Despite the miles between our two countries there’s an undeniably special connection between us and our Australian brethren. Due to this it’s tempting to head Down Under with an expectation of it being very much a home from home.
However, there are certain rules, traditions and aspects about life in each Aussie city, and Sydney is no different. The biggest city in Australia with five million residents, it has a heart, mind and disposition of its own.
So if you’ve succumbed to the temptation of a sojourn to Sydney, here are the Flexicover team's key points to help make your holiday go swimmingly.
Sundays Are Fundays
In the main Aussies work to live and don’t live to work, so out of hours, they’ll be enjoying their time off. That’s especially the case on Sundays, universally agreed as the day to take it easy and indulge in some favourite pursuits. Start your day as you mean to go on with a long, lazy brunch. Strolling about the city you’ll find cafes on every corner, with tables spilling out into the sunny streets for al fresco breakfasts. Much-loved options include the Three Blue Ducks in Bronte, Ruby’s Diner in Waverly and FourAteFive in Surry Hills. Expect Instagram-worthy avo-toast, perfectly poached eggs and fresh, seasonal seafood: a celebration of Sydney’s famously hearty yet health-conscious cuisine.
Keep The Ego In Check
Sydney is the commerce capital of Australia but that doesn’t mean that there’s a hardened go-get-em side to its business-minded people. In fact, having an air of self-importance is frowned upon. So we’d warn against talking yourself up, as it’s likely to have the opposite effect Down Under. Save the humblebrags and name drops for another nation - the way to ingratiate yourself here is by being modest and down-to-earth and remembering that Aussies feel that no one is better than anyone else.
Enjoy The Sunshine
Outdoor life plays a huge part in Sydney – no wonder given their year-round sunshine and toasty temperatures. From open air cinema to netball and tennis courts, its city and national parks have a wealth of activities contained within their green borders. 40 acres of lush open space in the heart of the city, Hyde Park is the most popular, with pretty leaf-lined avenues and shady spots perfect for impromptu picnics. If you want to fit in with the Sydney-siders, be sure to bring a beach towel or a blanket and some booze, as you’re allowed to drink in public spaces in the city.
Become A Beach Bum
There’s a certain truth in the stereotype that Sydney residents can most often be found on the beach. Aside from the aforementioned parks that’s where much of the outdoor socialising goes on, whether it’s enjoying the watersports, a game or two of volleyball or even having a barbie on the beach. With 100 stretches to choose from, different beaches attract different audiences. In the summer, when the popular Bondi beach gets oppressively busy, in-the-know locals head to smaller beaches to park their beach towel in peace. Those in the northern suburbs head to Freshwater or Palm Beach, while those in the east opt for Tamarama Beach or the well-kept secret Milk Beach along the Hermitage Foreshore. Meanwhile, surfers should check out Manly’s little cousin Shelly Beach.
Discover The Neighbourhoods
The Opera House and harbour are the epicentre of activity in Sydney but to really blend in, find out what real Sydney life is like in its distinct neighbourhoods. Bronte is filled with families enjoying the Sydney lifestyle, while Coogee offers a village feel despite being close to a metropolis. Mosman will feel like home for the well-heeled, while Sydney’s coolest suburb, creative-hub Surry Hills is a hipster-haven. Best known for its legendary cafe culture and boutique shopping, hit its monthly markets for on-trend vintage finds. Who needs a tourist trail when there’s that much personality in the burbs?
Are you heading to Australia for a gap year? Or maybe just a short holiday, whatever the case know that Flexicover Travel Insurance offer policies to suit all of your needs.
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