Our Adventure Down Under has begun!! *Pics added*

[*WDW*Groupie*]

After 20 hours on a plane (a 5 hour flight, 70 minute stop and a 15 hour flight) we arrived in Sydney. I will digress to say that after several flights to Europe with little sleep I may have discovered the secret to surviving long distance flights. Pajamas while sleeping! Dd and I changed into our pjs in the bathroom in Vancouver, brushed our teeth, washed our faces and headed back to the plane. I didn't see any strange looks so maybe it wasn't too obvious? I watched a few shows and slept for a record-breaking (for me) 6 hours! Watched a movie, a few more shows, had a snack (quinoa, edamame and roasted chickpeas) and slept for another 2 hours. Surprisingly the flight wasn't too bad.

We arrived to cloudy skies and the threat of rain at any minute. Our limo was waiting and we headed to the Park Hyatt. Such an exquisite hotel with amazing views. Our room wasn't ready so we left our luggage and headed out for a long walk (much to dds dismay). We followed the path past Circular Quay to the Opera House, then into the Botanic Gardens. We couldn't believe there were cockatoos flying around! We made our way out of the gardens to Elizabeth Street. We found the statue of the boar (having seen the one in the markets in Florence we were delighted to see such a similar one here-- it was a gift to AU from Florence). Made our way along Martin Pl through the CBD to George St. Made a pass through Pitt St Shopping Arcade and then on the Queen Victoria Shopping Plaza (really a lovely building). Stopped here for lunch at a small cafe and refueled. After lunch we went to Myer (a department store chain), did a quick pass through and headed back to George St. Dd was really feeling tired (a small miracle that I had kept her walking for so long) so we walked back to the Park Hyatt in the cold. Our room was ready and we didn't leave it for the rest of the day.

Day 2...

Taronga Zoo (behind the scenes AU animal tour -- can't say enough good things about this) and the Maritime Museum

 

[Cousin Orville]

Very excited to follow along. We'll be on the late July ABD. We're also staying at the Park Hyatt. This may be a silly question but how are the beds? We were at the Park Hyatt in Vienna and the beds were so rock hard. If you run across any great restaurants near the hotel let me know.

 

[sayhello]

Yay! Following along! This trip is definitely on the bucket list!

Sayhello

 

[tgeorge]

Definitely following along too....this trip and Italy are an absolute must for me!!

 

[mare1203]

Sounds great already! Following along!

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Very excited to follow along. We'll be on the late July ABD. We're also staying at the Park Hyatt. This may be a silly question but how are the beds? We were at the Park Hyatt in Vienna and the beds were so rock hard. If you run across any great restaurants near the hotel let me know.

The beds are very comfortable, however they are quite low to the ground (maybe 2 feet off the floor) which is a bit awkward for someone almost 6' tall! It is definitely worth booking an opera view room. There is something very magical about coming in the room at night and seeing the opera house lit up across the harbor. The balcony is also nice!

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Day 2 (pre trip)...

Begins with more rain and chilly temperatures. Not being daunted I tell dd that we will be likely to see more animals in cooler weather than warm sun. We take the ferry across the harbor and board the tram up to the entrance (very cool way to start off a trip to the zoo. There is hardly anyone at the zoo and it looks like we may have it to ourselves lol!

I had read about baby gorillas so we headed to the gorilla area before our tour was set to begin. One baby is a month old and the other six months. The mom of the six month old was a bit tired of baby at the moment we got to the exhibit. He wanted to nurse and she had had enough! She kept pushing him off and rolling over. Very cute. He finally decided to play for us! He was just learning to walk/crawl which was adorable. He would get up and fall over. Once up he would play with the rope. At one point he stood and looked at us almost posing for pictures! We had the area to ourselves and it was precious! This was when I realized my camera battery was drained. Thank goodness for cell phones -- not the same but at least I would be able to take pictures.

After watching baby play for several minutes we hiked back up to the entrance and met our tour guide, Vanessa. She was lovely and incredibly knowledgeable. We started with the koalas, Ruby and Wanda, both of whom had bred in the summer. Wanda's baby was a bit older and started to peek out of her pouch. We saw a little hand a few times, then the cutest little face! We were about to leave the area when the baby popped out of the pouch! This was definitely a once in a lifetime moment. The baby hopped onto Wanda's back and hung on while Wanda went for a little walk between trees. Amazingly the baby stayed out of the pouch for quite while and we got some incredible pictures. The baby koala was just adorable.

We then went on to the Kangaroos (saw another mom with a joey), wallabys and emu area who are all kept in the same area. Then on to the royal billby, George (named after Prnce George), Gus the owl, platypus. We saw 2 of the kitchens and were shown how they make the food for each animal. We had the chance to feed Gus and and watched the echidna eat her meal. We also got to hold gliders, which are the cutest little animals. They had a separate group of males they were training to fly to their Trainer, Paul (who was very entertaining). Our tour ended at The View (a lovely restaurant) where we enjoyed a cupcake and hot chocolate (we were quite cold due to the cold and rain). We then had our photos taken with the giraffes and saw the seal show before leaving.

Next stop hotel and Maritime Museum......

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

We only had time for one exhibit at the Maritime Museum so we chose the Shackleton Exhibit, which traced his attempt to reach Antartica in 1914. There was a photographer on board (Hurley), so the exhibit featured many actual photos. The exhibit was absolutely fascinating and well worth the admission. A museum volunteer ended up showing us many things we may have otherwise missed and lead us around the last bit of information. I would highly recommend this to anyone. There are interactive areas for kids to keep them engaged if the story itself isn't enoug (which it was for dd who loved it).

Another ferry ride brought us back to Circular Quay where we changed and headed to Fish on the Rocks for dinner. It was very good and not terribly expensive (relatively speaking).

Day 3....Paddington Markets, Bondi to Bronte walk, The Rocks Markets and Luna Park...

 

[figment52]

I will be following this report as it is on my bucket list as well. Thanks for doing it.

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Day 3 (pre-ABD):

Finally we see the sun! Since the Paddington Markets are only open on Saturday we hop the 333 express bus and head up. On the way we pass the Sheraton on the Park where we will stay with ABD. It is in a good location right by the David Jones department store and near a few attractions we will put on the list for our free afternoons with Disney (the Hyde Park Barracks and Anzac War Memorial being 2 of them).

The bus stop is only a few minutes from the Park Hyatt. The ride was quite quick and we are at the markets in 20 or so minutes. We breeze through, grab a few unique items and head for the 333 bus to get to Bondi Beach. It was a bit strange driving through Bondi and not seeing the water. I thought for a little while that maybe I had taken the wrong bus. Then we turned a corner and all of a sudden the beautiful crescent shaped beach came into full view. After several pictures we start the walk to Bronte. A must see on the way is the surfers pool where the ocean waves crash into the pool regularly. A true salt water pool!

The walk is very scenic with several spots along the way to take pictures. We stopped at Tamarand Beach for coconut water for dd (right out of the coconut -- they prepare fresh) and a protein bar for myself. At Bronte we catch a bus back to Bondi Junction for the ride on the 333 back to Circular Quay and our hotel.

Dd really wanted to see Luna Park so I told her we could go. I wouldn't recommend wasting any valuable time in Sydney here as the few rides are pretty lame. We each got a 2 ride pass but dd ended up using 1 of mine for the carousel. We both did the Ferris wheel (where I did get some great night shots of the opera house and the bridge) and she did the small roller coaster by herself.

We ended up being at the park for less than an hour because we caught the same ferry back to Circular Quay!

After a good dinner at the hotel we turned in for the night.

Coming up....Bridge climb and Manly Beach

 

[Cousin Orville]

The beds are very comfortable, however they are quite low to the ground (maybe 2 feet off the floor) which is a bit awkward for someone almost 6' tall! It is definitely worth booking an opera view room. There is something very magical about coming in the room at night and seeing the opera house lit up across the harbor. The balcony is also nice!

Thanks! That's great to hear. We do have an Opera view room. We couldn't pass that up. How's the wifi at the hotels? I've heard it's pretty limited outside Sydney.

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Thanks! That's great to hear. We do have an Opera view room. We couldn't pass that up. How's the wifi at the hotels? I've heard it's pretty limited outside Sydney.

We leave for Cairns Tuesday evening -- will keep you advised!

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Day 4 (pre ABD):

We booked the Bridge Climb online months ago for today (back when our original arrival date was June 20th). We woke up to more rain and chilly temperatures. Since the climb goes in the rain we dressed in layers, ate and headed off to the bridge. Cousin Orville you are going to love the courtesy car here -- we've used it a few times and it whisked us to the bridge in a few short minutes.

They are prepared for all kinds of weather and gave us fleece jackets and rain gear for over the climbing suits. It had stopped raining before we began the ascent but started again once we reached the top. Dd and I both loved the climb but I probably wouldn't recommend it for anyone that doesn't like heights. It was definitely a highlight of the trip for us. Keep in mind that it does take at least 3 hours (for us 3 1/4 hours), so plan your time wisely if this is a must do while with ABD.

We walked back to the hotel and enjoyed afternoon tea in the dining room overlooking the harbor. Apparently the Park Hyatt is popular for afternoon tea since it was completely booked.

The weather started to clear up so we decided to head to Manly Beach for the remainder of the afternoon. Public transportation is only $2.50 on Sunday's with the Opal card (which we bought), which was a bonus. The ride over is a half hour and is very relaxing. We took time to stroll the Corso and walk up the north side of the beach. We enjoyed watching the surfers on the water (there must've been at least a hundred or so in the water). We walked back along the beach at sunset and back up the Corso to the ferry dock for the return trip.

Dinner was at Ventuno, located a short 10 minute walk from the hotel. It was delicious. Probably the best thin crust pizza I've eaten outside of Italy. Dd ordered spaghetti and she ate it all!

Tomorrow is our last full day in Sydney and we are headed to the Blue Mountains for the day. It's going to be cold.

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

For anyone thinking of doing this trip or who has already booked it, pack warm clothes and waterproof jackets.

Dd and I both have light down jackets which we have been using every day as well as cashmere socks. Sweaters and long sleeve shirts are also must haves as well as gloves and hats. I'm hoping it's warmer and sunnier when we come back to Sydney with ABD, but I'm prepared if it's not.

 

[sayhello]

I so want to do the Bridge climb. I'm not sure if I'm up to it, but I want to be!

A lot of people are having rainy ABD's this June...

Sayhello

 

[Bobo912]

Day 4 (pre ABD):

We booked the Bridge Climb online months ago for today (back when our original arrival date was June 20th). We woke up to more rain and chilly temperatures. Since the climb goes in the rain we dressed in layers, ate and headed off to the bridge. Cousin Orville you are going to love the courtesy car here -- we've used it a few times and it whisked us to the bridge in a few short minutes.

They are prepared for all kinds of weather and gave us fleece jackets and rain gear for over the climbing suits. It had stopped raining before we began the ascent but started again once we reached the top. Dd and I both loved the climb but I probably wouldn't recommend it for anyone that doesn't like heights. It was definitely a hilight of the trip for us. Keep in mind that it does take at least 3 hours (for us 3 1/4 hours), so plan your time wisely if this is a must do while with ABD.

We walked back to the hotel and enjoyed afternoon in the dining room overlooking the harbor. Apparently the Park Hyatt is popular for afternoon since it was completely booked for the afternoon.

The weather started to clear up so we decided to head to Manly Beach for the remainder of the afternoon. Public transportation is only $2.50 on Sunday's with the Opal card (which we bought), which was a bonus. The ride over is a half hour and is very relaxing. We took time to stroll the Corso and walk up the north side of the beach. We enjoyed watching the surfers on the water (there must've been at least a hundred or so in the water). We walked back along the beach at sunset and back up the Corso to the ferry dock for the return trip.

Dinner was at Ventuno, located a short 10 minute walk from the hotel. It was delicious. Probably the best thin crust pizza I've eaten outside of Italy. Dd ordered spaghetti and she ate it all!

Tomorrow is our last full day in Sydney and we are headed to the Blue Mountains for the day. It's going to be cold.

You are brave! They have some sort of safety harness though, right? I would like to do this someday. I wouldn't say I have a fear of heights exactly, but I do have a fear of falling from them. I love to zip-line, for instance, because I am physically attached to the cable. But it does take some effort to keep thoughts of the cable breaking from creeping into my mind and spoiling the fun.

 

[Woodview]

Well done on the reports ...... good that you are enjoying ... Winter .....( when we were there in June all swim pools were closed

because it was winter . )Warm for us though.

When you are at the The Blue Mountains DO take time ( First Thing ) to ride the attractions ,

Cable Car , & Steep Finnicilur ( ? ) train before you amble down the pathway.

Maybe the ZIG ZAG railway, which is nearby , is back in action. ( Bathurst Area )

If you are eating out on your own time Ask guides if there is A Sports Club nearby.

This is where the people eat ..... as they are Restaurants attached to sports clubs ( They sign you in as a visitor )


If you are going Back to Sydney .... Take Boat trip to the Olympic Stadium & Beyond tour .. This goes

Under the S.H. Bridge. There is also a Mini Monorail going around ( 1/2 hour round trip ) the

main attractions.

Keep on enjoying yourselves

 

[AquamarineSteph]

Loving this report, as we're considering the Australia trip for a future ABD. You must have done a LOT of planning to book everything before the ABD tour started!

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

You are brave! They have some sort of safety harness though, right? I would like to do this someday. I wouldn't say I have a fear of heights exactly, but I do have a fear of falling from them. I love to zip-line, for instance, because I am physically attached to the cable. But it does take some effort to keep thoughts of the cable breaking from creeping into my mind and spoiling the fun.

There is a safety harness that stays connected at all times. It is neither physically demanding nor intimidating. The view was amazing despite the overcast and rainy weather. If my only chance to do the climb was with ABD I would seriously consider the Express Climb to maximize my time in Sydney.

We did the Mega Cavern zip lines in Louisville, KY 2 weeks ago and that was more intimidating, primarily because it was very dark in the Cavern and the lines were longer than what I had done previously (also I kept spinning backwards mid-flight and I thougt I was going to land on the block backwards!!).

 

[*WDW*Groupie*]

Day 4 (pre-ABD)

Early day as we are heading to the Blue Mountains. Always nice to have room service at least once during a trip and today was the day! Dd adores room service (I don't think I even knew it was at her age lol).

We are on the road by 7:30am sharp and head for Featherdale Wildlife Park. I had read great things about this so was excited to be on our way. The weather is sunny but cold today; we are so thankful for the sunlight so don't mind the chilly air.

We took a tour with Frontier 4WD Photographic Safaris, which is the preferred supplier of the Park Hyatt. There is one couple on the bus with dd and I.

We are a month the first to arrive at Featherdale and head to the koala area. You are allowed to touch them here whereas Taronga has a strict "no touching" rule. Dd got very close to Brittany, a cute 5 year old and patted her bottom. I got a few fantastic shots and then jump in for some pics with her. The keepers here are very friendly and are happy to share the stories behind a lot of the koalas in their care. We head to the kangaroo area with 3 cones of food. The Kangaroos are very happy to see dd and she engages them in feeding like she has been doing it her entire life! They are not at all shy and at times she has 5 or 6 of them surrounding her as she hand feeds them. She loved this and we ended going back for more food. We spent so much time with the koalas and kangaroos that we had to rush through the rest of the par to see the rest of the animals. We wanted to see the dingos and were surprised to see they look just like dogs (not sure what we expected!).

Next stop was a lovely lookout point that we hiked a bit to get to. The fog was over the trees below with the sun shining over the cliffs in the distance making for beautiful pictures. We played with the panorama setting on our phones for a bit and got more great shots. Next we were on our way to Katoomba and the three sisters at Echo Point. This area was more crowded but we still got several great shots before wandering to a great aboriginal art shop and a nice opal shop.

Lunch at the Log Cabin set high above the cliffs with a roaring fire was next and it was quite good.

We go to an empty field where our guide attempts to teach us how to throw a boomerang. I won't be entering any competitions any time soon but got the hang of it. Dd did very well and had hers almost returning to her from her first attempt. We head back to the van and hike up to Anvil Point for an incredible view. Very peaceful here -- we were the only ones here. We headed to another point for great views including one of a waterfall, but the sun is starting to set and I'm getting cold. After this we head back to Sydney listening to Dreamtime stories. I think the name must be a double entendre because we all doz d off listening to the stories.

Unfortunately no Scenic World on our tour. Our guide told us a lot of time is wasted waiting in long lines for very brief rides. I was fine with this as we go to Kurada with ABD.

We stopped at the Ugg Blue Mountan shop on the way back down at my request (I had read about it). I bought 2 pairs of Marino wool socks as I'm sure I'm going to need them for Hobart (my feet have been cold since we landed).

A tasty dinner at Sailors Thai around the corner from the hotel was next on the agenda. I loved my Shrimp pad Thai but dd found her sweet and sour pork belly too spicy (it was delicious).

Tomorrow.... last day in Sydey. Dd has a private surfing lesson at Manly Beach at 9am Hoping to catch the 2pm whale movie at the Imax3D in Darling Harbor before we catch our 6:30pm flight.

I still feel like there is so much more to see and do here.

I'm really, really going to miss this hotel. It already feels like home ((