Sydney, Australia (2004)

I think it's about time I put something here - Travel.  I don't consider my self a traveler, more of a tourist with never-ending hunger for getting to different places with matching photograph as an evidence I have been there in that place.

I am lazy too and most of the time, to avoid the hassle - I always opt for day tours.

You know, my curiosity with Geography started during my 5th or 6th grade - influenced by my elementary best buds.  That curiosity turned into a dream, eventually a reality.  Of course there are still a lot of historic landmarks I have yet to visit but for now, let's reminisce where I have been to (not a lot) but still makes me jump for joy.

First international travel - Sydney, Australia!

My first visit to Sydney was October 2004 - 10 years ago.  Thanks to IBM and outsourcing, it was a 2 month business trip.  I almost didn't make it because of the Manila traffic but ha!  Ignorant me, didn't know what to check in and hand carry.  I placed my laptop inside my luggage and have it checked in.  Silly boy!

Was too excited, CX business class - did not sleep.  Stopped over in HK, WOW! they have a train inside the airport.  Lovely.

Swissotel

The cold weather was tolerable, fell in love with Sydney the first day.  We stayed at Swissotel, Market Street - perfect spot I think.

How it goes for a biz travel, is that we always have a per diem to spend (more than enough) and being the Pinoys that we are, we knew how to spend it wisely.  Then come weekends, hello market and buy of course Australian products but made in China.  Hahahaha!!!  Koala magnets, koala stuff toy, koala bag, koala shirt, everything Koala!

You can't expect me to tell you all the places I have been to - may I remind this was a decade ago.

The Sydney Opera House.  Magnificent view - didn't go inside because I knew it will bore me to death.  Add the beauty and calmness of Sydney Harbour (and Bridge) and you will have the "Sydney Trademark".

Help me name this place :)

One interesting place that would be perfect for your weekend is the market called "The Rock".  The market offers interesting items (pastries, antiques, etc.) and services (sketching, palmistry, etc.).

I don't know about this place but I liked it too - very relaxing.

The good thing about Sydney is that you don't need a tour guide nor a transportation - everything can be done by... walking.

We did visit Sydney Aquarium and how can you leave Australia without visiting the... Koalas!

Camera Shy!

I don't have the right words to describe Sydney but I think it will always be my rocky road ice cream.