Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sydney's hippest and gayest neighbourhood is also home to its most interesting dining and
bar scene. For the most part, it's more gritty than pretty, and actual sights are thin on the
ground, but there's still plenty to do and see here, especially after dark.
If Darling Harbour is Sydney dressing up nicely for tourists, the Cross is where it relaxes,
scratches itself and belches. In equal parts thrilling and depressing but never boring, this is
where you come for late-night blinders or surprisingly pleasant daytime meanders.
The next band of suburbs to the east is distinctly well-heeled - and in Paddington's case
they're probably Manolo Blahniks. Despite taking a hit with the opening of Westfield
Bondi Junction just up the road, this is still Sydney's fashion and art heartland.
Sydney sheds its suit and tie, ditches the strappy heels and chills out in the Eastern
Beaches. Beach after golden-sand beach, alternating with sheer sandstone cliffs, are the
classic vistas of this beautiful, laid-back and egalitarian stretch of the city.
Sydney's only ferry destination boasting an ocean beach, Manly caps off the harbour with
scrappy charm. The surf's good and as the gateway to the Northern Beaches, it makes a
popular base for the board-riding brigade.
