In my case, that would mean Melbourne. Jen and I visited Melbourne in early December. And since we're fanatical about testing out random theories, particularly from complete strangers, we hopped on a plane and headed across the Tasman. (Yes again mom).
When we touched down in Sydney Thursday night, it was cold and rainy. (Not the best way to impress new visitors). The showers continued on and off for most of Friday, but that didn't stop us from visiting the iconic Sydney Opera House and walking across (not on top of) the Sydney Harbour Bridge, while side-stepping joggers coming from both directions.
I'm going to admit that I thought the opera house needed a paint job. The lack of sun and me being on the bridge made some spots appear a bit dull. It wasn't until I got up close that I realized the tiles where white and tan, which really made a big difference. (American tourism at its finest).
I've seen pictures of the big New Year's Eve Celebration they have in front of the Sydney Opera House and it seems impossible to fit so many people in that area. (Good on ya! - Not sure if Aussies say that).
In the evening, Jen and I checked out downtown Sydney, which reminded me of New York City. The tall buildings, the huge and numerous department stores and the constant stream of people running for buses and trains-it brought a tear to my eye. For dinner, we went to this cool restaurant called Mammas Pizza Pasta Bar. The food was good (best pizza I've had on this side of the world), the service was quick and the prices were reasonable.
Saturday, the rain finally cleared up and Jen and I went to Featherdale Wildlife Park to meet some real Australian locals. Kangaroos, kaolas and ill-mannered emus (picture No. 12). Side note: Dingos look just like dogs. If the cage wasn't labeled I would have thought I was being ripped off.
I think it that experience that swayed Jen and made her put Sydney on the top of her list. As for me? I'm still not sure. I really liked Melbourne, which is smaller, but I thought had more of an artsy scene. But Sydney had that big-city feel I love. Jen gave me 48 hours to decide, but I still haven't. The closest I've come is by saying "I liked Melbourne, but I would live in Sydney," which really doesn't make any sense.
Side note: You know that belief that Australian men are really attractive? It's kind of true. I mean we were downtown and many of them were coming from work, so they looked especially good, but on average, I thought most of the Aussie men were attractive. (Take from that what you will).
And finally ... PICTURES from our chief photographer:
No comments:
Post a Comment