Sydney - just great

As you can see, we have provided you with photos from Sydney and its surroundings. We could send you a lot more, as we are constantly taking pictures here. Sydney is such a great city that we can't get enough of it, and that's saying something coming from us, who are usually not city people!

We arrived here six days ago and rented a room in an apartment from Ross, a student. Ross is hardly ever home, so we have the entire apartment to ourselves. Very pleasant!

On the second day, we took a nearly 4-hour, very entertaining city tour and got some tips about Sydney. We've been strolling around the city, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere in the always sunny early summer weather. Everyone here seems very laid-back and friendly, it's quiet, the traffic runs smoothly (unlike in Asia), and everyone understands our English. It's a pity that it's so far away from Europe, otherwise we could come for a weekend trip more often.

We have also explored the surrounding area a bit. One time, we took the ferry across the harbor to Manly Peninsula in the north and rented bicycles. From there, we had a fantastic view of the city. Yesterday, we went to Bondi Beach and took a 4-hour coastal walk, with a swimming stop at one of the many small bays.

An absolute highlight should be a hike to the Harbour Bridge, which was a bit too expensive for us at €250 per person. Instead, we opted for the scaled-down version and climbed up the 87m high bridge pier (for €10). From here, too, we could enjoy a fantastic view of the city and the harbor. In the evening, we walked over 500m on the bridge to the other side to admire the sunset behind the Harbour Bridge and the later sea of lights of Sydney's skyline. We reluctantly started our way home; you can't stop marveling at it!

Tomorrow, we plan a day trip to the Blue Mountains, a national park that is about 60 km west of Sydney and is said to offer spectacular views. On the way back, we will make a stop at Olympic Park, which should also be quite interesting.

From Friday, we have rented a car and then want to explore a part of the East Coast on our own.

At this point, a big thank you for all the birthday wishes and serenades. It rounded off the already great day perfectly.