things I learned from my recent trip to Sydney
1.) If there's a K-Mart in town, you need to go there ASAP. The biggest mistake was not going to K-Mart and buying proper attire for the weather. I should have checked their store hours prior to going to Australia. We ended up spending AUD 400 on useless coats and sweaters from this store we passed by in Berrima because we had no other choice.
2) Packing t-shirts is worthless - I realised (just now!) that if it's cold where I'm going, I prefer wearing blouses because I know it's the only time I can get away with it. I also don't need to pack a lot of jeans because I prefer wearing leggings over them. 2 pairs is enough for a one week trip.
3) Bringing my Jansport backpack was a good idea. Starting June 2009, Sydney went on to this green movement by asking buyers to bring their own bag or pay for an eco bag starting at AUD 1 to AUD 2 depending on the size. If you go to the Aquarium or Wildlife World, they charge you AUD 5 for it.
4) Staying at the Medina Executive Sydney Central on Lee Street was a damn good idea. I can't imagine staying somewhere else except Mercure which is right across the street. It's near Broadway (shopping), Darling Harbour (eating) and George Street is just a walk away. Going to the railway was easy as it's right beside it. Literally a minute walk.
5) If you're going to Sydney, wake up as early as 5 AM as the shops/attractions open as early as 8 AM and close as early as 5 AM. We started our second day at 8 AM and barely made it through the list of places we wanted to go because they close so early.
6) Buy a one week pass for the "RED" zone which allows you to ride the bus, ferry and train altogether if you're just staying in the CBD area. If you're going to Manly Beach, you have to pay for it specifically.
7) Actually, wake up at 4 AM. Then go to Bondi for breakfast. They start their day at 6 AM.
8) I should have bought more chocolates from Darrell Lea. They're easily the cheapest, best pasalubong you can give to your friends and family if you don't want to exactly scrimp on the idea.
9) Paddy's Market is the BEST place to buy them souvenirs. Since you're just going to give them away anyway, buy your stuff here. Don't think - just buy if you see something for 2 AUD. But my mother wouldn't listen so we had to pay double for souvenirs we bought at stores/shops on George Street. Hmp.
10) George Street is "THE" street in Sydney. You can get lost scouring through in one day. Wake up as early as possible - stores open at 8 AM and close at 5 AM.
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