While the situation at home for travel is everchanging, no matter what the circumstances are, there is the opportunity to keep your travel aspirations alive and continue to dream. So be prepared to make the most of your travel dreams when it’s safe for you to do so, with fabulous kikki.K products and these tips and tricks to exploring the best Australia has to offer! Now when most people think of iconic Australian landmarks, their minds will immediately turn to gorgeous Sydney. Home to the iconic Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Bondi Beach and more, Sydney is full of vibrant scenery and robust cultural venues that are ever popular in drawing you in. However, each Sydney suburb has its own unique character, feel and taste, giving you even more excuse to set that out-of-office status to ‘explore’ and get wandering!
Melanie Huehnlein, well know in the blogging world as Lifestyle Sydney, spends her time uncovering all these special spots around the city. Some would say she has even become an expert in all the best that Sydney has to offer! We got to pick her brain on what that makes up her quintessential Sydney lifestyle, including her tips for the ultimate staycation and her favourite places to explore!
Q| As a local, my favourite thing to do here is…
A|
Exploring new food spots and spending time at the ocean/harbour side! I love the fact that Sydney has the city centre but also a collection of villages, each with its own unique atmosphere and local characteristics that make them so individually special – whether it’s the design culture of Surry Hills, Newtown’s Indie scene, Bondi’s active feel or Paddington’s elegant style.
Q| When I’m hungry, I can’t go past…
A|
Porch and Parlour or Fika Bondi for breakfast, the Crabbe hole for coffee and the most incredible pool/ocean views, and for a creative dinner experience, Nel or Lumi Dining. Tottis is always a fun spot too! For late night snacks cityside I would go to Frankie’s for pizza or Jimmy’s Falafel depending on what you’re craving! My plan for the winter months is to try a few more of the Ramen spots in town – RaRa Ramen has been a favourite so far!
Q| When I’m in the mood for an inspiring wander, my go to place is…
A|
Somewhere around Newtown for street art and the overall vibe, or the White Rabbit Gallery and Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) for their wonderful exhibitions. If you go to the MCA, be sure to check out the rooftop café as well for some stunning harbour views! Next up on my list of exhibitions to see is one called “The Secret Paintings” by Hilma af Klint, which is at the Art Gallery of NSW.
Q| When I’m looking for something special to buy, I would recommend heading to…
A|
Bondi, Glebe or Kirribilli weekend markets where you can find some local treasures! I also enjoy stopping at Mecca for new perfumes and all things beauty.
Q| My favourite place to chill-out is…
A|
Most likely somewhere beach or harbourside. Sydney is full of incredible spots and water locations to spend some time, go for a wander etc. Particularly in summer I’ll spend a lot of time around the Bronte Rockpool or at one of the beautiful beaches in the East. Recently I’m also enjoying spending more time in the lush Royal Botanical Gardens! Or if you’re looking for drinks with a view to unwind, head to the bar in the Shangri-La hotel, Henry Deane, O Bar and dining or Opera Bar.
Q| A hidden gem that needs to be talked about more is…
A|
The new initiative called Secret Trails Sydney! It’s a fun discovery walk that you uncover via riddles and makes for the perfect way to find out hidden spots in the city! You’ll find it via https://www.secretcitytrails.com/sydney/.
Q| Something visitors to NSW shouldn’t miss…
A|
The famous Bondi to Coogee walk. It’s always a favourite! Ideally, you’re ending the trip with a visit to Coogee Pavilion. Sunsets from the rooftop are an absolute dream – and they also have these incredible pizzas downstairs, as well as Una Más for delicious Spanish tapas. Also visiting the harbour and a Sydney Harbour ferry ride is a must!
Q| If you’re coming, don’t forget to pack…
A|
Your swim gear in summer, but definitely add some layers in winter! It’s pretty chilly at the moment.
Melanie recently took our new Out Of Office Collection out on her local wanders of Bondi, documenting her ‘here and now’ and capturing the moment of her beautiful surroundings to be cherished, because every day is an adventure – even in your own backyard.
To dive more into Melanie’s journey through Sydney and to keep track of her adventures, head over to her website or follow her on Instagram @lifestylesydney (Bucket list inspo here we come!)
If you’re left feeling inspired to do a little exploring, be sure to check out our latest Out Of Office Collection for the perfect travel pieces to come along with you on your next adventures and capture all of the special moments both near and far!
Don’t forget, we love to see which kikki.K favourites you’re bringing along on your next adventure, so be sure to share all of your exploration and more with us by tagging @kikki.K and using #kikkiklove.