My blog cover picture is of the Sydney Harbour with Kirribilli, a cozy suburb nestled in the background.
My daughter lived there for more than ten years before moving north of the harbor.
The ferry is a popular mode of transportation (public transport) for folks lucky (and wealthy) enough to live on the harbor.
My son-in-law and many professionals rode it to the City (or Central Business District) to go to work.
The ferry stop was 400 meters from our apartment - a 4-minute walk. It was usually on schedule, every 20 minutes during rush hour.
I always arrive early to enjoy the harbor's rocking motion of the ferry and fantastic views.
The ride into the city takes me past international icons like the Sydney Opera House.
From the water, you get a magnificent view of Oz.
The white roofs on the Opera House are shaped like sails on a sailboat by design.
The harbor draws thousands to the water for recreation, competitions, and panoramic views of the infamous landmarks each year.
A close-up of the Opera House roofs shows it resembles seashells.
The glass front of the Opera House provides a beautiful view of the harbor from inside the auditorium.
It's not just a pretty face.
It features great artists from all over the world.
Across from the Opera House is the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The bridge plays center stage each year as Sydney is one of the first cities to kick off the world's New Year's Eve celebrations!
Fireworks explode from the top of the bridge and flow from it like a waterfall.
If you want a thrill, try booking a climb to the top of the bridge.
Yes, I mean the very top where the flags are flying.
To be eligible to climb, you need proof of fitness, a blood-alcohol reading below .05, and over eight years of age.
Also, if you are over 24 weeks pregnant, forget about it!
It takes more than nerve to climb cause it isn't cheap.
- Children = $100-200 AU
- Adults = $300 - 400, AU
Check it out at Bridgeclimb. It will blow your mind!
Oprah and Gail did it when she came to town.
As my ferry steers closer to the dock, a cruise ship appears.
Harbour City Ferries operates a fleet of 28 boats with inside & outside seating, restrooms, water fountains, and sea breezes.
This ferry takes me to Circular Quay (pronounced Kee), the ferry hub.
I am in la-la land off the ferry, where the energy and activity are through the roof.
Excited tourists and locals are taking in the sights - snacking, dining, shopping, and snapping selfies and pictures of one another.
Street musicians (Buskers) and magicians are entertaining the crowd, all there for your pleasure and enjoyment (= tip).
Aboriginal musicians are playing the didgeridoo.
Sistahs, this is a great place to get a husband!
Some folks are waiting on ferries, and others, are just having a look, a coffee, or a beer.
I'm hanging out around Whaf 5 - there are 6 of them in total.
Learn more at Sydney Ferries.
Circular Quay is active all year long, and the shops and restaurants play to the diversity of the tourists.
UGG shops are everywhere.
Koala and Kangaroo stuffed animals are everywhere on sale.
Australian meat pies, authentic Chinese, and even American fast foods are in Circular Quay.
Hungry Jacks is Australia's, Burger King.
A short walk around will take you to the steps of Botanical Gardens, where you can see beautifully manicured gardens, exotic trees, and tropical native birds, or to the Sydney Opera House.
After 12 years in this city, coming from Brooklyn, I'm still awed by that Sydney Harbour view.
ReplyDeleteSuch an interesting way of life. Culture is amazing. Something new everyday I bet! I hope it never gets routine!
ReplyDeleteBTW, LOVED your shot of the Emerald City!
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