Sydney

There’s always a traffic jam somewhere in Sydney. So if you want to avoid paying hefty taxi fares or talking “small talk” with Uber drivers, your best bet to move around Sydney is by public transport. TripView, an app that combines timetables and routes for all the public transportation in Sydney is the best navigator for first-timers. If you do use public transport, be sure to buy an Opal Card. Basically, it is similar to having a NYC MetroCard but it allows you to jump on metro, train, bus, and even ferries—it also works out much cheaper than buying single tickets at one time.

Sydney is really sprawling and is officially divided into 10 distinct villages. There is a central business district (CBD), but it is always really busy with tourists and shoppers all clogged in one area. Other areas worth exploring include Surry Hills (for cafes), the Harbour (for expensive and upmarket eateries and hotels), and Newtown (hipster shopping). All of these spots can be reached from the CBD by public transport or by foot if you're game

There are not many cities where it is actually okay to be a tourist. Sydney has so many national landmarks, beautiful, iconic places, and classic destinations that are not just meant for tourists, but for locals who also want a slice of history, culture, and entertainment. The Sydney Opera House (one of the most photographed landmarks in the world) is a wonderful place for historical tours and cultural and music events. Check out Harbour Bridge, too, for a cool look at the city from up high. You can also visit the Observation Tower at Crown Sydney for epic views of the city (for free).

Sydney, like the rest of Australia, is a huge melting pot of cultures. Research showed that almost 50% of Sydneysiders were not even born in Sydney so if you appreciate diversity, this is the city for you. Because of this melting pot of cultures, Sydney has a huge variety of cuisines from Southeast Asian fare at King Clarence and MuMu, European dishes at Woodcut and Pelligrinos, and excellent Ethiopian food at Gursha Ethiopia.

One of the best things about Sydney is regional Sydney. Basically, you can jump in a car and drive 90 minutes out of the city, and you will find yourself in Australia’s favorite National Park, the Blue Mountains. You can easily spend a weekend here hiking, trekking, and just enjoying cute little cafes like The Bunker after visiting the Three Sisters at Echo Point Katoomba. Heading west will take you to the Southern Highlands, a retreat for Sydney-siders where kangaroos hop freely in nature and hot tubs overlook National Parks. The newest and latest opening is Osborne House’s Forest Lodge, a perfect base to visit some of the region’s renowned wineries like Centennial Vineyard and Bendooley Estate.