Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Shopping
Brash, hedonistic Sydney has elevated shopping to a universal
panacea. Feeling good? Let's go shopping. Feeling bad? Let's
go shopping. Credit-card bills getting you down? Let's go shop-
ping… Many locals treat shopping as a recreational activity
rather than a necessity, evidenced by the teeming cash-flapping
masses at the city's weekend markets.
Service
Retail service in Sydney is generally reasonable, although travellers from the USA might
find it a bit laid-back at times. Sycophancy isn't the Australian way, but nor is snobbiness.
You shouldn't face condescension if you rock into a boutique in your thongs and a singlet,
but nor will you be treated like a princess just because you've splashed $5000 on daddy's
credit card.
What to Buy
Want something quintessentially Australian to take home? Head to The Rocks and dig up
some opals, an Akubra hat, a Driza-Bone coat or some Blundstone boots. Aboriginal art is
globally popular.
Sydney has a thriving fashion scene, and a summer dress or Speedos won't eat up lug-
gage space. Ask at CD stores or bookshops about local bands and authors, or grab a
Sydney-made DVD. Hunter Valley wine makes a great gift - check your country's duty-
free allowance before buying.
Shipping Goods
Check with your airline about excess baggage rates - it may be cheaper than shipping a
For big items, such as art or cases of wine, some vendors arrange shipping for a fee. Ship-
ping companies operating out of Sydney are listed in the
telephone directory
