Sydney, Australia (Day 1)

We took a cab to the airport to catch a flight to Sydney. We paid about AUD22 for the cab. The taxi driver was really friendly and helpful that he advised us to get a trolley that was left idle by airport passengers outside the airport instead of getting it inside because one has to pay AUD4 for a trolley. We were lucky, and we saved AUD4 today!

Melbourne and Sydney are 712 km apart and if you are travelling by flight, it will take you less than an hour. We arrived at Aarons Hotel before 11 am local time. After leaving our luggage at the hotel, we made our way to the surrounding areas.

The hotel is located in the heart of the city and is only 2 minutes walk to the famous Paddy’s Market. If you are wondering, Paddy’s Market is a market that houses various selections from fresh produces such as fruit and vegetable to clothing and souvenir. It is highly sought after by tourists for souvenir shopping. It is not open everyday, so make sure you check the operation hours and plan your trip. You can check it here http://www.paddysmarkets.com.au or if you are already there, check the operation hours at the entrance of the market.

Bargaining for souvenirs .I got most of my souvenirs from this shop. I managed to get koala tissue boxes I wanted from this shop as it offers more options. We came here on Day 3 and bought lots of stuff including fruits :).

After taking a look at the Paddy’s Market, we went back to our hotel. We planned to come here on Day 3. 


After we checked in and performed prayer we ventured out to Circular Quay, the Rocks and Darling Harbour. Our main agenda was to see the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the surrounding area. 

Circular Quay is the hub of Sydney Harbour, situated at a small inlet called Sydney Cove.The quay is a vibrant, bustling place with ferries leaving every few minutes to different parts of the harbour, including Manly, Watsons Bay, Mosman and Taronga Park Zoo. There are great views of the Harbour Bridge, a short distance away.

On the southern side of Circular Quay is a walkway that leads to the Sydney Opera House and Royal Botanical Gardens; while on the northern side, a short walk along lovely landscaped walkways takes you to the Harbour Bridge and The Rocks, one of the oldest, most attractive and most interesting parts of Sydney.

Circular Quay is at the foot of the central business district and the older, historic end of the city. Buses depart here for Bondi and the eastern suburbs.

There is a major railway station at the quay, which is part of the underground City Circle , which skirts around the CBD. Alongside the ferry terminals are a number of small outdoor cafes and the area is a magnet for buskers of every description.

Check the ferry fares a Circular Quay.

Transportation to get you around..

We were very hungry but there was very little choice for halal food here. Looking for halal food was a bit of an adventure here but we finally found a small shop selling salad-see picture below. I bought a small bowl of prawn and avocado salad ad a small bowl of tuna salad. The prawn and avocado salad was extremely delicious, however tuna salad (came with pasta) was very salty. I think this is the best salad and the best avocado I ever tasted.

This is where I purchased the prawn and avocado salad for lunch.

Taking a break for lunch.

We spent the entire evening walking around Sydney Harbour- we just cant get enough enjoying every moment there. I think it is perfect for a couple's retreat, if you just want to stroll along holding hands. And the little one was also happy to get on his new feet but it was very tiring chasing here and there.

Walking back to the hotel....


Sydney at night....

End of Day 1.