leah's down under: Oh, the Memories!

The Sydney Tower.

The long awaited free weekend in Sydney finally arrived. After our visit to the Reserve Bank on Friday afternoon we had nowhere to be until Monday morning, except to enjoy everything Sydney has to offer. Friday night we had another group bonding session during our BBQ on the patio at the Tiffany apartments. The guys grilled the sausages (hot dogs) and the girls contributed a huge fruit salad – pineapple, grapes, apples, bananas, strawberries, and more! We all enjoyed relaxing together and even saved a little money by making our own food!

On Saturday morning, Jen, Nicole, Stephanie, and I went to the Sydney Tower in the center of the city. The Sydney Tower Observation Deck provided breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, including the Harbor Bridge and Opera House. It stands 820 feet above the city. I learned that the 420 windows of the tower are cleaned by a semi – automatic window cleaning machine name ‘Charlie.’ It was the perfect sunny day and I could have sat and watched the boats in the harbors on the bright blue water all day.

A breathtaking view from waaay up in the air!

Saturday night we went to Festival First Night. This evening celebrates the kick-off of a month-long theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and film festival throughout the city of Sydney. All of the performers who are part of the Festival give a free performance on the first night. We went to a band called Arrested Development at Martin Place. It was absolutely packed with people enjoying the arts and the summer vibe of Sydney on a warm evening.

Walking to the Sydney Opera House.

The highlight of my entire time in Sydney thus far was going to the SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE on Sunday night! The girls went to see Le Grand Cirque Adrenaline, a show featuring extreme athletes. Performers were catapulted across the stage from the end of a giant swing and acrobats bent their bodies in seemingly impossible ways. I think my jaw dropped a couple of times and I could not believe my eyes. Even though we were in the absolute last row, the view was perfect and It was such a great experience to watch a show in the world renowned Sydney Opera House. On the way home we stopped for dessert in Circular Quay. Chocolate Dome, Mortal Sin, and Apple Rhubarb Crumble were passed around our table many times so we could all savor the delectable desserts. What a memorable weekend!