Traveling to Sydney
for a long vacation should be an exciting experience, especially if you are not
from Australia. This coast city has many things to offer – too many that you
may find it overwhelming. If you are staying in Sydney for a limited number of
days, it is best that you plan your itinerary well to fully enjoy the
experience.
There are
countless travel and tourism articles that provide a plethora of tips and
tricks, but this one should be ready to offer you more insights about the local
experience. In order to enjoy Sydney and its neighboring suburbs, do what
locals do.
1. Instead of
bringing too much of your local money, say US dollars, it is more advisable to
withdraw money using your ATM card. While you can always go for foreign
exchange shops, you are more likely to get better rate using your ATM card.
However, make sure to take note of the overseas withdrawal fees imposed by your
bank.
2. Larger
businesses like restaurants, supermarkets, department stress and hotels accept
major credit cards such as MasterCard, Visa, and some American Express;
however, small businesses usually only take cash. This is why it would be a
better option to withdraw money using your ATM card or to have your local money
changed into AUD at a foreign exchange shop.
3. the most fun
activities in Sydney are best enjoyed when the sun is high and the weather is
warm. If you want to experience the most out of your Sydney trip, you may want
to schedule your travel outside the winter months or June to August. During
these months, temperature can go low as 8° C (46.4° F), which can easily bar
you from enjoying the capital’s breath-taking beaches. However, if you can’t
help but to travel to Sydney during the winter months, you can still enjoy your
stay just don’t expect to do the activities usually enjoyed during the hotter
months, like swimming, surfing, and other water sports.
4. If you have
the luxury of the time, spend a day or two just walking around Sydney and its
nearby suburbs. Grab a drink at some local pubs, eat at a restaurant with that
uses the best ingredients possible, from the meat to the pizza flour,
or pay visit to a museum. There are lots and lots to see. You would also want
to undertake authentic Australian foods as they're abundant in almost every
corner of the capital. However, if you're coming from the U.S., expect that a
lot of the foods they serve may have the similar taste with those you enjoy
home.
5. The Sydney is
not only famous for its iconic surf spots but also for its food, burgers
specifically. If you are in Sydney, don’t make the mistake not to munch on the
world-famous gluten-free eats, such as staples like those made with gluten-free
pizza flour. The best bang for the buck if you are looking for pizza that are
to die for without spending too much.
6. Australians
have a very active local sports scene. Some of the most popular sports include
“footy” or Australian football, rugby, soccer, tennis, and cricket. Before
traveling to Sydney, check the schedule of the sporting events near the place
where you will be staying. Witnessing how passionate Australian fans are will
certainly be a singular experience.
In summary, if
you wish to visit for a long stay in Sydney, do what locals do, and enjoy each
moment you will have. The city has many things to offer other than its scenic
spots. If you are in Sydney, savor each moment, immerse yourself to its
culture, eat the food, meet new friends, and enjoy the waters!