1. A bikini or nice pair of swimmers
   It goes without saying, but you’ll be wanting to catch some fun in the sun while you’re in gorgeous Brisbane, so make sure you pack yourself a bikini or a nice pair of swimmers. You might think that Brissy is a city of skyscrapers but look a little closer and you’ll find amazing beach options just half an hour from the mainland, as well as in the middle of the city!Suttons Beach in Redcliffe is perfect for kids, as well as the breathtaking Settlement Cove Lagoon just 500m north. Alternatively the beaches of Bribie Island are the perfect scenic getaway. Want to stay in the city? Head to Australia’s only inner-city, man-made beach – Streets Beach, nestled in the parklands of South Bank.
2. An outfit designed to impress
   In this bustling city, opportunities to enjoy a night out on the town surround you everywhere you go. Dress codes are enforced at most Brisbane venues so, while you don’t need to wear anything too fancy, you should still pack a cute dress and pair of heels or chino trousers and collared shirt.From sophisticated bars to hidden speakeasies, there’s something for everyone. The Gresham is perfect for the whisky connoisseurs among us, having won the national Bar of the Year award two years in a row. On the other hand, for a good view of the city, Eleven is perched up high on the eleventh floor and offers stellar views of Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley. Feel like dancing and listening to some great live music? Brooklyn Standard is an American-themed underground laneway bar that offers free table pretzels and some of the best live music in the city.
3. A pair of sensible hiking shoes
   If you want to get back to nature, then packing a sturdy pair of hiking boots is essential. For shorter hikes that you can do in a morning, we recommend the Morelia Track at D’Aguilar National Park or the Chermside Hills and Milne Hill Circuit in Chermside.Looking for something a bit more challenging? Holmans Break in Walkabout Creek is a 14km trek that will take you around four hours to complete. Alternatively, Mermaid Mountain in Brisbane Forest Park is a huge 18km, but it’s all worth it for the stunning view of Lake Manchester.In addition to your shoes, don’t forget to also pack plenty of water for your hike, as well as a broad-brimmed hat to protect you from the elements.

If you forget to pack anything, don’t worry because the team at Meriton Suites Adelaide Street, Brisbane and Meriton Suites Herschel Street, Brisbane will be here to help you with anything you need. Forgot your moisturiser? All of our suites come with the hydrating METIS skin and hair care products. Need a hair straightener to finish your look for a night out on the town? Guest Services can also provide a ghd hair straightener upon request.

So, what are you waiting for? Reserve your suite today and start packing for the perfect weekend escape in Brisbane.

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Sculpture by the Sea

When: 18 October – 4 November

Where: Bondi

Back for its 22nd year, Sculpture by the Sea is one of Sydney’s most popular annual events. Scattered along the Bondi to Coogee walk between Bondi Beach and Tamarama, the event regularly draws over 500,000 visitors each year! This year’s event will feature over 100 different artworks spread over 2km, as well as free artist talks, education programs, tactile tours and more.

Sydney Rides Festival

When: 6 October – 27 October

Where: Throughout Sydney

The Sydney Rides Festival is a cyclists dream, with three weeks jam-packed full of cycling activities, bicycle courses, food and drink, and much more. Families will love the free day of activities at St Peter’s Park on the festival’s opening day, where big and little kids alike will have the chance to try out rock-climbing, mountain boarding, dancing, and yoga! The middle of the month features Spring Cycle on October 14 where you will have the opportunity to join your fellow cyclists in a ride across Sydney’s Harbour Bridge. And, don’t forget to check out an evening of entertainment during Light the City on October 27.

Night Noodle Markets

When: 4 October – 21 October

Where: Hyde Park

Noodle lovers can satisfy all their cravings when the Sydney Night Noodle Markets return to Hyde Park as part of October’s Good Food Month. Back for its 20th year, the Noodle Markets will feature over 30 stalls overflowing with delicious treats from names like Wonderbao, Donburi Station, Teppanyaki Noodle, Gelato Messina, Hoy Pinoy, and much more. Don’t forget, the event is also cashless so make sure you bring your card!

Sydney Beer Week

When: 26 October – 4 November

Where: Throughout Sydney

Back by popular demand, Sydney Beer Week is a nine-day festival (because who’s counting?) that features Australia’s favourite beverage – the humble beer. Last year’s event saw over 7000 attendees and 136 events, so expect 2018 to be even bigger and better than before. You can expect to enjoy some delicious craft beer at the Opening Gala at Sydney’s Maritime Museum, while the Sydney Beer Awards and Hair of the Dog Breakfast are definitely not to be missed.

Mushroom Racing

When: All month

Where: Secret location

Do you remember playing Mario Kart as a little kid? Or perhaps you still enjoy a race with Yoshi, Princess Peach and Mario every now and then. Well, this year, you finally have the chance to live out one of history’s most classic video games. Throughout the month of August, Mushroom Racing will be coming to Sydney! This fun and crazy experience will see you dressing up as your favourite character and heading out to a custom go-kart track with friends and other video-game aficionados. Speed demons should also prepare themselves as there’s a $1,000 cash prize if you finish the circuit in less than 40 seconds!

Are you excited for October? Make sure you don’t miss out and reserve your Meriton Suites Sydney CBD accommodation today for easy access to some of Sydney’s best events.

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Life Drawing

When: 2:00pm – 4:00pm, Sunday 16th September

Where: Currumbin Nippers Club

Cost: $30

Have you ever wanted to test your artistic skills, why not take our life drawing class? Whether you prefer to construct your art in shadow, line, or some other form, you will be guided by the talented Rebecca Cunningham to create something beautiful of your own. Simply bring a large sketchbook, your preferred drawing tool (pencil, charcoal, watercolour, ink, marker), and hat and sunscreen.

Woolly Weavers Kids Educational Workshop

When: 9:30am – 11:30am OR 12:30pm – 2:30pm, Tuesday 18th – Thursday 20th September

Where: Currumbin Nippers Club

Cost: $15

Sponsored by the Doug Hall Foundation and led by textile artist Melissa Spratt, Woolly Weavers is the perfect opportunity for little ones to get hands-on with their very own craft project. Kids will receive instruction from the talented Melissa herself, and learn how to create textured artworks that utilise various weaving techniques.

Twilight Walks

When: 5:00pm – 6:30pm, Sunday 16th & 23rd September

Where: Currumbin Alley Picnic Hut – Northern End

Cost: $5

If you’d prefer to admire rather than create art, we recommend taking part in one of SWELL’s intimate and enlightening tours. Marvel at sculptures as the setting sun touches them with a final ray of warmth, and listen to guest curators as they guide you through the meanings and methods behind the various artworks.

Plein Air Painting

When: 9:30am – 1:30pm, Sunday 23rd September

Where: Currumbin Nippers Club

Cost: $95

Escape the four walls of your studio and embrace the aesthetic of plein air painting as you sit in out in the fresh air and natural light. In this workshop, you will be guided by award-winning artist, Seabastion Toast. Originally from Melbourne, Seabastion’s work has been awarded the  2011 Gainsborough Greens Award, 2012 Marymount Painting Prize, and 2014 D’arcy Doyle Landscape Prize. Make sure you check the event page for a full list of materials and supplies to bring to the class.

Masterclass with Phillip Piperides

When: 9:00am – 3:00pm, Saturday 22nd September

Where: Currumbin Nippers Club

Cost: $150

Back by popular demand, the talented Phillip Piperides will be leading yet another sculpture masterclass at this year’s SWELL. Phillip was born in Cyprus in 1956, but since migrating to Australia in 1967, the sculptor gained international acclaim with his sculptures in bronze and clay. Phillip now owns the Perides Art Foundry which regularly produces stunning commissioned artworks, but SWELL will be your only chance to learn under this master craftsmen.

Are you looking forward to SWELL 2018? Don’t forget to reserve your suite at either of our 2 Gold Coast hotels before spaces run out. With accommodation in Southport and Broadbeach, your Meriton Suite is the perfect base for your artistic adventure.

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Enjoy the bustling city life on Sussex Street, Sydney

Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s central business district, Meriton Suites in Sussex Street is a luxurious accommodation option that gives you easy access to some of Sydney’s best shopping, dining, and attractions. As you wander down the street and admire the gorgeous heritage buildings, you’ll notice that the newly-developed Barangaroo wharf, SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium and Cockle Bay Wharf are close by. To the east lies Hyde Park and Cook + Phillip Pool if you’re looking to get active, while the close walk to Town Hall Station and George St make travelling around Sydney incredibly easy.

There’s an event on every month, so you’ll always have something to do!

• January – Australia Day Celebrations
• February – Mardi Gras
• March – Taste of Sydney
• April – Royal Easter Show
• May – VIVID Festival
• June – Sydney Film Festival
• July – NAIDOC Week
• August – City2Surf
• September – Surry Hills Festival
• October – Night Noodle Markets
• November – Sydney Open
• December – Carols by the Domain

Restaurants near Meriton Suites, Sussex Street

Sussex Street leaves you spoilt for choice with a range of amazing fine dining options and super hip bars.

Sepia Restaurant, 201 Sussex St (1 minute walk)

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, you can’t go past the Japanese-inspired degustation on offer at Sepia. The menu is heavily focussed on Australia’s fresh seafood so you’ll be enjoying treats like “Saikou salmon with smoked roe, sudachi, and marigold” and “Chargrilled David Blackmore wagyu zabuton with dashi rice and shungiku tempura”.

Belle’s Hot Chicken, 5/33 Barangaroo Avenue (10 minute walk)

On the other hand, if you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty, then a healthy serving of Belle’s Hot Chicken is in order. This American-style diner serves all your favourite Southern comfort foods, as well as their famous fried chicken which ranges Medium and Hot to Really Hot and Really F**kin Hot!

Alpha Greek, 238 Castlereagh St (10 minute walk)

From Japan to America, your palate can now take a trip to Greece. This family-run restaurant serves up authentic Greek cuisine with hearty serving sizes to match. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu but while you’re here, you might as well treat yourself to their mouthwatering Greek Spiced Lamb Shoulder with Lemon Roasted Potatoes and Tzatziki.

The Baxter Inn, 152-156 Clarence St (3 minute walk)

Make your way down to The Baxter Inn – a dimly-lit speakeasy that hides a collection of over 800 whiskies served by moustachioed bartenders. You’re spoilt for choice with a collection that spans Japan, Australia, the Highlands, Lowlands, and every island in between.

Shopping close to Meriton Suites, Sussex Street

Take advantage of your close proximity to George Street, Barangaroo and Pitt Street and indulge in a little retail therapy.

Queen Victoria Building, George St (5 minute walk)

From fashion and antique jewellery, to chocolate and electronics, the iconic QVB is a bustling building filled with five levels of boutiques and artisanal crafts.

Barangaroo, Hickson Road (10 minute walk)

Get lost in the laneways of Barangaroo’s southern precinct and browse a collection of local and international wares with brands like Belancé, Title, and Somedays.

Pitt Street Mall, 182 Pitt St, (10 minute walk)

Of course, no visit to Sydney is complete with a trip down the famous Pitt Street. This wide avenue is home to well-known brands like Zara, Sephora, and H&M, but don’t forget to check out the street performers as well!

For the essentials:

• Woolworths Metro, 65 York St (10 minute walk)
• Harbourside Day & Night Pharmacy (10 minute walk)
• Australia Post Office, 44 Market St (5 minute walk)

Transport to and from your Sussex Street accommodation

Whether you choose to travel via shuttle, train or taxi, getting from the airport to your accommodation on Sussex Street is incredibly easy.

Airport Shuttle

Journey: A 30-40 minute trip from Sydney Airport (Domestic) to Meriton Suites Sussex Street.

Cost: $16 one way, $30 return per adult

For more information: http://www.airbussydney.com.au

Taxis

Journey: A 20-30 minute trip from Sydney Airport (Domestic) to Meriton Suites Sussex Street.

Cost: Approximately $35-45

For more information: http://www.nswtaxi.org.au/passengers/book-a-taxi

Train

Journey: A 10-15 minute trip from Sydney Airport (Domestic) to St James Station, then an eight minute walk to Meriton Suites Sussex Street.

Cost: From $16.16 per adult

For more information: http://www.sydneytrains.info

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Royal Botanic Gardens

Just a hop, skip and a jump from the CBD, the Royal Botanic Gardens are one of the oldest public gardens in the Southern Hemisphere. Divided into four precincts and filled with gorgeous flora, the park covers a massive 30 hectares, so there’s plenty of room for you to roam.

The Royal Botanic Gardens offer free 90-minute guided walks, starting from the Information Centre at 10:30am every day, as well as a shorter one-hour walk on weekdays from 1 March to 30 November at 1:00pm. For those of you who want to blaze your own trail, the park also has a collection of self-guided walks (available on your phone) with options including a Garden Highlights path, Sculpture Walk, and running trails for one, two and three kilometres.

Barangaroo Reserve

One of Sydney’s newest developments, Barangaroo Reserve is a stunning urban renewal project that sits on Sydney CBD’s western waterfront. In addition to an abundance of dining and retail opportunities, the reserve also offers amazing views, walking trails and picnic spots, with over 75,000 native planted trees, ferns, and other flora.

Although the reserve has several different walking trails over many levels, the Wulugul Walk is the main track and highly recommended. The walk (which gets its name from the local indigenous word for kingfish), is still under development with only the first two sections open. However, once construction has been completed, it will stretch for 2km and follow the foreshore from Walsh Bay to Darling Harbour. If you’re looking for something a bit more intense, we also suggest the 90-minute walk which starts at the Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf and takes you through the Royal Botanic Gardens, Opera House, Circular Quay, Walsh Bay, and Millers Point, before reaching the start of Wulugul Walk.

Centennial Parklands

Located just 10 minutes from the CBD, Centennial Parklands has been one of Sydney’s favourite parks since 1888. The area includes Centennial Park, Moore Park and Queens Park, covering a massive 360 hectares and showcasing sporting fields, formal gardens, avenues, ponds, and more.

Centennial Park offers several walking trails that you can easily access via the izi.TRAVEL app, including the Nature and Wildlife Walking Tour (one hour) and History Walking Tour, both of which come with audio commentary about the history and wildlife in the park. Alternatively, you can also embark on the Grand Drive Circuit which extends for 3.6km and will take around the edge of the park as you take in the stunning views of the gardens and lakes.

Glebe Foreshore Walk

For breathtaking views of the Sydney CBD skyline, Anzac Bridge, and Rozelle and Blackwattle Bay, the Glebe Foreshore walk is the perfect choice for you. Starting a Bicentennial Park in Rozelle Bay, the route follows the waterfront and takes you across Federal Park, Jubilee Park, Pope Paul VI Reserve, Blackwattle Bay Park, the Sydney Fish Market, before finishing in Glebe.

Popular with tourists, pedestrians, cyclists, and more, the walk extends for 4km (return) and is perfect for anyone with young children or dogs. Don’t forget to look to your left as you might also catch the dragon boaters doing their morning training sessions – it’s quite an impressive sight!

The next time you reserve your accommodation in Sydney’s CBD, why not start your morning with a brisk stroll to get your blood pumping? With suites available on Kent Street, Pitt Street, World Tower and Campbell Street, premium accommodation is just a phone call away.

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Taronga Zoo

How to get there: Simply walk 500m to Mascot Station and catch the T8 to Circular Quay. Once, there just head to Wharf 6 and catch the ferry to Taronga Zoo!

One of the best parts about getting to Taronga Zoo is catching the ferry to get there. Approximately 10 minutes, you and the kids will get to see some amazing views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as you enjoy the wind in your hair and sun on your face. The real fun begins, however, when you step foot into the zoo.

Kids will love exploring the different “lands” in the zoo and seeing over 4,000 different animals, but don’t forget to check the website beforehand! Taronga regularly hosts over 20 keeper talks and shows every day where little ones can learn about meerkats, giraffes, penguins, and more. Other fun and free experiences include discovering the powerful Sumatran Tigers on the Tiger Trek, getting up close and personal with Squirrel Monkeys on the Jungle Walk, and playing right next to lemurs on our Lemur Forest Adventure.

If you have time, make sure to also check out the Wild Ropes Challenge, which lets both adults and kids test out their skills on ropes and bridges that hang high above the zoo!

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

How to get there: Head to Mascot Station just a short walk away and catch the T8 to Circular Quay. Alternatively, you can catch the M20 from Mascot Memorial Park and disembark at Clarence St opposite Barrack St.

SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is a definite must-see for families and kids. There’s much to see and do at the aquarium, and we particularly love wandering through the aquarium’s different habitat zones.

The South Coast Shipwreck mimics a beached shipwreck environment and is home to the adorably popular Little Penguins, while Dugong Island is home to “Pig” who is famous for being Sydney’s most popular dugong. For something a little bit more daring, head over to the Shark Walk which takes you into an underwater tunnel where you can marvel at some of the world’s biggest aquarium sharks.

Don’t worry mum, there’s also lots to make sure that your kids receive an education too! The Discovery Rockpool lets kids see and touch various forms of sea life including sea stars, shark eggs, shells, rays and more. On the other hand, the Jurassic Seas will transport kids to the depths of the ocean and teach them about evolution, jellyfish and lungfish.

Luna Park

How to get there: Just catch the T8 from Mascot Station to Central Station. Once at Central, head to Platform 16 and catch the T1 to Milsons Point.

Luna Park is perfect for any adrenaline junkies in the family, or simply those who love the feeling of old fairs and carnivals. Honestly, it’s hard to choose what to do at Luna Park because there is so much on offer. A ride on the Ferris Wheel offers stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, while the Wild Mouse rollercoaster is 61 seconds of dips, dives and nerve-wracking turns. The Tumble Bug is another ride that will challenge your stomach as you’re flung in every direction, whereas the Rotor will spin you at ridiculous speeds, leaving you pressed against the walls.

Want something a little less terrifying? Head over to the beautifully-restored Coney Island. This old-school funhouse is home to classic gags like the Joy Wheel, Mirror Maze, Giant Slide… and let’s not forget Australia’s largest collection of pinball machines!

The Powerhouse Museum

How to get there: Hop on the T8 from Mascot Station to Central Station. Disembark at Central and it’s a short 15-minute walk to the museum!

No trip to Sydney is complete without a visit to The Powerhouse Museum. They are constantly hosting new exhibitions (our favourites over the years have featured Sherlock Holmes, DC Comics, LEGO, and Star Wars) so make sure you check their website to see what’s currently on show.

However, that’s not to say that their permanent exhibition is any less impressive! The museum features a wide array of interactive games and educational tools that are aimed at both big and little kids alike. Does little Jane dream of being an astronaut? Then head over to the Space exhibition which includes a Zero Gravity Space Lab where you can experience the illusion of weightlessness. Does young Mike want to become a scientist? Make sure they visit Experimentations where they can learn how a battery works, why the sky is blue, and why lightning occurs. The Tinkering Zone will also let them get really hands-on and play with cool machines that spout light and sound waves.

Need a break? Head over to The Wiggle Exhibition where little ones can get to learn and play with their friends Dorothy the Dinosaur, Captain Feathersword, Wags the Dog and Henry the Octopus! A range of free-form play and interactive spaces also means the kids can tire themselves out as you take a trip down memory lane with the “original” Wiggles.

Travelling in Sydney with kids can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Meriton Suites Sydney Airport is Sydney’s only airport hotel with three-bedroom suites, so reserve your suite today and start planning your holiday!

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Elizabeth Farm

Originally built in 1793, Elizabeth Farm bears the proud title of the oldest building in Australia. This idyllic homestead was created for John and Elizabeth Macarthur, Australia’s wool industry pioneers and originally spanned 1000 acres. Littered with family letters and newspapers, Elizabeth Farm truly is a living museum that allows visitors to curl up in front of an open fire and dream of the colonial life. Foodies will also love the tearoom which offers a scrumptious Devonshire Tea, complete with fresh jam and clotted cream as well as a stunning array of aromatic teas.

St. John’s Cathedral

Situated on Parramatta’s famous Church Street, the site of St John’s has had a church since 1803, and featured the only church in the colony at the time. One of the most unusual and interesting features of St. John’s Anglican Cathedral is its twin steeples, which were completed in 1819. Visitors to the church will enjoy its multilingual congregations in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Persian Farsi that take place in this inspiring setting.

Old Government House

Built by convicts from 1799-1816, Old Government House and its accompanying garrison buildings claim the title of the oldest-surviving public buildings in Australia. The house was originally a country residence for New South Wales’ first ten governors, including the famous Governor and Mrs Macquarie who were said to prefer the fresh air of Parramatta. These days, the house and its surrounds are recognised as a World Heritage site and boast a historically rich collection of early colonial furniture.

The Dairy Cottage

Nestled in the Dairy Precinct, the Dairy Cottage was built between the years of 1796 and 1805 as the home of ex-convict, George Salter. The building bears the title of Australia’s only 18th century convict-built cottage and offers visitors a unique insight into Australia’s colonial past. History buffs, in particular, will appreciate the unique architecture that forms the unique makeup of Dairy Cottage with its clay walls, hardwood ceilings, and low doorways.

Brislington Medical and Nursing Museum

Found on the corner of Marsden and George Street, this stunning Georgian building was built in 1821 for John Hodges, an ex-convict famous for using his card game winnings to apply for a Liquor Licence. Brislington offers a unique insight into the past, with photographs and equipment for the 1890s on proud display. Medical professionals and patients alike will marvel at the old-school operating tables and equipment, and realise that we have truly come a long way since then!

Parramatta is an area rich in culture and history, so make sure you reserve your accommodation in our conveniently-located serviced suites on Church Street and George Street.

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The Packer Leather Australian Stockwhip Challenge

Where: Stud Sale Ring

When: 9:00am – 3:30pm, 10 August 2018

Price: FREE

When a problem comes along, you must whip it. Before the cream sits out too long, you must whip it… Queensland’s best and brightest whip crackers are whipping things into shape for the fifth year in the row at the Ekka. With four different divisions available, schools from all around Queensland will be participating to show off their skills and have a cracking good time!

Heritage Bank Racing Pigs

Where: Stockman’s Rest

When: Throughout the day

Price: FREE

They say there’s no chance pigs will fly, but that’s definitely not the case at this year’s Ekka! With four brave and athletic porkers decked out in their racing colours, spectators will marvel at the pigs as they run a race track and fly through the air before diving into a pool of water. These Guinness World Record pigs will be led by 10-year-old Mater Vandeleur, who will make sure this show is anything but boar-ing.

XXXX Stockmen’s Bar and Grill Music Stage

Where: XXXX Stockmen’s Bar and Grill

When: Times vary depending on the performance

Price: FREE

Sit back and relax at XXXX Stockmen’s Bar and Grill as you listen to some of the finest musicians around. Country music lovers will swoon to the dulcet tones of Felicity Kircher and Brooke Schubert, while toe-tapping dancers will enjoy kicking their heels to the music of country rockers, The Smashing Bumpkins. Are you a songbird yourself? Sign up for I-Sing Karaoke on 12 August and show off those pipes in a bid to represent Australia at the I-Sing World Championships in France!

Queensland Young Farmers Challenge

Where: Main Arena

When: 4:30pm – 5:30pm, 11 August 2018

Price: FREE

Who will win: the country kids or the city slickers? This year, Queensland’s finest farmers are competing for the title of Queensland’s Champion Young Farmers. Developed by the RNA Future Directions Committee, this relay-style event includes typical farming activities like carrying hay bales and building portable cattle yards. Make sure you head down to cheer the eight teams competing for the gold medal.

Lone Ranger and Tonto Stunt Challenge

Where: Main Arena

When: 6:35pm – 6:45pm, all days

Price: FREE

Have you ever wondered who the better rider is, Tonto or the Lone Ranger? You finally have the chance to find out as the two go head-to-head in this exciting stunt challenge. Galloping around the Main Arena at high speed, Tonto will race up to the trailer, leap off the horse, and scale a ladder onto a moving rooftop trailer to (literally) beat the clock, before the Lone Ranger decides to test his mettle.

This year’s Ekka is set to be bigger and better than ever, so make sure to reserve your family accommodation in Brisbane today.

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The Seaway Dive Site

Nestled at the mouth of Southport’s Nerang River, The Seaway is recognised as Queensland’s most popular diving site. With depths of up to 15 metres, the site boasts several diving areas, the most popular of which are the Short Pipe and the Sand Pipe. What’s more, the colder waters in winter actually make the sea life more visible, so you get to enjoy stunning views of stingrays, moray eels, seahorses, turtles, pineapplefish, wobbegongs, dragonets and much more!

Brickworks Centre

If you’re looking for some retail therapy, a trip to The Brickworks Centre should be right up your alley. Unlike the (also popular) Australia Fair Shopping Centre, the Brickworks is bright and airy thanks to its many open-air storefronts. Furthermore, the famous Ferry Road Market offers all the best and freshest fruit, vegetable and flowers to pique your fancy.

Produce by the Pier

Taking place every second and fourth Saturday of the month, Produce by the Pier is a popular weekend market that (according to their website), “champions sustainability and features fresh, high-quality local produce”. The market operates from 8:00am to 2:00pm – rain, hail or shine – and features a wealth of fresh produce supplied by local farmers and food producers. Not looking for fruit or veggies? Make sure you check out the range of gastronomic delights including honey, fine wine, and aromatic coffee beans.

The Rockpools

Located in the Broadwater Parklands, the Rockpools Water Playground is guaranteed fun in the sun for kids of all ages. Parents will love the fact that the Rockpools are free to use and also have lifeguards on duty, however kids will absolutely adore splashing through the many water statues and jets that litter the area. The southern end of the park features a bike racing track, pedal trains and massive jumping pillow, while the northern end sports a massive climbing gym for older kids. What’s more, parents can sit back and relax at one of the many seating areas under the bright yellow umbrellas.

Sea World

No trip to the Gold Coast would be complete without a visit to the famous Sea World, Australia’s premier marine animal park. Based on Main Beach, Sea World is a wonderland filled with exciting exhibits, educational shows, fun rides and, of course, amazing animals. Have you ever wanted to get up close and personal with a shark? Experience an intimate shark feeding session with the impressive Dusky whaler shark and Bull whaler shark. Want to tire out the little ones? Head over to Nickelodeon Land which features themed rides from Dora the Explorer, PAW Patrol, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and more! If you’re after something a little more relaxing, wander through the park and take a peek at the polar bears, penguins and seals that call Sea World home.

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean there’s no reason to enjoy some fun in the sun. Reserve your room at Meriton Suites Southport today for the ideal holiday accommodation for your winter getaway.

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ARRIVING

In order to make the most of your journey, we recommend arriving the night before. While you’re at the airport, be sure to grab an Opal card and top it up (you’ll need this to jump on any bus, train or ferry in Sydney). Now that we’ve got that sorted, it’s time to head to your holiday accommodation at Meriton Suites. We have two convenient locations – Meriton Suites Sydney Airport on Coward St in Mascot and Meriton Suites Mascot Central on Jackson Drive in Mascot. Both are just a stone’s throw away from the International and Domestic Airports and offer a convenient airport shuttle service. Hop on board and head to your suite for a good night’s sleep.

DAY ONE

Breakfast at Barangaroo

You’ve got a big day ahead of you, so our first stop is Wild Sage for a hearty breakfast. Simply jump on the train at Mascot Station, get off at Wynyard Station, and take a short 3-minute stroll to Sussex Street. Everything on their menu is divine but we can’t go past the Chilli Scramble with scrambled eggs, fermented chilli roasted broccolini, crispy kale, bacon and mixed grains.

After a scrumptious meal, it’s time to head to Circular Quay. There’s so much to do in this area so we’ve picked a few must-see attractions and experiences.

Art Appreciation at the MCA

Nestled on the edge of Sydney Harbour, the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia has a constantly-changing array of exhibitions. The museum boasts over 4000 works by Australian artists in a variety of museums including painting, photography, moving image and sculpture, making it easy to spend a whole day here! Entry is free but make sure to check their website to see what’s currently on exhibition.

Indulge Your Inner Shopaholic at The Rocks

With its unforgettable heritage architecture and cobble-stoned laneways, The Rocks is home to a plethora of delights including Sydney’s oldest pub, the famous open-air Rocks Markets, and stylish boutiques. Take your time browsing through shops like Coco Leather, Get Drenched and Squidinki. If you’re feeling peckish, there are scores of cafes to choose from but we love a little pick-me-up at The Tea Cosy. This hidden gem serves freshly-baked scones made from a secret family recipe, and baskets of knitting needles and wool adorn the many cosy corners.

Enjoy the View at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

Located at the tip of Mrs. Macquaries Point, this leafy area is the perfect spot to catch your breath and gaze at the stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. You can always book in a Harbour Bridge Climb or catch one of the riveting performances on at the Opera House, but make sure you pop in and wave a flipper at the Sydney Opera House Seal, Benny (you may have seen him on The Simpsons). For a little bit of extra fun, you can now chat to this “seal-ebrity” on Facebook Messenger!

You Can’t Go Wrong with Mr Wong

Hidden in a secret side street in Sydney’s CBD, Mr Wong is one of the city’s most popular spots for Cantonese-style dining with a twist. For starters, the restaurant is a feast for the eyes with their timber ceilings and rustic brick walls, but the menu is where Mr Wong really pulls out all the stops. Make sure to try their range of mouth-watering dim sums, Crispy Pork Spare Ribs and unforgettable Mapo Tofu. And, if you have room to spare, their Mango Pudding with coconut tapioca, lychee granita and mango pearls is a must-have.

DAY TWO

Walk From Bondi to Coogee

You had a busy day yesterday, so it’s time to switch gears and do something a little more relaxing for your second day in Sydney. You might have seen our previous article on the Perfect Day in Bondi Beach, but we’re stretching our wings and exploring further this time around. The Bondi to Coogee walk extends for 6km and offers amazing views, lush parks, and rock pools teeming with the ocean’s treasures. Your walk will take you about two hours so make sure you wear comfy shoes and hat, and bring some sunscreen and a bottle of water. For lunch, make your way to The Little Kitchen on Arden St and order up a serve of their mouthwatering Ricotta Pancakes with summer berries and salted caramel.

Get Back to Nature in Centennial Park

Now that you’re fed and watered, it’s time to head over to Centennial Park. There are buses running every five minutes from Arden St near Carr St that will take you to the park’s entrance. There’s so much to see and do at Centennial Park but our favourite activities include hiring a bicycle to explore the gardens, horse riding at the Equestrian Centre, or simply strolling around the park as you stop to smell the roses. If you happen to be an avid golfer, Moore Park Golf Course is just across the road and boasts a three-level driving range!

Experience Hipster Culture on King St

No trip to Sydney would be complete without a walk down the iconic King St in Newtown. Known for its eclectic and alternative culture, King St is teeming with vintage clothing shops, ethnic galleries, retro hideaways and restaurants with cuisines from all around the world. For the fashionistas among us, Faster Pussycat is a rockabilly’s paradise while Maplestore is home to some of the city’s most iconic denim designs. Meanwhile, foodies will love exploring the many cheese and wines at The Stinking Bishops. Need something to read? Head over to Elizabeth’s Bookshops for a blind date with a book where tomes are wrapped in brown paper with just a few key words on the front – so you never know what to expect!

Drink, Dine and Dance at The Imperial

Turn off King St and head down Erskineville Road to explore the leafy suburb with a quaint village vibe. Some of you might recognise recently-renovated Imperial Hotel from its iconic role in the 1994 hit, The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert – and this hot spot is just as fabulous as ever. Every night, The Imperial hosts Drag N’ Dine, a magnificent spectacle that changes daily from drag queen to visual art to pole dancing. It truly is a dining experience like no other!

DEPARTING

We’ve jam-packed a lot of action into these last couple of days but sadly, it’s time to head back to your holiday accommodation at the Meriton Suites on Coward St or Jackson Drive. Luckily, you’re only minutes away from the airport so you can indulge in a well-deserved sleep in. Just make sure you carefully pack all your souvenirs and mementoes from your whirlwind adventure!

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