Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Australia: Recap Three

The last of my Australia recaps focuses on Sydney, where I spent most of my free time. I was there a total of two full days and two half days. In that time I explored the city, went to the nearby Blue Mountains, and spent an afternoon at Manly Beach. Of all the cities I visited - Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney - Sydney was my favorite. I loved the vibe of the big buildings, seaside eateries, and old bars AND public transportation really was a dream. Makes me wish LA had a safe, easy bus system.

The first day we got in was spent seeing all of the touristy places like the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as other cool buildings.


That night we had a drink at an outside bar in Darling Harbour - sunset was incredibly gorgeous!


On my first full day I was up bright and early to catch a tour to the nearby Blue Mountains. The day consisted of visiting an animal park then touring several places with beautiful views of the forest and the famous Three Sisters.

While I had a good time, I don't think this was a must-see, or at least via tour. I'm more of a city and ocean kind of person that a mountain lover. AND with the tour I didn't get to see the Jenolan Caves (the oldest discovered open caves in the world!) that boast incredible calcite formation. I didn't see this offered on any of the tours and didn't even know about them until I heard that a co-worker visited them.


The next day was spent at Manly Beach, a ferry ride away from Sydney. Unfortunately it was rainy and cold, but the trip over to the island there was scenic and relaxing and the time spent there consisted of delish seafood and walking around the island.


Unfortunately the next day I had to hop on a plane and fly back to LA. I wish I had just one more day to check out the other beaches in Sydney, such a Bondi. I hear it's amazing! Maybe one day...



Be sure to check out Australia: Recap One and Australia: Recap Two to read about my entire three week trip!

13 comments:

Helene said...

looks amazing!!!! i love travel stories. I posted today about going to tomorrowland (a music festival in europe) I would absolutely love love love to go to Australia!

Amber said...

I am seriously so jealous. What an amazing experience you had!

Tiffany said...

Amazing. I know it wasn't an ideal amount of time but you are so fortunate to see what you were able to!

Alyson | New England Living said...

Those are some fantastic photos! I especially love the sunset, with the lighthouse and ship! Sort of reminds me of Maine.

One of these days we'll go to Australia since we have family there! Just not super excited to make that flight with 4 kids! ;)

Life Through Preppy Glasses said...

wow sydney looks awesome! i have always wanted to go to australia so hopefully it happens some day

Ann said...

Enjoy and continue to have a great time. Thanks for sharing your pics!

C said...

Sydney is where I've always wanted to visit. I love that picture of Darling Harbor with the light house and tall ship. And those night time shots at the end?! So pretty! What an awesome trip, Leeann!

Brooke said...

Looks like a wonderful time! You lucky girl!


=)

Brooke

Audrey Allure said...

Seems like you had an amazing time! Went to Australia once -- can't wait til the day I get to visit again!

Leesh said...

Leeann, you took some beautiful touristy photos (lol). I am glad you tacked on an extra week to enjoy Australia on your own.

Allison said...

Loveee everything about these pictures. Cannot wait until the day I can visit Australia - you best believe I will have tons of touristy pictures too! And you look wonderful as per usual <3 xox

Unknown said...

So jealous you got to hang with koalas... love them!

Selma @ Crazy Little World Of Mine said...

I am so jealous of you having gone to this marvelous country/continent. Love each and every picture you shared here girl. :) And yay, Manly.... ;)