Sydney on a budget

Description:

Centrally located in the Sydney CBD on the corner of Sussex and Bathurst Streets, Oaks Maestri Towers is convenient to everything that makes Sydney, Australia's most exciting and vibrant city. Oaks Maestri Towers offer contemporary furnished and superbly appointed studio, one and two bedroom apartments. Apartments offer fully equipped kitchen with microwave and dishwasher and reverse cycle air conditioning.

Description:

This is a historic site. It marks the location of the colony's first Government House and the scene of some of the first contact between the Cadigal people and white settlers. The latter encounter is marked on the forecourt by the Edge of Trees, an outdoor sculpture representing the trees behind which Cadigal people hid and observed these strange 'boat people' come ashore. In fact, a theme of 'contact' is evident throughout much of the museum.
Inside the very post-modern building - opened in 1995 - footings of the original Government House (unearthed during excavations in 1983) are displayed beneath glass panels. Various multimedia installations, colonial plus aboriginal artefacts, social memorabilia (including the front-end of a long extinct Sydney tram) as well as temporary exhibitions attempt to document the fabric and history of the city.
Some of it works, and some things don't, but it's still very much a worthwhile outing. The video wall spanning the entire height of the museum that documents the city's development is certainly one of the highlights.

Description:

This is one of the busiest, most beautiful bustling ports of departure in the world. The State Transit authority, sightseeing tours, water taxis, and private cruises all depart and arrive from this 'port of call'. The actual terminal itself is a bustling collection of fast food joints, ticket sales, information booths, and buskers and of course, commuters. No trip to town is complete without a ferry trip from this fabulous location beneath the bridge.

Description:

Aside from the beautifully kept gardens, Hyde Park provides a tranquil haven to the thousands of daily urban commuters amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday Sydney. Not only a sanctuary to the overworked, it is a fitting home to the famous 1934 Art Deco Anzac War Memorial, and the Archibald Fountain--a magnificent bronze and granite fountain commemorating the French and Australian alliance in World War I. Hyde Park looks particularly attractive at night when thousands of tiny fairy lights twinkle amidst the boughs of the ancient trees, which line the walkways.

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This is the quintessential view of Sydney--a glorious panorama that takes in the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge, Kirribilli House, Fort Denison and the Woolloomooloo dockyards. Mrs Macquarie's Point is the peninsula to the East of Farm Cove, just a little further along Art Gallery Road from the Domain, and adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Taking pride of place is Mrs Macquarie's chair itself--hand carved by convicts from sandstone in 1810 for Governor Macquarie's wife.

Description:

Perhaps the most famous walk in the city, this easy stroll takes you first around the Sydney Opera House, on to Mrs Macquarie's Chair - one of the best look out spots in Sydney - and then through the Royal Botanic Gardens. Along the three-kilometer sealed walkway, you will learn some of the history of the city and its first settlers. Combined with this are modern developments such as the new apartment block known as 'toaster', on the eastern shoreline of Circular Quay. The walk finishes back at the Opera House.

Description:

Dating from 1871, and located at its present site overlooking Woolloomooloo Bay since 1885, this is one of Australia's premier art institutions. The buzz when one enters the building is truly palpable—visitors come, enjoy and do not want to leave. The permanent collection includes Australian, European, Asian and contemporary art. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works on display in the Yiribana Gallery are totally unsurpassed. There is also an exciting and diverse temporary exhibition program. Admission: Free; charges apply for some temporary exhibitions.

Description:

Few cities have such an iconic building as Sydney's Opera House Sure, New York has the Empire State, Rome the Pantheon, Athens has the Acropolis, but for out and out modernity, mixed with breathtaking geography, those off-white billowing sails perched on Bennelong Point have to be one of the great studies of architecture in the 20th century.
Designed by the Danish architect, Jorn Utzon, after the NSW state government conducted a worldwide competition in the late 50s, the $10m original budget soon blew out to more than $100m when it finally opened in 1973. Utzon fell out with the political overseers of the day and quit the project, long before completion.
Though referred to as an opera house, it stages a host of different performance types, including, classical and pop concerts, drama, ballet, comedy, films, talks, and has an exhibition space.
Today it's the cities No 1 tourist draw card and probably the most photographed site in the country. Guided tours (in multiple languages) take you through the labyrinthine innards, including backstage glimpses of some of the theaters.
There are a host of fine eateries and outdoor bars along the forecourt. Twilight in summer, with the sun setting, the bridge in silhouette, and a cool cocktail in hand, is probably about as good as it gets in this lifetime. Seriously!

Description:

Australia's leading contemporary art museum, popularly known as the MCA, occupies an art deco building in the heart of the tourism sector at Circular Quay. The museums temporary exhibition program draws upon sources throughout the world and is supported by lectures, films and special events. Exhibitions change each season. There is also a cafe and shop featuring a range of art and merchandise inspired by Australia's top designers. Admission is free.

Description:

This bit of adventure is a must for all visitors to Sydney. The Pylon lookout at the top Sydney Harbor Bridge is a harrowing 200 steps to the top. But those who brave vertigo and the often windy days are treated to the most amazing views of the city, the harbor, and the Sydney Opera House. Plus, you will touch the very monumental structure itself and have a new understanding of roosting pigeons. Inside the pylon, there is also a museum with displays relating to the construction of the bridge, including some great photographs.

Our Local Expert Says:

The view west at sunset of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair – a peninsula named after a governor’s wife – cannot be equaled.

Description:

This vast expanse of parkland on the eastern fringe of the CBD, and stretching down to the harbor, actually started life as a failed vegetable patch. The colony's first settlers tried growing grain and other produce, but this proved unsuccessful due to the poor soil.
Today, the 30 hectares that make up the Royal Botanic Gardens, wrap around Farm Cove like a giant verdant picnic rug. Ponds, paths, a swimming pool, native plants, specific feature gardens (like the Palm Grove and Rainforest Walk), the Cadi Jam Ora Indigenous display, along with numerous heritage listed structures and buildings make a day out in the gardens an invigorating (or restful) experience. Other notable highlights include the Pyramid Glasshouse, Herb Garden, Fernery, and Rose Garden.
The view west at sunset of the Opera House and Harbor Bridge from Mrs Macquarie's Chair – a peninsula named after a governor's wife – cannot be equaled. Free admission and guided walking tours daily.

Description:

This is the oldest and most historic area of Sydney. Named after its rough terrain, it survived for nearly two centuries as Sydney's main working class area. Amongst the warren of lanes and pebbled streets there is plenty to see and do, including Susannah Place, The Garrison Gallery, The Military Museum, and Cadman's Cottage; the Museum of Contemporary Art and the S H Ervin Gallery offer something a little more "contemporary". If you have had enough history, there is always an endless array of restaurants, pubs, shops and a crafty weekend market.

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A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the foundation stones for St Mary's Chapel were laid by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1821. The cathedral finally opened in 1900, although work continued until 1928 and really only recently finished. Wardell's original design had two spires that were never built. After ten years' debate and political fund-raising, the twin spires were finally completed in 2000.

Description:

Situated at the southern end of Hyde Park, at the head of the Pool of Remembrance, this imposing Art Deco building stands 30 meters tall. Built in 1934 to commemorate Australia's war dead, it contains the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier and a small museum with photographic and military artifacts. The central statue highlights the fragility of man and the huge sacrifice some are willing to make for others.

Our Local Expert Says:

An evening picnic out here is highly recommended.

Description:

Come here at dusk with a bottle of wine, and watch the sun set over [erhaps the finest view of Sydney city, from under the shadows of teh bridge, across the harbor, taking in the towers, the sails, and the Opera House.

There is a lovely little village behind where you can grab a bite to eat before you head down to the grass. Best access: the McMahons Point Ferry stop - grab a ferry from Circular Quay. And take the chance to develop a view on one of Sydney's most notorious developments: the oddly monolithic residential tower that sits right on the point.

Description:

The décor here is from another time but you'll be too distracted by the music to notice. On the weekends, country and rock bands play and one Sunday a month they have Blues jamming sessions. Drop by to catch a live performance or to grab something at the bottle shop with an ever-changing selection of alcohol. In contrast to the older style bar, the restaurant has been refurbished and is very stylish. On offer are steaks, pasta and curry.

Our Local Expert Says:

This big busy bar has a great beer garden out the back where very good Thai food is served. It is one of the main queer pubs on King Street too, if you're out after dark.

Description:

Rich with the diversity of the local culture, the Bank is as close to all things and all people as it gets around here - a venue that attracts those of mixed persuasions, it serves up a good cocktail at Sleepers Bar, or a cold beer in the main bar. The surroundings are comfortable and there is a pleasant beer garden. Sumalee, the Thai restaurant out the back, serves up authentic Asian cuisine at prices that will not break the bank.

Description:

The two best things about this place are its cheap accommodation and parade of interesting people to meet. Centrally located in the hub of Kings Cross, Eva's Backpackers has a great reputation and is popular with travelers. It is very clean and well organized with good kitchen facilities and fun dining room, the hub of social activities in the hostel. There is also an excellent roof-top area for relaxing. There are twin rooms and dormitories.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is Australia's most famous beach. Massive amounts of sand, and in Summer, thousands of people. Watch yourself in the waves if you're not used to ocean swimming, because they can be dangerous.

Description:

A visit to Bondi should be on every visitor to Sydney's itinerary. It's Austraila's most famous beach, and for a reason. Bondi is a massive quarter moon of sand, wedged between two rocky headlands, endlessly pounded by huge ocean waves, its sand draped with sun-lotion slick bodies in various states of undress, kids running around on the sand, the old guys in their speedos (trans: Australian for male swimming briefs).

When you're tired on the beach, then head in for the hippy cafes, cool kids, boho locals and tourists tourists tourists of the colourful and so, so Sydney streets immediately behind the beach.

Our Local Expert Says:

This walk is really beautiful - a must see. You can walk as far as Coogee, along the cliffs and through Waverly cemetery, which has to be the best-situated cemetery in the world. Very highly recommended.

Description:

If one activity epitomizes Sydney, this could be it. A 4-mile walk on the wild side that literally traverses the rocky cliffs, golden beaches, pristine bays and grassy knolls between two iconic beaches. Doesn't cost a cent; just a few hours of free time. And it's not strenuous; more gently undulating than roller-coaster terrain, but highly exposed in windy weather because you're on the edge of the continent for much of the way.
Start at Bondi, behind the Icebergs Club, head south and keep the Pacific Ocean on your left. Joggers and all manner of humanity pass this way. After rounding MacKenzie's Point and Bay, the path rises towards Tamarama Beach. Look out for signs of ancient Aboriginal occupation, including rock carvings depicting migrating whales. Bronte Beach then beckons, with its 1880s ocean baths (Sundays and public holidays were originally reserved for men back then, but times have changed). Many café options along the way can turn the walk into a full day out.
After slicing through a sandstone cutting beyond Bronte, cross the Calga Reserve and tread carefully through Waverley Cemetery, where many notable literary luminaries were laid to rest.
Clovelly comes next. The very narrow inlet and concrete formwork on either side make it look more like a large swimming pool than a beach, though there is plenty of sand stretching inland. Great place to swim and perhaps catch a glimpse of the famous Clovelly Blue Groper that's made its home here for ages.
Finally (or sadly) you reach Coogee, one of the city's safest swimming beaches, and far more laid-back and down market compared to Bondi (which beach isn't, come to think of it?).

Description:

This Australian location is a pilgrimage destination for visitors around the world; however it is a fully functional and operational cemetery first. In spite of its local, state, and national significance and being a treasure trove of history Waverley Cemetery receives no government funding for its operation. All revenue is derived from the provision of their services (the sale of Rights of Burial in graves and memorial gardens, burials and ash interments, grave maintenance plans, guided tours, etc).

Description:

This tiny beach is nestled between Bondi and Bronte and is patronized almost exclusively by Sydney's beautiful people. While the surf can be dangerous and prone to rips, Tamarama is a haven for serious sunbathing as well as celebrity watching. The beachfront cafe has a well-deserved reputation and the park behind the beach offers picnic tables and barbecue facilities. Three inspectors patrol the beach daily between October and May (9am-7pm) and volunteer lifesavers are also on duty at the weekend and public holidays (Summer only). Very limited car parking.

Description:

This is one of Bondi's best and basic eateries –serving mostly pizza'n'pasta. Gelbison's (a well-known Australian band was named after the place) is conveniently located right near all the action and it is a great place to end up on a hot summer evening following an afternoon at the beach. Amongst the house specialties is the potato pizza with garlic, tomatoes, mozzarella and chunky, herbed potato pieces. They do not take credit cards, nor are they licensed, but the pizza crust is the best around.

Description:

Popular with all age groups, Bronte Beach is close to the inner city and has managed to retain a great deal of its original charm. Choose between a superb body surfing beach and a twenty-five meter ocean pool. The large adjoining park offers picnic and barbecue facilities as well as shade and is patronized by an extraordinary, multi-cultural mix of families at weekends. Three inspectors patrol the beach daily (9am-7pm) between October and May; volunteer lifesavers are also on duty at the weekend and public holidays (Summer only). Parking very limited.

Our Local Expert Says:

King's Cross' own Hari Krishna cinema. You can just eat dinner, which is a servicable Hari Krishna spread, or do the meal and movie deal. The cinema, which shows artier mainstream flicks a couple of months after the bigger cinemas show them, is cute. You lie yourself down on cushions. Great for cuddles in the dark.

Description:

This is the ultimate vegetarian meal deal. For a very reasonable amount you can dine and then watch the latest in cinema releases in a comfortable cushioned theater. For years, this casual, well-fed establishment has been packing in locals and tourists in the know, for the endless, freshly prepared, vegetarian buffet and following movie. It is not licensed, has a small eating terrace and is a great place to unwind. There is also a movie room that offers cushioned seating to cinebuffs. So kick your shoes off, stretch out and enjoy the movie.

Our Local Expert Says:

The true home of Sydney indie music, run by the erstewhile Paul McCarthy. Pretty much every rock band in Sydney got their first break here, and there continues to be live music 7 nights a week, most of it very good. Very highly recommended.

Description:

Known to locals as "The Hoey", this relaxed hotel offers varying types of live bands which are generally good quality, original acts. The service, atmosphere and bands are inoffensive. Come to play pool, listen to a good band or have a quick drink. The decor is as close to a big comfortable lounge room as you can get, remembering you are in a bar. Looking for a casual drink or want the hang out whilst listening to a quality band, this place is for you.

Description:

Everything else about to close? This is where to go. It is 3am and the all night bender has just been confirmed. Welcome to the Court House's, Judgement Bar. Not a nightclub by any means but it is open 24 hours and the drinks are among the cheapest along the Oxford Strip. No posers and no scene queens, so if you are not looking fabulous, and it is too early for you to go home, drop by for a drink.

Description:

The two best things about this place are its cheap accommodation and parade of interesting people to meet. Centrally located in the hub of Kings Cross, Eva's Backpackers has a great reputation and is popular with travelers. It is very clean and well organized with good kitchen facilities and fun dining room, the hub of social activities in the hostel. There is also an excellent roof-top area for relaxing. There are twin rooms and dormitories.

Description:

If Sydney had an artist who best captured the spirit and light of the city, and in particular, the moods and hues of the harbor, it would be Brett Whiteley. His abstract expressionist come surrealist style seemed to reflect the artist's manic and often drug addled life. (He died of a heroin overdose on the South Coast in 1992.)
Several overseas scholarships allowed Whiteley to travel and study around the world during the 60s and 70s, before settling back in Sydney, where his unique style won him two Archibald Prizes (for portraiture) and numerous other accolades and commissions.
After his death (aged 53), family and friends sought to convert his inner city studio into a museum of sorts, a type of homage to the tortured artist, which includes unfinished paintings, sculptures, art equipment; even the graffiti Whiteley collected has been retained.
The result is a rare insight into the working world (and mind) of a truly original creative. At various times, a series of changing exhibitions borrowed from private collections and galleries are on display.

Description:

Close to the inner city, Coogee Beach is becoming increasingly popular with backpackers and tourists as well as Sydneysiders. The surrounding area includes a promenade, barbecue facilities and outdoor showers. There are also two rock pools at the southern end. When you tire of the beach, pop across the road and enjoy a bite at one of Coogee's countless cafes, restaurants and hotels. Two inspectors patrol the beach daily and volunteer lifesavers are also on duty at the weekend and public holidays. Limited, free parking at the northern end.

Description:

If there is a seafood haven in Sydney, then this is it. Everything in seafood is available here. So if you enjoy Barbequed Shrimp and Breadcrumbed Calamari, then this is the right place to come. Marinated Barramundi, Tuna and Snapper is also available. The more traditional eaters can settle for good old Fish-and Chips, which are some of the best around.

Description:

This huge pub, as well as having three bars, boasts a fabulous beer garden and is particularly popular with backpackers, who come to enjoy regular live bands and some tasty treats from the brasserie. This lively establishment also offers two nightclubs, coverage of major sporting events, TAB betting, a gaming room, a bottle shop, charming boutique style accommodation, function rooms and a conference center, all just a stone's throw from Coogee Beach.

Description:

Clovelly Beach offers a totally different experience due to its protective breakwater. The waves (and marine life) splash over the wall of rocks into a large, sheltered rock pool, which is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. Sunbathing is confined to concrete expanses although there is a tiny stretch of sand at the northern end. The adjacent park has picnic and barbecue facilities. Two inspectors patrol the beach daily from 7am-7pm (Summer) and 9am-5pm (Winter); volunteer lifesavers are also on duty at the weekend and public holidays (Summer only). Large, free car park.

Description:

The two best things about this place are its cheap accommodation and parade of interesting people to meet. Centrally located in the hub of Kings Cross, Eva's Backpackers has a great reputation and is popular with travelers. It is very clean and well organized with good kitchen facilities and fun dining room, the hub of social activities in the hostel. There is also an excellent roof-top area for relaxing. There are twin rooms and dormitories.

Description:

If you are lucky, your walk may begin with the magnificent sight of the Spit Bridge opening to let through passing boats. One of Sydney's best foreshore walks, the clearly marked track can be busy at weekends. This long walk offers spectacular views, varied landscapes and the chance of spotting a water dragon. The trail will lead you across Sandy Bay, past Clontarf, up to Castle Rock, then on into the National Park. Allow at least five hours to reach Manly - take plenty of water with you - and enjoy a ferry ride back to Circular Quay.

Description:

Situated 15 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the city are the sandstone cliffs, shady walking tracks, beautiful secluded beaches, and heartland of Sydney Harbor National Park. Considered one of the cities finest achievements, it is divided into seven parts and includes the three harbor islands. Special tours explore Fort Denison, the historic Quarantine Station and the former open-air prison "Pinchgut Island". There are also many guided walks available.

Description:

Best known to most Australians as the drug and red light capital of Australia, the "Cross" is a sleazy collection of strip clubs, adult bookshops, and tacky nightclubs. Over the years many attempts have been made to transform the area into something a little more "respectable": small trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops have sprung up on the fringes, but the area still attracts a different type of visitor. Potts Point is perhaps the most desirable location, at the lower end of the Cross. It is here you will find the glamorous townhouses, hotels, bars, and restaurants.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you come here at the right time of day, you'll probably chance on a stunningly gorgous artist-type, as the COFA (Centre of Fine Arts) is next door, and this is the pub of choice for its students.

Description:

Locally known as the three weeds, this hotel has it all under one roof. The WE3DS bar is older in style but young in spirit and offers a multitude of beers, cocktails and wines. Popular with backpackers and students, whilst you are there check out the pokies, pool, or stay the night on one of its boutique hotel rooms. The hotel also hosts functions for up to 150 people.

Description:

Part of the modern Verona Cinema complex and competing with the best bars on Oxford Street, the Verona Bar has a relaxed atmosphere and loads of style. What keeps the bar so chilled is that only moviegoers with a movie ticket can drink here keeping it uncrowded and mellow. A great place for a pre-movie drink or a post movie chat, popular with locals, the decor is comfortable and stylish.

Description:

The Palace Academy is a popular cinema in the heart of Oxford Street. It offers a wide selection of art house and mainstream films, and also plays host to the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Film Festival. If you want to save money on your film tickets, join the movie club and you can purchase tickets at a discount. Additional Branches: There are several branches located around the city. Check the website for more locations.

Our Local Expert Says:

A fine establishment, and one of the few pubs in Sydney that has none of the ubiquitous 'pokies' - gambling machines. A true local's pub.

Description:

With two bars and a restaurant, East Village is a Darlinghurst hot spot. The middle bar is characterised by big red booths and is a great place for a weekend drink. The Rooftop Bar has sweeping city views of Sydney and a marquee shelters its outdoor area so the party can continue regardless of the weather. The restaurant is the newest addition and serves up modern Australian cuisine. Fashionable and sleek, this venue attracts a local Darlinghurst crowd.

Description:

Sydney does have some grand houses even if they only date back to the nineteenth century. Elizabeth Bay House overlooks Sydney Harbor and was designed in the early 1830s by the fashionable architect, John Verge, for Alexander Macleay. While Macleay occupied the position of Colonial Secretary, he almost bankrupted himself over this venture. The interior reflects the lifestyle of the Macleay family between 1839 and 1845 and is based upon rigid documentary research. A changing exhibition program also makes it well worth a return visit.

Description:

The Australian Centre for Photography houses two gallery spaces, a foyer display area, a project wall for emerging artists, and an extensive workshop with black and white and color darkrooms. There is also a lighting studio and digital imaging facilities, a specialist bookshop, library and research facility and a stylish cafe. It also publishes Phototfile-Australia's leading journal of photo-based art, which is issued three times a year. Admission: Gallery free; varying charges for use of darkrooms, studio and tuition.

Description:

When international director and closet ghoul Alfred Hitchcock visited Sydney in the sixties this was his infamous point of reference. Locals know, and tourists do not, that this is the last stop for the desperate few, it also a beautiful location for a spectacular scenic cliff top walk that begins at The Gap Park. Located within the Watson's Bay area, it is an ideal place to sample fish and chips down at the wharf or take a leisurely walk to the eye opening nudist beach, Lady Jane.

Description:

This five-kilometer walk begins with spectacular views of the Harbor. The track leads under the imposing Rose Bay Convent, offering more views and some great picnic spots. Along the way, you will catch glimpses of the millionaires' mansions of Vaucluse as well as the hidden Hermitage Foreshore Reserve, which forms part of Sydney Harbor National Park. This track can be steep in places - there are steps and can become muddy in wet weather. The walk finishes at Nielsen Park, which has an enclosed bay for a refreshing dip. Catch bus 325 back to the city.

Description:

Cinema Paris has an intimate feel, with four, state-of-the-art auditoriums, with digital surround sound, and stadium seating on big comfy chairs. It is the first art-house cinema in the southern hemisphere to be fully licensed, so you can enjoy a drink before, during and after the movie. There is also an emphasis on film heritage and a fascinating display of movie memorabilia and antique film equipment.