at The Little Snail Restaurant in Pyrmont - an unforgettable culinary journey awaits you!

After dinner, we decided to explore Sydney's nightlife and headed to The Baxter Inn, a hidden bar known for its extensive whiskey collection. Finding it was an adventure in itself, tucked away in a discreet alleyway, but once inside, we were transported to a cozy, dimly lit haven. The bartenders were incredibly knowledgeable, guiding us through their impressive selection of whiskeys. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on our first day in Sydney. The atmosphere was reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, and I could easily see why it's considered one of the world's best bars.


Experience exquisite fine dining at Aria Restaurant Sydney with stunning views and an exceptional Australian menu.

Before heading back to the hotel, we took a final stroll along the harbor, admiring the city lights twinkling on the water. Sydney is truly a magical place, a city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban sophistication. I'm already looking forward to tomorrow, when we plan to visit Taronga Zoo Sydney, Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden, and Luna Park Sydney. I have a feeling this is going to be a trip to remember. And who knows, maybe we'll even catch a glimpse of some local celebrities!


Discover The Baxter Inn, a hidden gem in Sydney known for its exquisite cocktails and extensive whiskey selection in a cozy atmosphere.

The weather today was mild, with temperatures hovering around 23°C, perfect for exploring the city on foot. I'm glad I packed a light jacket, as the evenings can get a bit chilly. Overall, our first day in Sydney was a resounding success, a whirlwind of sights, flavors, and experiences that left us wanting more. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that this was just the beginning of our Aussie adventure.

I'm also quite intrigued by the local events happening this month. The Sydney Comedy Festival sounds like a great way to unwind and have a laugh, and the Sydney Royal Easter Show seems like a fun-filled experience, though perhaps more suited for families with children.

One thing I did forget to pack was a universal power adapter. Luckily, I was able to find one at a local store, but it's definitely something to remember for future trips. And with the humidity levels around 75%, I'm also wishing I had brought a small umbrella, just in case.

But all in all, these are minor details compared to the incredible experiences we had today. Sydney, you have stolen my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I'm off to bed now, dreaming of kangaroos and koalas. À bientôt!