After 2 rough sea days and 1 incredibly smooth sea day, where the water was like a mirrored glass, which apparently is highly unusual, we arrived in Sydney.
The captain delayed our arrival so we would be able to sail in at sunrise. Everyone was on the top deck at 6:45 am and we took turns taking photos of each other. How many thousands of photos were taken in such a short time?
We were early off the ship and took a private boat ride around the harbour. We noted that while Australia used to be affordable, the harbour is now lined with houses that cost 20, 30, 50, 150 million AUD. What a dramatic change in a short period of time.
David took a spa afternoon while I walked around the CBD.
Then we met at Rebecca Woodhhouse's home where she prepared an amazing salmon dinner. Ian Ball, her partner, was excellent at opening the wine too! They have a stunning home in Paddington. Nick Armstrong, Chanel Jacobs and Louise Flanagan joined us as well, each bringing some wonderful food. Louise outdid herself with a couple of her Asian specialties (a la Liz (Ginger's)) recipes plus she also made us a Pavlova dessert. Everything was delicious. It was great catching up with everyone and it felt like no time had passed since we last shared the gift of gab. Several other people were out of town so I guess we will just have to return to Sydney to catch up with them. Such a sacrifice....
On our second day we did part of a Hop on Hop Off bus until we ended up in Bondi Beach where we enjoyed a little shopping and looking at the interesting surfer boys & girls.
Lunch was at an old favourite, Catalinas in Rose Bay, with Larry & Rom from the ship. Delicious, great conversation and beautiful views.
A little more shopping along the Rocks ensued and then we went up to the top deck for the sail away.
Sydney is a city but it sure is a beautiful city. The Opera House & Harbour Bridge define the city and we used them frequently for the backdrop for many photos.
In summary, we really enjoyed ourselves in Sydney and look forward to a return visit.