I am so excited about our arrival into Sydney, Australia. 
Pinch me to prove it’s really happening! Ouch! Not so hard!
They say Sydney always lives up to great expectations and that the first glimpse of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge will stay in your memory forever! Well I agree, it’s a truly amazing memory.

We had plans to meet our very own Aussie girls at lunchtime so decided to take a walk for the morning. We headed towards Darling Harbour. Taking the path from Circular Quay terminal where Arcadia was docked we made our way through The Rocks district and all its waterfront restaurants. Walking through Headland Park (Barangaroo Reserve) passing wonderful views all the way.
We walked to the area of Cockle Bay Warf where you can find the Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussaud’s and the National Maritime Museum. There were green & yellow boats everywhere you looked and most of them were public transport so we decided to take a ride back to the ship. It was so easy and also so cheap!

It was time to meet the girls! Exciting!
Gemma and Ruby first. We feel honoured that they are taking time to meet us and guide us around Sydney for the next 2 days. How lucky are we?
Hugs all round and it’s just so good to see them again. 
Then here comes Lisa!
More hugs and greetings. Now it’s time for exploring this wonderful city.

We took a look at the Opera House and what an amazing building it is, one of the most famous buildings in the world. Walking around the botanical gardens, the oldest in the country where there are over 27,000 plants from around the world, everything is so beautiful. We find ourselves ending up at a waterfront bar/restaurant where nibbles and Aperol Spritz’ were thoroughly enjoyed by all of us. Lisa had to get back to the airport for her flight home that evening and it was sad to say goodbye to her.

We arranged to meet Ruby and Gemma the following morning as
Ruby was going to pick us up in the car and she was taking us to visit the iconic Bondi Beach. 
We were ready and waiting in good time for our carriage to arrive. Then we were off along the coast to Bondi Beach. We passed golf courses, equestrian centres and beautiful properties along the way. Then we were there! The most famous beach in Australia, known for its golden sand, rolling waves and fun loving lifestyle. After a stroll along the beach, taking it all in, we got back in the car and drove along the coast stopping at beaches along the way, all as beautiful as the one before.

Then we headed back to Sydney centre, parked the car and jumped on one of Sydney’s famous ferries across the harbour to Manly Beach. This laid back suburb is surrounded by water. Another amazing place to explore and when you are there it makes you feel a million miles away from the city. 

Back on the ferry to the centre and a look around the Queen Victoria building. Ruby definitely knows the good places! This building is known locally as the QVB. This covered arcade dates back to 1898. It’s home to luxury global brands and the Queen Victoria Tea Rooms famous for taking high tea.

Our time with Ruby and Gemma was coming to an end so it must be drinks time once more. A little bar was found close to the ship and last minute chats and hugs, as well as a toast to the journey ahead was thoroughly enjoyed.

Thank you so much girls for taking the time and travel to come and guide these two oldies around the fantastic Sydney. 

A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.

Take care, Carol & Andy.