On day 2, I woke up all rested and energized to explore Sydney. After doing yoga and qigong, I mapped out my urban hike plan for the day over a cup of hot chocolate.
From my apartment, I headed towards the Potts Point neighborhood.
Gateway to the Cross, Coca-Cola Billboard –
Had no idea that this billboard is one of the “must see” as per the Sydney guide book. The arrival of a striking new Coca-Cola sign in 1974 signalled big things for Sydney and the Kings Cross area. The new Coca-Cola sign created an unmistakable landmark, one that defined the area that quickly became known as ‘The Gateway to the Cross’.
Omnia Building –
Across from the CC billboard, the Omnia building reminded me of the “Dancing House” aka “Fred and Ginger” building in Prague. Looks like Ginger was flying solo in Sydney. It’s a luxury condo building and their penthouse with 360 degree views is up for sale. If you do end up buying, can I invite myself as your guest 🙂
Aboriginal Art –
Later, I stopped at “The Artery,” it’s a contemporary aboriginal art shop. I learned a lot about the process and the stories each artists had conveyed through their paintings. Inspired me to create some when I get back home. Since I’m traveling light, I decided to buy metal earrings with artwork imprinted on them. I’m going to make one into a pendant and the other one into a bracelet. Super excited! Also, the artist makes royalty for the designs so it made me feel good that I was supporting a local aboriginal artist.
Farmers Market at Fitzroy Gardens –
Always love walking through farmers market in various countries I’ve visited. Get to checkout the local produce, food, dessert, flowers, and unique items. The beeswax pouches for storing food were really cool items and I ended up buying one to test it out.
Potts Point Market –
After just having a banana and glass of milk for breakfast, I was super hungry. I came across this cute cafe, Orwells Cafe, in the Potts Point Market. Had the almond chai latte which was ok but the scrambled eggs omelette with herbs was yummy.
There are lot of restaurants and cute boutiques in this neighborhood.
The owner of “So French. So Chic.” is such a lovely woman and I fell in love with the beige summer hat with a leather twist, designed by a French designer and handmade in Italy. It was a bit expensive but since I can easily fold it and put in my backpack without loosing its shape, convinced me to splurge for a change.
Harbor walk –
The walk from Potts Point to the harbor was lovely since I could checkout some beautiful houses along the way.
Sculptures by the harbor –
Adds so much drama and color to the concrete pathway around the harbor.
Mrs Macquaries Rock –
City and Iconic Views –
Being on the other side gives you a great vantage point to appreciate the city skyline and landmarks.
Royal Botanical Garden –
Love when there is green space in the middle of the city And the Royal Botanical Gardens are worth the visit. I opted to sit under the shade of a tree and connect with nature.
Sydney Opera Building –
There’s a reason Sydney’s Opera building is an icon around the world. Didn’t have much time to take the tour inside the Oper house but nonetheless the architecture from outside will mesmerize your senses. It’s not only breathtaking but I believe that it’s beauty lies in the details. I did spend an hour here sitting on it’s steps admiring this gem.
Dining Scene by the Opera and Harbor –
This is the place to be for Happy hour drinks or grab a meal before the show.
Fine Dining at Yellow, Potts Point –
A friend had recommended that I go to “yellow,” a vegetarian fine dining restaurant, so I had made reservations to make sure that I get a table for dinner at this swanky place. I ordered their 5-course meal and each dishes were creatively prepared with interesting ingredient mix, and were out of this world. The portions were very filling as well. Sometimes you just have to splurge for a great dining experience and Yellow made the evening so much more memorable. I’ve to say that Sydney gets a feather in it’s cap for the dining scene.
Today was definitely a great day of exploration and Sydney reminded me of being back home in California, with it’s creative vibe, friendly locals and hilly neighborhoods but much cleaner streets.
