April 3, 2011
We had a coach tour of the city this morning, which included a tour of the famous Sydney Opera House. This amazing landmark has two theaters and took 14 years to build – only 11 years and many millions over schedule. Our amazing tour inside gave us a rundown of the building process and all the “political” issues that hampered its building. This truly Sydney icon is recognized not only for its innovative design but for pushing the envelope in technological development to construct what the architect had designed. Inside the theaters we were able to listen in on the practice of several hundred Suzuki violin students. Either they were amazingly good or the acoustics made them seem that way. We’re betting on a combination of both.
After the Opera House, our bus took us to the famous Bondi Beach where we had a chance to walk along the beach and enjoy a gelato cone in the sunshine. As it was Sunday many families were taking advantage of what could be one of the last sunny FALL weekends.
Our last stop was at a jewelry store for a short talk on opals and a chance to purchase – and much to everyone’s surprise, we left empty handed. This shopping was not like the normal jewelry shopping we have encountered. No beers...no purchasing. Because it was a Sunday, the streets in the “Rocks” area were full of artisans, book sellers, and food booths, so we strolled through the area. Linda, Jane and Al took a night tour of the city, with dinner and a water taxi ride across the harbor to the Sydney Aquarium. The evening for the trio was ho-hum. Food…good, taxi ride….bumpy, aquarium…does not compare to the Monterrey Bay Aquarium. DeeDee went to dinner with our Aussie friends, Brendan and Rob. They live near Brisbane, but flew to Sydney to see the TravelinTrio and to meet Al!
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