 Sydney – a cosmopolitan city surrounded by world heritage sites, acclaimed wine regions, and iconic beaches. Sydney is the largest city in Australia and is known for its cosmopolitan, international population and vibrant cultural scenes. Culturally diverse, Sydney pays homage to its indigenous people through educational walks, cultural events, and museums.  Paddington: ... is a lively, upscale area – offers a wonderful range of shops and boutiques to explore with plenty of bars and cafes. Don’t miss the Paddington Markets on Saturday mornings. It is full of galleries, designer stores, and beautiful terrace houses.  Darling Harbour ... is the main area of the city dedicated to tourism and entertainment – adjacent to the city center of Sydney. It is a fantastic family-friendly destination offering amazing entertainment, fascinating museums, the Sydney Aquarium and delicious dining options.  The Rocks ... as the oldest neighborhood in the city, the cobblestone streets of the area host more than 100 heritage buildings and sites, including Sydney’s oldest house ‘Camden Cottage’ built-in 1816. On weekends, you can find organic food, hand-made souvenirs of local artists, and designer jewelry in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Things that you should to do at The Rocks include: • The Discovery Museum • Walk the streets and discover the mix of cosmopolitan and colonial Sydney • Admire the views with a ‘Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb.’ • Star gaze at the Sydney Observatory  The CBD ... the one-stop hub from shopping, relaxation, and fun. It is the central business district (CBD) and the main commercial center of Sydney. There are small hip bars, buzzing cafes, acclaimed restaurants, and marvelous attractions including wonderful galleries, dazzling shows, and intriguing museums. Oh, and plenty of shopping!  Double Bay ... is one of the most expensive and fashionable shopping districts. Double Bay is a ritzy harbor-side suburb – It is tagged as Sydney’s “Little Europe” offers elegant streets, restaurants, beauty salons, vibrant café society, fine-fashion boutiques, and upmarket real estate featuring grand residential homes.  Surry Hills ... famous for its thriving creative scene, small-business community, and high-density population. It’s a village bursting with stylish restaurants, small bars, unique shopping experiences, and galleries. From catching classic films to taking part in legendary pub trivia, Surry Hills is the best suburb in Sydney. It is a creative hub for music, fashion, and design. If you're coming to Sydney and need accommodation, let us help you with one of our properties, or one from our local network. We're only an email away.
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 Hamish McMillan, Internment, Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe 2019. Photo Clyde Yee Yes, it's that time again! Have you ever seen more than 2km of a coastline turned into a giant gallery? As of today you can! The world’s largest free to the public sculpture exhibition will take place along the coast from Bondi Beach, Sydney, heading south, and during three weeks the tourists will witness more than a hundred statues created by local and foreign artists. The interest among the sculptors is huge and we will see many of the regular entrants as well a lot of new faces – not a small number thanks to the prize of $70 000.  Mu Boyan, Horizon, Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi 2018. Photo Gareth Carr This year the event is expected to attract over half a million tourists. The visitors of this spectacular show will have the opportunity to mingle with the artists at the Aqualand Artist Talk series during the weekends of the exhibition. As previous years, there will be a strong focus on accessibility. The organizers will make sure that everybody will be able to come and gasp at the wonderful statues. There would be free tactile tours for people with disabilities and various experience programs that can help them better appreciate the art.  Succah by the Sea An attempt to bring this 3,500 years old tradition to the 21st century will be made and this attempt will explore different important topics like ecology, poverty and ritualism. The exhibit will be presented at Marks Park as part of the larger exhibition Sculpture by the sea and will be realized thanks to the partnership with the Jewish organization Shalom. Visit the website for more info.  Artist Talks with Rebecca Rose, Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi 2018. Photo Jessica Wyld The Aqualand Artist Talk series These interesting talk series will take place each Saturday and Sunday (from 10:00am to 03:00pm in Marks Park or Tamarama) during the exhibition and they will give the visitors the chance to meet the Artists and hear their perspectives and their stories about how they created their amazing sculptures. More info here. More information is available at the Exhibition Site Office in Marks Park and at the Exhibition Information & Merchandise Kiosks. Or visit the website here. By Luchezar Zanev for Ruby’s Residences.
Whether you're trying to escape the weather, or just want a more enriching experience for the kids, checking out of the many incredible museums on offer in Sydney is always a great way to spend a day with the family.  The National Maritime Museum is a universal favourite. The exhibitions focused around the danger and excitement of life at sea is sure to capture the imagination. Family Funday Sundays (once a month) bring a plethora of activities to the table, including character led-tours, face painting and live performances. There’s also a Mini Mariner Playspace to entertain the little ones while you relax.  If the kids have an interest in the justice system, the Sydney Justice and Police Museum is often overlooked, but a fascinating option. Plus, the kids can participate in a full courtroom experience and come to a verdict - guilty or not guilty! You can also head down to the Hyde Park Barracks Museum, and see one of the most significant convict sites. Kids can try on the clothing that was worn, lie down in the hammocks that were used, even try out the leg shackles.   No list of Sydney museums would be complete without the famous Powerhouse Museum. The innovative, interactive exhibits teach kids about engineering and technology, and how they’ve impacted society. Plus, the kids get to play and experiment with the latest tech in The Lab. Of course we can't forget the Sydney Museum, however, it is closed for renovation until mid 2020. Save that for your next trip!
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  Angel Place Angel Place is a small alleyway just off Martin Place. The magical alleyway is worth exploring when you’re hungry. Check out Ash St Cellar or the famous China Lane, or simply drop into one of the many boutique cafes and bars. Don’t forget to look up while you’re exploring - suspended above Angel Place is an installation artwork called Forgotten Songs. The hauntingly beautiful empty birdcages represent the 50 species of birds that disappeared with European settlement. The installation was originally intended to be temporary, however, it was so popular that it’s now a permanent fixture.
Pylon Lookout This one is truly hiding in plain sight. If you’ve done the bridge climb, or even just spent time wandering around the area, you’ll have noticed the huge grey pylon. Not many people actually know you can go in (entry is only $15), and enjoy stunning views across Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour, and the city.  Dudley Page Reserve There is no shortage of beautiful parks in Sydney, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs. Dudley Page has perhaps the best views of the city. A popular spot to enjoy fireworks on New Year's Eve, the park is just as enjoyable any other day. The grassy expanse is perfect for an afternoon or sunset picnic and has a well-maintained playground for the kids too.  Shark Island
Accessible by ferry, from Circular Quay Shark Island is a small island close to Rose Bay. Enjoy the harbour views, picnic areas, and wading beach perfect for the whole family. - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  East Village Shopping Center in Darlinghurst has transformed its rooftop area into a glowing, pink, winter garden. Inspired by European winter markets, keep warm beneath the soft fairy lights and enjoy some of the warming food and drinks on offer. Grab some currywurst, coq-au-vin, or fondue, and wash it down with any one of the winter speciality cocktails. The Pink Winter Garden is open from 5pm-11pm every day except Mondays, all the way until the end of August. It’s free entry, but it’d be a good idea to book ahead, which you can do here.  Escape reality and the cold. Sydney is getting a life-size pac-man maze, for two days only in August. Dodge ghosts, collect fruit, and solve coded puzzles in this larger-than-life immersive activity. There’s also an 80s themed bar to relax in with some good tunes and cocktails once you’re done. The activity is great for all ages (kids under 4 enter free), but there are also adults-only sessions run from 6pm-11pm. Get your tickets before they sell out.  Retro popups seem to be the flavour of the season in Sydney. The Tower Eye is hosting ‘Sydney’s Highest Playground’ on the observation decks, every day from 9am to 9pm, though til the end of August. Dress up in your favourite 80s and 90s outfits, and enjoy the giant versions of games like Jenga and Connect Four, and glow in the dark hula hoops. Embrace your inner-child with some decadent dessert cocktails. - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.
Ever wondered what to do in Surry Hills? It’s known for being one of the hippest suburbs in Sydney, but it helps to have a little guidance. We’ve put together a loose guide for you to get the most out of the area, even if you only spend the one day there.  Start your day off right with some specialty coffee and absurdly good food. We recommend you check out Paramount Coffee Project. PCP was named Cafe of the year in 2017, and it’s easy to see why. Their dedication to every part of the coffee process is proudly on display, and the menu features inventive brunch dishes with an Asian twist. Now that you’re fed and caffeinated, explore the vintage goods on offer up and down Crown St. Surry Hills has among the best vintage shops in Sydney full of lovingly curated clothing from the last 50-odd years.  Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Single O to find options to keep everyone happy. If you’re feeling something healthy, the Mothership Bowl will nourish you. If you’re after something a little more indulgent, their Briske Roll with coffee-spiced brisket and wasabi mayo will hit the spot. They stop serving food at 2:30 and close at 3, so if you’d like to eat a little later, grab a hearty sandwich at vegan deli Shift Eatery, or check out Toko or Mille Vini for incredible Japanese or Italian respectively.  Let your lunch settle as you take a relaxed stroll around one (or two) of the boutique galleries scattered around the area. White Rabbit Gallery features provocative contemporary art across their 4 levels - the building used to be a Rolls-Royce Showroom, if you want something more traditional, check out the Brett Whitely Studio to see where the famous artist both lived and worked in his lifetime. Wind down your day at the Carrington Hotel with a beer or wine. They’re pet-friendly and even have a doggie menu, so it’s a great place to hang out with your pet, enjoy the evening air, and people (or pet) watch.
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  July 11th - 14th sees Circular Quay transformed into a sight for sore eyes for French expats. Bastille Festival promises art, wine tastings, and authentic food without the jetlag. They use the wintery weather to full advantage, with a Christmas Village and Ski village in The Rocks. There’s also a cinema screening family favourites and French classics, and a Carousel Kids Village to keep the young ones entertained. Check out the street performances and sample the wines, beers, ciders, and produce at your leisure. Alternatively, go for one of the more structured wine and cheese pairings with options ranging from $39 to $89.  Head to St Mary’s Cathedral and embrace the cold with some ice skating. The rink will be available from June 28th through til July 10th, as well as ice slides, a jumping castle, a bar, and food vendors. Tuesdays are date nights, and they’ll be pumping old school RnB on Thursdays. The rink is fully accessible for wheelchair users too.  Want more ice skating adventures? Disney On Ice Celebrates Mickey and Friends is touring Sydney this July (17th - 21st). The exciting, interactive show is a celebration of 90 years of Disney, and will feature all your kids’ favourites: Moana, Dory, the Toy Story cast, Elsa and Anna, and more!  Warm up with a decadent Italian-style hot chocolate at RivaReno Darlinghurst. Made with Valrhona single origin Grand Cru ‘Manjari’ (aka one of the best chocolates in the world), the rich cup will transport you straight to Madagascar. Pair it with some fresh hot crepes, or perhaps a scoop of a zesty gelato to balance out the sweetness.  If you prefer your winter warmers alcoholic Since I Left You is the perfect city-spot to get cosy beneath some fairy lights. Grab a potent Negroni or a glass of their house-made mulled wine and enjoy some live music. (Check their website to see what’s on.)
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. Try something a little different for your next date night. Sydney has a variety of unique activities on offer, but it can be hard to find them if you don’t know where to look! We’ve compiled a list of some of our favourites, to help you step outside the box and have an exciting, memorable evening.  Forget being forgettable. Holey Moley is a brand new concept - mini golf in a bar. Each venue is decorated floor to ceiling with unique, pop-culture based mini golf courses. It’s enough to shake off anyone's inhibitions - but the music and drinks sure don’t hurt!  This is one for the alcohol connoisseurs. Head to Archie Rose Distillery in Rosebery. You can your their grounds and see how they make their gin and whiskey (tasting included). If you feel like getting more hands-on, they also offer a cocktail masterclass, and blend-your-own gin and whiskey classes.  It’s a movie date - upgraded. Stepping into the Golden Age Cinema and Bar is like stepping back in time. The Art Deco building has been painstakingly refurbished with lush vintage decor throughout. Their independent program features a mix of old and new, classics, documentaries, and arthouse films you won’t find anywhere else. Dess up, grab a cocktail, and enjoy.  Satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie with a ride on a Sydney Sea Plane. They have a range of options, depending on your scenic preference, and they’re only too happy to accommodate if you want to make your date extra romantic. - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.
Whether you’re after a way to entertain the children, or you’re looking for new ways to embrace your inner child, Sydney has an impressive selection of indoor adventure activities. Perfect for the wintery weather, burn some energy at one (or all) of these great venues.  Kids bouncing off the walls? Take them to Skyzone and let them do exactly that, literally. In fact, why not join them on any of the 100+ interconnected trampolines? Skyzone is more than just trampolines though! Perfect your backflip (or try it for the first time) safely into the foam pit, test your skills on their newly added Enduro ninja course, or attempt any of their 30 rock climbing walls. The perfect range of activities for active kids and big-kids.  Timezone has an impressive dedication to constantly bringing in new entertainment. Find everything here from old-school arcade type games to cutting edge virtual and augmented reality options. Spend a day here as a family, or get a babysitter and embrace your inner child on date night.  If you’re looking for a truly unique date night (or any night) experience, Sydney’s latest offering is Archie Brothers Cirque Electric. Imagine an old school carnival, modernised, and adapted for adults. Arcade games, dodgem cars, bowling, even a 3D interactive theatre ride. (Whatever that is.) All of this making you hungry? The on-site Dazzler’s Diner has a variety of upgraded burgers, hot dogs, pizzas, and shakes (alcoholic or regular). The candy-themed cocktails are enticing, and there are vegetarian options too!
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  Australia: A country with architecture as unique as its environment. The Sydney Opera House, perched on the tip of Circular Quay, alongside the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is one of the most well-known and iconic images of Sydney. Did you know that the creative design was the result of a competition? Back in 1956, The Hon. Joe Cahill (the NSW Premier at the time) ran a worldwide design competition for an opera house. Little-known Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s design was selected from over 200 entries.  However, when it came time to start planning, his curved design (radically different from the more common cubes and squares) stumped engineers for years. Eventually, Utzon himself came up with an idea: basing the curved shells on the face of an imaginary sphere.  Construction began in March 1959, and Utzon and his family moved to Australia shortly after. However, in 1965, Minister of Works Davis Hughes questioned Utzon’s grand designs for the interiors, particularly their schedules and costs. Despite huge protests throughout Sydney, Utzon was forced to step down from the project in 1966. That year, architect Peter Hall took over the project, bringing the iconic building to its completion. The Utzon family left Australia, never to return. However, in 1999, Utzon was engaged to create a set of Design Principles to guide any future changes, thereby ensuring his impact on the Australian cityscape to live on.  Now, the Sydney Opera House regularly hosts all types of events: opera, modern dance, comedy, burlesque, music, art, and children's’ event.
Not to mention all the postcards and photos! - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. Sydney in June means Winter is settling in properly. Don’t worry though, the city definitely steps up to make sure there’s plenty of entertainment available that doesn’t rely on the weather!  Sydney Film Festival is running from June 5- 16th and is the perfect excuse to get comfortable and escape the weather. The lineup includes a variety of strange and exciting films that are pushing boundaries around the world.  The International Convention Center down in Darling Harbour will be playing host to the Good Food and Wine Show from the 21st to the 23rd of June. Expect to see culinary celebrities likes Maggie Beer and Kylie Kwong wandering around, in amongst the numerous tastings, masterclasses, demonstrations, and stalls.  Head down to Marrickville Town Hall on Saturday, June 1st for the Round She Goes Fashion Market. $2 entry will get you access to 60 hand-curated fashion stalls. Expect to see brands like Gorman and Sass and Bide, as well as the occasional Ferragamo or Carla Zampatti.  Experience something out of the ordinary with a Ghostly Garden walking tour through the Royal Botanical Gardens. You’ll meet your guide at 5:30, who’ll take you through the quiet, shadowy paths (the gardens are closed to the public from 6:30) and tell you all about historical figures and spooky spectres said to hang around the parks. Suitable for children ages 8 and up.
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. The iconic Sydney Fish Markets are a must-visit. The bustle of a busy market, and the excitement of seeing such a variety of exotic sea creatures - dead and alive, is an experience truly unique to Sydney. The markets boast a variety of eateries and shops, but there’s more to do there than just eat!  If you’re fascinated by the inner workings of the fish market, why not check out one of their behind-the-scenes tours? You’ll learn all about the history of the fish markets, how the Dutch auction system works, and about sashimi and live seafood products. You’ll also get to see the auction floor (with over 100 species of ocean animal), see some live oyster shucking This is one for the early birds though, as the tours kick off at 6:40 am sharp, and go for 1.5 - 2hours.  If you’re not quite prepared to get up that early, but having a guide through the madness of the markets is appealing, they’ve recently started offering Boutique Brunch Tours as well. The brunch tours start at 10 am Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and include a crash course on how to select the finest seafood (even in species you’ve never seen before), and an explanation of the Dutch system. You’ll still get to view the auction grounds, however, it won’t be in the full rush of the morning sale. You’ll get to see oyster shuckers and expert filleters. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, your guide will help you choose and order a sumptuous seafood brunch. Feeling inspired by the incredible variety of sea life on offer? Learn how to prepare a delicious seafood meal with a cooking class! You can choose a two, three, or four-hour class, and afterwards, you’ll get to enjoy a seafood meal with wine tasting. All the tours and classes are small groups and tend to fill up - so make sure you book ahead!
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. May is a glorious time to be in Sydney. While the weather may or may not decide to cool down, the events which were simmering all Summer long now being to emerge.  Eat First of all, for the foodies. Mould: A Cheese Festival was held for the first time last year to roaring approval from locals. This year, the 2-day festival is held at Carriageworks (May 24th-25th) and will feature over 60 different fine cheeses. Sip on some beer, wine, or sake, grab some raclette and enjoy the live cooking demonstration.  If the thought of all that cheese is a little overwhelming, turn to Sparkling Sydney for something a little lighter. Kicking off on May 19th, this festival celebrates all things sparkling. Expect over 60 varietals of Australian and international wines, plus artisan beer and cider, as well as a variety of paired gourmet food options. You can wander around Pirrama Park and check out the stalls for free, and tasting packages start at $20.  Do Sydney Writers’ Festival is running from April 29 - May 5. Their program includes everything local and international writers, screenwriters, cutting edge non-fiction, and leading journalists and scientists. It’s a celebration of writing, an exploration of ideas, and their impressive program is definitely worth browsing. Give your brain a break with some shows from Sydney Comedy Festival, running April 22 - May 19.  See Give your eyes a rest from the concrete jungle, and check out the renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition. Visiting directly from the Natural History Museum in London, you can catch this spectacular show from March 7 - August 25. Tickets also include access to everything else in the museum, including a 3D cinema and different play areas and activities for the kids.  If you see only one thing in Sydney this May, make it Vivid. The festival of lights and culture kicks off May 25, and the light shows run between 6 and 11 pm every night. While the art installations are spectacular, don’t forget to check out what else is on: there’s a little bit of everything including talks, parties, pop up bars and restaurants, and interactive activities. Check out the full program here.
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. When you think about things to do in Sydney, it’s usually something outdoors that springs to mind. It makes perfect sense. Sydney is known for its great weather and stunning natural scenery. Take advantage of the gorgeous parks and waterfront views (and delicious food) available by packing up a picnic and heading to one of these spots for a perfectly relaxing day.  Blackwattle Bay Park hugs the shore all the way to Annandale, but we recommend exploring the shops and cafes in Glebe, grabbing some fresh food, then walking down to the park for uninterrupted views of the Anzac Bridge. Watch the city light up at dusk, and make sure to look up too - dozens of bats flock to the top of the Anzac Bridge at night.  The Royal Botanical Gardens are an ample oasis of greenery smack bang in the middle of the city. Perfect for some quiet time with your favourite book, even more perfect for a lush, romantic picnic. Immerse yourself in the exotic plants and flowers on show, as well as the incredible harbour views from Mrs Macquarie’s Point.  Robertson Park is tucked right next to Watson’s Bay, and is perfect for a relaxed day outdoors with the family. There are plenty of picnic tables, a fenced playground, and great views. Take the scenic walk, grab some fish and chips and gelato for lunch.  Wendy’s Secret Garden isn’t much of a secret anymore, but it’s still a spectacular spot and worth checking out. Wendy Whitely created the garden while she was mourning the passing of her husband, famous Australian artist Brett Whitely. Expect expansive views of the harbour and the North Shore, and lovingly curated flowers, ferns, and sculptures. True romance.
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. Sydney is a busy city. With so much to do, it can be hard to plan out your time here! That’s why we break it down for you every month. Check out our shortlist of what’s on in Sydney this April!  April means Easter. And for most people, Easter means one thing: chocolate. Take your appreciation for chocolate to the next level, and check out the stage production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical.  If musicals are your thing, you won’t want to miss West Side Story, put on by Handa Opera On The Harbour. Enjoy the sunset with dinner and drinks from one of the nearby restaurants or bars, then settle into the pop-up grandstand seating. Enjoy the high-energy production (with fireworks) with the breathtaking ocean backdrop.  Sydney Tower Eye is also hosting an installation called Endless Lights, which involves custom perspex, mirrored walls, and some incredible optical illusions. Grab tickets here, and prepare to feel like you’re floating in the endless lights.  If you’re lucky enough to be in Sydney on either the 15th or 17th of April, the iconic Iggy Pop will be playing at the Sydney Opera House. Yes. Iggy Pop. Grab tickets here - but be quick. The godfather of punk is sure to put on a hell of a show.
For something a little more relaxed and family friendly, check out the Star Wars Identities exhibition at The Powerhouse Museum. The interactive component allows you to explore the things that shape who you are - and meet a Star Wars character at the end based on your personality! They’ve also got original costumes, props, models, and artworks from the movies.
Finally - Sydney Comedy Festival. The live comedy scene is thriving in Sydney (check out our post on where to find it), but the Comedy Festival brings a whole new level of talent and variety into town! World Storytelling day is fast approaching (March 20th), so we’ve decided to compile a list of fun things to do that revolve around spoken word.  The Giant Dwarf in Redfern is a hub of activity. Must-see comedy group The Bear Pack call it home, and it also plays hosts to a variety of shows and comedy nights, as well as home to Improv Theatre Sydney if you fancy taking a class or two! in Check out their full list of what’s on, and make sure you snap up tickets - their events tend to sell out. Giant Dwarf is also home to the monthly Queerstories, in which members of the LGBTQ+ community share stories revolving around community, family, prejudice, love, and some surprising humour too.  If you want to see the big comedy names who are touring Sydney, The Comedy Store is the place for you. The team that run it are also behind Sydney Comedy Festival, so you can expect to see the best of what’s on offer here. Staves Brewery in Glebe plays hosts to Powerbomb Comedy every Friday evening. Enjoy some of Stave’s home-brewed ales while the headliner, emcee, and 6 smaller local acts keep you laughing.  What She Said is a relative newcomer, but the response has been phenomenal. Held every Sunday at The Chippo Hotel, the lineup features all-female comedy, sketches, and music. Come for the laughs, stay for the super friendly atmosphere.  Last but not least, The Moth is an award-winning event dedicated to the art of storytelling. The monthly storyslam features a different theme each time, and is open to anyone with a related story to share! (This month’s event is on the 19th, and the theme is ‘magic’).
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. Summer might officially be ending in a few days, but the hot weather in Sydney doesn’t care what the calendar says! That being said, you probably don’t want to wait too long to start checking out these ocean pools, there are several to get through and they’re all beautiful and unique in their own way.  Of course, how could we start anywhere other than the famous Bondi Icebergs. Swim laps in the 50m pool, sunbake, or take advantage of the gym and sauna. The sauna alone is worth the trip. Enjoy the fragrant wood and heat with uninterrupted ocean views. (They’ve also got a fabulous Bistro upstairs if you feel like dropping by later on in the evening).  While not quite as Instagrammed as their sister baths in Bondi, the Bronte Baths is equally deserving of a visit. The pool is a little more shallow, making it more suitable for families with younger kids. That being said, it’s still just fine for swimming laps. For a really special moment, head there early to enjoy a glorious sunrise over the ocean.  Fairlight Rock Pool is situated midway along the Manly to Spit walking path. The calm waters are great for snorkelling, and the small paddling pool which is sheltered from ocean swells, making it perfect for little ones. Plus, there are plenty of shower and toilet facilities, all easily accessible by pram from the path.  Coogee beach actually has 2 ocean pools on offer. Heritage-listed Wylie’s Baths doubles up as a wedding venue by night. They’ve got a lot on offer, including yoga, massage, lap pool, and breathtaking views.  Just up the road are the McIver’s Baths. This picturesque rock pool is for women (and children) only. Be prepared to walk over some rocks to find yourself a good spot - but don’t forget to check out the free book in the spacious changing rooms first!
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  February in Sydney. Typically the steamiest month - both in terms of the high humidity and, of course, Valentine’ Day. What better way to pass the time in February than sampling one (or a few) of the gourmet High Teas on offer! Perfect for a daylight date, or even just to escape the heat. If you want the classic, traditional High Tea experience, head to the Intercontinental Sydney. Their summer menu draws on the array of fresh fruits available, as well as lashings of chocolate, caramel, and coconut. The combination of sweet and savoury will have you licking your lips, and is accompanied by a selection of handpicked Ronnefeldt teas, and a glass of sparkling on arrival. High Tea is on 11am-4pm weekdays, and a buffet version is available on weekends 12:30- 2pm, or 3- 4:30pm.  If you’re heading in on a weekend though, why not try out high tea’s darker alternative: High Coffee. Available weekends only from 11am-4pm, High Coffee offers richer, deeper flavours. Start off with an Espresso Martini, then work your way through the rest of the menu. The sweet and savoury items are paired with specific Vittoria blends, designed to elevate the flavours and create a true sensorial experience.  The Intercontinental Double Bay has some more variations. Aside from their Signature High Tea, they’ve also got an unmissable Oriental High Tea (same elegant tiered stands, only fewer sandwiches and more dumplings), and a Children’s High Tea, complete with fairy bread, toasties, hot chocolate, and other house-made treats.  If you want to leave the kids at home and experience something truly special, head to KOI Dessert Bar in Chippendale. It’s not exactly a High Tea, but their Just Desserts menu is definitely in the same vein. The offerings vary, but you can be sure you’re in for a whole four courses of delicious creativity served up on a plate.
 Sydney loves to put on a festival. Any excuse will do, and the Chinese New Year is no different! Running for 10 days in February, the festival includes a variety of markets and shopping, traditional delicacies, art installations, performances, and family activities.  If you like seafood, you can’t miss the one-night-only Chinese New Year Night Market held at the fishmarkets in Pyrmont on Feb 8th. Parking is free after 4pm, so head down and feast on the freshest oysters and seafood in Sydney, as well as burgers, fresh fruit, and desserts. Make sure you’re there between 6:30 and 7:30 to see the lion dancers!  If you’re after a different kind of market, the regular weekly markets in The Rocks (Friday-Sunday) have expanded for the lunar new year, and are staying open until 10pm. They’ll be selling locally made clothing, jewellery, crafts, all under the glow of traditional red lanterns. While you’re in the area, keep an eye out for the huge animal lanterns floating around. Each one has been designed by an Australian-Chinese artist and represents an animal of the zodiac.  There will also be Lunar New Year celebrations at World Square and Cabramatta which will be great to check out with the whole family. World Square will have adorable piglets to meet, Korean fan dancing, a lion dance, and a special art installation from 11am-2pm and 4pm-7pm which will have everyone dancing. Cabramatta is a little more food-focused, and will also have exciting activities for all age groups, firecrackers, and other performances.  On February 9th and 10th, there will be dragon-boat racing in Darling Harbour. The spectacularly carved and painted boats, as well as the competition and sportsmanship, draws thousands of spectators every year. In case all the celebrations had you hungry (again), wind up your evening at Sydney Tower Eye, where there is an all you can eat dumpling pop up. The sessions are priced at $45, and run for 45 minutes each from 5-7pm.
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  Click here to If you’re in Sydney during April, you absolutely can’t miss a visit to the Sydney Royal Easter Show. This year, it’s running from April 12th - 23rd, and they have a range of ticket options available, starting at $22 for children and $37 for adults - including return train fare to the Olympic Park Showgrounds.
Get up close and personal with Australia's agriculture - the kids will love seeing some of the huge cows and horses, not to mention the puppy, rabbit, and goat shows. The gourmand won’t want to miss the honey competition (daily, 9:30 am- 10:30 am), and the athleticism and strength displayed at the woodchopping competition make it a crowd favourite every year.  Once you’ve had your cultural fix with the food, art, and animals, indulge the children (or your inner child, why not) with some rides and show bags. The selection of world-class attractions brought in will get your adrenaline pumping, and the selection of show bags always provide a value-filled shopping experience. The Easter Show isn’t the only thing to do in Sydney during April though!  With the slightly cooler weather, Easter is a fantastic time for outdoor activities. The Bondi to Bronte walk is as beautiful, and much less crowded this time of year, or check out the jaw-dropping South Head Heritage Trail starting from Watson’s Bay - or for something a little different, why not try out horseriding in Centennial Park?  Other fantastic events include the Easter Parade (April 22nd), the Championships Races (first and second Saturday of April every year), or even an Easter Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour!
- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  The Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade (March 2nd, 7pm) is a one of a kind event. The vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community draws hundreds of thousands of people from all over Australia and the world. The parade itself snakes from Hyde Park in the CBD down Oxford St, ending up in Moore Park. You can settle in pretty much anywhere along the streets to see the parade, but it does tend to get full so it’s worth getting in early to make sure you have a good view. The floats, dancers, and extravagant costumes are worth it!  Some things to remember:
 Due to road closures, getting around the city can be a bit tricky, so check out Mardi Gras’ parade transport guide, as well as their accessibility viewing options. But did you know it’s not just about the parade day?  Every year, Mardi Gras is accompanied by a festival showcasing the incredible talent within the LGBTQ+ community. The festival program covers every aspect of entertainment, including music, parties, sports, talks and workshops, and performing and visual arts. This year, the festival is running from February 15th until March 3rd, so you’ve got plenty of time to explore. Fair Day (Sunday February 17th) is a good place to start. Held in Victoria Park, the fun kicks off at 10 am. There are rides and stalls, games in the Sports Village, and the wildly popular Doggywood (yep, Fair Day is family and pet-friendly). When you’ve worked up an appetite, stretch out on a warm patch of grass with your BYO picnic, or grab something from Sydney’s finest food trucks. There’ll also be a mix of current LGBTQ+ artists performing at the main stage so go and have a dance.  - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.
 Australia: A country with architecture as unique as its environment. The Sydney Opera House, perched on the tip of Circular Quay, alongside the Sydney Harbour Bridge, is one of the most well-known and iconic images of Sydney. Did you know that the creative design was the result of a competition? Back in 1956, The Hon. Joe Cahill (the NSW Premier at the time) ran a worldwide design competition for an opera house. Little-known Danish architect Jørn Utzon’s design was selected from over 200 entries.  However, when it came time to start planning, his curved design (radically different from the more common cubes and squares) stumped engineers for years. Eventually, Utzon himself came up with an idea: basing the curved shells on the face of an imaginary sphere.  Construction began in March 1959, and Utzon and his family moved to Australia shortly after. However, in 1965, Minister of Works Davis Hughes questioned Utzon’s grand designs for the interiors, particularly their schedules and costs. Despite huge protests throughout Sydney, Utzon was forced to step down from the project in 1966. That year, architect Peter Hall took over the project, bringing the iconic building to its completion. The Utzon family left Australia, never to return. However, in 1999, Utzon was engaged to create a set of Design Principles to guide any future changes, thereby ensuring his impact on the Australian cityscape to live on.  Now, the Sydney Opera House regularly hosts all types of events: opera, modern dance, comedy, burlesque, music, art, and children's’ event.
Not to mention all the postcards and photos! - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. January is the perfect time to be in Sydney. The weather is great (most of the time), and the locals are on their summer holidays, which means the vibrant city is packed with activities, workshops, and family-friendly entertainment. While the kids might not be sick of the beach and Luna Park, don’t miss the chance to expose them to some less common, stimulating entertainment.  The Australian Wildlife Show (January 15th). Australia is known for having some of the most unique wildlife in the world, but they can be a bit hard to spot! Give your kids (and yourself, why not!) the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the unusual animals that call Australia home - get some memorable photos while you’re at it. If you prefer your animals a little less realistic, head down to Vaucluse House for The Jungle Book: The Next Chapter (January 10th - 27th). The interactive show is set several years later, with all the favourite characters from Jungle Book reuniting to embark on some fresh adventures. If your kids are all about things that go bump in the night, The Howling might be just the ticket. You can choose between the 4-day Short Film Course (January 14th-17th, or 21st -24th), or a single day Scream Class (January 18th or 25th). The course covers scriptwriting, acting, editing, and filming, while the scream class provides tips and tricks from professional thriller actors - including how to handle big emotional scenes, and audition techniques.  Of course, you might prefer something a little more lighthearted. In which case, you might prefer to check out So Frenchy So Chic (January 19th). This year’s lineup is packed with fabulous female artists, and there will, of course, be wine and cheese available. There’ll be plenty of entertainment for the kids, including face painting, drumming classes, lawn games, and bubble artists - and children under 12 enter free. - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.
 If you’re going to be in Sydney during January, it’s absolutely essential you check out Sydney Festival. Sydney Festival first ran back in 1977, and has since then developed into a diverse showcase of the incredible local (and international) talent. The festival will run from January 9th - 27th 2019, and features a little bit of everything; from contemporary music and theatre, free workshops and art installations, comedy, cabaret, and more. This year, the festival honours the 50th anniversary since the moon landing with an underlying lunar theme. Check out our top picks, and remember to plan ahead - you don’t want to miss out! There’s a whole lot of family-friendly fun on. Head over to Prince Alfred Square to check out Heliosphere - an aerialist suspended from a giant helium balloon 20 metres above the audience. If you prefer something that’ll help burn some of the kids’ energy, Moon Drops (below) should definitely be on your list. The free, interactive art installation is basically giant water droplets for the kids (and you) to jump and bounce around on - allowing you to feel the weightlessness of zero gravity. There are also flying trapeze workshops and Aerialize workshops for kids as young as 4, including an accessible workshop for kids with disability.  There’s plenty for the adults too. Allow Marcia Hines to transport you to a glamorous Parisian neighbourhood with Pigalle, or lose yourself in South African songstress Nakhane’s emotive, fragile vocals. Carriageworks is also hosting Nick Cave’s immersive installation Nick Cave: Until Later, with various musicians and DJs bringing it to life after hours. We tried to show you a bit of a spread, but there’s so much on we couldn’t possibly do it justice in a blog. Check out the Sydney Festival website or view the full programme here for more!
Which shows will you be heading to? - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.  It’s not hard to find ways to pass the time in Sydney in Summer. But what about on Christmas Day? Some things are open, some are closed, some are only open specific times. Christmas Day in Sydney should be relaxing and fun- and with a little planning, it will be.  Of course, there’s the classic option: spend the day at the beach. Grab all the supplies you’ll need beforehand, grill some seafood at home, have a refreshing ocean swim, then head home to enjoy a glass of rosé. If you’d rather not cook, why not go for a Yum Cha experience in Chinatown - take advantage of it being less crowded than usual. Palace Chinese Restaurant is open from 10:30, and Marigold will be open from 10am. If you prefer some more Western food, the Sofitel in Darling Harbour hosts sumptuous Christmas day buffet lunches and dinners, and The Sailmaker at Hyatt Regency will have live carving stations and a special visit from Santa. Public transport will be running all day- why not take the ferry over to Barangaroo and enjoy a modern Turkish lunch at Anason? You’ll also be able to grab a drink at vegan bar and restaurant Alibi in Woolloomooloo, or The Bavarian in Bondi if you prefer not to wander too far from the beach.  Taronga Zoo gives gifts to the monkeys! Of course, there are other things to do on Christmas day aside from eating and drinking. Taronga Zoo is open every single day of the year, as is Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney Zoo, and Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum.
Get planning! - Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences. |
AuthorLiv- Tender L Creative and Deb - a long term resident of Sydney. Archives
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