Tag: Sydney

Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House

Two Australian icons for the price of one. The photos were taken over two days hence the difference in the weather. The cloudy photographs were taken from on board a cruise of Sydney Harbour operated by Captain Cook Cruises.

The Opera House opened in 1973 and is now a world heritage site. It is probably the most recognisable image of the city if not the country. Work began on its construction in 1959 and was then estimated to cost $7 million with completion in 1963. When it finally opened ten years later it had cost considerably more, in the region of $102 million! I’m glad they persevered despite the escalating cost.

Sydney Harbour Bridge was opened in 1932 following nine years of construction. At its opening it was the longest single span arch bridge in the world, today it is the sixth longest. It is the most amazing structure and you can’t really appreciate how large it is until you stand close up next to one of the supporting towers.

 

 

 

Chinese Gardens of Friendship

Having spent years avoiding all types of gardens here we are in another one and this is something special. Located in the middle of Sidney and close to Darling Harbour you can only wonder as to how they managed to create such an area of tranquility in the middle of such modern and busy city.

The gardens were designed by Sidneys sister city of Guangzhou in China and were officially opened in 1988 as part of the bicentennial celebrations.

The gardens designers have put a lot of features into a relatively small area, with a lake, pavilion, waterfall and a path that takes you seamlessly from area to area. The design is such that you can not see the whole garden from any one point in the garden thus encouraging you to walk the paths and discover the delights of the garden as you go. You are encouraged to take your time and maybe take the opportunity to sit and reflect.

Koi carp swim in the waters and they are large specimens and obviously well fed! There are numerous birds that can be heard chirping which creates a wonderful soundscape for your visit. The flora is a rich and varied mix with the use off colour to add to the feeling of tranquility.

The gardens are open from 9.30am to 5pm everyday with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday. Entrance is only 6AD and it will be the best six dollars you spend in the city. You can spend hours here but if you are in a hurry and didn’t have much time you could easily walk the gardens in 45 minutes and not feel that you have missed anything significant.