Sydney - Part 2 - September 2010

Day 10 - September 25

Today we had a late start - not to worry mate. We bused it to Bondi Beach where we saw surfers, swimmers, life guards and dolphins. The weather was the best so far - in the 70s and sunny.

For lunch I had motza dumpling soup - not bad. We then walked along the beachhead for an amazing vista.

In the afternoon we walked through Paddy Market and Chinatown - nothing like Shanghai.

I loved the ceiling fan in the market, and would love one for my new condo.

Day 11 - September 26

The best weather yet - probably close to 80 and sunny. I have laundry to do, but it can wait.

The Circular Quay (pronounced key) was packed with people - locals and tourists. There was a huge line for the Manly beach ferry. Think I'll skip that and opt for the pylon near the bridge.

Back to the Rocks and up a few hundred steps. Next a walk on the Harbour Bridge to the base of the pylon. Then more stairs - harder work then the actual bridge climb. But in the end the breathtaking views from the top were well worth it. You got to see the bridge climbers close up.

I spent the rest of the afternoon on Circular Quay. Of course I probably took another 100 photos of the Opera House. During Oprah's upcoming visit, it will be called the Oprah House - how tacky.

I finally gave in and did my laundry. Following dinner outside, I returned to my friend's apartment and was surprised by a fantastic fireworks display over the Opera House.

Day 12 - September 27

I slept late today. I bused it to Jeane and Jays. Breakfast was a healthy chocolate chip muffin at Starbucks.

The above sculpture was made from well used bicycles.

The morning's adventure was the Botanical Gardens. They were one of the nicest gardens I've ever visited. My favourite section was the cherry blossoms in full bloom. We ended the tour along the harbour, with a new view of the Opera House and bridge. I'm sure you can hear my camera clicking.

We grabbed some sandwiches and caught the ferry to Parramatta, about 20kms away. It was an interesting ride up the river from city to bayou.

In Parramatta we walked and took a city bus tour. It was a very quaint town, with most of the residents foreigners.

The tide was too low for the return ferry, so we were bused to a closer stop. The ride back was relaxing and beautiful. I had no idea so many people lived on or near the river.

I finally got to meet my host, Tim, after six years of an online friendship. He had to leave for a meeting, but we got to know each other over an amazing dinner.

We had a lot in common - both worked in the financial sector. Both love to travel. He likes skiing in Colorado - I don't.

I invited Tim and his wife to use my condo in Cocoa Beach.