Why do I love Sydney? It’s probably more to do with my love of Australia in general. Sydney is somewhere everyone wants to go and if you don’t want to go there then you are probably lying to yourself. Sydney is undeniably glamourous. With its collection of beaches, shopping, bars, events and numerous things to do, how could you ever tire of this haven down under where something is always happening?
Be it on a budget or with cash to splash you can thoroughly explore this city. Obviously you’ll want to head down to the Sydney Harbour for that famous photo of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It’s a must do for anyone who visits Sydney, you’d be stupid not too. Want a more memorable experience of Sydney? Why not actually go and see an Opera of performance at this world famous venue? If you’ve got the cash, book your tickets in advance to get the best possible seats. However, if money is tight, if you head to the ticket box or reception about 30 minutes before the start of a performance they often have discounted tickets available. Although you might not get to sit with your friends, how could you not enjoy a performance at the Sydney Opera House? It will be an experience you will never forget. If you catch them on a lucky day you might even be able to sneak in for free, which is what some of my friends managed to do this summer, I however wasn’t so lucky. Feeling like a daredevil? Want that adrenaline rush? Why not climb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge? It will give you stunning sweeping panoramic views of the city.

Another fantastic thing about the harbour and Quay area is the endless numbers of places to eat and drink. Any sort of food imaginable you’ll be able to get it down there. I personally recommend heading to the Quay for brunch, grab a
n outside table on a beautiful sunny day and enjoy your eggs benedict looking out onto the Harbour, you’ll feel as though you have no troubles in the world. More of a night owl? Don’t worry because Sydney has infinite bars and clubs for you to dance away into the early hours of the morning. It’s true this urban paradise is a disco dancers dream. There is always a new underground club, upcoming band, modern dining or insane party to attend, be it in the city centre or on the outskirts. The city may seem totally glitzy and it is, if you’re into that sort of thing. If you want to dress up under the sparkling lights of the city but you want a more chilled atmosphere, most places will let you in with an edgy T-shirt and clean pair of jeans, which is a backpackers dream, as there was no way my favourite heels were ever going to fit into my backpack.
The best thing about Sydney is the fact that it’s an urban wilderness but on the stunning east coast of Australia meaning that, of course, this coastal city has plenty of beaches. Bondi Beach is a must for any beach fanatic. You can’t escape the art anywhere in this destination. Bondi Beach is covered in paintings and murals. Want to skate with the stunning views? Don’t worry, Bondi has its own skate park. Want to be poolside with your favourite drink? Easy. Bondi Icebergs Club will allow you to live that lush lifestyle. I highly recommend the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. It is the second top thing to do in Sydney behind the harbour of course. This cliff-top coastal walk stretches across Sydney’s eastern suburbs featuring the best views of beaches, parks, cliffs and bays. You’ll get to witness some of the less tourist populated areas. If you’re there for Australia Day, grab your fancy dress and get to Coogee beach without delay, it’s the party place to be. If you’re going in the evening don’t forget your BBQ ingredients so you can use one of the free electric barbecues to enjoy your dinner, true Australian style.

Sydney is the sort of city that is loud, dazzling and flirtatious. It will flirt its way into your heart, making you want to stay forever or, if you do manage to leave, you know you’ll be coming back for more – I know I will.