Thursday, October 25, 2012

Blog Movie Sydney Travel Highlights

 



Highlights for some of our recent blogs.
Check out Palm Beach, Newport Arms, Pancakes on the Rocks, and the Sydney Fish Markets.

Sydney Travel 2012.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Newport Arms

Open since 1880, the Newport Arms Hotel is one of the most ambient and happening places to enjoy the sun. The Arms has celebrates being voted Restaurant of the Year in a pub at the 2008 Restaurant and Catering Awards in NSW and Australia.
The Newport Arms is nestled on the shores of Pittwater on Sydney's Northern Beaches, The Arms is picturesque and family friendly. It's panoramic views overlook Bayview, Church Point, Scotland Island and Ku-ring-gai National Park.

Whilst it may be a fair trip out if your staying in the city, just hop on an L90 or L88 bus from Central/QVB or Wynyard and you will be dropped right outside on Kalinya Street.

The Arms runs private functions such as weddings, kids parties and birthdays, however also holds public events in its beer garden such as Melbourne Cup, the NRL Grandfinal, Xmas Eve and NYE events also.

The Arms has a great selection of nibblies or meals available for both lunch and dinner - ranging from Italian all the way through to fish and chips. Check out the Menu here @ their website http://www.newportarms.com.au/menus/Newport-BistroMenu.pdf


Olivia Agosti

Sydney Aquarium


Sydney Aquarium

Come on a magical journey of unbelievable discovery at the Sydney Aquarium's freshwater and marine aquatic environments and be amazed an incredible 13,000 animals from 700 different species - including the world's largest variety of sharks and sting rays.

At Sydney Aquarium, you will get to experience 14 newly-themed zones which include A shark area, ray bay, swamp and a ship wreck.

Along the way through you will see some of the world's most incredible animals, including the bizarre but magestic Duegongs  - 2 of only 5 on display anywhere in the world - huge sharks, massive stingrays, majestic turtles, jellyfish, penguins, sea dragons, thousands of tropical fish, Giagantic crabs and much, much more.

From the freshwater rivers of the south to the tropical waters of the north, including the a spectacular Great Barrier Reef exhibition a trip to Sydney Aquarium takes you around Australia's coastline, out into its oceans and up into its waterways - all without leaving the city!


Tickets

Tickets are available at the door, however to avoid a long line up and to receive a 30% discount why not book online at the webiste www.sydneyaquriam.com

By being a guest at the Sydney Aquarium you can also get discount parking at participating car parks within walking distance.

Location

 Sydney Aquarium is located on the city side of Darling Harbour, in the heart of Sydney. Getting to Sydney Aquarium is easy either by car or public transport.

There are always special events and feeding and shows going on at the Aquarium which you can again look up times and days on the website. However if you are just looking for a fun exciting day out why not check it out. 
Let the Adventure begin!!!

Emma mullane

Palm Beach


Palm Beach

Palm Beach, the most iconic beach of Northern Beaches, is the northernmost suburb of Sydney, less than an hour drive from the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the CBD. Nestled on a landmark peninsula, it is blessed with a unique contrast of lush evergreen bushland and beaches of golden sand, enveloped by the pristine blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and the calm sailing paradise of Pittwater. A unique environmental awareness blending breathtaking views with quaint cottages and palatial homes, ensures that Palm Beach will forever enjoy a lifestyle of relaxed and casual affluence.

What to do!

No matter your age or your sense of adventure, at Palm Beach there is something for everyone to do. The first thing I would suggest is to take in the entire beach, this can be achieved by a simple stroll along either the grass, in the water or along the sand, all options will be enjoyable.

After you have worked up an appetite why not go and have a bite to eat. You can choose from a number of great venues, including for casual dining Dunes kiosk or Boat house both great options if you’re looking for a casual coffee, ice cream or burger.  If you want to go for a sit down slightly more up market dining experience why not try Barrenjoey house or Jonas which is slight off the beaten track.  

Another way to see palm beach is to go on a 20 minute track up to the Barrenjoey light house. This historical landmark offers history and knowledge of the area as well as a spectacular 360 degree angle view of the entire beach both the ocean and Pittwater side. You can also see as far as the central coast and over to west head.

If you would prefer to spend your day out on the ocean why not either hire a boat to take out on Pittwater for the day. There are a few different hire companies that all have a boat that will suit your need. You do not need a boat licence in most cases. If driving the boat isn’t what you are after why not hop on a ferry from palm beach wharf. You can either go over and explore the national park and head over to the basin for the day with a picnic. Or you can go the opposite way and head up north over to one of the few stops at the central coast.

This  is just a small list of the best things to do whilst at palm beach, however there is plenty of shopping and exploring to do so why not come and have your own adventure.


Emma mullane       

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb!


Climbing Sydney Harbour Bridge!


The Bridge Climb is a 3 ½ hour guided journey to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It takes you along the outer arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour.
In Climb groups of up to 14 people, you’ll be led by one of BridgeClimb’s professional Climb Leaders on an adventure of the world’s most recognisable Bridge. The steady incline to the summit leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities to witness 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the Sydney Opera House, west to the Blue Mountains and the Harbour city surrounds.
When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement that you will remember forever - you've conquered an Australian icon recognised the world over!
The Bridge Climb is the ultimate Sydney experience.
Our professional Climb Leaders will take pictures of you on the Climb and at the end you will receive a commemorative Climber Certificate, Climber Cap and a complimentary group photograph, with all Climbers in the group receiving an identical photo. For safety reasons Climbers cannot take up personal items onto the Bridge (including cameras).

Bridge Climb Preparation:































  1. BridgeSuit = You will suit up in our specially designed BridgeSuit that can be worn over the top of your clothing.
    If you have any questions about your BridgeSuit you can call us on +61 2 8274 7777.
  2. Scrunchie = So you don’t miss any part of the spectacular view, we provide scrunchie’s to tie the hair off your face.
  3. Headset = We will provide a radio and comfortable headset so you can hear the commentary of your Climb Leader.
  4. Glasses Attachment = Don’t forget to bring your glasses. Attachments will be available so you can take up your own sunglasses or optical glasses. However due to safety reasons DVR (Digital Video Recorder) Glasses cannot be taken on the Bridge.
  5. Cap = For sunny conditions
  6. Headlamp = A lamp to illuminate your path on a Night Climb
  7. BridgeClimb operates in all Sydney weather conditions, except electrical storms and extremely high wind. Challenging weather conditions add an extra sense of adventure and exhilaration. We provide all the necessary gear to ensure a fantastic experience.
      a. BridgeShell =  A weather-proof barrier layer
      b. BridgeFleece = A comfortable fleecy jacket to keep you warm
      c. Beanie = A hat to keep you warm
      d. Rain Pants = A barrier layer for extra protection.
  8. Handkerchief = For those emotional moments
  9. Latch or Slider = Safety is BridgeClimb's number-one priority. You will be provided with either a latch or slider attached to a static line on the Bridge, for the duration of the Climb, ensuring you feel safe, secure and comfortable at all times.
  10. Shoes = On the Climb you will need to wear enclosed rubber-soled shoes such as running, sport or hiking shoes, which offer comfort, support and grip.      
Standard Rates
Rates valid from 1 July 2012 until 30 June 2013 excluding Peak Rates 

Day
Day
Night
Twilight
Twilight
Exclusive Dawn
Monday - Friday
Saturday - Sunday
Monday - Sunday
Monday - Friday
Saturday - Sunday
First Saturday of
each Month
Adult$218$228$198$278$288$298
Child$148$158$138$198$198$198
Peak Rates
Rates valid from 27 December 2012 until 4 January 2013

Day
Night 
Twilight
Exclusive Dawn
Monday - Sunday
Monday - Sunday
Monday - Sunday

Monday - Sunday

AdultFrom $248From $238From $298From $318
ChildFrom $168From $168From $200From $208


Emma Shepherd

Monday, September 24, 2012

Taronga Zoo

When traveling to Australia or to any other country, one thing that comes to mind is the uniqueness of each country. One thing that I consider to be unique about Australia is of with flora and fauna, and one place you can go to see and sometimes interact with the local and foreign fauna is at Taronga Zoo.

Taronga Zoo was officially opened on its current site on October 7th, 1916 but its history dates back to 1884 when the first public Zoo in New South Wales opened on a site known as Billy Goat Swamp. Since then new exhibits and facilities were developed over time and the philosophy for the operation of Taronga evolved to reflect emphasis on scientific research, conservation and education.

Taronga Zoo is just 12 minutes from the city at Circular Quay by ferry, with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and free shows and keeper talks throughout the day. Or up to 38 minutes by taking the 247 Sydney Buses bus from Wynyard Station, Carrington St - Stand A.

Taronga Zoo is open everyday of the year from 9.30am – 5pm; 9.30am – 4.30pm during Winter(May–Aug) including Christmas Day. December 31 (NYE) 9.30am - 4pm

Daily admission costing:
  • Adults $44
  • Children (4-15 years) $22
  • Children (under 4) Free
  • Concession $31.50
  • Families SAVE 15%: adult $37.40, child $18.70
    (minimum 3 guests with 1 child aged 4-15 years visiting)
There are also special Zoo Pass at Sydney Ferries where you can save 10% on the cost of Zoo entry and Ferry transport when ourchase your combined Zoo Pass and Sydney Ferries ticket at Circular Quay.


There is plenty more to find out including details of hand-on tours, various activites, daily show timetable, and interactive map, at the Taronga Zoo website: http://taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo

- John Ramos

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Taking a Tour of Sydney


From $40

Best way to explore Sydney!


Explore Sydney and Bondi with this 24 or 48 hour ticket aboard an open-top double-decker bus. See all the main sights as you hop on and hop off 34 conveniently located stops around the city. Listen to the commentary and learn interesting facts. Spend as much or as little time at places of interest before jumping aboard for the next stop - the choice is yours!

 
Highlights:
  • Instant Confirmation
  • Perfect introduction for first-time visitors
  • Recorded commentary by audio headphones
  • Multiple departure times and locations available
  • Ideal choice for families
With great views from the top of the bus, strategically placed stops and an interesting commentary, a hop-on hop-off tour of Sydney truly is the best way to see the sights of Sydney and Bondi.

You can hop on and off as many times as you like aboard both the Sydney and the Bondi open-top double-decker buses - giving you unparalleled access to the best of Sydney. There are 34 stops around Sydney and Bondi's attractions, and each tour takes approximately 90 minutes. The bus departs every 15 - 20 minutes from each stop and tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours from first use. The tours connect at 100 William Street or Central Station stop.

Built around the world's most beautiful harbor the towering skyscrapers, iconic buildings and monuments of engineering maintain views to die for. A year round climate of blue skies and sunshine make the ideal location for an open top bus ride.

Highlights:
  • Sydney Opera House
  • Sydney Harbor Bridge
  • Bondi Beach
  • Darling Harbour
  • Circular Quay
  • Sydney Aquarium
  • Town Hall
  • The Rocks

Departure Point:

Main Stops:  Central Station or Circular Quay
OR
Board the bus at any of the following stops:
Sydney Route
Stop 1 Circular Quay.
Stop 2 Wynyard
Stop 3 Queen Victoria Building
Stop 4 Town Hall
Stop 5 Cook and Phillip
Stop 6 William  Street
Stop 7 Kings Cross
Stop 8 El Almein Fountain
Stop 9 Woolloomooloo
Stop 10 Opera House
Stop 11 Botanic Gardens
Stop 12 Parliament House
Stop13 Hyde Park North
Stop 14 Australian Museum
Stop 15 Central Station
Stop 16 Power House Museum
Stop 17 Fish Markets
Stop 18 The Star
Stop 19 Maritime Museum
Stop 20 Convention Centre/ Hard Rock Café
Stop 21 Imax
Stop 22 Aquarium
Stop 23 King Street Wharf
Stop 23a Overseas Passenger Terminal
Stop 24 Campbell’s Cove
Stop 25 The Rocks
Stop 26 Circular Quay
Bondi Tour
Stop A Central Station
Stop B Chinatown
Stop C Park Street
Stop D Cook and Phillip
Stop E  William Street
Stop F Paddington
Stop G Bondi Beach
Stop H  North Bondi
Stop I  Rose Bay
Stop J Double Bay
Stop K  Australian Museum

Departure Time:

    September to March: Operates between 8:30am to 6:00pm
    April to August: Operates between 8:30am to 5:00pm
    • Bus operates daily (September to March) every 15 minutes for the Sydney route and every 30 minutes for the Bondi route.
    • Bus operates daily (April to August) every 20 minutes for the Sydney route and every 30 - 45 minutes for the Bondi route 
Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Happy Travels Everyone!

Emma Shepherd