We will be Sydney for only 5 days (husband there on business) -- but wish it was longer!<BR>With such a short time -- what should we see and not miss. I will be on my own for a couple of days while my husband is working -- any recommendations on shopping (staying in the Rocks area). Good buys?

Standard harbour sights are all worthwhile - opera house, bridge, botanic gardens etc.<BR>Trip to Manly and/or Watsons Bay.<BR>Taronga Park zoo for great views.<BR>Powerhouse Museum.<BR>Blue Mountains for day trip - could be tour bus by yourself.<BR>Shopping - what are your interests. Some local designers for clothes - e.g Coogi, Collette Dinnigan, Oroton bags, Opal jewellery in abundance.

Well you will not have any trouble finding things to shop for at the Rocks. Sydney is a shoppers paradise. If you have time to take the bridge climb it is worth it and the views spectacular. There are lots of quaint restaraunts and small shops all around the Rocks. And it is only a short walk to a variety of areas. If you have 4 or 5 hours take the bus to the Spit Bridge and take the Manly walk to Manly. Most of the walk is unpaved, but again it has many fantastic views. Once you arrive in Manly there are more shops and restaurants to visit, then you can take a ferry back to the Quay.<BR><BR>Cheers

Almost forgot, if you have a day to take the train to the Blue Mountains it is an excedllent choice for a day trip. in addition to shops and views, the Crystal Lodge is a quiet little spa that the locals flock too. The Crystal Lodge offers excellent services for pampering and they have a wonderful staff.<BR><BR>Cheers again<BR><BR>Steve

Hi Jan,<BR><BR>the days will fly by...they always do! <BR><BR>There are tons of shopping opportunities in Sydney, you won't have a problem of helping the Australian economy with some retail therapy! Venture out of the Rocks and head for Paddy's Market near Chinatown (if you like to walk, it's very nice to just head down there and enjoy the sights on the way..you can always take a cab back if you have lots of parcels). There are some very good bargains to be had and some interesting gift ideas as well.<BR><BR>Regards,<BR><BR>Melodie