Blog Posts - ruby's holiday residences

How To Get Around Sydney

31/10/2018

Navigating a new city can be daunting if you don’t know where to look! Ruby is here to help.

Touchdown. You’ve made it. Welcome to Sydney!
Once you’ve made it through customs (look out for the cute sniffer dogs!) and immigration, the first thing most people want to do is have a shower, unpack, and unwind.

Leaving Sydney Airport

The Airport train station is clearly marked and easy to find, with trains that’ll get you to the city in under 15 minutes departing every 10 minutes or so. An adult ticket costs $14.30. From the city there is a direct train to Bondi Junction, then it's a walk or bus from here. But it's easier and quicker to get a taxi!
Taxis are plentiful and the wait is usually short. If you're an Uber fan, it's quick and easy to order an Uber and there is a specified Pick Up Point for all car sharing companies.
Or why not order a taxi pick up? Get in early and book your pick up and attraction tickets (Bridge Climb anyone?) before you arrive to save time while you're on holidays. Check out all the things you can pre order/ book here.

Getting To and From The City From Bondi

If you’re staying around Bondi, your favourite buses will be the 380 and 333. They’ll help you get from your Ruby’s Residence to Bondi Junction, the City and Circular Quay (where you'll find the ferries to Manly and the Sydney Opera House!). Once you’ve made it to the city, you can catch the train at either Martin Place, Town Hall or Central Stations for direct trains back to Bondi Junction.

Sydney Transport Tips

The public transport ticketing system uses rechargeable Opal cards, which are available for purchase in most newsagents, train stations, and supermarkets. You’ll need to tap on when you enter a train station or bus and tap off at the end of your journey to be charged the correct fare.
You can check out the Transport NSW Trip Planner here or download the TripView App onto your smartphone. UberPool was recently launched in Australia too, so that’s now an easy and cost-effective way to get around.

- Liv Steigrad for Ruby’s Residences.

Australian geographic nature photographer of the year 2018

25/10/2018

Until 28 January 2019

If you are visiting Sydney and love nature and photography then a trip to the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year 2018 is a must! Held at the Australian Museum visitors will
witness nature at its most dramatic, graceful and unexpected!

With a stunning collection of photographs celebrating the natural heritage of the bioregions of Australia and New Zealand, the Antarctic and New Guinea the exhibition showcases just how much talent and patience a professional photographer will go to capture the right image.

The Australian Museum is situated on William Street and has easy access to the CBD and Hyde Park. The Museum offers various exhibitions throughout the year. The Australian Museum is the first museum of Australia.

Find out more and buy tickets

Another point of interest near the museum is the ANZAC Memorial Hyde Park where visitors can pay their respects to ANZACS as well as participate in guided tours. The memorial pond is a place to relax and reflect.

For keen photographers read our post on Photo Opportunities in Sydney.

At Ruby's we are happy to help you plan your holiday. The months of December until the end of January are very popular in Sydney so please get in touch and we can assist you to find the perfect holiday letting.

Taste of Sydney

12/10/2018

Foodie lovers visiting Sydney will not want to miss out on Taste of Sydney with the latest program featuring Sydney's hottest restaurants, live music, entertainment, gourmet producers and a host of exciting gastronomic experiences.

Taste offers visitors an intimate but casual and vibrant fun way to learn to create fabulous food and interact with chefs, farmers and artisan producers. The festival offers intoxicating smells, fabulous music (thanks to the resident DJ's), fun and adventure.

The Diners Club VIP Ticket offers an exclusive pass within the Taste of Sydney Collective offering many advantages over a standard ticket. Situated above the festival this premium lounge experience gives an exclusive view to the Electrolux Collective Kitchen to watch all the action from above, as well as VIP treatment courtesy of Diners Club.

The line up of chefs has been hand-picked and curated by renowned Sydney chef, Mark Best (ex Marque & Pei Modern) and features some of the best!

When visiting The Playground you will have the opportunity to sample and shop some of the finest foodie products on the market. This is also an opportunity to discover new products and meet the artisans that produce them.

Sydney is a foodie city that offers a large range of dining experiences of all cultures. There are many food and wine festivals throughout the year and we will be more than happy to let you know what's on the foodie calendar when you are planning your stay with Ruby's Holiday Residences.

www.sydney.tastefestivals.com

Photo: Taste of Sydney Collective

Sculpture by the sea 2018

1/10/2018

Bondi will host the world’s largest annual free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition from 18th October to 4th November 2018 and if you are planning a stay in Sydney around this time you might like to add a visit to this spectacular coastal walk event on your list of things to do in Sydney.

The coastline walk is two kilometres from Bondi to Tamarama and features 100 sculptures by artists from Australia and across the world.

As one of Sydney’s most beloved and photographed events, Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi attracts over 500,000 visitors over the course of 18 days and signals the beginning of summer in Sydney.
It took many years of planning to come up with the concept Sculpture by the Sea by it’s creator David Handley the Founding Director whose initial wish was to create a major free public arts event in Sydney.

Sculpture by the Sea is now in its 22nd year and despite hundreds of entries only 100 sculptures are chosen by the curatorial panel. To learn more about the exhibit you can attend the Aqualand Artist Talk Series http://sculpturebythesea.com/bondi/artists/artist-talks/ with the artists talking about their work, these are free drop-in talks on the weekends in the comfort of an Aqualand bean bag!

For more information: http://sculpturebythesea.com/
If you are looking for excellent accommodation in the Bondi area to view Sculpture by the Sea please get in touch with Deborah to discuss one of our beautiful residences.

Places to Visit in Paddington

15/9/2018

PADDINGTON RESERVOIR GARDENS

The award-winning Paddington Reservoir Gardens on Oxford Street is a delightful place to sit and relax in the tranquil space. Many people use this space to take time out and read a book. Despite the gardens are on a very busy road, it's an great escape from the noise and traffic.

In the 19th century the reservoir supplied water to district however ceased in 1899. Previously, the reservoir had a few different ‘occupations’ including a stint as a petrol station.

The gardens were transformed in 2009 and are now heritage listed. The restoration of the gardens features much of the original framework and with the addition of some modern elements as well. There is seating throughout the gardens and the rooftop features a beautiful sunken garden.

The gardens are accessible and entry is free. Bus routes 378, 382 and 380 stop nearby.

CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS

With 360 hectares you will need to allow a lot of time to explore this magnificent parklands. Centennial Parklands is listed on the State Heritage Register of NSW.

Activities include: horse riding, bike riding, photography, restaurant, picnics and much more.

Centennial Park has an abundance of flora and fauna. The ponds provide a sanctuary for many birds, swans and ducks.

Centennial Park is also home for Polo in the City.

PADDINGTON MARKETS

Paddo Markets, as they are affectionately referred, have been a Sydney Icon for over 40 years.

With a vast range of stallholders, you will discover clothing, jewellery, candles, plants, flowers, art, food and much more.

The markets are open every Saturday and well worth a visit.

As the markets are in the centre of the shopping complex of Paddington you will find plenty of cafes, boutiques, bars and much more to enjoy and make for a great day out.

JUNIPER HALL

In 1984, Juniper Hall was purchased by the National Trust of Australia (NSW), with a grant from the New South Wales Government. Juniper Hall is a two-storey building with a basement and four large rooms on each floor. Previously, the rear of the home was a coach-house, stables and servants’ quarters.

In 1852 the renamed ‘Ormond House’ was rented by the newly formed Society for the Relief of Destitute Children housing up to 130 children until the Society moved in 1858.

It is also a permanent exhibition space for selected finalists of the Moran Prizes and visitors are welcome to tour the home and view the artwork.

CHAUVEL CINEMA

Since 1977, Chauvel Cinema, has been operating and providing entertainment for guests.

The Chauvel Cinema was once the Paddington Town Hall’s Ballroom! The Auditorium still has a stunning barrel-vaulted ceiling, with proscenium arch stage.

This historic cinema is known as a gathering place for true film lovers to share their passion for the best of independent and world cinema.

Photo Opportunities in Sydney

1/9/2018

Whether you are a tourist or a local, Sydney has a many interesting places for photography.

Sydney is relatively easy to get around, you can use the hop on hop off buses, hire a bike (wear a helmet by law), use public transport or hail a cab or Uber. If you are using public transport you will need an OPAL card.

THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

It goes without saying, snapping a photo of the Opera House is a must when visiting Sydney and you can get some great angles of this iconic building, even up in Cumberland Street, near the Rocks.

Other great photo opportunities are from The Royal Botanical Gardens, from a boat (or ferry), looking over from Kirribilli and from the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

THE ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS

Apart from the spectacular views from the Royal Botanical Gardens of the harbour, there are plenty of photo opportunities within the gardens.

With its spectacular ponds, trees and plants the Royal Botanical Gardens is a flora photographers dream.

Spring is the best time to visit. You can even find a spot where you can photograph the city skyline overlooking the gardens.

Quite often the Calyx has walls of flowers and is truly a spectacular part of the gardens to visit. A gold coin donation is requested to enter.

The fernery is also a beautiful place to take photos and have some quiet time as you soak in the relaxing vibes and listen to the waterfalls.

BONDI BEACH

Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach has plenty of photo opportunities. Apart from Bondi Beach itself, photo opportunities are Aboriginal carvings, the village, Bondi Icebergs and the Bondi to Coogee Boardwalk.

The Bondi to Coogee Boardwalk could even offer you an opportunity to photograph migrating Whales between July and November.

Each Saturday the famous Bondi Markets is another great place to take some photos especially of Artisan produce.

TARONGA ZOO

Taronga Zoo offers plenty of photo opportunities and not just of the animals. You will see the Sydney Skyline that offers some spectacular views.

As you wander along the many paths of Taronga Zoo you will certainly come across some amazing photo opportunities. The zoo is accessible by ferry, bus or car.

QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING

For beautiful historical architecture the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) offers plenty of opportunities for photographers. The QVB has intricate designs, carvings, staircases and beautiful tiling.

While you are there many of the cafe's offer High Tea which is rather special in this elegant building. It goes without saying that the QVB also offers some fabulous shopping.

Must Visit Markets in Sydney

15/8/2018

KINGS CROSS MARKET

Every Saturday morning Kings Cross Market attracts locals and visitors in the area. There are many stalls offering organic produce, artisan products, pet treats, candles, flowers, clothing, plants, fish and a wide range of places to find something delicious to eat.

Every Saturday 8 am – 2 pm
Fitzroy Gardens, Macleay St, Potts Point.
02 9999 2226
Find out more.

BONDI FARMERS MARKET

It may only be a few steps to Sydney's famous Bondi Beach but the Bondi Markets offers a range of good old fashioned fresh country produce and much more. Open every Saturday morning from 9am-1pm in the grounds of Bondi Beach Public School.

Some of the fabulous things you can purchase are seasonal fruits and vegetables, organically grown meat and poultry, fresh flowers, artisan breads, homemade jams, farmstead cheeses, seafood, olive oils, herbs, spices much more.

Find out more.

THE ROCKS MARKETS

Marvel at the sandstone steps and cobblestoned lanes as you explore fashion, candles, art, homewares, plus much more. You will also come across a range of delicious food from local Artisans.

The Rocks Markets offer a wide range of products and produce and are delight to wander through in the most historic part of Sydney. On Fridays the Food Market delights the senses with a range of multi cultural and local cuisines.

Find out more

The Rocks Markets
10am – 5pm, Saturdays & Sundays
Playfair Street, George Street, Jack Mundey Place

The Rocks Friday Foodie Market
9am - 3pm, Fridays
Jack Mundey Place, Playfair Street

SYDNEY & PADDY'S MARKETS

By far the biggest markets in Sydney and the largest supplier of fruit and vegetables (wholesale) in Australia. Mainly catering for professional buyers and greengrocers the Sydney Produce Market is also open to the public. The Sydney Market is about a 30 minute train ride from Central located at Flemington.

Paddy's Market in Haymarket is a popular market with a fresh produce section and market stalls with a wide range of products to buy. When visiting Paddy's, after your shopping, head over to Chinatown and experience the restaurants and shopping in the precinct.

A Day Trip to The Blue Mountains

2/8/2018

The Blue Mountains is a special place to visit all year long. In Autumn the deciduous trees are a blaze of colours. Winter is time to rug up and if you are lucky enjoy some snow. Spring is an abundance of colour and Summer offers cooler temperatures in the higher ranges, although it can get very hot and has produced some serious bushfires.

One thing is for certain, tourists flock to the Blue Mountains because of the quaint villages, craft shops, boutiques, bush walks, scenery and it's a foodie haven.

Most popular tourist towns are Glenbrook, Springwood, Wentworth Falls, Leura, Katoomba and Blackheath however, all the villages in between have their own charm and things to do.

For garden lovers, Spring and Autumn are a must visit in the Blue Mountains with many open gardens for visitors to enjoy sensational gardens bursting with colour.

The gardens are privately owned check here for opening times. Many of the villages have wonderful garden displays to enjoy as well.

For lovers of nature, there are many waterfalls, rainforests, walking tracks and lookouts i.e. The Three Sisters. Other activities include horse riding in the Megalong Valley, rock climbing and a visit to the glow worm caves a bit further up near Lithgow.

The cable car is for those not afraid of heights and gives sensational views of the Jamison Valley.

Leura is the Double Bay of The Blue Mountains. A mix of country charm with great dining. Leura is famous for its spring Garden Festival, held in early October. Leura Mall is a pretty town centre and classified by the National Trust. A visit to Leura is full of surprises.

Getting There from The Eastern Suburbs

You will need to allow about 2 hours to drive up to Katoomba depending on the traffic. The intercity train service is another option that allows passengers a spectacular view on the way up the Mountains. More details here.

Things to do in Sydney on a Weekend

15/7/2018

Royal Botanical Gardens

The Sydney Royal Botanical Gardens has free entry and is the perfect place to wander and enjoy the spectacular harbour and discover beautiful plants and trees. The gardens have a number of ponds that attract many birds. In summer the Lily Pond is spectacular. Check the website for Botanical Art Exhibitions that are held throughout the year and also free and the vibrant floral displays in the Calyx.

The Rocks

The Rocks is on of Sydney's most historical places to tour and take photos. There's plenty of shopping including high-end brands, clothing, speciality shops and art galleries. Other things to do at the Rocks is visit the miners cottages, have a drink at one of the historical pubs and explore the amazing sandstone buildings and dine at the wide range of cafes, restaurants and pubs. The Rocks Markets are held on Friday's and the weekends.

Whale Watching

Whale watching in Sydney can be by watching out from a lookouts i.e. in the beach suburbs or getting up close and personal by going on a whale watching tour. The season is May - November.

There have been occasions when whales have been seen in the Sydney Harbour.

The Chinese Garden of Friendship

A surprise right in the city, is a wonderful garden giving a spectacular break from the noise and bedlam surrounding it. For a small entry fee visitors can wander around The Chinese Garden of Friendship, take time to sit and contemplate and enjoy something to eat in the tearooms.

These tranquil gardens are next to Darling Harbour which is another great place to visit in Sydney.

Visit the Penguins at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

A truly magical experience for penguin lovers is to visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium. The Aquarium is full of surprises for young and old. As well as many species of fish, sharks and other aquarium life the Penguin enclosure is exceptional. Once you arrive at the Penguin display you will take a ride on a boat and pass the penguins. When you alight you can get up close to the glass and take photos. If you have the budget, then booking in to the penguin passport is very special, where you get a tour of the facility and get up very close to the penguins.

Five Things to do in The Eastern Suburbs

1/7/2018

Waverley Cemetery

To check out some history in the area, take a visit to Waverley Cemetery an iconic location in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Waverley Cemetery is a state listed heritage location and has been operating since 1877. It can be a little sad when you wander through a cemetery this old and see how many young children passed away in those days. The cemetery covers 16 hectares and has amazing views across the Sydney Harbour.

Hermitage Foreshore Track

Hermitage Foreshore Track walk from Rose Bay to Nielsen Park is a beautiful walk along the Sydney Harbour Foreshore and through stunning bushland. It's an easy walk (although not suitable for wheelchairs as there are some steps to navigate). With amazing photo opportunities, places to sit and ending at Nielsen Park where you can enjoy the beach or dine in the restaurant this is a great walk in the Eastern Suburbs. The track starts at the end of Bayview Hill Road and continues for 1.8km each way. There are a number of secluded beaches along the way including Tingara beach and Milk beach. You will also come to Greycliffe House built in 1852 and Strickland House built in the 1850's and home to Sydney's second Lord Mayor, John Hosking.

Bondi Beach

One of Australia’s icons, Bondi Beach, offers plenty to do in a day regardless of the weather. For exercise take the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offering spectacular views and photo opportunities. Bondi Beach is known for great dining so check out the many cafés and restaurants as you explore this amazing beach suburb of Sydney. The iconic Bondi Beach is the perfect place to swim and enjoy the sun, and if you prefer not to be in the ocean try Bondi Icebergs, a fantastic pool and great place to enjoy a drink or meal.

For serious shopping head up the hill to Bondi Junction.

Shopping in Double Bay

Sydney’s Double Bay is famous for it’s high-end shopping, dining and hotels. This fashionable village of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs is the place to do a bit of celebrity spotting! As well as its famous style, Double Bay has a small beach to sit and enjoy views of Sydney Harbour.

Watson’s Bay

Watson’s Bay offers fantastic dining with views and is situated on the South Head peninsular of the Eastern Suburbs. This beautiful old fishing village is home to waterfront restaurants, scenic walking tracks and plenty of beautiful places for a romantic picnic. Check out the local tours for some history on Aboriginal culture in the area.

Visit the historic red and white striped Hornby Lighthouse, built in 1858. You can spot whales from South Head between May and November.