Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Honeymoon Sydney Style

You've decided to go for it.

You figure you only get one honeymoon, so why not pull out all the stops, right?

The two of you are going to jump on a plane, cross the Pacific, and head down under.

Next stop Sydney, Australia.

The following are just a handful of activities for couples to enjoy in Australia's Olympic City. But only after you have taken all the required pictures of yourself and your new spouse in front on the Opera House (of course!)

So slap on a bit of sunscreen, grab your camera, fall in love with Sydney.

The Royal Botanical Gardens of Sydney.

What began in 1788 as a farm to feed hungry colonists, has grown into one of the most glorious gardens in the world. The Gardens boast over 70 acres of floral splendor. Beautiful roses, fragrant frangipanis, and delicate wisteria all wait to be discovered. The Garden's main gate is adjacent to the Sydney Opera House fore court and hug the edge of Sydney Harbour. You can explore on your own or join one of the guided tours.

The Gardens are open every day from 7am to sunset. Entry is free.


Toronga Zoo.

A zoo on a honeymoon? Well as the old adage states: it's all about location. Toronga Zoo is situated directly across the Harbor from the Opera House and has some of the most fabulous photo opportunities of the city. Oh, and they have animals too. Toronga is home to an amazing mix of native Australian animals (kangaroos, wombats, dingoes, and koalas) along with the more typical zoo fare (monkeys, elephants, and giraffes). A must see for every Sydney visitor.

Toronga Zoo is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Phone 61 (02) 9969 2777

Ferries to Toronga Zoo depart Circular Quay wharf 2.


Watsons Bay.

The leisurely ferry ride to Watsons Bay takes about 20 minutes and the spectacular views are well worth the price of the ticket. Once you arrive you can follow the well-marked path around the South Head to see stunning 365 degree views of the Harbour, North Head, and if you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of a migrating whale. But if the whales are not in season, you can still dream about owning one of the million dollar homes that dot the coastline.

Doyle's at Watsons Bay wharf is the place to go if you are feeling a little hungry. The Doyle family has been serving up fish and chips to hungry locals and tourists in this area for more than 100 years. Lazy Sunday afternoons in the beer garden are a bit of a Sydney institution.

Ferries to Watsons Bay depart Circular Quay wharf 4.


Cruising the Harbour.

There are as many ways to cruise Sydney Harbour as there are types of vessels on the water. You can board a catamaran, a ferry, a paddle wheel boat, or jet boat. But probably the most unique way too see the sights is aboard the HMAV Bounty. This fully functional replica of Captain Bligh’s 18th century ship was originally created for the film “Mutiny on the Bounty” starring Mel Gibson.

The Bounty offers a range of afternoon and evening cruise options. Whatever time you board, the food will not disappoint either by quality or quantity. And with all the crew dressed in period costumes, you might just order a "bottle 'o rum" from the well stocked bar. Phone The Bounty at 61 (02) 9247-1789


Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Ever felt the urge to climb an internationally recognized monument? Well now you can. Bridge Climb takes you to the top of Sydney's famous "coat hanger" and at the summit you will be over 439 feet above sea level. An experience like no other.

So next year when you see the Sydney New Year's Eve fire works on TV, you can say, "Been there, done that!"


Manly Beach.

What could be more romantic than a morning wander along the beach? Maybe a morning wander followed by a scuba diving lesson? Or some surfing? Or swimming? Or Rollerblading? If you like a little action with your romance, make your way to Many Beach.

But if all that sounds a bit too taxing, you can always just throw down a towel and work on that December tan.

Ferries leave to Manly from wharf 3 at Circular Quay.

Manly Visitor Information Centre PO Box 810 MANLY N.SW 2095 Australia


For more information:


Royal Botanical Gardens of Sydney

Toronga Zoo

HMAV Bounty

Bridge Climb

Sydney Ferries

Maps of Sydney

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