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When to visit Sydney

August 17, 2019 by cbp Leave a Comment

Often mistaken as the capital city of Australia there isn’t a right or wrong time to visit Sydney. Known as “The Harbour City” or “Emerald City” it’s often ranked among the “World’s Most Liveable Cities”. From rugged cliff-top coastal walks to sandy stretches of surf beach to calm harbour bays. Funky hip graffiti street art to the National Art Gallery. Casual breakfast cafes to waterfront hatted lunch spots. This pearl of a city has enough to keep you occupied whether you visit Sydney for 48 hours or longer.

With a calendar of events throughout the year, it can be confusing when to visit. To visit Sydney and epereince the city as a local here are my favourite times. Each of these months provides very different and authentic experiences. It comes down to preferences and what you want whilst visiting Sydney.

Visit Sydney in the Summer; Grab your Santa hat it’s Christmas down under

As an ex-pat from the UK I’m used to rugged up Christmases. Think spicy mulled wine, roaring log fires and if lucky, snow falling. A Sydney Christmas is the extreme. Hot, bright and in the middle of the summer holidays Christmas in Sydney is the party to end all parties.

Even though the fairy tale white Christmas is far from reality, Sydney still dresses up. Visit the city’s largest Christmas tree, centre stage in Martin Place and as dark falls enjoy city lights. Australia’s largest Christmas event, Carols in the Domain is a Sydney institution. Whilst picnic blankets scatter the park, homegrown stars perform on stage. The crowd cracks open tinnies and pop champagne corks as they enter the Christmas spirt.

If the pub scene is your thing the Manly charity Santa pub crawl is another event that locals flock to. 500 Santa Claus, Mrs Claus, reindeer, elves, snowmen and Xmas trees turn up to raise money for Stewart House. Whilst visiting several of Manly’s pubs and hotels the crowd spreads Christmas cheer. Even if dressing up and a full pub crawl isn’t your thing it‘s worth popping in to soak up the atmosphere.

On Christmas Day…

…grab your Santa hats, floating flamingo, togs and eski (cool bag to non-Aussies!) and head to the beach. Most Eastern and Northern suburb beaches are hives of activity throughout Christmas day. Unlike the UK the majority of restaurants, cafes, pubs and shops are open. Convenient when you’ve run out of prawns, ice or beer! The party continues into the evening. Wafts of sausages sizzling on bbqs and competitive games of finska make for a fun Christmas evening.

Boxing Day starts with a swim, surf or beachside walk to dust those cobwebs away. Next up is the Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht race. This nautical spectacle turns Sydney Harbour into a hive of activity both on the water and in the air. Boats of all sizes head out to escort the yachts through the ‘Heads’ and helicopters dot the sky. Either North or West Head are great spots to take in the views. If you fancy being in and amongst it book a ferry or boat trip.

If you think you’ve seen fireworks…

…wait until you experience Sydney Harbour on New Year’s Eve. The display Sydney puts on to say farewell to the old year and welcome the new is nothing short of spectacular. Free options come with consequences ranging from long queues to alcohol-free. I would recommend either a ticketed event or a boat on the harbour, these come at a price but are definitely worth it. We’re talking a once in a life-time experience.

If you can handle the heat, this time of year is a vibrant party atmosphere. Parks, waterfronts and beaches burst with people of all ages eating, chilling, drinking and swimming. Corporate life grinds to a halt, family and friendship are the centre of everything.

The finale to the summer holidays…

…the 26th January, Australia Day is a controversial celebration. This is the official national day of Australia. It marks the anniversary of the 1788 arrival of the First Fleet of British ships at Port Jackson. To claim the land Governor Arthur Phillip raised the Flag of Great Britain at Sydney Cove. Whatever your views there is no escaping that the majority of the country joins in. Locals find every piece of Australian paraphernalia they can and use the day as an excuse to get the family together again, start drinking beer at 10 am and celebrate being Aussie.

Now you’ve partied hard for a month it’s time to jump on a plane, go home and rest!

For some Sydney Summer inspiration click here.

Autumn; A sparkly rainbow coloured visit to Sydney

If you’re wanting the colours of the rainbow and a sparkly Sydney visit, late February is the start of Madi Gras. Whatever your sexual preference, this particular celebration is an annual highlight. Spanning two weeks of celebrations it culminates in the extravaganza that is the world-famous Parade. The two-week timetable includes over 100 diverse live entertainment events across theatre, music, cabaret, comedy and burlesque, literature and art events, forums and conferences.

Shining a global spotlight on Sydney’s LGBTQI community this is a great time to visit. All sizes of the rainbow flag decorate the city. Flying from flag poles, draped out of windows they are even painted on the road.

Started in 1978 by a small group of protestors Mardi Gras today contribute over $40M to the NSW economy. Festivities kick off with Fair Day. 70,000 of the LGBTQI community and their friends and family turn out for a free day of food, drink, live entertainment and over 200 stalls. Join in and ease into the next three weeks with a picnic on the grass and a cold beer.

Domestic and international visitors join Sydney locals to celebrate Parade. Spectators of all backgrounds, nationalities and sexual orientation line the streets. People gather on rooftops and balconies, spill out of bars and even hang from street lamps to get a better look. If you’re watching from the street, take a milk crate with you – you may need to stand on it to get a view!

With spectacular floats…

….over 12,000 participants and a large amount of sparkle, 200 ‘dykes on bikes’ lead the Parade. Heard before they come into view is the deep rumbling sound of 200 Harley Davidson engines. I was lucky enough to be part of the 2015 Parade on the Beyond Blue float. I experienced the electric atmosphere and overwhelming feeling of love and inclusiveness. Joining emergency services, the Australian army, corporate organisations and not for profits I dipped my head in blue glitter and jumped in feet first.

Nothing is too extravagant or too shocking, on this night, anything goes. Sparkles dazzle and bum cheeks peeking from leather hotpants shock. Neon glow sticks litter the air and all shapes and sizes wear more latex and rubber than you’ve seen before. Fireworks go off from rooftops decorating the skies and aromas from food trucks fill the air.

After the dramatic Parade, Sydney puts on the biggest LGBTQI Party in the southern hemisphere. Headliners over the years have included homegrown stars such as Kylie Minogue and international icons like Cher.

If you visit Sydney this time of year, there are other events such as lunar new year lanterns, parades and night markets. For some inspiration click here.

‘At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them’:

When your alarm buzzes on April 25th it’s 4 am, chilly and still pitch black. A sense of remembrance and respect has you out of bed and rugged up in minutes. The beauty of a public holiday is the lack of an alarm and a lazy extra hour or two snuggled in bed. Not so for the majority of locals on Anzac Day in Sydney.

In the half-light of dawn on 25th April 1915 Allied forces launched an invasion at Gallipoli. This was the first major action fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during WW1. Soon after, soldiers in the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps became known as Anzacs. Celebrated since Anzac Day is a public holiday and day of commemoration.

Anzac Day…

…one of Australians most important national occasions and the epitome of Australian culture. A day of remembrance and reflection but interlaced with fun and another reason to party! The tradition of rising early to pay respects is a family affair, there is an expectation and acceptance that it’s ‘just done’. I question whether this would happen in the UK. I can’t imagine teenagers waking at the crack of dawn to reflect on an event that didn’t happen in their lifetime. Standing for over an hour to pay respects to fallen, retired and still serving soldiers. It’s a beautiful and humbling experience to be part of Dawn Service and something I would recommend to anyone visiting Sydney in April.

This is the first outing for most hats and scarves because the autumnal morning is usually crisp. Depending on the popularity of the service will depend on the crowds but some are well crowded by 3 am. Apart from one year when I was in Bondi and attended the very popular North Bondi Service, I have stayed local and made my way to the memorial on the Corso in Manly.

Manly Dawn Service…

…not huge, the crowd is still significant and representation of all generations. Sending shivers down my spine the bugle call of the Last Post kicks off the service. Followed by a minute’s silence, you can hear a pin drop. An eerie feel to the air the service continues and is a time for quiet contemplation. My favourite part is The Ode of Remembrance. Taken from a poem written by the English poet Laurence Binyon the extract read is:

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, we will remember them.”

And the audience responds “We will remember them”.

Time for breakfast…

…RSL’s and other establishments open after dawn service and start pouring schooners and serving sausage sizzles from as early as 8 am. With the stomach lined and a few celebratory schooners sunk there is time to get to the City for Sydney’s ANZAC day March. Beginning at 9 am the March is an opportunity for veterans, their families and currently serving men and women to honour those who served. Marching in time to the beat of a bass drum the sound of brass and bagpipes – it is a spectacular occasion. Onlookers line the street clapping and paying their own respects.

Australia never passes over the chance for a sporting event or a party. Spend the afternoon either at the SCG watching the NRL’s traditional ANZAC Day clash between St George Illawarra Dragons and the Sydney Roosters or at one of many water holes for a game of two up.

Unregulated gambling is illegal….

…in NSW every day of the year except Anzac Day when two-up is acceptable and played in pubs throughout the state. Coins are flipped in the air using a giant paddle with bets laid on whether the coins land face or tail up. The size of the crowd will depend on the popularity of the venue. Whatever the size, get yourself a note and get involved.

Those betting on heads tap the dollar note to their forehead and wait for a tail betting partner to find them. Heads hold the money until it’s claimed. Spot the amateurs with fivers and pros with the fifty’s, with 50/50 odds it’s got to be worth a flutter. Even if you’re not into gambling it’s worth soaking up the atmosphere and enjoying the local hospitality.

As the sun starts to sink…

…the two-up ring dies down but it doesn’t mean Anzac Day has to end. Many bars, clubs and RSLs take advantage of the celebrations. DJs and bands will be playing favourite Aussie & Kiwi tunes until late. If you didn’t fancy waking at 4 am on a public holiday or want to finish the day as you started, make your way to a sunset service in Martin Pace. The service starts at 5 pm, at the going down of the sun.

Click here for more information on Anzac Day and a list of memorial services and marches.

If you visit Sydney this time of year, there are other events such as The Easter Show, an unique experience to any non-Sydneysider. For some Sydney Autumn inspiration click here.

Visit Sydney in the Winter – A Vivid festival of lights & ideas

As Sydney enters Winter the days are still bright and warm. Yet the evening temperature drops and the sun dips below the horizon before 6pm. An ideal time of year for those wanting to visit this spectacular city without the intense heat. For a period of three weeks across the end of May and beginning of June Vivid Festival is also a reason to entice you. Celebrating innovation and creativity think Hong Kong’s nightly light show on steroids.

Whatever the tradition light shows have been part of global celebrations for centuries. Vivid is a global competitor when it comes to the light spectacle. This annual festival of light, music and ideas turns Sydney into a colourful, magic city of projected art and sky filling lasers. Stimulating afternoon lectures, romantic nightly strolls or early evening family excitement. Flashing fairy floss, yummy food trucks and pop up bars. This time of year in Sydney is perfect for all types of traveller there is always something going on.

First taking to the stage in 2009 Vivid began as a Smart light festival for energy efficiency. It’s grown each year to the extravaganza it is today spanning across different areas of the city. Local and international musicians perform. Leading creative thinkers exchange ideas. Impressive dynamic light displays fill each evening, from 6pm its lights on!

Nine precincts across Sydney light up…

…all within walking distance of a main train station. Throughout the years the consistent centre piece has been Sydney’s iconic Harbour. Projected powerful images on either side of the Opera House sails bring this enchanted building to life.

The Harbour Bridge lights up with luminous changing colours. The MCA turns into a mesmerising canvass of changing facades. Unique light sculptures, lanterns and projections scatter the area. Weekend crowds are excessive with weekday evenings a better option if you can, visit then. Another option is to take to the water and view the lights from a less crowded cruise. There are plenty of choices from neon lit party boats to adrenalin filled jet boats.

One of the newer precinct additions is Barangaroo. This is Sydney’s newest harbour playground, think London’s Canary Wharf. The regeneration of this disused shipping container wharf is due completion in 2024. It’s already pulling in the visitors. A fascinating project to visit in its own right Vivid adds some magic once the sun disappears. Barangaroo’s location and its cluster of beautiful bars mean it’s a perfect place for a sundowner. Soak up the atmosphere as the sun disappears west behind the Anzac Bridge.

For a genuine and more local experience I recommend the Chatswood precinct. This lively Asian influenced suburb of Sydney is a foodie’s paradise. Get away from international tourist crowds and rub shoulders with the North Shore locals instead.

If you visit Sydney this time of year, there are other events such as The State of Origin, Manly Taste Festival and Ramadan Nights. For some Sydney Winter inspiration click here.

Spring; Instagramable blooms, one of Australia’s major sporting finals and a race that stops the nation

The sweet heady smell of jasmine wafts through the air. Magnolia buds burst and the lilac blooms of the jacarandas carpet the city. This is my favourite time of year to visit Sydney. The evenings lighten and start to warm up. The excitement of summer starts to run through Sydneysiders veins.

Indigenous to Brazil, Sydney’s first jacaranda tree was planted in the Royal Botanical Garden in the late 1850’s. How these trees came to burst into life lining residential streets remains a myth. There is many an explanation depending on who you ask. My personal favourite is the story of a matron who sent every newborn home from hospital with a seedling. She encouraged parents to plant the seedling and watch it grow along with their child.

Like tourists and influencers travel to Japan for cherry blossom, Sydney’s jacaranda trees pull in the crowd. During Spring these beloved flowering jacarandas draw in domestic and international visitors. Now due to the increased rise of social media areas of Sydney are under pressure of over-tourism. Spread your love and visit some lesser well-known areas. Wander the backstreets of Paddington or Hunters Hill for a local’s experience.

Some of the city’s…

…tallest buildings are an incredible way to take in the stunning sea of purple. On a clear day you can see bursts of lilac dotting the Sydney skyline. Out across the Western Suburbs towards the Blue Mountains and North past Chatswood. My favourite building for such views is the Tower Building in Australia Square. Owned by local Australian chef Michael Moore, O Bar and Dining is on level 47. This luxury cocktail bar and restaurant revolve showcasing the entirety of Sydney. Free to get in the hour long rotation will cost you a cocktail or stay for longer and treat yourself to dinner.

Australia holds a remarkable sporting affection and Sydney is no exception. Two other reasons to visit in Spring are the National Rugby League Final and the Melbourne Cup.

After a 7-month season…

…where 18 National Rugby League teams battle it out for top spot, footie fever grips Australia. The final held in Sydney is a national event. Irrelevant of who’s playing the nation tunes in to watch who will take out the iconic championship.

A sea of team colours sprawls out along Sydney’s streets and on public transport. Excitement and anticipation fill the air. Pubs and clubs put on sausage sizzles and front rooms, gardens and balcony’s fill as mates arrive. Passion erupts across the city. Cheers and screams echo the streets and the cheeky ‘Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi’ erupts from most establishments. Whether you are into footie or not the atmosphere of Grand Final Day is a great Sydneyside experience.

A public holiday in Melbourne…

…the Melbourne Cup is Australia’s best-known horse race. Week-long events take over the home city but here in Sydney it’s 3pm on the first Tuesday in November when the city stops. Get your glad rags on, wear that fascinator with pride and party with the locals. Hotels and restaurants put on lunch and drink packages. Bars hire entertainment and boats take to the harbour offering cruise deals. Even take it up a notch and enjoy a nine-race fixture at Royal Randwick Race Course. One thing is for sure, anywhere you go will be showing ‘the race that stops a nation’ at 3pm.

As spring turns to Summer NRL champions are crowned, bets have been won and lost on the Melbourne Cup and the pavements and roads of Sydney turn to purple. As jacaranda flower’s start to shed their petals the city knows it’s on count down to party season.

If you visit Sydney this time of year, there are other events such as Australia’s largest kite flying festival and Sculpture’s by the Sea. For some Sydney Spring inspiration click here.

Things to do in Cronulla

April 25, 2019 by cbp Leave a Comment

Battle of Sydney’s beaches continued - Things to do in Cronulla

Helpful resources: – The local rag, Cronulla Life Facebook Page, Whileaway Guide,

Bored of hearing about Bondi and Manly? It’s the argument that divides North & East Sydneysiders. Which beach is better? Having lived in Manly for 8 years I’ll always be in the North camp, but what if there is an alternative. A beach which justified a visit and perhaps offered an even more authentic Aussie experience. Could Cronulla be exactly that? The husband and I took a weekend to explore this up and coming coastal suburb to see if it really is a contender.

Located on the Bate Bay coastline, Cronulla is Sydney’s only beach that can be reached by train. 45 minutes from Central station. Derived from the Aboriginal word kurranulla meaning ‘place of pink seashells’ Cronulla feels less pretentious than other Sydney beaches.

Unlike Manly, there is plenty of parking, even on the hottest summer’s day. Another bonus, most parks are free. In comparison, you’ll pay up to $10 an hour in Manly or Bondi. Unique to Cronulla is the sheer number of beaches and rock pools to choose from. 7 beaches and 5 rock pools to be precise meaning its Sydney’s longest beach.

Cronulla’s own Spit to Manly

Bondi and Manly have their own famous coastal walks each with stunning views, Cronulla can compete. Start at Wander Beach and walk the Cronulla circuit. This stunning coastal walk competes with Spit to Manly or Bondi to Coogee any day. Make sure you pack plenty of water, sun lotion and wear a hat. It’s a beautiful walk and great example of how many beaches, rock pools and parks you can fit onto one headland. This rocky coastline is well patrolled by lifeguards although the rock pools are not. Be careful if you are bathing when the tide is coming in and waves are smashing.

Flinders & Bass point is halfway around the Cronulla circuit. At the most southern end of the peninsula stands the memorial to Matthew Flinders, George Bass & Boy Martin. Whilst out in the Tom Thumb they discovered and named Port Hacking on March 30th, 1796. This special place is idyllic when the sun is shining. Splendid views stretch up the Hacking River, across to the Royal National Park and out to the Tasman Sea. The clear waters surrounding the jagged rocks give way to emerald green deeper areas. Enthusiastic snorkelers interrupt the stillness and sunbakers clutter the rocks like jewels.

Coffee anyone?

If you’re hanging out for coffee, I’d recommend Grind - a true local institution. Here your tourist dollar really will stay local. With mis-matching retro style, this place has an electric vibe and enticing aroma of freshly ground beans. The staff are friendly, the people watching is fabulous and the coffee is bloody good! For over ten years owner, Richard Calabro has had this gem. His passion for sourcing and grinding the highest quality coffee shine through. A great rest break if you’re walking the Cronulla Circuit.

If you’re visiting in the summer and wanting to set up camp, I would steer clear of the main beach. Packed full of sweaty bodies there’s nothing different from any other overcrowded NSW beach. Instead, walk on a little further down the Esplanade to Shelly Beach. Here, there are fewer people, a beautiful rock pool, kids’ playground, and a gorgeous shady park.

Take an ‘Insta’ break

Before leaving the main beach pose for a photo in front of the stunning Insta worthy sandy cliff face. A perfect backdrop of beautiful layered sedimentary sandstone of yellow and brown. Pay respects to late surfers who rode the waves in days gone by. Engraved plaques in the cliff remember them.

Another area I’d suggest hanging out is Gunamatta Bay. A large lush shaded grass area, kids playground and less crowded beach this is where the locals hang. Located on a large inlet means the netted tidal baths here are calm and wave free. From here you can also catch a ferry to the National park.

For anyone wanting to learn more about the history of surfing in Cronulla head to the library. Located in Central Arcade both walls of the walkway to the library tell the story of 100 years of surf history. The online resource Cronulla Surf Museum is also worth a read.

Recently Cronulla has emerged a hip dining and bar scene. The Urban List and Timeout are across the newest and coolest places to visit but we went with a local recommendation. We ate at Little Parrot and had post cocktails at the RSL making sure our dollar stayed local.

And in conclusion…..

Cronulla is a great alternative to Bondi or Manly, it’s accessible and cheap in comparison. Whilst Manly and Bondi fight for the international tourist Cronulla is a less popular choice but more than worthy of a visit. Rockpools tick. Surfing tick. Gorgeous beaches tick. Beautiful and scenic coastal walk tick. Children friendly tick. Trendy café scene tick. Good food tick. Transport tick. In conclusion, Cronulla is more than a contender, it’s becoming a competitor to Bondi and Manly. Give it a go and spread your tourist dollar around, believe me Bondi & Manly get plenty.

15 reasons to visit Beijing

March 17, 2019 by cbp Leave a Comment

What to do in Beijing - 15 reasons the city is worth a visit!

I’m not sure what I was expecting. The hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, the culture shock of Delhi or the soul of Bangkok. The reality was, I got Beijing! What makes every travel experience unique is that they are all so different. China was never on my travel radar, but when an opportunity presents itself, I grab it. I’m so glad I did. China’s capital is now more accessible than ever before. This beyond interesting capital city has more to it than ‘The Great Wall’, as if that isn’t enough on its own.

If you get the opportunity to visit Beijing these are the 15 reasons why you should jump at the chance. Plus how to keep the $ local stopping the tourist leak.

1. Get lost in the Hutong.

Hutong are the narrow alleyways and siheyan’s (courtyard houses) of ancient Beijing. Established in the Yuan dynasty between 1200-1300 they give you an essence of life gone by. I loved hanging out in these more historic areas of Beijing. Most are redeveloped and have a fun and enchanting vibe to them. Like the Medina in Marrakech, this is where you want to leave the guidebook at home and get lost. There are heaps of Hutong to explore and Google will throw you ample amounts of suggestions. My particular favourites with those around Houhai Lakes. If you have limited time stroll through both Ya’er and Yangfang Hutong. They have everything. Upmarket shops, tourist tat sellers, cute bars, coffee shops and more local style cafes. Butchers with meat hanging for all to view, roadside barbers and street food stalls. You’ll also pass some of the most magnificent, beautiful and vibrant courtyard houses. Be sure to listen out for the trill song of the crickets whilst wondering the Hutong. There is a tradition of keeping crickets and grasshoppers in Beijing. The louder the sound and the brighter the colours, the better!

2. The buzz of mornings in the parks

I love mornings and so it seems does Beijing. City life starts early and, as is similar in most major cities, the hustle and bustle is relentless. Yet Beijing has a solution – its parks. With backyards being a rarity due to apartment living, this is where the locals hang out. Starting each morning with a walk, I always incorporated a park. My favourites were Ritan and Dongdan Park. A hive of activity, locals use these spaces for all forms of morning exercise. All ages come together to dance (everything from hip hop to ball room), practice tai chi, use the outside gyms and even enjoy games of hacky sack or shuttlecock. For the less energetic a game of cards or chess seems a fabulous way to start the day. Choose a local cafe for breakfast.

3. Stunning sparkling lakes

The network of three Houhai Lakes was one of my favourite areas. Packed with locals picnicking, swimming, playing board games and fishing I loved it. Apparently, you can ice skate in the winter. I wish I’d had time to go back to this area at night fall. I heard that it’s vibrant and fun as the sun sets with plenty of choices of Hutong bars. There’s the option of hiring bikes or boats and the Lonely Planet suggests a great walk taking in temples, hutoung, Siheyans and the lake itself. The positive vibe, cooling lake breeze and opportunity to watch local life go by means time runs away with you. Make sure you take it all in.

4. The most incredible roadside dumplings

You think you’ve tried great dumplings at Dim Tai Fung? Think again. These roadside bad boy dumplings are something else. From noon, guys on the roadside sit with their bamboo stacked cooking systems steaming these delicious morsels. There would more often than not be a few plastic chairs around to pull up and enjoy an early lunch. The flavour and freshness beat any dumpling I’ve ever had.

5. Fun and social hotpot

Beijing is famous for its Peking duck. But I wasn’t enamoured. Having tried a few places, I felt as though none were better than I’d tried in a good Chinese restaurant in the UK. But hotpot rocked! Anyone who grew up in the UK through the ‘80s will have experienced fondue. Whether it cheese or meat the experience was not a healthy one. Hotpot is the healthy alternative. In keeping with the concept of fondue, hotpot is a social and fun way of sharing lunch or dinner. You cook your own meat and veggies in a simmering pot of stock in the middle of the dining table. There are many hotpot restaurants around Beijing, be sure to pick a locally owned one.

6. Cheap beer and the size of shots!

You know you’re in a local bar when the beer costs less than water. Paying under $1 for a long-neck makes me happy wherever I am. As with any city, there are of course many beautiful bars. Craft breweries are popular, and clubs cater for those wanting a dance. Yet, nothing compares with finding a drinking hole that resembles someone’s front room and is full of locals. This is how and where you get under the skin of a place. Where only sign language can get you what you want and where locals stare at you like a celebrity. Once again, get lost and stumble upon some little local gems. The other thing worth noting when drinking in Beijing is the size of shots in local bars! I don’t think they know what a measure is! It’s like Ibiza back in the early ‘90s.

7. Perform like a pop star at Karaoke

No trip to Beijing is complete without a visit to one of the many karaoke venues. Karaoke has been popular amongst Beijingers since being imported from Japan. Whether you have the voice of an angel or not, karaoke is guaranteed fun. Locals hang out here after work to let their hair down and most Beijingers will have a repertoire of Ballards that they’ve practiced for years. There are two types of KVT - ‘family friendly’ and ‘special’. Make sure you distinguish between the two and don’t end up with more than you bargained for.

8. A wonder of the World - The Great Wall

This was one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever encountered. My life-long myth of being able to see The Great Wall from space was shattered. I was lucky enough to spend 5 days on the Great Wall with an incredible bunch of friends. Read about our adventure here. My big piece of advice would be to venture outside of the common tourist trap areas. Choose lesser-visited parts of the wall. This also supports challenges around over tourism and spreads the impact and dollar. It will take longer but I promise it is worth it. Come on, it’s one for the wonders of the world - give it the time and attention it deserves! My recommendations would be Jinshanling and Gubeikou. The views over the mountains are breathtaking and one day we didn’t see another human! Don’t forget to book with a local guide to stop the tourism leak. We partnered with brilliant Diverse China.

9. Glittery sunset at The Summer Palace

This expanse of willow tree lined streets, lakes, tranquil gardens and temples is about 30 minutes out of central Beijing. Once, the emperor’s summer retreat, it’s worth a visit if you have time. Go in the afternoon to appreciate sunset over stunning Kunming Lake. What an enchanting view over the Lilly pads. As the light dims, it hits the ripples turning them into diamonds. All we needed to make this sunset perfect was a picnic blanket, cheese platter and wine. A shimmery goodbye to another Beijing day.

10. Beijing’s rich tapestry of history

China has the longest continuous civilization in the world and 5,000 years’ worth of history. It’s not surprising then that learning about this incredible city’s culture has made it into my top 15 reasons to visit Beijing. China’s development is beyond impressive. I enjoyed learning about the series of dynasties. Modern China is beyond fascinating. Fellow travellers I met along the way mentioned three books that would be great reads. “Raise The Red Lantern”, “The Last Emperor” and “Mao’s Last Dancer”. I wish I’d read them before my visit as it would have given me more context.

11. Fashion at The Forbidden City

Home to 24 emperors, this is a huge labyrinth of buildings, pavilions, courtyards and gardens. The downside is it’s crammed with people. The upside, these people are majority Chinese and wow do they have a unique sense of fashion. Oh, what sights. Socks and sandals, the highest possible stilettos, thigh high boots and even wellingtons make an appearance. And oh, the material - every possible type you can imagine from lace to latex. Beijinger’s want to stand out and have their own fashion sense rather than blend in with the crowd. I’d say they’ve nailed it.

12. Tranquil Jinshan Park & Coal Hill

If you are on a budget or don’t like crowds, then give The Forbidden City a miss. You can grasp the expanse by climbing Coal Hill and looking down on the 800 buildings and 9000 rooms from above. Jinshan Park is a tranquil urban oasis covering 57 acres, pretty big in its own right. The space has a serene feeling but don’t underestimate the climb to the top of Coal Hill. Beautiful coloured pavilions break up the journey and provide shade. The hill is a feng shui shield protecting from evil spirits. Not only can you get a great view of The Forbidden City but panoramic city views which on a clear day are incredible. I wish I’d had longer to explore this beautiful space.

13. Lesser known but equally beautiful temples

One thing is for sure, you won’t have time to visit every temple in Beijing unless you are there for a long while. There are many temples some more famous than others. Popular ones include Summer Palace, Forbidden City, Lama Temple and Temple of Heaven. As you are wandering the streets keep your eyes open for lesser known yet as impressive temples. One of my favourites was Guanghua Temple in the Houahi area. This exquisite example of a Buddhist temple located in Ya’er Hutong is free to visit. It offers a piece of tranquillity in an otherwise hectic area of the city. The place is a burst of colour with each deity hall housing a different god or goddess.

14. All the tea in China

The Chinese have an infectious passion for tea. More of a coffee person myself, even I converted. Taking tea is a time-honoured tradition, there is a tea for every occasion. Two places I’d recommend. Maliandao Tea Market, where hundreds of vendors selling even more varieties compete for your wallet. Lingdang Hutong if you want to enjoy a traditional tea ceremony and then buy a teapot made from jade for $4,000. I never knew that some tea is like wine and gets better with age - some on sale were over the $5,000 mark.

15. Hipster art district

Also known as Dashanzi this is where the Chinese art boom started. Old converted warehouses host Art Galleries, local artisans and boutique shops galore. Street art decorates the external spaces and there are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants for any time of the day. A beautiful area to mooch.

Avoid Jet Lag - my secret formula

December 1, 2018 by cbp Leave a Comment

The secret to avoiding jet lag!

This is an unusual post for me. I like to keep the content relevant to the cause. I’m passionate about educating on the tourism leakage. Supporting to keep the dollar local where possible. Showcasing local businesses and communities rather than global conglomerates. Yet, so many people ask me about my secret to no jet lag so I thought I’d put pen to paper and share my secrets!

Many of us love travelling, I more than most. But the consequence of jet lag can be one that limits peoples choices on where they explore. I’ve had many conversations with friends about coming to visit us in Australia. The sad but true fact is that a lot of the time the thought of the flight and impact of jet lag puts them off.

The majority of the global population gets 2-4 weeks holiday a year. I can understand why they don’t want to spend part of their break battling jet lag. I get it, I do, but what if there was a way around it? A formula which equalled no jet lag? Would you stick to it?

Over the years I’ve mastered a formula that works for me. Everyone is different so all I can do is share with you what works for me.

My formula for no jet lag-

TIME - The moment you arrive at the airport change your clock. Change to the time and date of your destination, start to get into this rhythm. This may mean having a beer at 8 am in the morning because it’s 11 pm at your destination! It may mean having a coffee and breakfast if its 8 am in your destination.
WATER - As soon as you step foot airside make sure you have a bottle of water to take on the plane. Ensure you drink lots of water throughout the flight. Stay hydrated and yes, steer clear of the booze!
FOOD - I never eat plane food, I’ve experimented with this lots and I feel so much better if I don’t eat it. Stock up on fresh sandwiches, salads nuts and fruit. Eat at timings relevant to the meals you would be eating in your destination. Eg. if it’s breakfast time at your destination have an egg sandwich you bought earlier.
SLEEP - Try and make yourself sleep when it’s night time in your end destination. Complete your evening routine. Clean your teeth, cleanse, tone, moisturise and get into comfy clothes or pj’s. Even if you’re not asleep put an eye mask on and pretend or meditate.
STAY AWAKE - Try and keep awake when daytime time in your destination. Perform your morning rituals. Wash, clean your teeth, cleanse, tone, moisturise and change out of your pj’s. Once you arrive in your destination stay awake until at least 9pm.

My top tips for no jet lag:

A week leading up to the flight make a list of tasks you can do on the plane. Include things like life admin, books or articles you haven’t had time to read, films to watch and games to play.
Take a good moisturiser and keep applying.
Wear flight socks please - minimise the risk of DVT
Buy a neck pillow, eye mask and use lavender and ylang-ylang to get to sleep! Carly from the Yogibunch will sort you out!

My brother disagrees with me and this is his advice.

My brother’s formula for no jet lag-

Nip to the Dr. and explain you are an anxious flyer and request the strongest Valium they can prescribe.
As soon as you get to the airport go straight to the bar and keep ordering your drink of choice. Once you hear the final call for your flight order a large G&T to wash down a few Valium while making a dash for the gate.
When seated press the air hostess attention button and request a couple of large G&T’s. Repeat until numb whilst watching movies.
When you arrive at your destination pick up some duty-free for the transfer then head straight to the pub.
At some point, you will probably pass out. When you wake you will most likely have a hangover, but you won’t be jet lagged.

The choice is yours but please don’t let jet lag be the reason you don’t get to explore this incredible world! You only get one life - go out and live it! Go enjoy other cultures and meet characters from other culture and communities!