Yummy brekky early this morning before I set off exploring. Delightful chef Bill Granger opened his cafe “Bills” in the 1990’s but it’s the first time I’ve eaten there. The cafe offers the whole package of service, food and interiors. There are even design magazines on the communal table. The scrambled organic eggs with sourdough toast ($14.50) is the best example of how a simple dish can be done with perfection! The eggs fluffy and creamy, and can be replicated at home with the Chef Bill’s scrambled eggs recipe. He says, always use a non-stick pan with a wooden spoon for best results and easy cleaning. Don’t over-stir – think of these as folded eggs rather than scrambled. The eggs should have the texture of soft curds. Will have to practice technique, absolutely delicious!!

The Royal Botanic Gardens are a ‘must visit’ part of Sydney every tourist should see. The setting is amazing – right by Sydney Harbour with great closeup views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

The gardens are beautifully laid out, with an excellent display of Australian and exotic plants. The amazing Jacaranda tree and the cactii garden are personal favourites. 

The best thing about the gardens is that they are so tranquil and relaxing. A lovely sculpture, La Ballarina was installed in the gardens in 1883 to give the parklands a classic European feel. In the 1970s the life-size marble sculpture was removed because it was considered an old eyesore. People were more into modern art apparently. Now the lovingly restored statue of the pensive looking dancer, whose fingers gently touch her new chin as she casually balances on the toes of one foot, is back. She’s had her dignity and limbs restored.

Circular Quay is the hub of Sydney Harbour, situated at a small inlet called Sydney Cove, the founding site for Sydney and Australia. It is a stepping-off point for most attractions based around the harbour and an exciting place to be on a warm summer’s day. The quay is a vibrant, bustling place with ferries leaving every few minutes to different parts of the harbour, including Manly, Watsons Bay, Mosman and Taronga Park Zoo. There is a major railway station at the quay, which is part of the underground City Circle, which skirts around the CBD. Alongside the ferry terminals are a number of small outdoor cafes and the area is a magnet for buskers of every description.

I caught the ferry to Manly, which has it all: beautiful beaches, tranquil bays, coastal walks, and buzzing cafes and bars. Manly combines the best of Sydney’s beach lifestyle with a relaxed village feel. From Manly Wharf, it’s just a 5 minute walk along the Corso, to the oceanfront promenade that’s lined with Norfolk Island pine trees. Watched a group of “little nippers” (young kids wanting to be lifeguards), being schooled in beach survival techniques. Awesome enthusiasm and energy in those young ones.