#the royal opera house is a great venue even outside of performances

[questwithambition]

Some snaps from Tuesday - wore my favorite trousers to work (they’re so flowy), got the big imposter syndrome (still struggling rn but we move), and met up with a friend at the Royal Opera House for a drink and to admire the costumes they had on display 🩰

[architectuul]

FOMA 41: In Search Of Theatrical Halls

Lemonot, a tandem that meets between architecture and performative arts to trigger and celebrate the spontaneous theatre of everyday life, is presenting five Forgotten Masterpieces that shaped their modus operandi. 

The first cholets were sighted almost fifteen years ago by Freddy Mamani Silvestre. | Photo © Lemonot

Five architectures seem at first glance completely disconnected, they are located in five different cities, designed by different architects, with different programs in diverse historical times. Yet they’re all united by the presence of prominent public interiors with a strong emphasis on the use of unique spatial languages, that make them great examples to investigate how to stage alternative forms of theatricality beyond specific theatre architecture.

In his “Texts on Theatre” describes Jacques Copeau how architecture doesn’t  simply contain the drama but produces it, by co-creating its meanings, conventions and aesthetics. Staging a performance, Copeau continues, “is about acting in architecture: it is a practice that demands we pay attention to distance, scale, style, person-to-volume ratio and the immaterial architectures of light, heat and sound. Furthermore, using performativity as a design tool outside the boundaries of fictional scenographies leads to real yet unconventional spatial experiences.”

Indeed, the uncanny linguistic features of these buildings, in terms of geometry, colors, materiality or the clash between architectural layout and designated purpose, affect the way people inhabit them, enabling a peculiar acting in space as the performing of collective rituals and daily routines.

The Solimene Factory was born from the friendship of Vincenzo Solimene, called  “Il Vasaio” (the Pottery Maker) and Paolo Soleri, who in 1950 traveled to Italy with the purpose to learn the art of pottery. Solimene entrusted him with the first and only project carried out in Europe, allowing him to design the factory for the production of ceramics.

Circular bases of round terra-cotta vases are embedded in the concrete cladding and decorate the facade. | Photo © Luca Bullaro

The building is as if carved into the rocks overlooking the sea, incorporating the objects it produces. From the outside a bright enamels mosaic in the form of a drapery, almost as a garment giving a hint of what is produced inside, constructed with sixteen thousand waste vases, glazed in copper green or in simple terra-cotta embedded into the facade.

Facade and section. | Photo © Luca Bullaro, © Cosanti Foundation

If the outside is wavy and sinuous like the Amalfi domes, the inside is geometric and defines the space towards the center. This fifteen meters central skylight illuminates the objects that are produced every day by expert hands. The interior, flared upwards, follows the same archaic principle of the object that is produced: the growth of the vase on the lathe. The ramp going through the floors, defines the four stages of ceramic processing and allows us to better observe the thousands of coloured and painted dishes, cups and vases.

The pieces are fired at the top floors and slowly come down to be painted in the main atrium, as you descend into the building you see this chromatic and also geometric change - from the material to its final creation. The building accompanies you throughout the production of a single object - starting with the terracotta and gradually seeing its final shape and colours. The objects become part of this scenography, framed in every gaze. They’re simultaneously actors and props that drive the public - constraining you to squeeze and linger among them. It is an architecture that screams the craft made with hands, which is still in full fervor today.

The building received the ASA Architectural Conservation Award in 2012. | Photo © Antoine Lassus

The Scala Theatre in Bangkok was without doubt the grand old theater and the finest movie theater left in Southeast Asia. Named after the Teatro della Scala in Milan, it first opened in 1969, showing the American civil war movie “The Undefeated”. Unfortunately, it has been recently closed down, probably due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and changing consumer preferences.

Its wonder is certainly due to the central location in Bangkok, one of the most chaotic cities in the world. The most interesting part of the building is not the enclosed screening hall. Rather, it’s the covered yet open foyer, whose elegant and geometric interiors are constantly and directly contrasted by the noise of the mopeds, by the smell of street food grills and tropical plants that can be seen from the windows. Its relationship with the city is definitely theatrical.

The foyer consists of a huge domed ceiling, set up with bronzed art deco flowers. | Photo © Antoine Lassus

In the past these kinds of theaters were usually situated in city centers and markets, where they became community gathering points as they supported the theater and the community.  In this line, the foyer of Scala theatre acts as a proper public space, as a shaded portico that offers shelter from the heat of Bangkok. This is reflected in its overwhelming but at the same time welcoming decorations - columns that drop from the ceiling, lights in the shape of geometric flowers, floors and walls covered with velvet fabric. Thai culture is eccentric, it is flamboyant and greets you by dominating your senses.

The architecturally significant cinema’s Art Deco stylings and interiors were designed by Jira Silpkanok, which with its velvet curtains, veteran ushers, and vast auditorium, evoked the golden age of film exhibition. Specifically, the foyer consists of a huge domed ceiling, set up with bronzed art deco flowers. You are conquered by the vaulted windows that frame Bangkok as a choreographed spectacle - by the different types of textures both on the base of the columns outlining the shadows. Two stairways converge at the top taking you to the second floor, while almost touching the long chandelier that illuminates the center. A visionary architecture, where as soon as you enter it seems to be in a ship, or a spaceship.

The Bellini Theater in Palermo was first called Teatro Travaglino, from the name of a Sicilian burlesque mask. A hidden truth is hidden in its name since the theater has had to change many faces throughout the centuries. Destroyed several times by earthquakes and wars and many times rebuilt and renamed, looking for a new identity. What we have today is an incomparable Architectural stratigraphy of historical facts.

The theatre was an open living room in between privately owned palaces where the public could go in for the first time. | Photo © Lemonot

The theater has been literally carved inside a noble dwelling, the gallery and the stage are built between private houses, in fact it is still possible to see the windows of the neighbors that overlooked the main stage. It was entertaining popular operas and due to this fact, the space was constructed around a small stage with few wooden benches. Initially the main gallery had only festive purposes, banquets were set up and dances were often opened; it is only later that great artists were presented and therefore had a primarily cultural purpose.

Destroyed, rebuilt and renamed. | Photo © Lemonot

Over time Marquises of Santa Lucia sacrificed part of their palace to build in 1726 a classic Italian-style theater with 4 tiers of boxes and entirely in decorated wood, it was called the theater of St. Lucia. The need for a more refined theater for the Elitè was entrusted to the royal architect Nicolò Puglia who accommodated more than 500 spectators.

Due to the disastrous earthquake that struck Palermo in 1726, the theater remained closed for several years, reopened only in 1742, enlarged and restored again, incorporating some neighboring houses of the Marquis Bellaroto.

In 1943 during the second world war it was also requisitioned by the US military and used as a movie theater for soldiers. In 1964 the building was damaged by a fire and subsequently recovered thanks to the intervention of the Teatro Biondo Stabile in Palermo and thanks to the professionalism of its director Claudio Grasso who regained the license from the Palermo police headquarters and returned the theater to its original function in 1980 until 2014.

It was reopened as a permanent exhibition venue. | Photo © Lemonot 

Since 2019 is hosting a mixed-media installation designed by Alfredo Jarr. This operation led to many controversies - since part of Palermo’s cultural community stated that a theatre should be open only for spectacles and actual plays. The theatre layout and the museographic stage set affect and update each other in a very interesting way: the usual relationship between the proscenium (the place for the spectacle) and the platea (the place for the audience) is inverted, since the public gathers to admire the exhibition from the first, while the artworks are hosted in the latter, emptied of chairs’ rows.

Furthermore, this peculiar theatrical framework, shifting the way we look at the artifacts, activates a spontaneous layer of performativity, otherwise left behind in most traditional museum environments.

The Cistern Chapel or the Sewage Cathedral is a former pumping station designed by chief engineer Sir Joseph Bazalgette and architect Charles Henry Driver. Its construction became necessary in response to the the Great Stink of 1858.

The meticulous designs and bright colors have made the Crossness Pumping Station a real Victorian-style gem. | Photo © Lemonot

Its construction became necessary when the Thames became particularly polluted enough to raise a putrid smell throughout the city. The situation was aggravated by the unusually hot climate that hit the English capital and made the stench even stronger and unpleasant. To solve the problem, the Bazalgette plan consisted in the construction of two sewers to be placed in the outermost areas of the city. One of these was the Crossness Pumping Station which, at the time, had the function of draining the putrid waters to the east by running clean water into the Thames.

The complex is covered with decorations surrounded by cast ironworks forming columns rising up from the ground floor. | Photo © Lemonot

An architecture is made of joints and unconscious paths following geometric shapes and colored corners. The light is drawn to the central octagonal arcade, which supports a frieze of regimented yet twisting leaves and tendrils and on each column flowers, leafs and fruits decorate the capitals. At the time, the highly crafts fancy curlicues of cast iron weren’t seen as an unnecessary expense - it was the first time for such functional purpose to build with opulent and organic decoration of this kind.

Indeed, there is a great sacral charge within the main octagonal space that encourages the people to gather between the columns, inviting you to look up but also to hide among the industrial spaces - that become almost domestic.  All four engines were named after members of the royal family; Victoria, Albert Edward and Alexandra: for this reason the choice of colors, materials and different patterns follows a specific narrative, becoming a built embodiment of their personalities. The spatial elements are actually personified, transformed into architectural characters.

Sprawled over a high plateau above La Paz, El Alto is arguably Latin America’s largest indigenous city. At an altitude of 4800 m, colorful buildings arise and geometric facades are visible from the teleferico travelling above the altiplano. The first cholets, also called New Andean architectures, were sighted almost fifteen years ago by Freddy Mamani Silvestre. Since then, they proliferated: various architects have appropriated them in terms of style and copied them typologically.

Cholets became expressions of wealth and cultural pride after centuries of oppression and colonialism. | Photo © Lemonot

Cholet is a portmanteau of the high-class chalet - the pitched roofs of these mansions resemble the ones of Swiss cottages and the derogatory cholo, a racist slang for an indigenous person. Mamani ‘s buildings have a common language, two or three storey and a ballroom on the highest ceiling room filled with Andean symbols, casted columns and windows with different geometrical profiles cutting the whole space.  Using the colors of textiles are tracing inspiration from traditional garments and folkloric masks. These ballrooms are identified not only through iconographies but also by the use they make of it - from dances to ceremonies, to domestic inhabitation, to basketball courts or swimming pools.

Cholets are always designed in close contact with the buyer, triggering a personal and almost process of embodiment of the owner with the building itself. The building is to produce income. On the roof is our own home. The spatial experience can be read in completely opposite way, during the day the light from outside is absorbed by the colors and it seems to be in a video game, a confetti space. As soon as darkness falls, the LED lights direct you into the ballroom and surround every architectural element.

Not only the architecture itself is ornamental but the eccentricity with which the Aymara use and change the program of the space. The one of cholets is a controversial phenomenon, that nonetheless portrays the political, social and economic contemporaneity in Bolivia. On an urban level the cholets have become a symbol, recognizable monuments - able to immediately recall Andean identity nationally and internationally. Ultimately, the architecture of Crucero del Sur speaks the same language of the ceremonies that take place inside it. In these exuberant interiors, matter and performance achieved an absolute reciprocity.

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#FOMA 41: Sabrina Morreale and Lorenzo Perri 

Sabrina Morreale and Lorenzo Perri are architects, educators and co-founders of Lemonot, a design and research platform based in London. Hungry observers and compulsive collectors of anthropic mirabilia, they’re interested in all those iconographic gestures that enable the mutual immanence among objects, bodies and rituals. Their academic research focuses on contemporary folklore as a trigger for unconventional spatial languages, between geometrical abstraction and material figurativism. They’re Programme Heads of the AA Visiting school El Alto and currently teach at the Architectural Association and the University of Applied Arts Vienna.

[danielledownunder-blog1]

Exploring Sydney & Oxford Art Factory

I can’t believe I’ve already been in Sydney for a whole week! In the time since I arrived, I’ve learned a lot about the lockout laws and how locals feel about the regulations. It’s been so interesting to hear a wide variety of opinons about the lockout laws and the varying effects different people have observed since the Liquor Amendment Act was put in place in 2014.

I had the weekend off from meetings, so I decided to do some exploring! On Friday, I took the Manly Ferry to North Sydney where Jess is staying and we met up for brunch before heading out to look around a few art galleries. We then headed down to Manly Beach, which was beautiful! After relaxing in Manly for a bit, Jess and I hiked to Collins Beach, located in Sydney Harbour National Park. Collins Beach looked like something out of a luxury travel brochure! It was absolutely breathtaking, and we spent a few hours there enjoying the fresh air and gorgeous views. I took the ferry back to Circular Quay at the perfect time - just as the sun was setting over the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

On Saturday, Jess and I enjoyed the warm weather as we explored the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. I particularly enjoyed the Succulent Garden and the Palm Tree Grove at the Botanic Gardens.

On Sunday, we visited the Museum of Contemporary Art. I was thrilled to see a piece by Sydney artist Imants Tillers that was created in reponse to artwork by Colin McCahon. McCahon is one of New Zealand’s most celebrated artists, and I got to see a huge exhibition of his work at the City Gallery during my time in Wellington. Upon seeing Tillers’s piece, I immediately recognized the similarities it shared with McCahon’s artwork. We also saw an exhibition of works by Jenny Watson, a feminist artist who was very active in Melbourne’s 1990s punk scene. The exhibition featured a full room of music-inspired Watson pieces, ranging from paintings of musicians to women enjoying music and even pieces about what it was like to be part of the punk movement at the time. I found this selection of pieces particularly interesting due to its connections to my Magellan topic. After the MCA, Jess and I wandered around The Rocks Markets and walked down to the Opera House. Overall a great weekend getting to know Sydney!

Because I’ve been dealing with a cold for the past two weeks, I decided to take a rest day yesterday (Monday) and do some research for my meetings this week.

Today I met with Tom, the event manager at Oxford Art Factory. Oxford Art Factory is a small to medium-size live music venue just outside of Darlinghurst, meaning it falls in the area affected by the lockout laws. Tom told me about how the lockout laws have affected business for many venues in Sydney - not just the venues that have shut down. Though Oxford Art Factory is a larger venue than many of the small bars that have gone out of business following the introduction of the laws, they have also experienced some significant changes. For example, when selecting artists to perform at the venue, Tom must focus on hiring artists that he knows will sell more tickets as opposed to hiring newer, up-and-coming local acts. Tom also told me about what his job as an event manager is like, from corresponding with artists and tour managers to coordinating marketing and advertising for upcoming shows. It was super cool to hear about what Tom does as an event manager because that is the type of career I would like to pursue!

Ultimately, Tom provided me with some great insight on what its been like to work in Sydney’s live music industry during this period of change due to the lockout laws!

[topfygad]

95+ Things to do in Australia

I spend so much of my time pursuing bucket list items outside of Australia that I often forget just how much there is to be said for an Australian bucket list. With a huge variety of climates, landscapes, and cultures to be explored, the hardest part of preparing the following list was limiting it to just 95 things you should do while in Australia.

Australia is a huge country, so tackling all ninety-five of the items below might take a few return journeys! You might want to enlist the aid of an Australia tour specialist.

Like bucket lists? I’ve prepared popular China bucket list, South Korea bucket list, and Japan bucket list posts for your to enjoy!

Editor’s Note: Needing to brush up on your Aussie slang? Don’t forget to check out my exhaustive Guide to Australian Slang.

As one of the more popular and safe countries in world tourism, it’s understandable that Australia has quite a few ‘must see’ items that might seem obvious to any seasoned traveler.

The below can be considered a rough guideline for planning the perfect one or two month trip to Australia.

There are some delicious food challenges, a smattering of sporting events, and some unforgettable experiences along the way.

Image courtesy of Christopher Chan

1. Visit the Sydney Opera House (NSW)

Arguably Australia’s most recognisable piece of architecture, the stunning Sydney Opera House defines the Sydney skyline and symbolizes the largest Australian city in the same way that the Statue of Liberty defines New York City.

Completed in 1973, the distinctive white ‘shells’ of the Opera House house a number of performance venues. It’s not just opera that takes place in the Opera House, but also stand-up comedians, dance, orchestral performances, and touring speakers and performers from all around the world.

The best part? The Opera House can be experienced without having to spend a dime! If all you want to do is snap a few photos of the unique structure, you can do this from land or sea without having to pay for the privilege.

Touring the Sydney Opera House

Of course, there are also a number of guided Opera House tours for those who want a more comprehensive experience. These range in price from an affordable $37 walking tour to thelavish $295 Tastes of the Opera House food tour.

If guided tours aren’t your bag, there’s always the chance to see a show in the Sydney Opera House. I was lucky enough to see the Cirque de Soleil style La Soiree in the Opera House in 2011 and it was unforgettable.

Seeing the Opera House from a Unique Perspective

While it’s certainly possible to simply walk to the steps of the Opera House from Circular Quay Station, I’ve always found it’s most beautiful from alternate perspectives.

The Manly Ferry (mentioned later in this bucket list) affords a fantastic photo opp as you pass by the Opera House.

If you’re feeling a bit braver, the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb also affords a spectacular view of the shells from above.

Where: The Sydney Opera House is located a short walk from Circular Quay Station in Sydney’s CBD.

Cost: It’s free to visit the Opera House. Tours start from $37 AUD.

Standing atop with the Sydney Harbour Bridge with friends in 2010.

2. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge (NSW)

Sydney’s other distinctive landmark: the Sydney Harbour Bridge is right up there with the Brooklyn Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, and Tower Bridge when it comes to iconic bridges.

A feature of the Sydney skyline since 1932 and remains a major artery in the city’s transit network to this day.

Stretching from North Sydney to the bustling CBD, the Harbour Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in Australia with good reason. Its distinctive look is matched only by the stunning backdrop that Sydney’s towering skyline provides.

While it’s free to walk from Milson’s Point to The Rocks (or vice versa), the bridge is best experienced by climbing to the very top and looking out over the city.

Climbs are run year-round by Bridgeclimb Sydney, with their sunset or after dark climbs being especially spectacular. Nothing quite beats the feeling of standing above everything and looking out over the glittering city lights and their reflections in Sydney Harbour.

Where: Sydney Harbour Bridge can be walked across from Wynyard or Milson’s Point Station. BridgeClimb’s office is located in The Rocks at 3 Cumberland Street.

Cost: Walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. BridgeClimb experiences start at $183 and top out at $383 for the sunrise or sunset climbs.

Image courtesy of A Beach Cottage

3. Visit Bondi Beach (NSW)

Australia’s most famous beach may be a tad overrated, but it wouldn’t be a trip to Australian shores without getting some sun, sand, and surf on the country’s most famous beach.

A year-round attraction, Bondi Beach is a picturesque stretch of beach often hidden by the massive crowds of local and international tourists clambering for a precious patch of white sand.

If you’ve longed to experience the distinctly Aussie beach day complete with fish and chips, impossibly attractive lifeguards, hipster cafes, and aggressive surf, Bondi Beach is about as quintessential as an Aussie beach experience gets.

While it’s true there are definitely better beaches than Bondi in Sydney (such as Coogee, Manly, Cronulla, Shelly, and Bronte), Bondi remains the most popular and is well worth a visit if only so you can say you’ve been.

Where: Bondi Beach can be reached by train and bus from Town Hall Station in approximately 30 minutes.

Cost: Free! Australian beaches are always free!

Image courtesy of cactusbeetroot

4. Explore the Blue Mountains (NSW)

Sticking with the Sydney theme, it’s off to the neighbouring Blue Mountains to soak in the serenity of the Australian bush.

While the Blue Mountains are just a short train ride from the heart of Sydney, you couldn’t feel more removed from the hectic noise of the city. Standing at one of the lookout points or hiking through the bush, you might as well be a thousand miles from Bondi or The Rocks.

The famous Three Sisters are the most recognisable landmark in the region, but the Blue Mountains is far more than just a photo opportunity.

Dine in the quaint cafes of Leura, Blackheath, or Katoomba, venture into the Blue Mountains National Park to hike amidst the waterfalls and dense scrub, take in the lights at Jenolan Caves, or ride the death-defying rides at Scenic World. The world is your oyster!

Where: The Blue Mountains are two hours from Sydney by bus, train, or car. Major train stations include Katoomba and Wentworth Falls.

Cost: It’s free to visit the Blue Mountains National Park. Attractions such as Scenic World and Jenolan Caves do have their own entrance fees.

5. Overnight at Taronga Zoo (NSW)

Australia’s most famous zoo, Taronga might just be the most picturesque zoo in the world. With a stunning view of Sydney Harbour and its major landmarks, Taronga is an island of calm located just twelve minutes from the city.

Taronga is home to more than 4,000 animals and boasts a huge variety of activities such as ropes courses, up close animal encounters, educational courses, and much more.

For a truly unforgettable experience, however, the option is there to spend a night in the zoo. You’ll not only enjoy having the zoo to yourselves after dark, but also dine on delicious food and fall asleep to the sounds of elephants, lions, and much more. It’s as close to a safari as you’re likely to get in Australia.

Even if you can’t afford the price for the Roar and Snore experience, a visit to the zoo is a great way to see both Australian and international wildlife.

Where: Taronga Zoo is a twelve-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay Station.

Cost: Entry to the zoo starts at $27 for children and $47 for adults. The Roar and Snore overnight experience starts at $195 for children and $295 for adults.

Shelly Beach is my favourite beach in Sydney.

6. Ride the Manly Ferry (NSW)

Sydney Harbour is crisscrossed by a number of ferries, but none offers a more picturesque journey than the Manly Ferry.

Taking people from Circular Quay to Manly, this half-hour ride takes you past the Opera House and past the headlands where the mighty Pacific Ocean meets the Sydney Harbour.

It’s more than just the journey too, as a day in Manly is an experience all of its own!

Grabbing a bite to eat on The Corso, swimming at Manly, Dee Why, or Freshwater Beach, swinging by 4 Pines Brewing Company, visiting the Manly Aquarium, or having a beach BBQ on Shelly Beach, there’s so much to see and do on Sydney’s North Shore.

Where: The Manly Ferry leaves every hour from Circular Quay.

Cost: Tickets on the Manly Ferry are $6.20 one way.

Photo by Danya Rose

7. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Sydney (NSW)

Few cities ring in the New Year quite as well as the Harbour City, with Sydney’s annual fireworks display being one of the most spectacular in the world.

Ringing in the New Year in Sydney is one of the biggest parties in Australia and an absolute must if you’re going to be in Australia over the holiday.

The city grinds to a standstill during the party, with tens of thousands of locals and visitors hitting popular vantage points such as Darling Harbour, Barangaroo Reserve, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and many more.

Be sure to check the Sydney New Year’s website for details on which areas are ticketed and which are free, where BYO alcohol is prohibited, and timing for various events and performances on the night.

Where: All over Sydney Harbour.

Cost: Free, although some areas of the city are ticketed.

8. Wander the historic Rocks district (NSW)

As Australia’s oldest city, Sydney has plenty of history if you know where to look. While it’s a bit touristic these days, the historic Rocks district is arguably the best place in the city to learn more about the area’s roots.

An intriguing collection of colonial-era buildings and historic sites, trendy brewpubs and eateries, and glitzy boutiques, The Rocks is one of my favourite parts of Sydney to just wander around.

It’s home to my absolute favourite pub in Sydney (Hart’s Pub) as well as a selection of other fantastic pubs with plenty of history such as Lord Nelson, Hero of Waterloo, and Australian Heritage Hotel.

Taking a Rocks Walking Tour or a spooky Rocks Ghost Tour is a great way to learn more about the area’s history, but even wandering at your own pace and soaking it in is a real treat.

Where: The Rocks is a short walk from multiple Sydney train stations including Wynyard and Circular Quay.

Cost: Free.

Image courtesy of Sacha Fernandez

9. Attend the Royal Easter Show (NSW)

The Australian equivalent to a US State Fair, the Royal Easter Show is one of the biggest ‘agricultural exhibitions’ in Australia. This might sound a bit dry, but an Aussie show is just as much about food, alcohol, and rides as it is about who has the biggest pig and who took the best photo.

More something for families than for young travelers, there’s still a little for all tastes at the Royal Easter Show. We’re talking rides and activities for kids, bars and restaurants for adults, and performances of all varieties for the family.

Can’t make it to Sydney for the Easter weekend? Most towns in Australia have an annual agricultural show that offers up the same experience in miniature! You can find an exhaustive database of shows and dates here.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to buy a show bag!

Where: Sydney Showground in the Sydney Olympic Park.

Cost: Tickets start at $37 for adults and $22 for children.

Image courtesy of Andrew Wilson.

10. Achieve peak hipster in Melbourne (Victoria)

Arguably Australia’s most popular cities when it comes to tourists and expats, ultra trendy Melbourne is more about the vibe than a set list of things to do.

While Sydney boasts obvious landmarks you need to visit, Melbourne is more about taking your time and soaking in Australia’s most cosmopolitan city.

It’s home to Australia’s best coffee and a mouth-watering cuisine scene, as well as world-class shopping, art galleries, and entertainment.

As Australia’s self-proclaimed sporting capital, it’s also one of the best places in Australia to attend one of the national sports such as Super Rugby, the National Rugby League, the A-League, the T20 Big Bash, and the AFL.

Looking for some Melbourne inspiration? Check out this insane Melbourne bucket list.

Where: Melbourne can be reached by plane, bus, train, or car. It’s serviced by a large international airport.

Cost: Free to visit. A tad more to dine, shop, or stay in.

11. Visit the Gold Coast (QLD)

Australia’s most famous beach playground, the white sand and clear waters of Queensland’s Gold Coast are a popular attraction for tourists from around the world.

Catering to international and local tourists in a way no other Australian city does, the Gold Coast can boast having something for all walks of life. From bustling theme parks to glitzy casinos to chilled surfer towns, all tastes are catered to in this southern Queensland haven.

While I won’t go so far as to say the beaches are world-class or that you can’t find a lot of what the Gold Coast offers elsewhere, nowhere else in Australia can lay claim to having all of the ingredients in such close proximity.

For shopping, night-life, and family-friendly entertainment, there are few places in Australia more perfect.

What to do on the Gold Coast

If you’re traveling with kids, theme parks such as Dream World and Movie World are always popular. I’ve even written about my own visit to Dream World. There are also wildlife experiences such as Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

For big kids, the clubs and pubs of Surfers Paradise are a haven for cashed-up tourists and budget backpackers alike, offering debauchery in spades. There’s also Jupiter’s Casino for those wanting something a bit more glitzy.

Aside from the stunning beaches, there are also a number of nearby national parks in which you can get in touch with Australia’s unique wildlife. These include parks such as Springbrook, Tamborine, and Lamington.

Where: The Gold Coast is a short drive from Brisbane, but can also be reached by its own international airport.

Cost: Free to visit.

Image courtesy of Richard Ling

12. Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef (QLD)

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is unquestionably one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, but you’ll need to see it before the Australian government’s pro-mining, anti-environment policy bleaches it to oblivion.

Cynicism aside, scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef is a goal worthy of any travel bucket list, let alone an Australian one.

I was lucky enough to learn to scuba dive on the Barrier Reef, but it did spoil me for all future scuba diving. Once you’ve dived the Great Barrier Reef, subpar house reefs in Southeast Asia just won’t cut it!

I Can’t Scuba Dive!

Not scuba-certified?

A little uncomfortable at the idea of being deep underwater with a tank of air strapped to your back?

I understand that scuba diving isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. Thankfully, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is almost as good as diving on it.

There are plenty of areas where the crystal clear waters are shallow enough to allow you to experience the reef’s vibrant colours on a snorkeling tour. There are even glass-bottom boats available for those who are allergic to the ocean!

Where: The Great Barrier Reef stretches along much of the Queensland coast, but popular dive spots exist in Townsville, Cairns, and Port Douglas.

Cost: Certified dives range in price from $60 – $100 AUD per dive (including equipment). This is on top of any boat fees (often $200+ AUD).

13. Complete a Tim Tam Slam (N/A)

Here’s a nice, easy one you can do without even having to venture all the way to Australian soil.

The Tim Tam is a hugely popular chocolate biscuit (or ‘cookie’, for my American readers) that Aussies have invented a rather inventive way of eating.

See below for the how and why of it all:

So, grab a packet of Tim Tams, put the kettle on for a hot cuppa, and get a little bit sticky eating Australia’s most popular biscuit!

Where: Anywhere!

Cost: A packet of Tim Tams will set you back around $2 AUD in Australia, but considerably more if you’re abroad. They’re $6 a packet here in Vietnam!

Image courtesy of Vincent Brown

14. Try Vegemite on Toast (N/A)

If Tim Tams are one of Australia’s most beloved exports, it’s safe to say that Vegemite is at the opposite of the spectrum.

This salty, yeast-rich spread has a cult following in Australia but is definitely an acquired taste. I didn’t like it at all until I was in my teens, and now I never leave home without a jar or tube of the stuff.

It’s actually unbelievably good for you too!

Many first-time Vegemiters make the mistake of spreading it onto their toast like they would peanut butter or jam (jelly). Rookie error!

Vegemite is best when you put a light spread – a dusting if you will – across your toast. It gives a delightful saltiness to an otherwise mundane bit of bread. Winning!

Where: Anywhere!

Cost: A jar of Vegemite is around $2 AUD in most grocery stores.

Image courtesy of Richard

15. Chill Out in Byron Bay (NSW)

If the Gold Coast is synonymous with partying and Bondi is famous for its hordes of sun-reddened British expats, Byron Bay is Australia’s most well-known hippie get away.

If you’re all about acai bowls, drum circles, hemp clothing, reggae, and dream of a day when weed is legal in Australia, you’re probably going to love Byron Bay.

That isn’t to say that this gorgeous beachside town is a den of sin and iniquity – far from it! I grew up holidaying in nearby Ocean Shores, and Byron Bay remains a popular destination for Aussie families who can stomach the crowds.

What to do in Byron Bay

The obvious attraction in Byron Bay are its beaches. It’s a great place to work on your tan, do a little sea kayaking, or take a surf lesson.

Nearby Nimbin is a popular hippie town famous for its community market, while a number of national parks and stunning landscapes are close by for those who want to do a spot of hiking.

Seeing the sunrise at Byron Bay Lighthouse (Australia’s easternmost point) is also an experience not to be missed, and very nearly warranted a spot all of its own on this list!

For more Byron Bay inspiration, check out this post by 2Aussie Travellers!

Where: Byron Bay can be reached by bus or train, but is also close to both Gold Coast Airport and Ballina Airport for flights. It is a two-hour drive from Brisbane and a scenic nine-hour drive from Sydney.

Cost: Free to visit.

16. Learn to Surf in Torquay (Victoria)

It’s true that you could learn to surf on the Gold Coast, in Byron Bay, in Sydney, and in a dozen other places, but I’ve got to give a little love to Victoria, whose beaches are often overlooked due to the cooler climate.

Located southwest of Melbourne, Torquay and nearby surfing hubs such as Lorne and Bells Beach are hugely popular with surfers on all parts of the skill spectrum. Bells Beach’s famous breaks might be a bit much for a newcomer, but lessons in Torquay are a great way to get into the sport.

There are a number of surf schools to choose from, so do your research and get out there!

Where: Torquay is located roughly ninety minutes from Melbourne.

Cost: Lessons start at around $60 AUD, including equipment hire.

Image courtesy of asheshwor

17. Experience the Barossa Valley (SA)

The days of Australia being perceived as a nation of beer-swilling colonials may never truly die, but Australia’s status as one of the world’s premier wine-growing nations has certainly helped our global stocks.

While there are a number of world-class wine regions scattered across Australia, South Australia’s Barossa Valley is arguably the most well-known.

The perfect place to sample fantastic wines, indulge your inner gourmand, and soak in the beauty of rural Australia, the Barossa Valley is an easy day-trip from Adelaide. This makes it the most accessible of Australia’s prominent wine regions.

You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy wine country. I found this out when I was a wine virgin in wine country. It’s hard not to have fun drinking good wine, eating all of the cheese, and soaking in a bit of sun.

Where: The Barossa Valley is a 45-minute drive from Adelaide, which is served by an international airport. While in Adelaide, I recommend staying at the Grand Chancellor Adelaide.

Cost: Cellar door tastings are free, but it’s polite to buy a little something. Guided tours range from $100 to $200 AUD per person.

Image courtesy of Paul Benjamin

18. Go sailing in The Whitsundays (QLD)

Famed for its white sand and crystal clear waters, Queensland’s Whitsundays Islands are an archipelago centered around Hamilton Island and famous for world-class sailing and picturesque, isolated beaches.

Located midway between Cairns and Brisbane, the Whitsundays are a popular (albeit expensive) stop on many an East Coast road trip. It’s arguably Australia’s most Instagrammed location, and you’ll understand why when you see that impossibly white sand and spend some time swimming in bathwater-warm seas.

Whether you sail its emerald waters, visit famous Airlie or Whitehaven Beach for a soak, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, or just soak in its unspoiled beauty – the Whitsundays is a must for any Aussie itinerary.

Sailing the Whitsundays

A visit to the Whitsundays is a must for any Australian bucket list, but sailing around the Whitsundays is a daydream all of its own.

Ranging in length from romantic sunset cruises to multiple day excursions, heading out onto the water and island-hopping is a pricey but unforgettable way to experience the Whitsundays.

Where: A long drive from either Cairns or Brisbane, so it’s best to fly to either Great Barrier Reef Airport on Hamilton Island or Proserpine Airport. It’s also possible to get there by train.

Cost: Free to visit, but sailing tours start at around $350 AUD and go up in price based on length of trip and level of luxury.

Image courtesy of Australian Traveller

19. Drive the Great Ocean Road (Victoria)

There are few more iconically Australian things to do than hit the open road and go on an Aussie road trip.

A country the size of Australia has no shortage of memorable road trips, but few are as picturesque as the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. Stretching almost 250 breathtaking kilometres, it’s one of the most picturesque drives you’re ever likely to encounter.

Much like South Africa’s Garden Route, it’s every bit as much about the drive as it is about the many stops along the way. From the towering Twelve Apostles to serene bushwalks to quaint country towns to isolated beaches, there’s just so much to see and do along the way.

Where: The Great Ocean Road stretches between Torquay and Allansford in Victoria.

Cost: Free to drive, but you’ll need to factor in car hire, petrol, and any incidentals along the way.

Image courtesy of Lawrence Murray

20. Experience an Uluru Sunrise (NT)

Like something out of primal mythology, the monolith of Uluru (formerly known as Ayer’s Rock) is one of Australia’s most enchanting and isolated landmarks.

Located almost smack-dab in the heart of Australia’s sunbaked desert, the iconic red of Uluru draws people to the red centre of Australia year after year.

Spectacular at any time of day, Uluru is especially beautiful when experienced at sunrise or sunset. The reds, oranges, and purples of the sun combine wonderfully with the natural ochre of Uluru to create something positively otherworldly.

Don’t Climb It

You might be tempted to climb Uluru, but don’t. Only assholes climb Uluru, which is a sacred site to the local Anangu people.

As of 2019, this ‘no climbing’ rule changes from respectful request to outright law.

Where: Uluru can be reached by bus or overland, but the easiest way is to take a flight to Ayers Rock Airport.

Cost: It costs $25 AUD for a three-day pass to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Image courtesy of Rudolf Helmis

21. Visit the Nation’s Capital, Canberra (ACT)

What? Australia’s capital isn’t Sydney or Melbourne!?

You’d be surprised how many people not only don’t know Canberra is the national capital, but that it even exists.

While it’s true that Canberra is more oversized country town than true city, you would be remiss to visit Australia and not at least see where the business of governing is done.

Home to some of Australia’s best galleries and museums, Canberra is a must for those with an interest in Australian culture and history.

What to do in Canberra

The National Gallery of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of Australia, and the National Library of Australia are just a few of the more prominent museums and galleries in the capital. When you add in kid-friendly Questacon and the CSIRO Discovery Centre, you’ve got enough culture to make yogurt.

Of course, it’s not all museums.

Parliament House is a pretty impressive bit of architecture, while man-made Lake Burley-Griffin is a popular spot for picnics and water sports.

Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Stromlo Forest Park, the National Botanical Gardens, or the National Arboretum to get their dose of greenery, but Canberra is one of Australia’s greenest and most picturesque cities.

Where: Canberra is serviced by an international airport. It is also reachable by car, train, or bus from both Sydney (3 hours) or Melbourne (eight hours).

Cost: Free to visit, but individual attractions vary.

22. Attend an Australia Day BBQ (N/A)

While it’s true that most Australian holidays end up being about beer, a BBQ, and time off from work – Australia Day is the most quintessential of Australia’s holidays.

Taking place on January 26th each year, the day celebrates Australia’s settlement by Europeans – which has caused plenty of controversy amongst both indigenous Australians and non-European immigrants in recent years.

Politics notwithstanding, the day tends to be a popular excuse to get to the beach or, failing that, have a BBQ and a few too many beers in your backyard.

Don’t have a backyard? Major cities such as Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne regularly come alive with parties and events in honour of the occasion, and even the smallest of towns is sure to have some kind of event you can attend.

Where: Just about anywhere.

Cost: Free!

23. Feed a kangaroo and hold a koala (N/A)

One that all of my female friends seem most excited about: feeding a kangaroo and giving a hug to an adorable, chlamydia-riddled koala.

The good news? It’s perfectly possible to do both of these during your trip to Australia!

The bad news? It’s open to debate how you should feel about this from a conservation standpoint.

If you’re against zoos and the like, you’re going to have to reconcile that with your desire to snuggle up to a eucalyptus-addled koala, I’m afraid.

Shut up and tell me where to go, Chris!

If you’ve got your heart set on it, you can feed kangaroos at a number of wildlife reserves and zoos around Australia. Some of these are going to be better than others when it comes to quality of life for the animals, so do your research.

Most states forbid you actually holding a koala, but you can still legally do this in South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland. Personally, I experienced this at Rainforestation Nature Park in Kuranda.

Where: Kangaroos can be fed all around Australia, but you’ll need to go to Queensland, South Australia, or Western Australia to hug a koala.

Cost: Varies from park to park, but koala experiences usually start at around $20 AUD.

24. Sample a bit of pavlova (N/A)

It’s open to debate as to how much of a claim Australia actually has to the invention of pavlova, but damned if we’re going to let New Zealanders and their accursed facts take our beloved dessert away from us!

A heavenly combination of light, fluffy meringue, fresh fruits, and whipped cream – pavlova is a popular dessert at Australian BBQs and parties.

They’re harder to make than you would think, but you can buy the meringue base at most grocery stores and take the majority of the leg-work out of the equation. Otherwise, just ask your Aussie friends if they can whip one together for you or grab some at the nearest trendy cafe.

Where: Virtually everywhere, although it takes time to prepare.

Cost: If you don’t DIY, you can expect to pay around $10 – $20 at a cafe.

25. Eat a kangaroo steak (N/A)

You’ve fed a kangaroo, so it’s only natural that you let a kangaroo feed you!

As uncomfortable as you might feel about the idea at first, kangaroo is an increasingly popular fixture on Australian tables due to the leanness of the meat and the gamey flavour. With kangaroo numbers often so high that culls are necessary, you can enjoy a guilt-free steak, stir fry, or burger!

Combine this with an Australia Day BBQ and you’ve killed two birds roos with one stone!

Where: You’ll need to head out to a restaurant or buy your meat at a butcher, as grocery stores don’t stock kangaroo meat.

Cost: You can expect to pay a bit more than you would pay for beef or chicken.

Image courtesy of Pierre Roudler

26. Attend a State of Origin match (QLD/NSW)

Australians love their sport, but exactly which sport they love is going to vary based on where in Australia you are.

In New South Wales and Queensland, rugby league tends to be the most popular of the sporting codes. While the club competition (the National Rugby League) is well worth a look if you’re into contact sports, even somebody who doesn’t love their sports is likely to get a kick out of State of Origin.

An annual, three-game series featuring the best players from Queensland and New South Wales, the matches are played at an intensity that comes from decades of interstate rivalry.

With sell-out crowds jamming into stadiums in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne – the matches are some of Australia’s most watched television and bring entire towns to a standstill.

Getting to the Game

While you can definitely experience a taste of the passion by watching the game on the big screen at a pub or leagues club, nothing can match the experience of being surrounded by 70,000 screaming madmen and madwomen during a game.

You can check out the State of Origin schedule to see if one of the matches takes place while you’re in town, but be sure to also check out the NRL draw to see if there is a game you can catch during the winter months.

Where: State of Origin games are usually split between Brisbane, Sydney, and a neutral venue such as Melbourne or (in 2019) Perth.

Club games are played in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Townsville, Newcastle, the Gold Coast, and Auckland, New Zealand.

Cost: Tickets start at $87 AUD. Club games are much cheaper, with tickets starting at $15 – $20 AUD.

27. Attend an AFL match (Victoria/SA/WA)

Remember what I said about different sports being popular in different states?

If you’re in Western Australia, South Australia, or Victoria – that sport is likely to be Australian Rules football. Somewhat akin to a fusion between rugby, Gaelic football, and football (soccer), the sport is Australia’s most attended code and practically religion in the southern states.

With clubs scattered across the country, it’s possible to attend a match in every Australian state, but the best experience is likely to be had in sports-mad Melbourne. The Victorian capital has ten teams within spitting distance, meaning rivalries are intense and derby matches can draw crowds in excess of 100,000.

While I’m not an AFL fan myself, a lot of ‘sports neutral’ people such as my fiancee have said they loved the pageantry and atmosphere of a live AFL game. It is definitely a sport best experienced live, rather than on TV.

Getting to a Game

The AFL season runs throughout Australia’s winter months, with games taking place across the country.

You can check the AFL draw to see when there is a game in the area you’re visiting.

Where: Games are played in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Perth, Geelong, and occasionally in Darwin and Hobart.

28. Attend a cricket match (N/A)

This is the last sports one (for a while), I swear!

I’ve long believed that experiencing a country’s sporting culture is a great insight into the country as a whole, and that’s especially true of a sports mad country like Australia.

While rugby league, rugby union, and Aussie rules are hugely popular in Australia, no sport holds quite the same level of popularity in Australia as cricket.

Whether it’s the five-day long tests, the one-day matches between international sides, or the hugely popular T-20 Big Bash, cricket is a language unto itself.

Attending a Test Match

One for the diehard cricket fans out there, attending a five-day test match at the MCG, SCG, WACA, or GABBA is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The beer, the sunburn, and the slow pace of the game are something best experienced in person, but probably won’t be for everyone.

Attending a One-Dayer

Cricket in a far more digestible form, a one-day match lasts for (surprise surprise) a single day and is typically a more exciting match as a result. The two nations each face 50 overs (made up of six-ball innings) and aim to get the highest possible score.

It’s basically a slightly faster-paced version of baseball with fewer drugs and more casual racism.

Attending a T20 Match

If you’re a newcomer to cricket, my advise would be to get out to one of the T20 Big Bash matches that take place over the summer. A league comprising teams from Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart, Adelaide, and Melbourne – games are fast paced, family friendly, and alive with colour and pageantry.

With games lasting a much more manageable three-hours and with plenty of effort put into appealing to both women and children, it’s far and away Australia’s most family-friendly sporting event.

Where: A schedule for international test matches, one-dayers, and T20 matches featuring Australia can be found here. while fixtures for the popular T20 Big Bash can be found here.

Cost: Varies depending on the game, the opposition, and the venue.

29. Have a beach Christmas (N/A)

Being away from home for Christmas can be difficult, and that’s likely to be especially true if you’re not used to hot days, cold meat, and the fact snowmen, pine trees, and a fully-clothed Santa seem at odds with the 35C+ temperatures.

With that being said, there’s there’s plenty of reasons to love Christmas in Australia, so why not embrace that weirdness by celebrating the big day with a bit of a beach BBQ?

With Australia’s beaches public, it’s ridiculously easy to round up a few fellow expats and head on down to the beach for a few beers and a BBQ.

Just remember that most businesses are closed on Christmas Day, so you’ll want to stock up on Christmas Eve.

Where: Anywhere on the coast. Christmas is in summer!

Cost: Free!

Image courtesy of Phutully

30. Dress the part for Spring Carnival (Victoria)

Horse-racing might not be your thing, but there’s a reason that the annual Melbourne Cup is called “the race that stops a nation”. Places of business turn into ghost towns when the race begins, with offices and schools across the country arranging sweepstakes in celebration.

While it’s possible to experience Melbourne Cup fever anywhere in Australia, it’s best experienced in Victoria. Not only is it a public holiday for those lucky bastards, but you can also make the trek to Flemington Racecourse to experience all of the pomp and circumstance in person.

Attending the Melbourne Cup

The Spring Carnival is more than just a thoroughbred horse race. It’s a festival of food, live music, ornamental hats, and entirely too much booze.

Dressing up and over-indulging seems to be every bit as important as who wins the main attraction, so don your finest suit or frock, pick the best drinks/food package for you, and take as many obnoxious and regrettable selfies as humanly possible.

Where: The Spring Carnival and Melbourne Cup take place in and around Melbourne, with the main race at Flemington Racecourse.

Cost: Packages start from $75 AUD and go all the way up to the thousands for drinks packages.

31. Go Skiing in the Snowy Mountains (NSW)

Skiing and snowboarding are perhaps not the first things that come to mind when you think about Australia, but there’s a reason why Australia participates in the Winter Olympics.

The Australian Snowy Mountains come alive every winter, with skiers from all across Australia and around the world descending on famous Australian ski resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, and Mount Hotham to experience the closest to a true winter Australia gets.

It’s possible to find ski slopes in New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria, and Tasmania, although Thredbo and Perisher are the most popular options with the most facilities available.

With ski season running from June through October (dependent on conditions and location), why not sneak a cheeky ski in on your way from Sydney to Melbourne?

Where: There are multiple ski resorts in Australia, but the most popular include Thredbo and Perisher (NSW), Mt. Buller, Mt. Hotham, and Falls Creek (Victoria), and Ben Lomond (Tasmania). In all cases, you can fly to the nearest capital city and drive from there.

Cost: Passes in Tasmania start as low as $70 AUD, while the more prominent locations are closer to $150 AUD.

32. Go Whale Watching (QLD/NSW)

Rounding out the list of the obvious inclusions on an Australian bucket list, whale watching is a thrilling way to get up close and personal with some of the largest living mammals in the world.

With humpback whale migrations taking them along the Australian coast, it’s possible to head out for a day of whale watching from countless cities and towns. In fact, pretty much the only states where whale-watching isn’t feasible are the land-locked ACT and the Northern Territory.

The best spots? Southern Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay as well as Byron Bay and Sydney. I’ve been whale-watching in Sydney on multiple occasions and never come back empty-handed. I’ve also been whale-watching on Moreton Island.

Where: The most popular whale-watching destinations are southern Queensland as well as Byron Bay and Sydney.

Cost: Tours are usually around $100 AUD including lunch.

Are the above too obvious for you?

Head on over to the next page to get a little more off-the-beaten-path on your Australian bucket list.

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from Cheapr Travels http://cheaprtravels.com/95-things-to-do-in-australia-2/ via http://cheaprtravels.com

[wikitopx]

Barletta is part of a capoluogo (administrative district) together with the smaller cities of Andria, Trani, and Apulia.

Located in the south-eastern region of Italy, this commune sits directly on the coast facing the Adriatic Sea and the Gulf of Manfredonia. With a population of 94,000, it is one of the largest communes in the Barletta-Andria-Trani province and has an economy based on the production of concrete, and also agriculture. Surrounded by the sea on one side, the rest of Barletta is surrounded by vast expanses of farmland that spread throughout the countryside. In ancient times, Barletta was founded before the conquests of Rome and Greece and records its settlement dates from the 4th century BC.

[toc]

1. Castello Svevo di Barletta

This ancient castle is located in the center of Barletta and was originally built during the Norman conquests in Italy in the 11th century. Over the preceding years, the castle has taken many shapes and forms but has remained an important defensive structure throughout the city’s history.

This impressive castle is undoubtedly the most impressive structure in the city and is an absolute must-see! The structure features a symmetrical design with four identical diamond-shaped towers and the main entrance accessible only by an arched footbridge.

It is possible to make a castle tour and you can walk along the battlements and look out over the sea and into the city of Barletta. You can also walk through several of the castles interior rooms and underground passages.

2. Basilica del Santo Sepolcro

The Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre should not be confused with the same religious building in Jerusalem, but it does hold close ties with the Holy Land. Located on Corso Vittorio Emanuele, this church is Barletta's main religious structure and has some excellent architecture.

The exterior has a Gothic style that features a series of arches, and a small whitewashed bell tower. Inside the church, the walls have been left exposed and feature a myriad of stone arches that support the ceiling.

Although understated inside, the decoration is tasteful and the white stone walls and ceiling make the church extremely light and welcoming.

3. Teatro Curci

Italy has a lot of world-class theaters and operas and Teatro Curci is undoubtedly one of the best. This structure is located in the heart of the city center and is an important cultural building for the residents of Barletta.

Created in 1868, the theatre has a decadent front façade that looks more like a royal palace than a place of music and dramatics. Furthermore, the interior is truly amazing and has all the trappings of a typical 19th-century opera house.

The auditorium is full of red velvet, gold trimmings, and beautiful lighting. Four levels of private boxes run in a semi-circle and the domed ceiling is adorned with delightful artwork. The theatre runs a range of shows and a performance here is something not to be missed.

4. Colosso di Barletta

Legend has it that this immense bronze statue washed up on the shore of Barletta during the 13th century from a Venetian ship returning from the Fourth Crusade. Standing at 5.11 meters, this huge statue is approximately three times the size of a human and depicts an unknown Roman emperor.

Many scholars and historians have guessed at the identity of the statue and likely candidates include Theodosius, Honorius and Leo I the Thracian. Standing resolute outside the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre, this statue has come to symbolize Barletta and is a treasured artifact.

5. Lungomare Pietro Mennea

Behind the Lido di, Barletta is the long stretch of promenade that provides a great venue to enjoy an evening stroll as the sunsets. If you so wish, you could start your walk on the Lungomare Turistico which is located on the right-hand side of the harbor.

From here, you can pass the impressive Castello Svevo and the small harbor and onto the Lungomare Pietro Mennea. At the start of this promenade on the left-hand side, a fairground is sometimes held that features typical carnival-style games and rides.

As you walk further, you can take in the fantastic sea views and enjoy the shade of the palm trees. Alternatively, you can opt to head into one of the beach bars and have a drink or a snack.

6. Lido di Barletta

Due to its coastal location, Barletta is privy to an amazing stretch of beach that is the perfect place to relax and sunbathe. The beach stretches from the left-hand side of the port and pier and continues for several kilometers until it eventually dissipates further up the coast.

On this beach, you can find a variety of different facilities including sun loungers and parasols. Moreover, there are a variety of different beach bars, each with its own private beach stretching out to the sea.

If you grow tired of the beach, you can always explore the harbor and watch the fishing and sailing boats going about their daily business.

7. Cattedrale di Santa Maria Maggiore

More commonly known as Barletta Cathedral, this religious structure is one of the most important in the city and is located to the east of the historic city center. The front façade has a large rose window and an ornate main door with a decorative pediment.

Next to the church is a large bell tower with three different levels of bronze bells. As the church was modified over time, it features both Romanesque and Gothic elements. Inside, the cathedral has a myriad of detailed medieval decoration including sculptures of monsters and animals.

8. Museo Civico e Pinacoteca

This fantastic museum is actually located within the confines of the Castello Svevo and holds some important relics and artifacts relating to the history of the region. Whilst taking a tour of the castle, you simply cannot pass up on a chance to explore this museum.

Inside this establishment, there are three different sections; the Ancient gallery, the 19th-century gallery and the Gallery of Ferdinand Cafiero. Each section contains different artifacts and artwork from its respective era, mainly from artists local to the region.

The final gallery contains a variety of objects including ceramics, terracotta, engravings, and manuscripts. For an interesting insight into the art and culture of this region, there is no better place to visit.

9. Visit the city of Andria

Andria is part of the same province as Barletta and has a myriad of historical and tourist attractions of its own. You can reach this charming commune in just 40 minutes from the coast.

As this city was actually the residence of Emperor Frederick II, Andria features a series of beautiful structures such as the Castel del Monte, the Ducal Palace, the Church of San Domenico and the ornate Porta Santa Andrea.

Moreover, the city has some beautiful Piazzas and some interesting twists and turns of old streets to explore. If you grow tired of the golden beaches of Barletta then consider a cultural trip to Andria!

10. Enjoy a fine Italian meal at the Al Vecchio Forno restaurant

The Al Vecchio Forno restaurant is a fine establishment and an evening here is guaranteed to be a memorable one! Located on the Via Cialdini, this restaurant has a fantastic atmosphere and extremely friendly staff.

What makes this facility unique is the fact that there is no set menu - you actually sit down at the table and the staff will give you a wide selection of different dishes to try. Depending on how much you can eat and how adventurous you are you can try over 15 different plates including a great variety of seafood, antipasto, and meat.

More ideals for you: Top 9 things to do in Varese, Italy

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-barletta-707694.html

[torontotravelblog]

27 Free Things To Do with Kids in Toronto in Fall 2018

Autumn is a lovely time to get out and explore. It’s still nice enough to wander about, but not so hot that you’re sweltering in the sun. The outdoor colours are beautiful and the air is breathable. With the winter holidays approaching, it would nice to be able to save a bit of cash while exploring your fabulous city. Don’t worry, because there are lots of things to do in Toronto this fall for free!

Of course, there are always many places within our borders to discover and experience throughout the year—our many parks, the Distillery District, Kensington Market, the Beach, Harbourfront, St. Lawrence Market, the Islands. And we’ve gathered some events and happenings that will add a destination to your wanderings.

Fall Festivals and Events

Fall brings a flurry of harvest festivals, art and culture festivals, and street festivals—experience it all before the winter freeze!

Harvest Apple Festival Local bluegrass band the Unseen Strangers perform during this celebration of Ontario apples at Evergreen Brick Works. It will also feature a children’s bike maze, games, a scavenger hunt, and farmers, local food vendors, and baked goods vendors with special apple products. September 22–23

The Word on the Street The vaunted written word festival returns for its 29th year, featuring 200 Canadian authors and 17 stages at the Harbourfront Centre, including TD Kidstreet, with family fun like children’s author readings, music, games, a comic-creation workshop, and interactive science experiments. September 23

Todmorden Mills Harvest Festival Celebrate the harvest season at Todmorden Mills Heritage Site in East York by sampling 19th-century recipes, creating crafts, and touring the Wildflower Preserve. September 23

Downsview Park Orchard Party Celebrate the Autumn harvest by touring Downsview Park’s orchard, enjoying snacks, apple cider, and a campfire, and picking your own veggies, herbs, and flowers. All this and more family-friendly activities. September 23

Culture Days Culture Days brings a flurry of unique pop-up performances, interactive art installations, poetry slams, and all sorts of other cultural happenings to community locations throughout Canada. Experience free hands-on, interactive activities in your city or town and discover the creative people in your community. Find all scheduled Culture Days events in Toronto. September 28–30

Nuit Blanche Enjoy a night of art, fun, and interaction at Nuit Blanche. With 80 art installations in numerous indoor and outdoor venues across the city, families can have a special night out. September 29

High Park Harvest Festival High Park celebrates the season with local food, music, dance, pumpkin carving, apple bobbing, hands-on crafting and making, and roast potatoes and apple cider at Colborne Lodge. September 30

The Salmon Festival at Highland Creek Watch the salmon run upstream in Scarborough’s Morningside Park and enjoy wildlife displays, live performances, local food, nature walks, and more. September 30

Pumpkinfest Toronto Downsview Park’s Pumpkinfest has music, rides, games, food trucks, and more. Entry is free, but rides require passes. Enter the costume or pumpkin pie eating contest and wander through the inflatable corn maze this Thanksgiving weekend. October 6–8

Baby It’s Cold Outside Baby Point hosts its annual sidewalk sale in mid-November, featuring entertainment, strolling carollers, a petting zoo, and a chance to meet Santa. November 17

The Original Santa Claus Parade Yes, already! Santa starts making appearances well before winter arrives. Catch him early—and arrive early to snag a good viewing spot—at the city’s premier holiday parade along Bloor Street West and Spadina Avenue. It’s a must-do at least once! November 17

Exhibits, Concerts, and Cultural Programs

Fall is a great time to check off items on your art, music, and culture bucket list as new seasons begin at most cultural institutions and people head indoors as the weather cools down.

AGO Free Wednesday Nights Explore the galleries and discover art from a variety of times, styles, and origins. Admission is free on Wednesdays from 6 to 9 pm. Or you can pick up free tickets from select Toronto Public Library branches on a first come, first served basis, courtesy of the Museum + Arts Pass program. Wednesday evenings, or anytime with a MAP pass.

MAP Family Saturdays at the Library Museums and cultural institutions that participate in the Museum + Arts Pass program at the Toronto Public Library visit local branches throughout the fall, offering fun art and culture sessions for kids—from drama programs to hands-on ceramic arts and more. Registration applies for some programs. Saturdays in October and November

Gibson House Museum Thursday Nights Discover a different 19th-century activity each week at Gibson House, like spinning, hearth cooking, and community quilting, and learn more about the lives of the Gibson family. Pay what you can! Thursdays 5–8 pm, until December 27

Canadian Opera Company’s Free Concert Series Artists share their talent as chamber and world music, vocal, piano, and jazz musicians on select dates at the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Some Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at noon (check website for upcoming dates)

TD Gallery Exhibits The Toronto Reference Library’s TD Gallery hosts their current exhibit exploring Indigenous Ontario land and water routes, Pathways, and the upcoming Alice Opens the Door, with displays of first editions, artwork, toys, and games relating to Alice in Wonderland. Pathways through October 28; Alice Opens the Door, November 17–January 27.

Community Jams After a summer hiatus, Solar Stage at Wychwood Barns is launching a new season of its free Dance Jams, Story James, Music Jams, and Play Café with guest artists. Kids of all ages are welcome. Select Sunday mornings at 11 am.

Farmers’ Markets

Farmers’ markets across the city offer a cheery indoor or outdoor atmosphere to explore organic and/or local food and drink offerings while enjoying entertainment. Following are five of the most popular farmer’s markets around the city.

Montgomery’s Inn Farmer’s Market – September 5–December 19, 2018; Wednesdays 2–6 pm

Withrow Park Farmers’ Market – Through October 13, 2018; Saturdays 9 am–1 pm

Leslieville Farmer’s Market – Year-round; Sundays 9 am–2 pm

The Junction Market –  Through November 3, 2018; Saturdays, 9 am–1 pm

The Stop Farmer’s Market – Year-round, Saturdays 8 am–1 pm

Toronto Botanical Garden Organic Farmers’ Market  – Year-round; Thursdays 2–7 pm

Parks and Outdoor Attractions

Fall is the favourite season for many Torontonians, since you can enjoy outdoor activities without melting and you’ve got some lovely fall colours right here on our tree-lined streets and especially in our parks. Here are some city green spaces (or rather yellow, red, and orange spaces) worth a visit this fall.

Riverdale Farm City kids can feel right at home with country farm animals when they visit the only working farm in the city, in Cabbagetown. With cows, sheep, rabbits, turkeys, donkeys, and more, there are chances to get up close with, and watch the farmer interact with the animals at Riverdale Farm. Year-round, daily 9 am–5 pm.

Rouge Park Guided Walks Parks Canada volunteers lead themed walks through Canada’s first urban national park. Learn about plants, the Mast Trail, First Nations, archeology, and more, all in the context of Rouge Park, in Scarborough. Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays through October 31; times vary.

Solar Observing at the Ontario Science Centre The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada helps attendees safely observe the sun with specially filtered telescopes. Here’s a chance to spot sunspots, spicules, and prominences on our nearest star. Takes place outside the main entrance of the science centre (parking fees apply). October 27, November 24, December 22 at 10 am.

Family Nature Walks The High Park Nature Centre leads biweekly kid-friendly nature walks with themes like All You Need Is Bugs and Nature Journaling. These are all-ages, drop-in events. A $2–$5 donation is suggested. Every other Saturday, September 22–December 1, 1:30–3 pm

This article " 27 Free Things To Do with Kids in Toronto in Fall 2018" was first seen on help We've Got Kids by Jodi Crawford

IV Vitamin Drip Therapy Toronto Clinic - The IV Lounge

[harryandmeghan0-blog]

Why the world loves a royal wedding

New Post has been published on https://harryandmeghan.xyz/why-the-world-loves-a-royal-wedding/

Why the world loves a royal wedding

It’s not just the dresses, the carriage processions, the beautiful blushing brides – royal weddings, for one day at least, sees even cynics let their inner romantic run riot.

When the Prince of Wales married Lady Diana Spencer at St Paul’s Cathedral on July 29, 1981, the event was watched by an estimated global television audience of 750 million. That was about one in six of the world’s population, and several times the combined population of all those countries around the world – from Britain to Barbados, from Australia to St Vincent and the Grenadines – where Charles will one day be king. That is an awful lot of people who, in theory, should not care less about the marital arrangements of someone else’s future head of state. And it underlines one simple, inescapable fact: the world loves a royal wedding.

It’s not just the dresses, the carriage processions, the beautiful blushing brides (although, yes, Diana did have a spectacular dress, and made a lovely bride: remember all that ivory silk, and the Spencer tiara, and the glorious absurdity of that extraordinarily long train? So 80s). More than any other public event, royal weddings perform the unique conjuring trick of straddling the public and the private, providing a lavish display to entertain us at the same time as weaving a narrative of love and devotion that, for one day at least, sees even cynics let their inner romantic run riot.

And if, afterwards, we wonder why we let ourselves be taken in by it all, perhaps we should not be too harsh on ourselves: after all, they believed it at the time, too. Diana might have had bitter words to say later on, but it wasn’t what she thought at the time. “I just absolutely thought I was the luckiest girl in the world.” She had found her prince.

We might laugh at such fairytale imagery, and protest that these are real people, not Disney characters, but the truth is that in many ways the royals perform exactly the same function as the characters in those traditional folk tales. They hold up a mirror to society, expressing our hopes and aspirations by representing an idealised version of what we would like to be, while also providing a distraction from real life.

Never was that function more usefully performed than when the then Princess Elizabeth married Philip Mountbatten in November 1947. In those immediate post-war years, Britain was a grim place: with rationing, rising unemployment and a financial crisis just a few months before the wedding. No wonder Winston Churchill regarded it as “a flash of colour on the hard road we have to travel”.

While the wedding did a good job of cheering up everyone in Britain, it also touched a chord with people all round the world. Presents flooded in from every corner of the globe. There was a thoroughbred from the Aga Khan, a hunting lodge from the people of Kenya and, more prosaically, hundreds of pairs of nylon stockings. A woman in Brooklyn sent Elizabeth a turkey “because she lives in England and they have nothing to eat in England”.

It was also a jolly time for the royals themselves. With royalty from all over the world gathered in London, one lady-in-waiting described it as a “week of gaieties such as the court had not seen for years”.

In terms of spectacle, the wedding did everything that Churchill might have wished for: one American described it as “a movie premiere, an election, a World Series and Guy Fawkes night all rolled into one”. Behind the scenes, it was not unlike any other wedding, albeit somewhat grander. There was one panic when Elizabeth, getting dressed at Buckingham Palace, realised her pearls were around the corner at St James’s Palace (a courtier was dispatched on foot to get them), and another when the bridal bouquet could not be located. It was eventually found in a cupboard.

They would not have realised it at the time, but it was to be one of the last times that royalty would marry into royalty. As the 20th century unfolded, royal families would find their marriage partners from an ever-widening social circle. The wedding of Prince Rainier of Monaco and Grace Kelly was one of the great media events of its time, not least because MGM struck a deal to film both the civil and religious ceremony in exchange for releasing Kelly from her contract. It was a smart move: the wedding boasted glittering guests including film stars such as Cary Grant and Ava Gardner to tycoons like Aristotle Onassis and Conrad Hilton.

Royal weddings do not have to embrace Hollywood in order to have an international appeal. When Mary Donaldson, a one-time real estate agent from Tasmania, married Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark in 2004, it was big news in both Copenhagen and Australia: the Danish flag flew above Parliament House in Hobart, and the doors of the Sydney Opera House were thrown open to members of Australia’s Danish community who wanted to watch the event live on television. Best of all, there was that great wedding staple: the balcony kiss.

Over the years, royal weddings changed to reflect their times. When Queen Victoria married Prince Albert in 1840, her preference was for a private ceremony in a room at Buckingham Palace, but she was persuaded to hold the wedding at the Chapel Royal, St James’s Palace. Despite her desire for privacy, there was a huge public appetite to see the new bride. She recalled afterwards that when they travelled to Windsor there was an “immense crowd” outside the palace, which was “quite deafening”.

In 1960, at Westminster Abbey, Antony Armstrong-Jones became the first commoner in 400 years to marry the daughter of a British monarch: it was also the first royal wedding to be televised. More than 20 million people tuned in to watch it. Princess Margaret, whose demanding ways made her unpopular with her staff, managed to upset them further by not inviting any of them to the wedding. As she boarded the coach to take her to the abbey, one bowed and said as she passed: “Goodbye, Your Royal Highness”, adding as the coach pulled away, “and we hope forever”.

By the time Prince William married Catherine Middleton in 2011, things had moved on again. William wanted the day to be personal, but also a national celebration. When an early guest list produced a list of 777 names that protocol suggested should be invited, none of whom William cared about, he rang the Queen and said: “Do we need to be doing this?” She replied: “No. Start with your friends and then go from there.”

The most memorable image of the day was not the kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, but their choice of going-away transport. After the lunch party, they left in his father’s open-top Aston Martin, which had been decorated by Prince Harry with balloons and streamers and a number plate reading “JU5T WED”.

Now Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have done it their way. While their wedding had more than enough to keep the traditionalists happy – the service, the venue, the carriage procession through Windsor – they also made sure that their own personality shone through. It was a royal wedding: but it was also Harry and Meghan’s.

And that is the way it has always been, for everyone. Anyone getting married knows about the compromises involved, about how important it is to keep the older generation happy, while also ensuring that their wedding speaks of the here and now. The royal family is no different; they just have more cameras.

Valentine Low is the royal correspondent for the Times of London.

Source: https://www.vogue.com.au/brides/news/why-the-world-loves-a-royal-wedding/news-story/a2813237bdf83b58fe4711859cbff96d

[healthylifepage]

AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’

Across the world, countless bloggers have majored on Australia as a destination; there’s also a ceaseless stream of toned and fashionable Australians who dominate a casual perusal of the Instagram ‘Explore’ screen as if the algorithm is calibrated to go overweight Aussie beauty! My experiences, however, are just that; my own, not ‘new’, but just from me. That said, I sure as hell did my research before arriving in Sydney, systematically surveying every single Australian I know, then distilling their collective output into a one-week, extensive plan of attack! Indeed, having done-and-dusted with my experience in the Great Barrier Reef, pursued my full Sydney scheme precisely as it was sketched out, it gives me great joy to recount and depict the choicest of experiences here to you dear reader, whether you’re just curious or are planning an adventurous ‘Active Escape’ of your own! This post makes up Part 2 of the Australia series – and I sense there will be countless more parts to follow upon my future return to that magnificent country! I discovered an outdoor-dwelling society, predisposed to health and fitness, blessed with supreme weather and a fresh fish-based diet, in a culturally diverse and well-invested city where inhabitants genuinely smile. In fact it’s so good, this could conceivably be ‘home’ one day! Click MORE to discover my Top 10 experiences in Sydney…

POWER-WALKING THROUGH THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN…

Just south of the iconic Circular Quay, and with an unconstrained view of the key landmarks from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, a walk through the lush and fertile exotic gardens both lifts the sense and culminates with as good a view from the Rocks as you’ll get of the Harbour. For a clear empty run of it, going early in the day seems to be the trick to avoid tour-bus overload, but if you do go around lunchtime, you’ll see dozens of Sydney-siders running sprint circuits up and down Mrs. Macquarie’s Stairs!

2. HIKING FROM COOGEE TO BONDI…

Not for the faint of heart, and requiring somewhat of a comfortable pair of shoes, THIS is an 8.1km hike, lasting around 100 minutes. The wind howls on this part of the rugged coastline, the waves are treacherous, but the views are breathtaking and really quite awe-inspiring. Whether you just want to take in the coastline, breathe the air, bask in the sunshine, or admire the ocean-view properties, it is a superb walk. The path takes you through the lush and verdant Gordon’s Bay, the tranquil and striking Waverley Cemetery in which thousands of souls proudly look eternally out to sea, the Hunter Sculpture park, Bronte Bay (a surfer’s mecca), ending up on the iconic Bondi Beach.

3. OBSERVING ICEBERGS…

An iconic saltwater swimming pool, supplied and replenished by the crashing waves below; positioned at the commencement of the sweeping Bondi crescent, Icebergs is somewhat of a must, and is the natural conclusion of your Coogee-to-Bondi excursion, welcoming you as a refreshing iceberg after the desert hike! Note, it’s empty Thursday mornings for cleaning, so avoid it then (d’oh!). If you want some other epic places to swim, try North Sydney Pool (under the north side of the Bridge), or Andrew Boy Charlton pool on the far side of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

4. DINNER AROUND BONDI BEACH…

…wandering the length of the crescent, I stumbled upon an understated beachfront joint called Sean’s Panorama, which I later discovered is somewhat of a hard-to-book legendary institution. We happened upon an early table outside for sunset, bathed in the enrobing crepuscular light, and whiled the evening away with delicious fresh Australian fish dishes, typifying the relaxed approach to life, serving what’s caught on the day, per the Chef’s whim. At the other end of the spectrum, the 6 am Bondi Rush is something to behold, as the locals walk dogs, swim before work, and generally recouple with their beloved outdoors lifestyle before the day begins. Learning to surf is somewhat of a tourism box-ticker here, so if you haven’t, why not…

5. VISITING THE OPERA HOUSE…

…But not just seeing it, actually going to a performance in the cavernous Sydney Opera House ‘Concert Hall’. Same day concessionaires tickets were literally 20 GBP per head for central stalls seats, to see the country’s most distinguished orchestra (Sydney Symphony) present their rendition of Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle. Which was unusual, but utterly stunning, and a sonic treat to hear this remarkable sound-stage turned up to full texture and max volume! It struck me how much of a difference there was between the building from a distance (stunning), and the building up close (just like The Barbican in EC2, all brutalist and concrete). There’s a pretty stunning bar under the facility, with a terrace that looks directly at the Bridge, and is a sublime choice for a sunset tipple. Just beware of the confident seagulls!

6. CLIMBING THE BRIDGE…

Something I didn’t do. Why? The prohibitive cost of the activity, and the prohibition of any photographic media or even mobile phones! It’s basically as expensive to climb as it is to fly over in a private helicopter, which doesn’t sound right to me! So instead of climbing it, I took a lunch or two directly beneath it at the exquisite Park Hyatt, and snapped this shot of some chaps at the summit!

7. TAKE THE FERRY TO MANLY BAY…

Leaving from Circular Quay, almost regardless of the destination, this is one of the best ways to see the headline sights of Sydney, per the below images

8. GO ON SAFARI…

… well perhaps not quite, but Taronga Zoo is hands down the best zoo I’ve ever visited. There are many who are conflicted about the concept of animals in captivity, including myself; what I saw at this zoo was the greatest effort being made to provide an environment as close to the natural one as possible. There were exceptions, of course, some of which I struggle with, but as an admirer of nature, I was thrilled and exhilarated to see such a broad repertoire of incredible creatures, up so close. There are a significant number of photos included below to show you just how personal the encounters are with some of the most majestic beasts.

9. SEEK OUT COFFEE…

I love the stuff. Every Australian worth their salt loves the stuff. This place would seem to be the source of the hipster coffee shop invasion which took over London around 2-3 years ago, chief amongst them being Taylor Street Baristas. I tried around 10 of the most recommended coffee shops in Sydney, and through a totally unscientific, unmethodical approach involving randomness and amateur tasting notes, I have crowned a winner; Motown Coffee, details HERE.

10. SAMPLE LUNCHES…

Two iconic venues I discovered:

Catalina – Rose Bay. (http://catalinarosebay.com.au ) Sublime fresh food, and pure theatre inside. Clean white lines and a vast glass panorama revealing the sea-plane landing strip before you in the bay (the restaurant takes its name from the class of iconic seaplane https://www.catalina.org.uk), guests are just fabulously clad, wearing extravagant and exquisite dresses even for a light brunch. Unaware of this, I wasn’t! The food itself, however, is presented in no less spectacular a fashion, with a dedication to the symmetrical and ordered. The entire place feels extremely clean and fresh, with a light, vaguely hedonistic vibe pervading the volumes, never straying into the ostentatious. This is a slam-dunk great ‘occasion’ lunch for a trip to Sydney!

Otto Ristorante. (https://ottoristorante.com.au/sydney/) Just on Cowper Wharf in Woolloomooloo, and from the fringes of the CBD, this is the best place at which to recover strength after a stroll around the Botanical Gardens. Delivering fresh Italian inspired Australian fare, the Humpty Doo baby barramundi with lemon and evoo was a particular hit for me!

Other venues repeatedly recommended to me:

Eastern Suburbs: Lox, Stock and Barrell (Bondi Beach), Bondi Tratoria, Trio (Bondi Beach), Speedo Cafe (Bondi Beach), Brown Sugar (Bondi Beach), Three Blue Ducks (Bronte), Bake Bar (Randwick).

Inner City: Kepos St Kitchen (Alexandria),  The Gorunds (Alexandria), Aqua Dining (above North Sydney Pool),

North Shore: Thelma and Louise (Neutral Bay), Burnt Orange (Mosman), The Boathouse Balmoral Beach, The Boathouse Shelley Beach (Manly), The Boathouse Palm Beach.

That’s my list! Now, I bid you, do go and explore this fabulous, versatile playground!!!

Faya x

The post AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’ appeared first on Fitness on Toast.

AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’ posted first on yummylooksbest.blogspot.com

[yolandadsims]

AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’

Across the world, countless bloggers have majored on Australia as a destination; there’s also a ceaseless stream of toned and fashionable Australians who dominate a casual perusal of the Instagram ‘Explore’ screen as if the algorithm is calibrated to go overweight Aussie beauty! My experiences, however, are just that; my own, not ‘new’, but just from me. That said, I sure as hell did my research before arriving in Sydney, systematically surveying every single Australian I know, then distilling their collective output into a one-week, extensive plan of attack! Indeed, having done-and-dusted with my experience in the Great Barrier Reef, pursued my full Sydney scheme precisely as it was sketched out, it gives me great joy to recount and depict the choicest of experiences here to you dear reader, whether you’re just curious or are planning an adventurous ‘Active Escape’ of your own! This post makes up Part 2 of the Australia series – and I sense there will be countless more parts to follow upon my future return to that magnificent country! I discovered an outdoor-dwelling society, predisposed to health and fitness, blessed with supreme weather and a fresh fish-based diet, in a culturally diverse and well-invested city where inhabitants genuinely smile. In fact it’s so good, this could conceivably be ‘home’ one day! Click MORE to discover my Top 10 experiences in Sydney…

POWER-WALKING THROUGH THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN…

Just south of the iconic Circular Quay, and with an unconstrained view of the key landmarks from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, a walk through the lush and fertile exotic gardens both lifts the sense and culminates with as good a view from the Rocks as you’ll get of the Harbour. For a clear empty run of it, going early in the day seems to be the trick to avoid tour-bus overload, but if you do go around lunchtime, you’ll see dozens of Sydney-siders running sprint circuits up and down Mrs. Macquarie’s Stairs!

2. HIKING FROM COOGEE TO BONDI…

Not for the faint of heart, and requiring somewhat of a comfortable pair of shoes, THIS is an 8.1km hike, lasting around 100 minutes. The wind howls on this part of the rugged coastline, the waves are treacherous, but the views are breathtaking and really quite awe-inspiring. Whether you just want to take in the coastline, breathe the air, bask in the sunshine, or admire the ocean-view properties, it is a superb walk. The path takes you through the lush and verdant Gordon’s Bay, the tranquil and striking Waverley Cemetery in which thousands of souls proudly look eternally out to sea, the Hunter Sculpture park, Bronte Bay (a surfer’s mecca), ending up on the iconic Bondi Beach.

3. OBSERVING ICEBERGS…

An iconic saltwater swimming pool, supplied and replenished by the crashing waves below; positioned at the commencement of the sweeping Bondi crescent, Icebergs is somewhat of a must, and is the natural conclusion of your Coogee-to-Bondi excursion, welcoming you as a refreshing iceberg after the desert hike! Note, it’s empty Thursday mornings for cleaning, so avoid it then (d’oh!). If you want some other epic places to swim, try North Sydney Pool (under the north side of the Bridge), or Andrew Boy Charlton pool on the far side of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

4. DINNER AROUND BONDI BEACH…

…wandering the length of the crescent, I stumbled upon an understated beachfront joint called Sean’s Panorama, which I later discovered is somewhat of a hard-to-book legendary institution. We happened upon an early table outside for sunset, bathed in the enrobing crepuscular light, and whiled the evening away with delicious fresh Australian fish dishes, typifying the relaxed approach to life, serving what’s caught on the day, per the Chef’s whim. At the other end of the spectrum, the 6 am Bondi Rush is something to behold, as the locals walk dogs, swim before work, and generally recouple with their beloved outdoors lifestyle before the day begins. Learning to surf is somewhat of a tourism box-ticker here, so if you haven’t, why not…

5. VISITING THE OPERA HOUSE…

…But not just seeing it, actually going to a performance in the cavernous Sydney Opera House ‘Concert Hall’. Same day concessionaires tickets were literally 20 GBP per head for central stalls seats, to see the country’s most distinguished orchestra (Sydney Symphony) present their rendition of Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle. Which was unusual, but utterly stunning, and a sonic treat to hear this remarkable sound-stage turned up to full texture and max volume! It struck me how much of a difference there was between the building from a distance (stunning), and the building up close (just like The Barbican in EC2, all brutalist and concrete). There’s a pretty stunning bar under the facility, with a terrace that looks directly at the Bridge, and is a sublime choice for a sunset tipple. Just beware of the confident seagulls!

6. CLIMBING THE BRIDGE…

Something I didn’t do. Why? The prohibitive cost of the activity, and the prohibition of any photographic media or even mobile phones! It’s basically as expensive to climb as it is to fly over in a private helicopter, which doesn’t sound right to me! So instead of climbing it, I took a lunch or two directly beneath it at the exquisite Park Hyatt, and snapped this shot of some chaps at the summit!

7. TAKE THE FERRY TO MANLY BAY…

Leaving from Circular Quay, almost regardless of the destination, this is one of the best ways to see the headline sights of Sydney, per the below images

8. GO ON SAFARI…

… well perhaps not quite, but Taronga Zoo is hands down the best zoo I’ve ever visited. There are many who are conflicted about the concept of animals in captivity, including myself; what I saw at this zoo was the greatest effort being made to provide an environment as close to the natural one as possible. There were exceptions, of course, some of which I struggle with, but as an admirer of nature, I was thrilled and exhilarated to see such a broad repertoire of incredible creatures, up so close. There are a significant number of photos included below to show you just how personal the encounters are with some of the most majestic beasts.

9. SEEK OUT COFFEE…

I love the stuff. Every Australian worth their salt loves the stuff. This place would seem to be the source of the hipster coffee shop invasion which took over London around 2-3 years ago, chief amongst them being Taylor Street Baristas. I tried around 10 of the most recommended coffee shops in Sydney, and through a totally unscientific, unmethodical approach involving randomness and amateur tasting notes, I have crowned a winner; Motown Coffee, details HERE.

10. SAMPLE LUNCHES…

Two iconic venues I discovered:

Catalina – Rose Bay. (http://catalinarosebay.com.au ) Sublime fresh food, and pure theatre inside. Clean white lines and a vast glass panorama revealing the sea-plane landing strip before you in the bay (the restaurant takes its name from the class of iconic seaplane https://www.catalina.org.uk), guests are just fabulously clad, wearing extravagant and exquisite dresses even for a light brunch. Unaware of this, I wasn’t! The food itself, however, is presented in no less spectacular a fashion, with a dedication to the symmetrical and ordered. The entire place feels extremely clean and fresh, with a light, vaguely hedonistic vibe pervading the volumes, never straying into the ostentatious. This is a slam-dunk great ‘occasion’ lunch for a trip to Sydney!

Otto Ristorante. (https://ottoristorante.com.au/sydney/) Just on Cowper Wharf in Woolloomooloo, and from the fringes of the CBD, this is the best place at which to recover strength after a stroll around the Botanical Gardens. Delivering fresh Italian inspired Australian fare, the Humpty Doo baby barramundi with lemon and evoo was a particular hit for me!

Other venues repeatedly recommended to me:

Eastern Suburbs: Lox, Stock and Barrell (Bondi Beach), Bondi Tratoria, Trio (Bondi Beach), Speedo Cafe (Bondi Beach), Brown Sugar (Bondi Beach), Three Blue Ducks (Bronte), Bake Bar (Randwick).

Inner City: Kepos St Kitchen (Alexandria),  The Gorunds (Alexandria), Aqua Dining (above North Sydney Pool),

North Shore: Thelma and Louise (Neutral Bay), Burnt Orange (Mosman), The Boathouse Balmoral Beach, The Boathouse Shelley Beach (Manly), The Boathouse Palm Beach.

That’s my list! Now, I bid you, do go and explore this fabulous, versatile playground!!!

Faya x

The post AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’ appeared first on Fitness on Toast.

from Health And Fitness Updates http://fitnessontoast.com/2018/01/22/australia-pt-2-sydney-top-10/

[muscledemandsrespect]

AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’

Across the world, countless bloggers have majored on Australia as a destination; there’s also a ceaseless stream of toned and fashionable Australians who dominate a casual perusal of the Instagram ‘Explore’ screen as if the algorithm is calibrated to go overweight Aussie beauty! My experiences, however, are just that; my own, not ‘new’, but just from me. That said, I sure as hell did my research before arriving in Sydney, systematically surveying every single Australian I know, then distilling their collective output into a one-week, extensive plan of attack! Indeed, having done-and-dusted with my experience in the Great Barrier Reef, pursued my full Sydney scheme precisely as it was sketched out, it gives me great joy to recount and depict the choicest of experiences here to you dear reader, whether you’re just curious or are planning an adventurous ‘Active Escape’ of your own! This post makes up Part 2 of the Australia series – and I sense there will be countless more parts to follow upon my future return to that magnificent country! I discovered an outdoor-dwelling society, predisposed to health and fitness, blessed with supreme weather and a fresh fish-based diet, in a culturally diverse and well-invested city where inhabitants genuinely smile. In fact it’s so good, this could conceivably be ‘home’ one day! Click MORE to discover my Top 10 experiences in Sydney…

POWER-WALKING THROUGH THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN…

Just south of the iconic Circular Quay, and with an unconstrained view of the key landmarks from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, a walk through the lush and fertile exotic gardens both lifts the sense and culminates with as good a view from the Rocks as you’ll get of the Harbour. For a clear empty run of it, going early in the day seems to be the trick to avoid tour-bus overload, but if you do go around lunchtime, you’ll see dozens of Sydney-siders running sprint circuits up and down Mrs. Macquarie’s Stairs!

2. HIKING FROM COOGEE TO BONDI…

Not for the faint of heart, and requiring somewhat of a comfortable pair of shoes, THIS is an 8.1km hike, lasting around 100 minutes. The wind howls on this part of the rugged coastline, the waves are treacherous, but the views are breathtaking and really quite awe-inspiring. Whether you just want to take in the coastline, breathe the air, bask in the sunshine, or admire the ocean-view properties, it is a superb walk. The path takes you through the lush and verdant Gordon’s Bay, the tranquil and striking Waverley Cemetery in which thousands of souls proudly look eternally out to sea, the Hunter Sculpture park, Bronte Bay (a surfer’s mecca), ending up on the iconic Bondi Beach.

3. OBSERVING ICEBERGS…

An iconic saltwater swimming pool, supplied and replenished by the crashing waves below; positioned at the commencement of the sweeping Bondi crescent, Icebergs is somewhat of a must, and is the natural conclusion of your Coogee-to-Bondi excursion, welcoming you as a refreshing iceberg after the desert hike! Note, it’s empty Thursday mornings for cleaning, so avoid it then (d’oh!). If you want some other epic places to swim, try North Sydney Pool (under the north side of the Bridge), or Andrew Boy Charlton pool on the far side of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

4. DINNER AROUND BONDI BEACH…

…wandering the length of the crescent, I stumbled upon an understated beachfront joint called Sean’s Panorama, which I later discovered is somewhat of a hard-to-book legendary institution. We happened upon an early table outside for sunset, bathed in the enrobing crepuscular light, and whiled the evening away with delicious fresh Australian fish dishes, typifying the relaxed approach to life, serving what’s caught on the day, per the Chef’s whim. At the other end of the spectrum, the 6 am Bondi Rush is something to behold, as the locals walk dogs, swim before work, and generally recouple with their beloved outdoors lifestyle before the day begins. Learning to surf is somewhat of a tourism box-ticker here, so if you haven’t, why not…

5. VISITING THE OPERA HOUSE…

…But not just seeing it, actually going to a performance in the cavernous Sydney Opera House ‘Concert Hall’. Same day concessionaires tickets were literally 20 GBP per head for central stalls seats, to see the country’s most distinguished orchestra (Sydney Symphony) present their rendition of Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle. Which was unusual, but utterly stunning, and a sonic treat to hear this remarkable sound-stage turned up to full texture and max volume! It struck me how much of a difference there was between the building from a distance (stunning), and the building up close (just like The Barbican in EC2, all brutalist and concrete). There’s a pretty stunning bar under the facility, with a terrace that looks directly at the Bridge, and is a sublime choice for a sunset tipple. Just beware of the confident seagulls!

6. CLIMBING THE BRIDGE…

Something I didn’t do. Why? The prohibitive cost of the activity, and the prohibition of any photographic media or even mobile phones! It’s basically as expensive to climb as it is to fly over in a private helicopter, which doesn’t sound right to me! So instead of climbing it, I took a lunch or two directly beneath it at the exquisite Park Hyatt, and snapped this shot of some chaps at the summit!

7. TAKE THE FERRY TO MANLY BAY…

Leaving from Circular Quay, almost regardless of the destination, this is one of the best ways to see the headline sights of Sydney, per the below images

8. GO ON SAFARI…

… well perhaps not quite, but Taronga Zoo is hands down the best zoo I’ve ever visited. There are many who are conflicted about the concept of animals in captivity, including myself; what I saw at this zoo was the greatest effort being made to provide an environment as close to the natural one as possible. There were exceptions, of course, some of which I struggle with, but as an admirer of nature, I was thrilled and exhilarated to see such a broad repertoire of incredible creatures, up so close. There are a significant number of photos included below to show you just how personal the encounters are with some of the most majestic beasts.

9. SEEK OUT COFFEE…

I love the stuff. Every Australian worth their salt loves the stuff. This place would seem to be the source of the hipster coffee shop invasion which took over London around 2-3 years ago, chief amongst them being Taylor Street Baristas. I tried around 10 of the most recommended coffee shops in Sydney, and through a totally unscientific, unmethodical approach involving randomness and amateur tasting notes, I have crowned a winner; Motown Coffee, details HERE.

10. SAMPLE LUNCHES…

Two iconic venues I discovered:

Catalina – Rose Bay. (http://catalinarosebay.com.au ) Sublime fresh food, and pure theatre inside. Clean white lines and a vast glass panorama revealing the sea-plane landing strip before you in the bay (the restaurant takes its name from the class of iconic seaplane https://www.catalina.org.uk), guests are just fabulously clad, wearing extravagant and exquisite dresses even for a light brunch. Unaware of this, I wasn’t! The food itself, however, is presented in no less spectacular a fashion, with a dedication to the symmetrical and ordered. The entire place feels extremely clean and fresh, with a light, vaguely hedonistic vibe pervading the volumes, never straying into the ostentatious. This is a slam-dunk great ‘occasion’ lunch for a trip to Sydney!

Otto Ristorante. (https://ottoristorante.com.au/sydney/) Just on Cowper Wharf in Woolloomooloo, and from the fringes of the CBD, this is the best place at which to recover strength after a stroll around the Botanical Gardens. Delivering fresh Italian inspired Australian fare, the Humpty Doo baby barramundi with lemon and evoo was a particular hit for me!

Other venues repeatedly recommended to me:

Eastern Suburbs: Lox, Stock and Barrell (Bondi Beach), Bondi Tratoria, Trio (Bondi Beach), Speedo Cafe (Bondi Beach), Brown Sugar (Bondi Beach), Three Blue Ducks (Bronte), Bake Bar (Randwick).

Inner City: Kepos St Kitchen (Alexandria),  The Gorunds (Alexandria), Aqua Dining (above North Sydney Pool),

North Shore: Thelma and Louise (Neutral Bay), Burnt Orange (Mosman), The Boathouse Balmoral Beach, The Boathouse Shelley Beach (Manly), The Boathouse Palm Beach.

That’s my list! Now, I bid you, do go and explore this fabulous, versatile playground!!!

Faya x

The post AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’ appeared first on Fitness on Toast.

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[rebeccaflaneus]

AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’

Across the world, countless bloggers have majored on Australia as a destination; there’s also a ceaseless stream of toned and fashionable Australians who dominate a casual perusal of the Instagram ‘Explore’ screen as if the algorithm is calibrated to go overweight Aussie beauty! My experiences, however, are just that; my own, not ‘new’, but just from me. That said, I sure as hell did my research before arriving in Sydney, systematically surveying every single Australian I know, then distilling their collective output into a one-week, extensive plan of attack! Indeed, having done-and-dusted with my experience in the Great Barrier Reef, pursued my full Sydney scheme precisely as it was sketched out, it gives me great joy to recount and depict the choicest of experiences here to you dear reader, whether you’re just curious or are planning an adventurous ‘Active Escape’ of your own! This post makes up Part 2 of the Australia series – and I sense there will be countless more parts to follow upon my future return to that magnificent country! I discovered an outdoor-dwelling society, predisposed to health and fitness, blessed with supreme weather and a fresh fish-based diet, in a culturally diverse and well-invested city where inhabitants genuinely smile. In fact it’s so good, this could conceivably be ‘home’ one day! Click MORE to discover my Top 10 experiences in Sydney…

POWER-WALKING THROUGH THE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN…

Just south of the iconic Circular Quay, and with an unconstrained view of the key landmarks from Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, a walk through the lush and fertile exotic gardens both lifts the sense and culminates with as good a view from the Rocks as you’ll get of the Harbour. For a clear empty run of it, going early in the day seems to be the trick to avoid tour-bus overload, but if you do go around lunchtime, you’ll see dozens of Sydney-siders running sprint circuits up and down Mrs. Macquarie’s Stairs!

2. HIKING FROM COOGEE TO BONDI…

Not for the faint of heart, and requiring somewhat of a comfortable pair of shoes, THIS is an 8.1km hike, lasting around 100 minutes. The wind howls on this part of the rugged coastline, the waves are treacherous, but the views are breathtaking and really quite awe-inspiring. Whether you just want to take in the coastline, breathe the air, bask in the sunshine, or admire the ocean-view properties, it is a superb walk. The path takes you through the lush and verdant Gordon’s Bay, the tranquil and striking Waverley Cemetery in which thousands of souls proudly look eternally out to sea, the Hunter Sculpture park, Bronte Bay (a surfer’s mecca), ending up on the iconic Bondi Beach.

3. OBSERVING ICEBERGS…

An iconic saltwater swimming pool, supplied and replenished by the crashing waves below; positioned at the commencement of the sweeping Bondi crescent, Icebergs is somewhat of a must, and is the natural conclusion of your Coogee-to-Bondi excursion, welcoming you as a refreshing iceberg after the desert hike! Note, it’s empty Thursday mornings for cleaning, so avoid it then (d’oh!). If you want some other epic places to swim, try North Sydney Pool (under the north side of the Bridge), or Andrew Boy Charlton pool on the far side of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

4. DINNER AROUND BONDI BEACH…

…wandering the length of the crescent, I stumbled upon an understated beachfront joint called Sean’s Panorama, which I later discovered is somewhat of a hard-to-book legendary institution. We happened upon an early table outside for sunset, bathed in the enrobing crepuscular light, and whiled the evening away with delicious fresh Australian fish dishes, typifying the relaxed approach to life, serving what’s caught on the day, per the Chef’s whim. At the other end of the spectrum, the 6 am Bondi Rush is something to behold, as the locals walk dogs, swim before work, and generally recouple with their beloved outdoors lifestyle before the day begins. Learning to surf is somewhat of a tourism box-ticker here, so if you haven’t, why not…

5. VISITING THE OPERA HOUSE…

…But not just seeing it, actually going to a performance in the cavernous Sydney Opera House ‘Concert Hall’. Same day concessionaires tickets were literally 20 GBP per head for central stalls seats, to see the country’s most distinguished orchestra (Sydney Symphony) present their rendition of Bartok’s Bluebeard’s Castle. Which was unusual, but utterly stunning, and a sonic treat to hear this remarkable sound-stage turned up to full texture and max volume! It struck me how much of a difference there was between the building from a distance (stunning), and the building up close (just like The Barbican in EC2, all brutalist and concrete). There’s a pretty stunning bar under the facility, with a terrace that looks directly at the Bridge, and is a sublime choice for a sunset tipple. Just beware of the confident seagulls!

6. CLIMBING THE BRIDGE…

Something I didn’t do. Why? The prohibitive cost of the activity, and the prohibition of any photographic media or even mobile phones! It’s basically as expensive to climb as it is to fly over in a private helicopter, which doesn’t sound right to me! So instead of climbing it, I took a lunch or two directly beneath it at the exquisite Park Hyatt, and snapped this shot of some chaps at the summit!

7. TAKE THE FERRY TO MANLY BAY…

Leaving from Circular Quay, almost regardless of the destination, this is one of the best ways to see the headline sights of Sydney, per the below images

8. GO ON SAFARI…

… well perhaps not quite, but Taronga Zoo is hands down the best zoo I’ve ever visited. There are many who are conflicted about the concept of animals in captivity, including myself; what I saw at this zoo was the greatest effort being made to provide an environment as close to the natural one as possible. There were exceptions, of course, some of which I struggle with, but as an admirer of nature, I was thrilled and exhilarated to see such a broad repertoire of incredible creatures, up so close. There are a significant number of photos included below to show you just how personal the encounters are with some of the most majestic beasts.

9. SEEK OUT COFFEE…

I love the stuff. Every Australian worth their salt loves the stuff. This place would seem to be the source of the hipster coffee shop invasion which took over London around 2-3 years ago, chief amongst them being Taylor Street Baristas. I tried around 10 of the most recommended coffee shops in Sydney, and through a totally unscientific, unmethodical approach involving randomness and amateur tasting notes, I have crowned a winner; Motown Coffee, details HERE.

10. SAMPLE LUNCHES…

Two iconic venues I discovered:

Catalina – Rose Bay. (http://catalinarosebay.com.au ) Sublime fresh food, and pure theatre inside. Clean white lines and a vast glass panorama revealing the sea-plane landing strip before you in the bay (the restaurant takes its name from the class of iconic seaplane https://www.catalina.org.uk), guests are just fabulously clad, wearing extravagant and exquisite dresses even for a light brunch. Unaware of this, I wasn’t! The food itself, however, is presented in no less spectacular a fashion, with a dedication to the symmetrical and ordered. The entire place feels extremely clean and fresh, with a light, vaguely hedonistic vibe pervading the volumes, never straying into the ostentatious. This is a slam-dunk great ‘occasion’ lunch for a trip to Sydney!

Otto Ristorante. (https://ottoristorante.com.au/sydney/) Just on Cowper Wharf in Woolloomooloo, and from the fringes of the CBD, this is the best place at which to recover strength after a stroll around the Botanical Gardens. Delivering fresh Italian inspired Australian fare, the Humpty Doo baby barramundi with lemon and evoo was a particular hit for me!

Other venues repeatedly recommended to me:

Eastern Suburbs: Lox, Stock and Barrell (Bondi Beach), Bondi Tratoria, Trio (Bondi Beach), Speedo Cafe (Bondi Beach), Brown Sugar (Bondi Beach), Three Blue Ducks (Bronte), Bake Bar (Randwick).

Inner City: Kepos St Kitchen (Alexandria),  The Gorunds (Alexandria), Aqua Dining (above North Sydney Pool),

North Shore: Thelma and Louise (Neutral Bay), Burnt Orange (Mosman), The Boathouse Balmoral Beach, The Boathouse Shelley Beach (Manly), The Boathouse Palm Beach.

That’s my list! Now, I bid you, do go and explore this fabulous, versatile playground!!!

Faya x

The post AUSTRALIA pt 2: MY ‘SYDNEY TOP 10’ appeared first on Fitness on Toast.

from Donald Fitness Tips http://fitnessontoast.com/2018/01/22/australia-pt-2-sydney-top-10/

[larryland]

In 1983 successful singer/songwriter Rupert Holmes concocted a plan to make a musical out of Charles Dickens’ unfinished final work The Mystery of Edwin Drood. He had the extraordinary opportunity to present this concept to Joseph Papp at the New York Shakespeare Festival (now the Public Theatre), which led to a 1985 summer-time run in Central Park and a transfer to Broadway shortly thereafter. The show went on to win several Tonys, including Best Musical as well as Best Book and Best Original Score for Holmes. (For a full and fascinating history of Holmes’ journey with this show, click HERE.)

Holmes’ original version ran over three hours, and ever since he has been in the process of pruning it. Everything was tightened up between the Central Park run and Broadway – even the title was shortened to simply Drood. He did rewrites again for the 1987 London production and the 1988 American touring production.

Fast forward 30-odd years and Holmes decided to take another crack at the show, this time reducing it to 90 minutes and paring down the orchestrations (uniquely, Holmes orchestrated his own show) to create a chamber version which was presented at a theatre in Raleigh, NC. Hubbard Hall Artistic Director David Snider had had …Drood on his short list for some time, but when he sought information on the chamber version from Raleigh there was no answer. Then he heard from Rupert Holmes himself!

“I first talked with Rupert Holmes about doing …Drood here at Hubbard Hall about 19 months ago,” Snider explained. “He had checked out the Hall and had researched my career, so he offered me the opportunity to direct. I was amazed that he would reach out to us like that! We talked for about an hour, there was quickly interest on both sides. I knew that our audience would love the interactivity of …Drood, just as they had adored The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee in 2016.”

Holmes spent the first six years of his life in Northwich, Cheshire, UK, and during those early years he was taken at Christmas time to see that most British of “holiday treats” – the Panto. A Panto takes a familiar story – say Cinderella or Puss in Boots – then basically runs amok. Men play women, women play men, saucy hijinks prevail, and silly songs are sung. Holmes wanted to bring the show back to its roots in his imagination – to the Victorian tradition of the British Music Hall and the Panto format – and so in this version Dickens’ tale is being performed by a British troupe from the Music Gall Royale, sadly abandoned in the colonies in 1895 by an unscrupulous impresario.

As Snider aptly remarked, “The Hall’s architecture has a certain power to it” making it he perfect perfect venue for this all-new chamber version of …Drood, which Holmes created especially for the Hall and Snider has brought to life. Built in 1878 and the last remaining opera house in Washington County, New York, Andy Nice’s set utilizes its turn-of-the-century stage curtain, ornate Victorian gas chandelier, stenciled walls, and chestnut woodwork as its framework. Also on display are some of the handsome painted backdrops discovered stored in the Hall when it was reopened in 1978 after lying dormant for half a century. Chelsie McPhilimy’s lighting design does not try to evoke that gas lighting that would have been in place, but adds an anachronistic wink to modern theatrical technology.

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Since Dickens died before he finished The Mystery of Edwin Drood – it was published in installments – Holmes decided to marry the mystery with the audience interactivity of the Panto and allow each audience to vote on who killed Edwin Drood (if, indeed, he was killed at all), the identity of the mysterious detective Dick Datchery, and on which two characters will become romantically involved to produce a happy ending. The audience choice of Datchery reduces the number of potential murders to six, and then the selection of the accused narrows down the potential matings of the remaining characters. All of this means the performers and musicians must prepare many different combinations of words and music at each performance.

The Panto tradition provides strong roles for women, since the “principal boy” is a “trouser role.” …Drood does not feature the male cross-dressing for which the Panto tradition is so famous, but it does allow for women to play several of the men’s roles if desired. The title character is always played by a woman – here Sara Curtis – and in this production Erin Ouellette also cross-dresses to play the hot-headed Neville Landless with delightful results.

Snider has directed this talented cast with the high-energy hijinks of Panto players, with much dashing through the audience and breaking the fourth wall. Each performer plays both the Music Hall actor and role s/he is playing in the play within a play. One actor fails to show due to drink, others show open hostilities outside the plot of the play. It is all good, fast-paced fun, and a refreshing change in family fare for the holiday season.

“We have a great cast – three newcomers from New York City and then many of our regional favorites – all wonderful singers,” Snider enthused. “The amazing Richard Cherry is our musical director heading an eight-piece orchestra. And I knew right from the start that I wanted Sherry Nadzan Recinella to create our great, lush, theatrical Victorian costumes.”

Recinella’s designs extend to some alluring corsetry for the ladies, and none sport it so well as Catherine Seeley, as Flo, from the Gutters of London. It is not surprising to read in the program that Seeley is also a burlesque artiste.

This critic enjoyed seeing familiar faces Ouellette, Seeley, Scott Renzoni as the drunken Durdles, Joe Phillips as the upright Reverend Crisparkle, and the inimitable Christine Decker as Princess Puffer, doyenne of the opium den. Newcomers Micah Sauvageau as The Chairman, William Cartwright, our host for the evening and Zach Barnes as the nefarious John Jasper were delightful in their roles, and strong singers.  As the egregiously overlooked Bazzard, Tim Garner was a real scene stealer. Curtis was chipper in the title role and outrageously temperamental as diva-in-drag Alice Nutting. Sylvia Bloom as the exotic Helena Landless and Kyra Fitzgerald as the blushing ingénue Rosa Bud both sang beautifully and added to the melodrama and mystery.

“…Drood is hilarious, the score is gorgeous, the story is by Charles Dickens, and the audience gets to finish it each night,” Snider said. “It’s just an amazing two hours, so I encourage everyone to come to the Hall, let go of your troubles, and take time revel in life during these hectic holiday weeks.”

Hubbard Hall presents The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Book, Music, and Lyrics by Rupert Holmes, directed by David Snider, November 17-December 3, 2017.  Musical director Richard Cherry, choreography by Darcy May, set design by Andy Nice, lighting design by Chelsie McPhilimy, costume design by Sherry Recinella, vocal coach Sylvia Bloom, stage manager Maureen Cossey.

CAST Micah Sauvageau as The Chairman, William Cartwright; Scott Renzoni as Durdles; Zach Barnes as John Jasper; Sylvia Bloom as Helena Landless; Sara Curtis as Edwin Drood; Christine Decker as Princess Puffer; Kyra Fitzgerald as Rosa Bud; Tim Garner as Bax/Bazzard; Erin Ouellette as Neville Landless; Joe Phillips as the Reverend Crisparkle; and Catherine Seeley as Flo.

Performances Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 pm, Saturdays & Sundays at 2 pm. Special matinees Tuesday, November 21 at 10am  and Friday, December 1 at 10am. Tickets  Regular Price $30 Adults/$15 Students Ages 6-22. Hubbard Hall is located at 25 East Main Street, Cambridge, NY https://hubbardhall.org/

  A Holiday Treat: Rupert Holmes Brings an All-New “…Drood” to Hubbard Hall In 1983 successful singer/songwriter Rupert Holmes concocted a plan to make a musical out of Charles Dickens’ unfinished final work…

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 10.22

4004 BC – The world was created at approximately six o'clock in the evening, according to the Ussher chronology. 362 – The temple of Apollo at Daphne, outside Antioch, is destroyed in a mysterious fire. 451 – The Council of Chalcedon adopts the Chalcedonian Creed regarding the divine and human nature of Jesus Christ. 794 – Emperor Kanmu relocates the Japanese capital to Heian-kyō (now Kyoto). 906 – Ahmad ibn Kayghalagh leads a raid against the Byzantine Empire from Tarsus. He reaches the Halys River and takes 4,000–5,000 captives.[1] 1383 – The 1383–85 Crisis in Portugal: King Fernando dies without a male heir to the Portuguese throne, sparking a period of civil war and disorder. 1575 – Foundation of Aguascalientes. 1633 – Battle of Liaoluo Bay: The Ming dynasty defeats the Dutch East India Company. 1707 – Scilly naval disaster: Four British naval vessels run aground on the Isles of Scilly because of faulty navigation. In response, the first Longitude Act is enacted in 1714. 1730 – Construction of the Ladoga Canal is completed. 1746 – The College of New Jersey (later renamed Princeton University) receives its charter. 1777 – American Revolutionary War: American defenders of Fort Mercer on the Delaware River repulse repeated Hessian attacks in the Battle of Red Bank. 1784 – Russia founds a colony on Kodiak Island, Alaska. 1790 – Warriors of the Miami people under Chief Little Turtle defeat United States troops under General Josiah Harmar at the site of present-day Fort Wayne, Indiana, in the Northwest Indian War. 1797 – André-Jacques Garnerin makes the first recorded parachute jump from one thousand meters (3,200 feet) above Paris. 1836 – Sam Houston is inaugurated as the first President of the Republic of Texas. 1844 – The Great Anticipation: Millerites, followers of William Miller, anticipate the end of the world in conjunction with the Second Advent of Christ. The following day became known as the Great Disappointment. 1859 – Spain declares war on Morocco. 1866 – A plebiscite ratifies the annexion of Veneto and Mantua to Italy, which had occurred three days before, on October 19. 1875 – First telegraphic connection in Argentina. 1877 – The Blantyre mining disaster in Scotland kills 207 miners. 1878 – The first rugby match under floodlights takes place in Salford, between Broughton and Swinton. 1879 – Using a filament of carbonized thread, Thomas Edison tests the first practical electric incandescent light bulb (it lasted 13½ hours before burning out). 1883 – The Metropolitan Opera House in New York City opens with a performance of Gounod's Faust. 1884 – The Royal Observatory in Britain is adopted as the prime meridian of longitude by the International Meridian Conference. 1895 – In Paris an express train derails after overrunning the buffer stop, crossing almost 30 metres (100 ft) of concourse before crashing through a wall and falling 10 metres (33 ft) to the road below. 1907 – Panic of 1907: A run on the stock of the Knickerbocker Trust Company sets events in motion that will lead to a depression. 1910 – Dr. Crippen is convicted at the Old Bailey of poisoning his wife and is subsequently hanged at Pentonville Prison in London. 1923 – The royalist Leonardopoulos–Gargalidis coup d'état attempt fails in Greece, discrediting the monarchy and paving the way for the establishment of the Second Hellenic Republic. 1927 – Nikola Tesla introduces six new inventions including single-phase electric power. 1928 – Phi Sigma Alpha fraternity is founded at the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras Campus. 1934 – In East Liverpool, Ohio, Federal Bureau of Investigation agents shoot and kill notorious bank robber Pretty Boy Floyd. 1941 – World War II: French resistance member Guy Môquet and 29 other hostages are executed by the Germans in retaliation for the death of a German officer. 1943 – World War II: in the Second firestorm raid on Germany, the Royal Air Force conducts an air raid on the town of Kassel, killing 10,000 and rendering 150,000 homeless. 1946 – Soviet Operation Osoaviakhim takes place, recruiting of thousands of military-related technical specialists from the Soviet occupation zone of post-World-War-II Germany for employment in the Soviet Union. 1947 – Kashmir conflict starts, a territorial conflict primarily between India and Pakistan, having started just after the partition of India in 1947. 1957 – Vietnam War: First United States casualties in Vietnam. 1962 – Cuban Missile Crisis: US President John F. Kennedy, after internal counsel from Dwight D. Eisenhower, announces that American reconnaissance planes have discovered Soviet nuclear weapons in Cuba, and that he has ordered a naval "quarantine" of the Communist nation. 1963 – A BAC One-Eleven prototype airliner crashes in UK with the loss of all on board. 1964 – Jean-Paul Sartre is awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, but turns down the honor. 1964 – Canada: A Multi-Party Parliamentary Committee selects the design which becomes the new official flag of Canada. 1966 – The Supremes become the first all-female music group to attain a No. 1 selling album (The Supremes A' Go-Go). 1966 – The Soviet Union launches Luna 12. 1968 – Apollo program: Apollo 7 safely splashes down in the Atlantic Ocean after orbiting the Earth 163 times. 1972 – Vietnam War: In Saigon, Henry Kissinger and South Vietnamese President Nguyễn Văn Thiệu meet to discuss a proposed cease-fire that had been worked out between Americans and North Vietnamese in Paris. 1975 – The Soviet unmanned space mission Venera 9 lands on Venus. 1976 – Red Dye No. 4 is banned by the US Food and Drug Administration after it is discovered that it causes tumors in the bladders of dogs. 1978 – Papal inauguration of Pope John Paul II. 1981 – The United States Federal Labor Relations Authority votes to decertify the Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO) for its strike the previous August. 1983 – Two correctional officers are killed by inmates at the United States Penitentiary in Marion, Illinois. The incident inspires the Supermax model of prisons. 1999 – Maurice Papon, an official in the Vichy France government during World War II, is jailed for crimes against humanity. 2001 – Grand Theft Auto III was released, popularizing a genre of open-world, action-adventure video games as well as spurring controversy around violence in video games. 2005 – Tropical Storm Alpha forms in the Atlantic Basin, making the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season the most active Atlantic hurricane season on record with 22 named storms. 2006 – A Panama Canal expansion proposal is approved by 77.8% of voters in a National referendum held in Panama. 2007 – Raid on Anuradhapura Air Force Base is carried out by 21 Tamil Tiger commandos. All except one died in this attack. Eight Sri Lanka Air Force planes are destroyed and 10 damaged. 2008 – India launches its first unmanned lunar mission Chandrayaan-1. 2013 – The Australian Capital Territory becomes the first Australian jurisdiction to legalize same-sex marriage with the Marriage Equality (Same Sex) Act 2013 2014 – Michael Zehaf-Bibeau attacks the Parliament of Canada in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, killing a soldier and injuring three other people. 2015 – A teacher and a student are killed, and 2 students injured, in an attack at a high school in Trollhättan, Sweden.

[night-speak-blog]

Jennifer Shennan has a history of performing as a dancer on Courtenay Place.

Jennifer Shennan (JS): Can I say this? I’m not a party girl. I’m too busy with books and such. But I’ve been on Courtenay Place many nights and there are two buildings I can talk about, The Opera House and the St. James Theatre.

lr: And you performed in both of them?

JS: I’ve both performed in them and I’ve watched and reviewed what I’ve seen. I’ve been to thousands of performances in those two buildings. Let me say, I saw a performance in The Opera House before I was born. What on earth do I mean? In 1926 Anna Pavlova toured with her own company to NZ. Little woman, wore size one shoes. This tiny little person took a company on a ship all around the world…India…Survived all that. In the 1920s. She escaped from Russia, escaped from Diaghilev. Apparently she believed in only the beautiful and the good to lift people up. But if you danced the seedy, sexy, dirty, dangerous, murders and such—well, she just didn’t want to know about the dark side. She would have known about it—I mean Russia, Diaghilev, Nijinsky...That was the boiling pot of things. And she opted out and ran her own company. Diaghilev was frightened of the water so he wouldn’t get in a boat to go anywhere and there were no planes. He was a big, extraordinary man, and a bully and a coward. Pavlova was none of those things. So she toured the world and came here to New Zealand. And by bus—I suppose—they went up and down the country. She sent her dancers to Ngāti Pōneke Māori Culture Club. They learnt haka. Incredible. My father paid sixpence to see Pavlova in 1926. I said “Dad! What was it like? What was it like?”, and he said “I don’t remember anything about it but I know I paid sixpence.”

My dad didn’t go to any ballet really but she was billed as the greatest dancer in the world and so everybody went. I mention this because it’s something I know happened there, in The Opera House. I also know—and this is going to break your heart—that a young dancer burned to death in that theatre. Because it was the gaslight era and the stage is lit by a fire—a live flame in the wings. And the dancers wore tulle skirts, just below the knee, very fluffy and full. And you run off stage after dancing and you get too close to the light and—whoosh!—and her skirt was on fire. And she ran so as not to enflame the other dancers she was with...Outside into the alleyway, and it fed the flames, and she was a ball of fire. So they grabbed her the best they could and bundled her up in blankets and she was terribly burnt. And they take a slow ambulance to the hospital [in 1923, all forms of transport would have taken a long time to get from one place to another]. And the hospital has a mile of yellow stripe on the floor to lead you to the children’s ward.

lr: She was a child?

JS: Well the ambulance medics thought she was. She was so tiny. And they took her all the way along this yellow road to the children’s ward. It was a long, long way...Don’t ask me how long, but I do remember it, only just. You didn’t know where you were going, no windows, you just follow this yellow path...And they got her there and unwrapped her, saw that she wasn’t a child, she was a little woman. So they bundled her back up and took her to the adult’s ward, and she lingered in agony for two or three days and then she died. There should be a statue to that dancer, right outside the theatre. There is one in Paris for Emma Livry—exactly the same thing happened to her. Burnt, miserably, then died. And there’s a statue, and a headstone and pilgrims go there from all over the ballet world to see Emma Livry. Well they could come here. It’s beautifully written up in an early issue of Music New Zealand [written by Peter Averi]. Peter Averi the broadcaster? The dancer was his Aunt or Great Aunt. And I know her name but I can’t bear to remember it [The dancer’s name was Phyllis Porter.]. It’s unfinished business for Courtenay Place. We need to get a photo of her or tell her story or something. I mean people go on about there being a ghost in The Opera House... The Opera House turned 100 two years ago. The authorities did absolutely nothing to mark it…Sometimes you can do a guided tour, go out the back and look at the ropes and pulleys, the stage door…And they tell you “ooo there’s a ghost”. You know, it’s the old Phantom of the Opera thing. Well get off, get away. You’ve got a real live dancer who died in this theatre. I don’t think we should make a shrine for sentimental reasons but for proper historical reasons. The architectural, social, artistic. history of this town. So there’s that lovely little woman who died. I’ve seen performances galore, I’ve performed as an extra with the Royal New Zealand Ballet (before it was Royal). I performed in Air for the G String, Bach...Doris Humphrey’s choreographer, New York, one of the most important of the 20th Century. Exquisite work. It’s a piece you might dance at a funeral, to remind people that spirits live longer than bodies. It’s an extraordinary work, a dance so well set for that building, you’ll never see a better example. I’ve danced in the St. James Theatre…Well never mind dancing…Even being in there…Yes, in 1983, I suppose, when the company turned 30. It’d had extraordinary beginnings with Poul Gnatt. He was my first teacher, who was the artistic director. He formed that company. When the company turned 30 the artistic director at the time held a gala…I danced in that production.

lr: You mentioned the blue silk garment [earlier]. Was that when you wore it?

JS: No that was in The Opera House, and that was actually The Dance of Blue Silk. It’s just five women, all wearing blue, saari-like garments. But the train (when you walk), the train, you leave behind you is longer than you by along way. And your train crosses the other dancers’ trains. And you turn and it’s a whole pattern of the silk tails. [Jennifer discusses planning a public memorial after the death of Poul Gnatt...]JS: I wasn’t going to take no for an answer. We were going to keep talking until we got it right. There’s got to be a public farewell for Poul Gnatt. Where—and when? So a week later...The St. James Theatre—it was black for many, many years. It was crumbly and had to be restored and people would say, ‘Demolish! Build a 96 bed boutique hotel!’ or all this crap they go on about. But it was black in the meantime, no shows could play in there. Douglas Wright persuaded the powers to let him have the key and he put on a work in there when nothing else was going on. They’d Cellotaped up the gargoyles to stop them falling down and hitting you on the head. Anyway I knew the man who had the key, Peter Frater, and I said, “Peter, could we use the St. James for a farewell to Poul Gnatt, it would be most appropriate wouldn’t it?”—“Couldn’t agree more.”—got the key so in we went. And we danced Air for the G String that day too. I wasn’t—it wasn’t the older women, it was the current students at the school of dance. And I’ll never forget, you get the taller one in the centre and then two that match, and then another two that match. And as she came walking slowly down the stage (at the very forefront of the stage) and then turned, she starts to walk back her long train dripped down over the edge of the stage and into the orchestra pit. And I thought Mother of God, don’t let there be a rusty nail down there in case it catches, pulls, rips and she’s exposed...I prayed...Didn’t know to whom but I prayed. And the silk came back up as slowly as it had gone down. Perfect. It looked like God had choreographed this work. For decades I have seen performances in these venues and reviewed for the Dominion Post. To do that you don’t even wait for the curtain calls—you run out of the theatre and you run to your car and you rush home, and you hope the lights are green because if they’re red you’re wasting time. And you have about 40 minutes to get your review in before the deadline at the newspaper. In the early days of the Evening Post, I could write all night. Something like, five or six in the morning was the cut off point. And if it’s a challenging thing to review, it could take all night to write. The courier came to pick it up as the sun was rising and then I would go to bed or not if I was teaching.[Jennifer goes on to discuss dance writing].JS: You’ve got to look up this reference: New Yorker, January 16, 2017. Simon Farley says, “Classical ballet is this elevating form. You have to rise to meet it, whether you are the dancer or the audience…The thing is, the audience possesses the same instrument. The audience members have the same body—it’s like a cello playing for an audience of cellos.” What a thing to say! A cello playing for an audience of cellos. Not a cellist playing for an audience of cellists, but a cello. And that’s the most profound truth of how you know if it’s good or not. Does it allow the audience in?

Jennifer Shennan (b.1945) is a dancer, choreographer, dance critic, historian for the Royal New Zealand Ballet. She has a history of performing on Courtenay Place.

[topfygad]

95+ Things to do in Australia

I spend so much of my time pursuing bucket list items outside of Australia that I often forget just how much there is to be said for an Australian bucket list. With a huge variety of climates, landscapes, and cultures to be explored, the hardest part of preparing the following list was limiting it to just 95 things you should do while in Australia.

Australia is a huge country, so tackling all ninety-five of the items below might take a few return journeys! You might want to enlist the aid of an Australia tour specialist.

Like bucket lists? I’ve prepared popular China bucket list, South Korea bucket list, and Japan bucket list posts for your to enjoy!

Editor’s Note: Needing to brush up on your Aussie slang? Don’t forget to check out my exhaustive Guide to Australian Slang.

As one of the more popular and safe countries in world tourism, it’s understandable that Australia has quite a few ‘must see’ items that might seem obvious to any seasoned traveler.

The below can be considered a rough guideline for planning the perfect one or two month trip to Australia.

There are some delicious food challenges, a smattering of sporting events, and some unforgettable experiences along the way.

Image courtesy of Christopher Chan

1. Visit the Sydney Opera House (NSW)

Arguably Australia’s most recognisable piece of architecture, the stunning Sydney Opera House defines the Sydney skyline and symbolizes the largest Australian city in the same way that the Statue of Liberty defines New York City.

Completed in 1973, the distinctive white ‘shells’ of the Opera House house a number of performance venues. It’s not just opera that takes place in the Opera House, but also stand-up comedians, dance, orchestral performances, and touring speakers and performers from all around the world.

The best part? The Opera House can be experienced without having to spend a dime! If all you want to do is snap a few photos of the unique structure, you can do this from land or sea without having to pay for the privilege.

Touring the Sydney Opera House

Of course, there are also a number of guided Opera House tours for those who want a more comprehensive experience. These range in price from an affordable $37 walking tour to thelavish $295 Tastes of the Opera House food tour.

If guided tours aren’t your bag, there’s always the chance to see a show in the Sydney Opera House. I was lucky enough to see the Cirque de Soleil style La Soiree in the Opera House in 2011 and it was unforgettable.

Seeing the Opera House from a Unique Perspective

While it’s certainly possible to simply walk to the steps of the Opera House from Circular Quay Station, I’ve always found it’s most beautiful from alternate perspectives.

The Manly Ferry (mentioned later in this bucket list) affords a fantastic photo opp as you pass by the Opera House.

If you’re feeling a bit braver, the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb also affords a spectacular view of the shells from above.

Where: The Sydney Opera House is located a short walk from Circular Quay Station in Sydney’s CBD.

Cost: It’s free to visit the Opera House. Tours start from $37 AUD.

Standing atop with the Sydney Harbour Bridge with friends in 2010.

2. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge (NSW)

Sydney’s other distinctive landmark: the Sydney Harbour Bridge is right up there with the Brooklyn Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, and Tower Bridge when it comes to iconic bridges.

A feature of the Sydney skyline since 1932 and remains a major artery in the city’s transit network to this day.

Stretching from North Sydney to the bustling CBD, the Harbour Bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in Australia with good reason. Its distinctive look is matched only by the stunning backdrop that Sydney’s towering skyline provides.

While it’s free to walk from Milson’s Point to The Rocks (or vice versa), the bridge is best experienced by climbing to the very top and looking out over the city.

Climbs are run year-round by Bridgeclimb Sydney, with their sunset or after dark climbs being especially spectacular. Nothing quite beats the feeling of standing above everything and looking out over the glittering city lights and their reflections in Sydney Harbour.

Where: Sydney Harbour Bridge can be walked across from Wynyard or Milson’s Point Station. BridgeClimb’s office is located in The Rocks at 3 Cumberland Street.

Cost: Walking across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. BridgeClimb experiences start at $183 and top out at $383 for the sunrise or sunset climbs.

Image courtesy of A Beach Cottage

3. Visit Bondi Beach (NSW)

Australia’s most famous beach may be a tad overrated, but it wouldn’t be a trip to Australian shores without getting some sun, sand, and surf on the country’s most famous beach.

A year-round attraction, Bondi Beach is a picturesque stretch of beach often hidden by the massive crowds of local and international tourists clambering for a precious patch of white sand.

If you’ve longed to experience the distinctly Aussie beach day complete with fish and chips, impossibly attractive lifeguards, hipster cafes, and aggressive surf, Bondi Beach is about as quintessential as an Aussie beach experience gets.

While it’s true there are definitely better beaches than Bondi in Sydney (such as Coogee, Manly, Cronulla, Shelly, and Bronte), Bondi remains the most popular and is well worth a visit if only so you can say you’ve been.

Where: Bondi Beach can be reached by train and bus from Town Hall Station in approximately 30 minutes.

Cost: Free! Australian beaches are always free!

Image courtesy of cactusbeetroot

4. Explore the Blue Mountains (NSW)

Sticking with the Sydney theme, it’s off to the neighbouring Blue Mountains to soak in the serenity of the Australian bush.

While the Blue Mountains are just a short train ride from the heart of Sydney, you couldn’t feel more removed from the hectic noise of the city. Standing at one of the lookout points or hiking through the bush, you might as well be a thousand miles from Bondi or The Rocks.

The famous Three Sisters are the most recognisable landmark in the region, but the Blue Mountains is far more than just a photo opportunity.

Dine in the quaint cafes of Leura, Blackheath, or Katoomba, venture into the Blue Mountains National Park to hike amidst the waterfalls and dense scrub, take in the lights at Jenolan Caves, or ride the death-defying rides at Scenic World. The world is your oyster!

Where: The Blue Mountains are two hours from Sydney by bus, train, or car. Major train stations include Katoomba and Wentworth Falls.

Cost: It’s free to visit the Blue Mountains National Park. Attractions such as Scenic World and Jenolan Caves do have their own entrance fees.

5. Overnight at Taronga Zoo (NSW)

Australia’s most famous zoo, Taronga might just be the most picturesque zoo in the world. With a stunning view of Sydney Harbour and its major landmarks, Taronga is an island of calm located just twelve minutes from the city.

Taronga is home to more than 4,000 animals and boasts a huge variety of activities such as ropes courses, up close animal encounters, educational courses, and much more.

For a truly unforgettable experience, however, the option is there to spend a night in the zoo. You’ll not only enjoy having the zoo to yourselves after dark, but also dine on delicious food and fall asleep to the sounds of elephants, lions, and much more. It’s as close to a safari as you’re likely to get in Australia.

Even if you can’t afford the price for the Roar and Snore experience, a visit to the zoo is a great way to see both Australian and international wildlife.

Where: Taronga Zoo is a twelve-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay Station.

Cost: Entry to the zoo starts at $27 for children and $47 for adults. The Roar and Snore overnight experience starts at $195 for children and $295 for adults.

Shelly Beach is my favourite beach in Sydney.

6. Ride the Manly Ferry (NSW)

Sydney Harbour is crisscrossed by a number of ferries, but none offers a more picturesque journey than the Manly Ferry.

Taking people from Circular Quay to Manly, this half-hour ride takes you past the Opera House and past the headlands where the mighty Pacific Ocean meets the Sydney Harbour.

It’s more than just the journey too, as a day in Manly is an experience all of its own!

Grabbing a bite to eat on The Corso, swimming at Manly, Dee Why, or Freshwater Beach, swinging by 4 Pines Brewing Company, visiting the Manly Aquarium, or having a beach BBQ on Shelly Beach, there’s so much to see and do on Sydney’s North Shore.

Where: The Manly Ferry leaves every hour from Circular Quay.

Cost: Tickets on the Manly Ferry are $6.20 one way.

Photo by Danya Rose

7. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Sydney (NSW)

Few cities ring in the New Year quite as well as the Harbour City, with Sydney’s annual fireworks display being one of the most spectacular in the world.

Ringing in the New Year in Sydney is one of the biggest parties in Australia and an absolute must if you’re going to be in Australia over the holiday.

The city grinds to a standstill during the party, with tens of thousands of locals and visitors hitting popular vantage points such as Darling Harbour, Barangaroo Reserve, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and many more.

Be sure to check the Sydney New Year’s website for details on which areas are ticketed and which are free, where BYO alcohol is prohibited, and timing for various events and performances on the night.

Where: All over Sydney Harbour.

Cost: Free, although some areas of the city are ticketed.

8. Wander the historic Rocks district (NSW)

As Australia’s oldest city, Sydney has plenty of history if you know where to look. While it’s a bit touristic these days, the historic Rocks district is arguably the best place in the city to learn more about the area’s roots.

An intriguing collection of colonial-era buildings and historic sites, trendy brewpubs and eateries, and glitzy boutiques, The Rocks is one of my favourite parts of Sydney to just wander around.

It’s home to my absolute favourite pub in Sydney (Hart’s Pub) as well as a selection of other fantastic pubs with plenty of history such as Lord Nelson, Hero of Waterloo, and Australian Heritage Hotel.

Taking a Rocks Walking Tour or a spooky Rocks Ghost Tour is a great way to learn more about the area’s history, but even wandering at your own pace and soaking it in is a real treat.

Where: The Rocks is a short walk from multiple Sydney train stations including Wynyard and Circular Quay.

Cost: Free.

Image courtesy of Sacha Fernandez

9. Attend the Royal Easter Show (NSW)

The Australian equivalent to a US State Fair, the Royal Easter Show is one of the biggest ‘agricultural exhibitions’ in Australia. This might sound a bit dry, but an Aussie show is just as much about food, alcohol, and rides as it is about who has the biggest pig and who took the best photo.

More something for families than for young travelers, there’s still a little for all tastes at the Royal Easter Show. We’re talking rides and activities for kids, bars and restaurants for adults, and performances of all varieties for the family.

Can’t make it to Sydney for the Easter weekend? Most towns in Australia have an annual agricultural show that offers up the same experience in miniature! You can find an exhaustive database of shows and dates here.

Whatever you do, don’t forget to buy a show bag!

Where: Sydney Showground in the Sydney Olympic Park.

Cost: Tickets start at $37 for adults and $22 for children.

Image courtesy of Andrew Wilson.

10. Achieve peak hipster in Melbourne (Victoria)

Arguably Australia’s most popular cities when it comes to tourists and expats, ultra trendy Melbourne is more about the vibe than a set list of things to do.

While Sydney boasts obvious landmarks you need to visit, Melbourne is more about taking your time and soaking in Australia’s most cosmopolitan city.

It’s home to Australia’s best coffee and a mouth-watering cuisine scene, as well as world-class shopping, art galleries, and entertainment.

As Australia’s self-proclaimed sporting capital, it’s also one of the best places in Australia to attend one of the national sports such as Super Rugby, the National Rugby League, the A-League, the T20 Big Bash, and the AFL.

Looking for some Melbourne inspiration? Check out this insane Melbourne bucket list.

Where: Melbourne can be reached by plane, bus, train, or car. It’s serviced by a large international airport.

Cost: Free to visit. A tad more to dine, shop, or stay in.

11. Visit the Gold Coast (QLD)

Australia’s most famous beach playground, the white sand and clear waters of Queensland’s Gold Coast are a popular attraction for tourists from around the world.

Catering to international and local tourists in a way no other Australian city does, the Gold Coast can boast having something for all walks of life. From bustling theme parks to glitzy casinos to chilled surfer towns, all tastes are catered to in this southern Queensland haven.

While I won’t go so far as to say the beaches are world-class or that you can’t find a lot of what the Gold Coast offers elsewhere, nowhere else in Australia can lay claim to having all of the ingredients in such close proximity.

For shopping, night-life, and family-friendly entertainment, there are few places in Australia more perfect.

What to do on the Gold Coast

If you’re traveling with kids, theme parks such as Dream World and Movie World are always popular. I’ve even written about my own visit to Dream World. There are also wildlife experiences such as Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

For big kids, the clubs and pubs of Surfers Paradise are a haven for cashed-up tourists and budget backpackers alike, offering debauchery in spades. There’s also Jupiter’s Casino for those wanting something a bit more glitzy.

Aside from the stunning beaches, there are also a number of nearby national parks in which you can get in touch with Australia’s unique wildlife. These include parks such as Springbrook, Tamborine, and Lamington.

Where: The Gold Coast is a short drive from Brisbane, but can also be reached by its own international airport.

Cost: Free to visit.

Image courtesy of Richard Ling

12. Scuba Dive the Great Barrier Reef (QLD)

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is unquestionably one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, but you’ll need to see it before the Australian government’s pro-mining, anti-environment policy bleaches it to oblivion.

Cynicism aside, scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef is a goal worthy of any travel bucket list, let alone an Australian one.

I was lucky enough to learn to scuba dive on the Barrier Reef, but it did spoil me for all future scuba diving. Once you’ve dived the Great Barrier Reef, subpar house reefs in Southeast Asia just won’t cut it!

I Can’t Scuba Dive!

Not scuba-certified?

A little uncomfortable at the idea of being deep underwater with a tank of air strapped to your back?

I understand that scuba diving isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. Thankfully, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef is almost as good as diving on it.

There are plenty of areas where the crystal clear waters are shallow enough to allow you to experience the reef’s vibrant colours on a snorkeling tour. There are even glass-bottom boats available for those who are allergic to the ocean!

Where: The Great Barrier Reef stretches along much of the Queensland coast, but popular dive spots exist in Townsville, Cairns, and Port Douglas.

Cost: Certified dives range in price from $60 – $100 AUD per dive (including equipment). This is on top of any boat fees (often $200+ AUD).

13. Complete a Tim Tam Slam (N/A)

Here’s a nice, easy one you can do without even having to venture all the way to Australian soil.

The Tim Tam is a hugely popular chocolate biscuit (or ‘cookie’, for my American readers) that Aussies have invented a rather inventive way of eating.

See below for the how and why of it all:

So, grab a packet of Tim Tams, put the kettle on for a hot cuppa, and get a little bit sticky eating Australia’s most popular biscuit!

Where: Anywhere!

Cost: A packet of Tim Tams will set you back around $2 AUD in Australia, but considerably more if you’re abroad. They’re $6 a packet here in Vietnam!

Image courtesy of Vincent Brown

14. Try Vegemite on Toast (N/A)

If Tim Tams are one of Australia’s most beloved exports, it’s safe to say that Vegemite is at the opposite of the spectrum.

This salty, yeast-rich spread has a cult following in Australia but is definitely an acquired taste. I didn’t like it at all until I was in my teens, and now I never leave home without a jar or tube of the stuff.

It’s actually unbelievably good for you too!

Many first-time Vegemiters make the mistake of spreading it onto their toast like they would peanut butter or jam (jelly). Rookie error!

Vegemite is best when you put a light spread – a dusting if you will – across your toast. It gives a delightful saltiness to an otherwise mundane bit of bread. Winning!

Where: Anywhere!

Cost: A jar of Vegemite is around $2 AUD in most grocery stores.

Image courtesy of Richard

15. Chill Out in Byron Bay (NSW)

If the Gold Coast is synonymous with partying and Bondi is famous for its hordes of sun-reddened British expats, Byron Bay is Australia’s most well-known hippie get away.

If you’re all about acai bowls, drum circles, hemp clothing, reggae, and dream of a day when weed is legal in Australia, you’re probably going to love Byron Bay.

That isn’t to say that this gorgeous beachside town is a den of sin and iniquity – far from it! I grew up holidaying in nearby Ocean Shores, and Byron Bay remains a popular destination for Aussie families who can stomach the crowds.

What to do in Byron Bay

The obvious attraction in Byron Bay are its beaches. It’s a great place to work on your tan, do a little sea kayaking, or take a surf lesson.

Nearby Nimbin is a popular hippie town famous for its community market, while a number of national parks and stunning landscapes are close by for those who want to do a spot of hiking.

Seeing the sunrise at Byron Bay Lighthouse (Australia’s easternmost point) is also an experience not to be missed, and very nearly warranted a spot all of its own on this list!

For more Byron Bay inspiration, check out this post by 2Aussie Travellers!

Where: Byron Bay can be reached by bus or train, but is also close to both Gold Coast Airport and Ballina Airport for flights. It is a two-hour drive from Brisbane and a scenic nine-hour drive from Sydney.

Cost: Free to visit.

16. Learn to Surf in Torquay (Victoria)

It’s true that you could learn to surf on the Gold Coast, in Byron Bay, in Sydney, and in a dozen other places, but I’ve got to give a little love to Victoria, whose beaches are often overlooked due to the cooler climate.

Located southwest of Melbourne, Torquay and nearby surfing hubs such as Lorne and Bells Beach are hugely popular with surfers on all parts of the skill spectrum. Bells Beach’s famous breaks might be a bit much for a newcomer, but lessons in Torquay are a great way to get into the sport.

There are a number of surf schools to choose from, so do your research and get out there!

Where: Torquay is located roughly ninety minutes from Melbourne.

Cost: Lessons start at around $60 AUD, including equipment hire.

Image courtesy of asheshwor

17. Experience the Barossa Valley (SA)

The days of Australia being perceived as a nation of beer-swilling colonials may never truly die, but Australia’s status as one of the world’s premier wine-growing nations has certainly helped our global stocks.

While there are a number of world-class wine regions scattered across Australia, South Australia’s Barossa Valley is arguably the most well-known.

The perfect place to sample fantastic wines, indulge your inner gourmand, and soak in the beauty of rural Australia, the Barossa Valley is an easy day-trip from Adelaide. This makes it the most accessible of Australia’s prominent wine regions.

You don’t need to be a wine expert to enjoy wine country. I found this out when I was a wine virgin in wine country. It’s hard not to have fun drinking good wine, eating all of the cheese, and soaking in a bit of sun.

Where: The Barossa Valley is a 45-minute drive from Adelaide, which is served by an international airport. While in Adelaide, I recommend staying at the Grand Chancellor Adelaide.

Cost: Cellar door tastings are free, but it’s polite to buy a little something. Guided tours range from $100 to $200 AUD per person.

Image courtesy of Paul Benjamin

18. Go sailing in The Whitsundays (QLD)

Famed for its white sand and crystal clear waters, Queensland’s Whitsundays Islands are an archipelago centered around Hamilton Island and famous for world-class sailing and picturesque, isolated beaches.

Located midway between Cairns and Brisbane, the Whitsundays are a popular (albeit expensive) stop on many an East Coast road trip. It’s arguably Australia’s most Instagrammed location, and you’ll understand why when you see that impossibly white sand and spend some time swimming in bathwater-warm seas.

Whether you sail its emerald waters, visit famous Airlie or Whitehaven Beach for a soak, snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, or just soak in its unspoiled beauty – the Whitsundays is a must for any Aussie itinerary.

Sailing the Whitsundays

A visit to the Whitsundays is a must for any Australian bucket list, but sailing around the Whitsundays is a daydream all of its own.

Ranging in length from romantic sunset cruises to multiple day excursions, heading out onto the water and island-hopping is a pricey but unforgettable way to experience the Whitsundays.

Where: A long drive from either Cairns or Brisbane, so it’s best to fly to either Great Barrier Reef Airport on Hamilton Island or Proserpine Airport. It’s also possible to get there by train.

Cost: Free to visit, but sailing tours start at around $350 AUD and go up in price based on length of trip and level of luxury.

Image courtesy of Australian Traveller

19. Drive the Great Ocean Road (Victoria)

There are few more iconically Australian things to do than hit the open road and go on an Aussie road trip.

A country the size of Australia has no shortage of memorable road trips, but few are as picturesque as the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. Stretching almost 250 breathtaking kilometres, it’s one of the most picturesque drives you’re ever likely to encounter.

Much like South Africa’s Garden Route, it’s every bit as much about the drive as it is about the many stops along the way. From the towering Twelve Apostles to serene bushwalks to quaint country towns to isolated beaches, there’s just so much to see and do along the way.

Where: The Great Ocean Road stretches between Torquay and Allansford in Victoria.

Cost: Free to drive, but you’ll need to factor in car hire, petrol, and any incidentals along the way.

Image courtesy of Lawrence Murray

20. Experience an Uluru Sunrise (NT)

Like something out of primal mythology, the monolith of Uluru (formerly known as Ayer’s Rock) is one of Australia’s most enchanting and isolated landmarks.

Located almost smack-dab in the heart of Australia’s sunbaked desert, the iconic red of Uluru draws people to the red centre of Australia year after year.

Spectacular at any time of day, Uluru is especially beautiful when experienced at sunrise or sunset. The reds, oranges, and purples of the sun combine wonderfully with the natural ochre of Uluru to create something positively otherworldly.

Don’t Climb It

You might be tempted to climb Uluru, but don’t. Only assholes climb Uluru, which is a sacred site to the local Anangu people.

As of 2019, this ‘no climbing’ rule changes from respectful request to outright law.

Where: Uluru can be reached by bus or overland, but the easiest way is to take a flight to Ayers Rock Airport.

Cost: It costs $25 AUD for a three-day pass to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Image courtesy of Rudolf Helmis

21. Visit the Nation’s Capital, Canberra (ACT)

What? Australia’s capital isn’t Sydney or Melbourne!?

You’d be surprised how many people not only don’t know Canberra is the national capital, but that it even exists.

While it’s true that Canberra is more oversized country town than true city, you would be remiss to visit Australia and not at least see where the business of governing is done.

Home to some of Australia’s best galleries and museums, Canberra is a must for those with an interest in Australian culture and history.

What to do in Canberra

The National Gallery of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of Australia, and the National Library of Australia are just a few of the more prominent museums and galleries in the capital. When you add in kid-friendly Questacon and the CSIRO Discovery Centre, you’ve got enough culture to make yogurt.

Of course, it’s not all museums.

Parliament House is a pretty impressive bit of architecture, while man-made Lake Burley-Griffin is a popular spot for picnics and water sports.

Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Stromlo Forest Park, the National Botanical Gardens, or the National Arboretum to get their dose of greenery, but Canberra is one of Australia’s greenest and most picturesque cities.

Where: Canberra is serviced by an international airport. It is also reachable by car, train, or bus from both Sydney (3 hours) or Melbourne (eight hours).

Cost: Free to visit, but individual attractions vary.

22. Attend an Australia Day BBQ (N/A)

While it’s true that most Australian holidays end up being about beer, a BBQ, and time off from work – Australia Day is the most quintessential of Australia’s holidays.

Taking place on January 26th each year, the day celebrates Australia’s settlement by Europeans – which has caused plenty of controversy amongst both indigenous Australians and non-European immigrants in recent years.

Politics notwithstanding, the day tends to be a popular excuse to get to the beach or, failing that, have a BBQ and a few too many beers in your backyard.

Don’t have a backyard? Major cities such as Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne regularly come alive with parties and events in honour of the occasion, and even the smallest of towns is sure to have some kind of event you can attend.

Where: Just about anywhere.

Cost: Free!

23. Feed a kangaroo and hold a koala (N/A)

One that all of my female friends seem most excited about: feeding a kangaroo and giving a hug to an adorable, chlamydia-riddled koala.

The good news? It’s perfectly possible to do both of these during your trip to Australia!

The bad news? It’s open to debate how you should feel about this from a conservation standpoint.

If you’re against zoos and the like, you’re going to have to reconcile that with your desire to snuggle up to a eucalyptus-addled koala, I’m afraid.

Shut up and tell me where to go, Chris!

If you’ve got your heart set on it, you can feed kangaroos at a number of wildlife reserves and zoos around Australia. Some of these are going to be better than others when it comes to quality of life for the animals, so do your research.

Most states forbid you actually holding a koala, but you can still legally do this in South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland. Personally, I experienced this at Rainforestation Nature Park in Kuranda.

Where: Kangaroos can be fed all around Australia, but you’ll need to go to Queensland, South Australia, or Western Australia to hug a koala.

Cost: Varies from park to park, but koala experiences usually start at around $20 AUD.

24. Sample a bit of pavlova (N/A)

It’s open to debate as to how much of a claim Australia actually has to the invention of pavlova, but damned if we’re going to let New Zealanders and their accursed facts take our beloved dessert away from us!

A heavenly combination of light, fluffy meringue, fresh fruits, and whipped cream – pavlova is a popular dessert at Australian BBQs and parties.

They’re harder to make than you would think, but you can buy the meringue base at most grocery stores and take the majority of the leg-work out of the equation. Otherwise, just ask your Aussie friends if they can whip one together for you or grab some at the nearest trendy cafe.

Where: Virtually everywhere, although it takes time to prepare.

Cost: If you don’t DIY, you can expect to pay around $10 – $20 at a cafe.

25. Eat a kangaroo steak (N/A)

You’ve fed a kangaroo, so it’s only natural that you let a kangaroo feed you!

As uncomfortable as you might feel about the idea at first, kangaroo is an increasingly popular fixture on Australian tables due to the leanness of the meat and the gamey flavour. With kangaroo numbers often so high that culls are necessary, you can enjoy a guilt-free steak, stir fry, or burger!

Combine this with an Australia Day BBQ and you’ve killed two birds roos with one stone!

Where: You’ll need to head out to a restaurant or buy your meat at a butcher, as grocery stores don’t stock kangaroo meat.

Cost: You can expect to pay a bit more than you would pay for beef or chicken.

Image courtesy of Pierre Roudler

26. Attend a State of Origin match (QLD/NSW)

Australians love their sport, but exactly which sport they love is going to vary based on where in Australia you are.

In New South Wales and Queensland, rugby league tends to be the most popular of the sporting codes. While the club competition (the National Rugby League) is well worth a look if you’re into contact sports, even somebody who doesn’t love their sports is likely to get a kick out of State of Origin.

An annual, three-game series featuring the best players from Queensland and New South Wales, the matches are played at an intensity that comes from decades of interstate rivalry.

With sell-out crowds jamming into stadiums in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne – the matches are some of Australia’s most watched television and bring entire towns to a standstill.

Getting to the Game

While you can definitely experience a taste of the passion by watching the game on the big screen at a pub or leagues club, nothing can match the experience of being surrounded by 70,000 screaming madmen and madwomen during a game.

You can check out the State of Origin schedule to see if one of the matches takes place while you’re in town, but be sure to also check out the NRL draw to see if there is a game you can catch during the winter months.

Where: State of Origin games are usually split between Brisbane, Sydney, and a neutral venue such as Melbourne or (in 2019) Perth.

Club games are played in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Townsville, Newcastle, the Gold Coast, and Auckland, New Zealand.

Cost: Tickets start at $87 AUD. Club games are much cheaper, with tickets starting at $15 – $20 AUD.

27. Attend an AFL match (Victoria/SA/WA)

Remember what I said about different sports being popular in different states?

If you’re in Western Australia, South Australia, or Victoria – that sport is likely to be Australian Rules football. Somewhat akin to a fusion between rugby, Gaelic football, and football (soccer), the sport is Australia’s most attended code and practically religion in the southern states.

With clubs scattered across the country, it’s possible to attend a match in every Australian state, but the best experience is likely to be had in sports-mad Melbourne. The Victorian capital has ten teams within spitting distance, meaning rivalries are intense and derby matches can draw crowds in excess of 100,000.

While I’m not an AFL fan myself, a lot of ‘sports neutral’ people such as my fiancee have said they loved the pageantry and atmosphere of a live AFL game. It is definitely a sport best experienced live, rather than on TV.

Getting to a Game

The AFL season runs throughout Australia’s winter months, with games taking place across the country.

You can check the AFL draw to see when there is a game in the area you’re visiting.

Where: Games are played in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Perth, Geelong, and occasionally in Darwin and Hobart.

28. Attend a cricket match (N/A)

This is the last sports one (for a while), I swear!

I’ve long believed that experiencing a country’s sporting culture is a great insight into the country as a whole, and that’s especially true of a sports mad country like Australia.

While rugby league, rugby union, and Aussie rules are hugely popular in Australia, no sport holds quite the same level of popularity in Australia as cricket.

Whether it’s the five-day long tests, the one-day matches between international sides, or the hugely popular T-20 Big Bash, cricket is a language unto itself.

Attending a Test Match

One for the diehard cricket fans out there, attending a five-day test match at the MCG, SCG, WACA, or GABBA is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The beer, the sunburn, and the slow pace of the game are something best experienced in person, but probably won’t be for everyone.

Attending a One-Dayer

Cricket in a far more digestible form, a one-day match lasts for (surprise surprise) a single day and is typically a more exciting match as a result. The two nations each face 50 overs (made up of six-ball innings) and aim to get the highest possible score.

It’s basically a slightly faster-paced version of baseball with fewer drugs and more casual racism.

Attending a T20 Match

If you’re a newcomer to cricket, my advise would be to get out to one of the T20 Big Bash matches that take place over the summer. A league comprising teams from Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart, Adelaide, and Melbourne – games are fast paced, family friendly, and alive with colour and pageantry.

With games lasting a much more manageable three-hours and with plenty of effort put into appealing to both women and children, it’s far and away Australia’s most family-friendly sporting event.

Where: A schedule for international test matches, one-dayers, and T20 matches featuring Australia can be found here. while fixtures for the popular T20 Big Bash can be found here.

Cost: Varies depending on the game, the opposition, and the venue.

29. Have a beach Christmas (N/A)

Being away from home for Christmas can be difficult, and that’s likely to be especially true if you’re not used to hot days, cold meat, and the fact snowmen, pine trees, and a fully-clothed Santa seem at odds with the 35C+ temperatures.

With that being said, there’s there’s plenty of reasons to love Christmas in Australia, so why not embrace that weirdness by celebrating the big day with a bit of a beach BBQ?

With Australia’s beaches public, it’s ridiculously easy to round up a few fellow expats and head on down to the beach for a few beers and a BBQ.

Just remember that most businesses are closed on Christmas Day, so you’ll want to stock up on Christmas Eve.

Where: Anywhere on the coast. Christmas is in summer!

Cost: Free!

Image courtesy of Phutully

30. Dress the part for Spring Carnival (Victoria)

Horse-racing might not be your thing, but there’s a reason that the annual Melbourne Cup is called “the race that stops a nation”. Places of business turn into ghost towns when the race begins, with offices and schools across the country arranging sweepstakes in celebration.

While it’s possible to experience Melbourne Cup fever anywhere in Australia, it’s best experienced in Victoria. Not only is it a public holiday for those lucky bastards, but you can also make the trek to Flemington Racecourse to experience all of the pomp and circumstance in person.

Attending the Melbourne Cup

The Spring Carnival is more than just a thoroughbred horse race. It’s a festival of food, live music, ornamental hats, and entirely too much booze.

Dressing up and over-indulging seems to be every bit as important as who wins the main attraction, so don your finest suit or frock, pick the best drinks/food package for you, and take as many obnoxious and regrettable selfies as humanly possible.

Where: The Spring Carnival and Melbourne Cup take place in and around Melbourne, with the main race at Flemington Racecourse.

Cost: Packages start from $75 AUD and go all the way up to the thousands for drinks packages.

31. Go Skiing in the Snowy Mountains (NSW)

Skiing and snowboarding are perhaps not the first things that come to mind when you think about Australia, but there’s a reason why Australia participates in the Winter Olympics.

The Australian Snowy Mountains come alive every winter, with skiers from all across Australia and around the world descending on famous Australian ski resorts like Thredbo, Perisher, and Mount Hotham to experience the closest to a true winter Australia gets.

It’s possible to find ski slopes in New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria, and Tasmania, although Thredbo and Perisher are the most popular options with the most facilities available.

With ski season running from June through October (dependent on conditions and location), why not sneak a cheeky ski in on your way from Sydney to Melbourne?

Where: There are multiple ski resorts in Australia, but the most popular include Thredbo and Perisher (NSW), Mt. Buller, Mt. Hotham, and Falls Creek (Victoria), and Ben Lomond (Tasmania). In all cases, you can fly to the nearest capital city and drive from there.

Cost: Passes in Tasmania start as low as $70 AUD, while the more prominent locations are closer to $150 AUD.

32. Go Whale Watching (QLD/NSW)

Rounding out the list of the obvious inclusions on an Australian bucket list, whale watching is a thrilling way to get up close and personal with some of the largest living mammals in the world.

With humpback whale migrations taking them along the Australian coast, it’s possible to head out for a day of whale watching from countless cities and towns. In fact, pretty much the only states where whale-watching isn’t feasible are the land-locked ACT and the Northern Territory.

The best spots? Southern Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay as well as Byron Bay and Sydney. I’ve been whale-watching in Sydney on multiple occasions and never come back empty-handed. I’ve also been whale-watching on Moreton Island.

Where: The most popular whale-watching destinations are southern Queensland as well as Byron Bay and Sydney.

Cost: Tours are usually around $100 AUD including lunch.

Are the above too obvious for you?

Head on over to the next page to get a little more off-the-beaten-path on your Australian bucket list.

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City of Lights: it’s called this because Paris was one of the first cities to become fully electrified. It’s called City of Amour because, well, simply put, the French know something about amour. Any visitor leaves forever remembering the sites – and the sites in the night lights. The Place de Concorde is the gateway to Les Tuileries and, nestled at the very front, are huge Rodins and the Musee de l’Orangerie [home of Monet’s “Water Lilies], which houses hundreds of works by Impressionist masters.

Lighting enhances the stunning beauty of the world’s most famous/visited museums, the Louvre, the former palace where art lovers view such objets d’art as the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, and Venus de Milo. You might also call Paris the City of Museums. In addition to l’Orangerie and the Louvre, there’s the huge post-Modern high-tech steel and concrete Centre George Pompidou, with the largest collection of modern art in Europe; the d’Orsay; the Picasso; and prized private collections at the Jacquemart-André, Marmottan-Monet, Nissim de Camondo, and Louis Vuitton Foundation Musees to name but a few.

Passing the palatial Grand Palais and its Palais de la Découvérte science museum, and adjoining Petit Palais is a marvelous sight by night, but leaving Paris without a visit would be a huge mistake. You might even consider lunch at the reasonably-priced bistro overlooking the Palais gardens.

You will feel the majesty of Napoleon and the history of France at L’Arc de Triomphe. From there sail the well-heeled shopper’s paradise along the Champs Elysees, with a detour to the famed George V Hotel [soon to unveil its multi-billion Euro renovation]; then, pass tributes to Presidents Washington, Roosevelt, and Eisenhower, and statue of Churchill.

While only the super, super rich can afford the magnificence of the Hotel de Crillon [upward of $1,300 a night, continental or full breakfast included; where Who among the world’s Who’s Who hasn’t stayed], which has just reopened after its first major/total facelift in nearly 100 years, you can freely admire the lighted facade, even make a pit stop to admire the grandeur of its 18th Century lobbies, dine at the patio restaurant, and, by day, visit the garden. In the center of it all is the stately Palais Opera Garnier. Purchase tour/guided tour tickets to be swept away by the sweeping 1800s architecture, which includes the grand staircase, and galleries and salons which redefine the definition of regal grandeur. It’s home to the eight-ton bronze and crystal chandelier with 340 lights. Don’t miss having a photo taken in front of the box reserved for the phantom! Nearby is the ultra-modern Opéra Bastille.    

At the pinnacle of the Latin Quarter is the stunningly lit by night and worthy of a visit by day Panthéon.   

After viewing the fountains of the Gardens du Trocadéro Gardens with a magnificent view of the dazzling light show on the Eiffel Tower, cross the Pont d’Léna to the Left Bank, where you can marvel up close at Alexandre Gustave Eiffel’s 1889 Tower of steel — even elevator up to the top for dinner and a dazzling city view. Not far away is the Musee d’Orsay, the breathtaking home for more breathtaking Impressionist masterpieces.

Across the Pont Neuf or Pont Notre Dame on its very own lle da la Cité  in the Seine is lofty, medieval Notre Dame Cathedral, where kings and emperors were crowned, with its flying buttresses, gargoyles, towering bell towers [with 10 named bells of various sizes that can do notes from A to G], stained glass masterpieces that include the renowned Gothic-Rayonnant Rose Window, magnificent organ with 8.000 pipes, gigantic doors, and French Gothic interior — one of the world’s most visited tourist sites. Even gaudy, seedy Pigalle, in Paris’ 18th arrondissement, offers standout lighting: of the famed windmill atop the Moulin Rouge, on its present site at 82 Boulevard de Clichy since 1915.  Head northeast to Montmartre and one of the city’s highest points to the famed “stairway to heaven” stairway leading to the monumental Sacré-Coeur basilica [if you happen to be touring by car, your driver will know how to get you on the much closer upper roadway]. Day or night, it’s a great spot for taking photos.

Only a few miles outside the city, stay to experience the twilight radiance on Versailles, including the Petit Trianon, Grand Trianon, and gardens.

Paris is a walking city, and then some – with steep hills and stairways to climb; and labyrinth Metro stations.  So, wear very comfortable shoes.

In July 2017, one Euro equaled $1.15, which bodes well, especially when eating out [an advantage over the Pound].

If you have travel plans for summer and can wait until the “Magic Airfare Days” of the dog days of August when air fares begin segueing to lower Fall prices, you’ll save upwards of $100 booking August 21 on domestic air; booking August 22 international air, over $600.

Opera Garnier

It’s Charles Garnier’s monument to a bygone era. We will never see the likes of buildings like this one again. You enter into the rotunda and can’t help being astounded by the jawdropping beauty of the 98.5-foot-high tri-color marble vault and the famed Grand Staircase, where you’re greeted by two female allegories holding torches, that leads to the foyers, grand salon, theatre tiers, and private boxes [where one is permanently reserved for the phantom, a legend actually based on the deformed architect, who while helping Garnier secretly built “an underground lair” for himself adjacent to the lake.]

The view from the Grand Staircase, with light from outside and mirrors, is spectacular-plus. The Belle Époque galleries feature classic paintings of “dancing bacchantes and fauna, along with tapestries illustrating different refreshments as well as fishing and hunting.” The magnificent-beyond-description ceiling is by Clairin. The foyer vault, with a ceiling painted by Baudry and a copy of a bust of Garnier by the sculptor Carpeaux, features themes from the history of music. It’s covered with mosaics of shimmering colors on a gold background.

In the tradition of Italian theaters, the horseshoe-shaped seating is designed for the audience to see and to be seen. The majestic ceiling, painted by Chagall, hides the steel structure supporting the eight-ton bronze and crystal chandelier. The curtain, which has been duplicated twice, was created by theatrical painters Auguste Rube (1817-1899) and Philippe Chaperon (1823-1906), following Garnier’s instructions. The backstage areas are vast and flies soar up to the gods.

Once a sort of “secret place to court” and for well-heeled subscribers celebrities to mingle during intervals with Champagne and caviar, the Foyer de la Danse, adjacent to the stage which served as inspiration to painters and writers, including Degas and Balzac, is now a salon used by artists, musicians, and the corps de ballet for warm-ups.

Throughout the house, the lyre decorates the capitals of the foyers and salons, even heating grids and doorknobs. The Grand Vestibule, “watched over by the statues of Rameau, Lully, Gluck, and Handel,” leads to the exit.

For more information on the Opera Garnier, eight rue Scribe, schedules, tour/guided tour tickets, and reservations for the very expensive Opéra Restaurant under one of the vaults, visit www.operadeparis.fr.

The Panthéon

This magnificent and vast Sixth Century colonnaded orthodox cross-shaped edifice high up in the Latin Quarter, across from the Sorbonne, dates to 1744. Built in the neo-Classical style, it’s filled with huge, still vividly-colorful murals of French history. It was the brainchild of Louis XV, who when he became seriously ill and made a vow to build a monument for Saint Genevieve, patron/protector of Parisians against invasions and hunger, should he be cured. He chose the architect Soufflot [and, following his death, his colleague Rondelet] and paid for the tons of marble, soaring Corinthian columns, mosaics, and the columned porch inspired by Rome’s Pantheon of Agrippa, with a royal lottery.

At the time of the French Revolution, the church hadn’t been consecrated. In 1791, the Assembly decided to make it a Panthéon, “a lay temple destined to harbor the labors, struggles, and tombs of France’s great men.”

For more information, on the Panthéon, Rue du Panthéon at Rue Clotilde, visit http://ift.tt/2k1V5MS. Small admission charge.

Ellis Nassour is an Ole Miss alum and noted arts journalist and author who recently donated an ever-growing exhibition of performing arts history to the University of Mississippi. He is the author of the best-selling Patsy Cline biography, Honky Tonk Angel, as well as the hit musical revue, Always, Patsy Cline. He can be reached at ENassour@aol.com. 

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