Australia Nye 2019

AUSTRALIA NYE 2019

Edwina Warder eBiz Travel t: 8009066756 e: [email protected] https://ebiztravel.net AUSTRALIA NYE 2019 - SUN DEC 29 - SUN JAN 05

Trip Summary

SYDNEY Sydney is the oldest, largest and (some say) most beautiful city in Australia and is memorable for far more than its famous landmarks. Created around one of the world's most dazzling harbours, there's no doubt that the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House deserve their dues. Enjoy its legendary beauty, its laid-back outdoor lifestyle, and icons such as the Sydney Opera House, the graceful span of the Harbour Bridge and the golden sands of Bondi.

Tropical Cairns offers a dazzling array of wildlife amid lush forest surrounds. You’ll visit the Great Barrier Reef for a close encounter with the abundant sea life of the world’s largest coral reef system. Then climb aboard an amphibious army duck for a trip into Kuranda’s scenic rainforest, where an authentic taste of Aboriginal culture, including a ‘Dreamtime’ walk and the chance to throw a boomerang await. Leap from Cairns into the World Heritage wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Relax in the resorts of Port Douglas and Mission Beach or on Lizard Island. Take the old railway to Kuranda, or follow the Great Tropical Drive to white water rivers and the Atherton Tablelands. Head north to Cape Tribulation or take the Savannah Way for an outback journey.

Join us for a New Year Adventure

Inclusive

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 2 of 27 8009066756 (office) Inclusive 8 Days | 7 Nights Accommodation – Twin Share based on the Hotels as specified in the itinerary or similar (4* Hotels) - 4 Days in Sydney & 4 Days in Cairns All taxes Host Dinner Full Day Sydney Tour Cairns Full Day Reef Tour w/Lunch Meals as specified in the itinerary Wifi (Hotel) Private Coach transportation as specified in the itinerary English Speaking Guide only where specified in the itinerary Hotel Porterage is included unless otherwise stated Entry Fees & Excursions as specified in the itinerary Goods and Services Tax (GST) $20 ETA Processing Fee Roundtrip Airfare From Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS) Noir Girl Magic Passport Ready T-shirt **B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner** Optional Add-ons or Upgrades Blue Mountain Nature and Wildlife Tour w/Lunch $175 (Sydney) Hunter Valley Food, Wine, & Chocolate Tour $200 (Sydney) Cairns Full Day Kuranda All Inclusive Tour w/Lunch $188 (Cairns)

Exclusive Airfare (International) Airport Porterage Beverages - unless otherwise stated Gratuities/Tips Personal items such as phone calls, souvenirs, email, laundry charges, optional tours. Early Check-in or Late Check-Out - unless otherwise stated Surcharge for Special Event Periods - Over these periods, you may incur a surcharge and suppliers may also carry additional terms and conditions.

Sun Dec 29, 2019 (D) Transfer from Sydney International Airport Check-in: TBA (4 Days)

Mon Dec 30, 2019 (B/L) Sydney Tour with Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise

Tues Dec 31, 2019, NYE (B) Free time in Sydney (See itinerary for suggestions) or Optional Add-ons Blue Mountain Nature and Wildlife Tour w/Lunch $175 (Sydney) or Hunter Valley Food, Wine, & Chocolate Tour $200 (Sydney)

Wed Jan 01, 2020 (B) Transfer for Flight from Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) to Cairns International Airport (CNS) Transportation To Cairns Hotel

The remainder of the day enjoy free time in Cairns

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 3 of 27 8009066756 (office) The remainder of the day enjoy free time in Cairns Check-in: TBA (4 Days)

Thu Jan 02, 2020 (B/L) Cairns - Full Day Reef Tour

Fri Jan 03, 2020 (B) Enjoy free time Cairns or Optional Add-on Cairns Full Day Kuranda All Inclusive Tour w/Lunch $188

Sat Jan 04, 2020 (B) Enjoy free time Cairns or Optional Add-on Cairns Full Day Kuranda All Inclusive Tour w/Lunch $188

Sun Jan 05, 2020 (B) Breakfast at hotel in Cairns then the group will check out of the hotel and be transferred back to the airport.

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 4 of 27 8009066756 (office) SUN TRANSFER DEC 29 CONTACT PICK-UP DROP-OFF Transfer from Sun Dec 29, 2019 Sydney International Airport

Day One Check-In Arrive Sydney (Cost of the international flight is NOT included) After clearing Customs, meet your Local Guide to hand over and explain your travel documents. Board your Private Coach for transfer to your Hotel Accommodation for check-in. Your Guide will assist you with check-in.

Note - Due to parking restrictions at Sydney International Airport, Coaches are unable to enter the terminal area until groups have collected all luggage and the clients are ready. Guides must call the driver when the group is ready to depart from the airport.

**PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CHECK IN TIME AT MOST AUSTRALIAN HOTELS IS EITHER 14: 00HRS OR 15:00HRS DEPENDING ON THE PROPERTY. DEPENDING ON THE GROUPS ARRIVAL TIME AT THE HOTEL THE GROUP WILL HAVE TO STORE THEIR LUGGAGE AT FRONT DESK UNTIL THE ROOMS ARE READY

The remainder of the day is free at your leisure. The evening is reserved for our Welcome dinner at Sydney Tower - 360 Bar and Dining. We will proceed by foot (approximately 10 mins) from our hotel to Sydney Tower – 360 Bar dining

Entry to Sydney Tower is via the Sydney Tower Dining Reception Desk located on Level 4 in Westfield Shopping Centre Sydney, between Castlereagh and Pitt Street. We need to check at reception 15 minutes prior to our booking time and obtain our lift passes to access the tower. (Included) Tables will only be held for up to 15 minutes so be on time.

3 Course Dinner including Tea and Coffee at Sydney Tower – 360 Bar and Dining - Drinks are at the traveler's own expense.

After Dinner this evening please make your own way back to your Hotel Accommodation where the remainder of the evening is free at your leisure. Accommodation: 4* Hotel TBA (D)

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 5 of 27 8009066756 (office) Edwina Warder [email protected] page 6 of 27 8009066756 (office) ACCOMMODATIONS

NAME & ADDRESS CHECK-IN CHECK-OUT Rydges World Square 3:00 PM 12:00 PM 389 Pitt Street Sun Dec 29, 2019 Wed Jan 01, Sydney, Sydney 2000 2020 Phone: 61-2-82681888 Website

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 7 of 27 8009066756 (office) MON Day Two | Sydney City Tour w/Lunch on Harbour & Sydney Opera House DEC Guided Tour 30

Full Breakfast is included at your hotel this morning

Meet your Local Guide in the Hotel Lobby then board your Private Coach to commence a Sydney City Tour including Lunch Cruise on Harbour and Sydney Opera House Guided Tour. Tour the historic Rocks area, Sydney's birthplace, and travel past old pubs, restored terrace houses, and quaint shops. See Sydney's commercial and shopping heart, with its mixture of old and new buildings. See Chinatown and Darling Harbour before heading to historical Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, where you can photograph the Opera House and Harbour Bridge together. Continue past St Mary's Cathedral and the Art Gallery to Kings Cross, scene of Sydney's nightlife. Travel through the exclusive suburbs of Double Bay, Rose Bay, Watsons Bay, and Bondi Beach. Return to the city via Paddington, with its beautifully restored colonial terrace houses.

The Tour Includes: ** Board your Captain Cook Cruises vessel at your selected departure point (Jetty 6 Circular Quay or Jetty 1 King Street Wharf) to commence a Seafood Buffet Lunch cruise. Travel aboard MV Sydney 2000 or John Cadman 2, and enjoy views of exclusive harbor suburbs whilst enjoying a buffet lunch on board with commentary. Cruise concludes at approximately 2.20pm at Circular Quay, or 1.45pm at King Street Wharf. (TBA) Check in at the Captain Cook Cruises ticket office 30 minutes prior to departure. ** Join your Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hour) at the Tour Meeting Point on the Lower Concourse level of the Sydney Opera House. Check in 10 minutes prior to departure. See inside the world's most recognizable sails and experience this miracle of architecture and engineering. A work of art that came into existence against impossible odds, to become one of the busiest performing arts centers in the world. Working with new, rich audio-visual components, where images are projected onto the fabric of the building, your guide will take you on an emotional journey, engrossing you in a story to rival any opera plot with its dramatic twists and turns. Some 1,500 performances, from opera to circus, rock, and cabaret, are staged each year to audiences of around 1.5 million. Tour concludes approximately one hour after commencement. ** Note: There are approximately 200

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 8 of 27 8009066756 (office) concludes approximately one hour after commencement. ** Note: There are approximately 200 steps on the Sydney Opera House guided tour. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. ** Please note that the Coach Pick up Drop off and Pick up Point for the Sydney Opera House is about a 10 to 15 Minute. (BL)

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 9 of 27 8009066756 (office) TOUR

ABOUT START FINISH Sydney City Tour 7:30 AM 1:00 PM including Lunch Cruise Mon Dec 30, Mon Dec 30, 2019 2019

BOOKING DETAILS Time may vary

TUE Day 03 | New Years Eve DEC 31

Free Time In Sydney

Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve fireworks are considered one of the best fireworks displays in the world. Below you can see that there are vantage points all over the place, which means you don’t need to travel all the way into the city but stay closer to home.

NEW YEAR’S EVE TIPS – Choose a vantage point with easy transportation back home – Get there early or better yet hire an Airtasker to mind your spot – Pack a blanket, sparklers, funny hats and glasses – Put together a picnic basket with food and drinks to last the evening – Best clubs and nightlife in Sydney

VANTAGE POINTS TO VIEW FIREWORKS

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 10 of 27 8009066756 (office) VANTAGE POINTS TO VIEW FIREWORKS

Blues Point right near North Sydney train station is a popular spot for people living north. It is typically a dry-zone and has a capacity, so you might need to get there early. Royal Botanic Gardens is one of the more exclusive vantage points with only around 700 people allowed and you need to buy a ticket. It’s a family friendly location with no alcohol allowed and food available for purchase. The Rocks on east Circular Quay allows you to get up close with the fireworks but it does fill up fast and hard to get a spot to sit down. Researching information on buying tickets to one of the big party boats for the evening. Optional Tours: Hunter Wine Tasting Tour Sydney: Blue Mountain Nature & Wildlife Tour $150 (B)

WED Day Four | Flight To Cairns JAN 1

Full Breakfast is included at your hotel this morning. Check out of Sydney Hotel for your flight to Cairns.

Board your Private Coach (No Local Guide included) for transfer to Sydney Domestic Airport. Check- in for your flight to Cairns Fly Sydney / Cairns (cost of the flight IS included). Time and flight number TBA

Arrive in Cairns, You will be met by your Coach Driver at the Luggage Carousel then make your way to your Private Coach for transfer to your Cairns Hotel Accommodation for check-in.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CHECK IN TIME AT MOST AUSTRALIAN HOTELS IS EITHER 14:

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 11 of 27 8009066756 (office) PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CHECK IN TIME AT MOST AUSTRALIAN HOTELS IS EITHER 14: 00HRS OR 15:00HRS DEPENDING ON THE PROPERTY. DEPENDING ON THE GROUPS ARRIVAL TIME AT THE HOTEL THE GROUP WILL HAVE TO STORE THEIR LUGGAGE AT FRONT DESK UNTIL THE ROOMS ARE READY

The remainder of the day is free at your leisure (B)

TRANSFER

CONTACT PICK-UP DROP-OFF Transportation To Wed Jan 01, Sydney International 2020 Airport (SYD) Cairns International Airport

FLIGHT TO: CNS Cairns International Airport

AIRLINE CODE & FLIGHT # DEPARTURE ARRIVAL TBA 12:00 PM 4:00 PM Wed Jan 01, Wed Jan 01, 2020 2020 CNS: Cairns SYD: Sydney International Airport Kingsford Smith International Airport

TRANSFER

CONTACT PICK-UP DROP-OFF Transportation To Wed Jan 01, Cairns Hotel 2020 Cairns International Airport

ACCOMMODATIONS

NAME & ADDRESS CHECK-IN CHECK-OUT

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 12 of 27 8009066756 (office) NAME & ADDRESS CHECK-IN CHECK-OUT Pacific Hotel Cairns 3:00 PM 12:00 PM 43 The Esplanade Wed Jan 01, Sun Jan 05, 2020 Cairns, Cairns 4870 2020 Phone: 61-7-40517888 Website

BOOKING DETAILS **OPTIONAL ADDITION** Cairns -Upon your arrival, transportation will pick us up and transfer to your hotel. Check in for the next three nights. Day Four January 1, 2020, Hotel Check-in Day Five January 2, 2020, Cairns Full Day Tour Day Six January 3, 2020, Free Day or OPTIONAL Tour ( Best of Kuranda Scenic Skyrail Tour w/Lunch) Day Seven January 4, 2020, Free Day or OPTIONAL Tour ( Best of Kuranda Scenic Skyrail Tour w/Lunch) Day Eight January 5, 2020, Check out hotel and catch a flight back to Sydney for the return flight to USA

Pacific Hotel Cairns

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 13 of 27 8009066756 (office) THU Day Five | Cairns Reef Magic Cruise to Great Barrier Reef JAN 2

Full Breakfast is included at your hotel this morning

Please make your own way from your Hotel Accommodation this morning to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal the departure point of your Cruise. Check-in is 08:00 am to 08:30 am Your Cruise departs this morning from the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal – Marlin Jetty at 09:00 am. ( The Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal ) (BL)

TOUR

ABOUT START FINISH Day Five | Cairns - 7:45 AM 5:00 PM Full Day Reef Tour Thu Jan 02, 2020 Thu Jan 02, 2020

BOOKING DETAILS Breakfast at the hotel and the group will make their way to The Reef Fleet Terminal located on 1 Spence Street, Cairns for Full Day Reef Trip. Please check in between 8.00am-8.30am. Cruise departs at 9.00am. (Walk from hotel to Reef Fleet Terminal is approximately 5 minutes)

Reef Magic Cruises depart directly from Cairns to the Outer Great Barrier Reef spending 5 full hours at the spacious, all weather, Marine World Pontoon. Guests have both the time and space to enjoy the largest range of reef activities available in a relaxed, fun and personalized atmosphere. Suitable for all age groups and swimming abilities, activities include snorkeling, marine biologist presentation, fish feeding demonstration, semi-submersible and glass bottom boat tours, underwater observatory or simply relaxing on a sun-lounge. Optional activities, available at additional expense, include biologist guided snorkel tours, advance marine snorkel safari, and scenic helicopter flights. The day includes morning and afternoon tea

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 14 of 27 8009066756 (office) advance marine snorkel safari, and scenic helicopter flights. The day includes morning and afternoon tea plus a hot and cold buffet lunch. Tour concludes back at Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal by approximately 17: 00hrs then proceed on Foot back to your Accommodation. ( approximately 10 mins from hotel)

Inclusions: - 5 hours at "Marine World" Outer Barrier Reef Pontoon at Moore Reef - Semi-submersible and glass bottom boat tour - Underwater Observatory - Great Barrier Reef presentation by the onboard Marine Biologist - Fish feeding demonstration - Children are swimming enclosure - Upper sundeck with lounge - Snorkel equipment with instruction - Fuel levy - Marine Reef Tax (EMC)

What to Bring: - Swimmers and towel - Sunblock, hat, sunglasses - Camera, money/credit card for onboard purchases

Meals: - Tea/coffee onboarding - Morning tea - Hot and cold seafood and vegetarian buffet lunch - Afternoon tea

FRI Day Six | Free Time or Optional Full Day Kuranda Tour (Cairns) JAN 3

Full Breakfast is included at your hotel this morning. Full Day Free at your leisure

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 15 of 27 8009066756 (office) OPTIONAL ADD-ON Cairns: full day tour into Kuranda, in World Heritage Rainforest. Experience the largest flight aviary in Australia at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, the award-winning Rainforestation including Army Duck tour, the Koala and Wildlife Park, the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, the world-famous sumptuous Aussie BBQ buffet lunch, the Kuranda Scenic Railway, and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. $200 p/p

INCLUSIONS:

Lunch - Buffet lunch All activities Driver/guide Live commentary on board Hotel pickup and drop-off Air-conditioned vehicle Entry/Admission - Australian Butterfly Sanctuary Entry/Admission - Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Entry/Admission - Rainforestation Nature Park Entry/Admission - Kuranda Scenic Railway

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 16 of 27 8009066756 (office) SAT Day Seven | Free Time or Optional Full Day Kuranda Tour (Cairns) JAN Full Breakfast is included at your hotel this morning. Full day free at your leisure.

4 OPTIONAL ADD-ON Cairns: full day tour into Kuranda, in World Heritage Rainforest. Experience the largest flight aviary in Australia at the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, the award-winning Rainforestation including Army Duck tour, the Koala and Wildlife Park, the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, the world-famous sumptuous Aussie BBQ buffet lunch, the Kuranda Scenic Railway, and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. $200 p/p

INCLUSIONS:

SUN Day Eight | Check-out JAN Eat breakfast and check out hotel and transport to Cairns Airport for your flight to Sydney Airport. 5

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 17 of 27 8009066756 (office) QUOTE

(ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON BASIS TOTAL LAND PACKAGE PRICE P/P Double Occupancy ______$2825 p/p Single Occupancy ______$4015 p/p ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Please note the following supplements and/or upgrade options are per person. Can be included in the monthly payments. Excursions must be paid in FULL by SEPTERMBER 1, 2019 Blue Mountain Nature & Wildlife Tour ______$175 p/p (More Information Here) Hunter Valley Food, Wine, & Chocolate Tour ______$200 p/p (More Information Here) Cairns Full Day Kuranda Tour w/Lunch ______$188 p/p (More Information Here) ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Per person non-refundable deposit of $500 & $30 processing fee required to confirm these arrangements. Pay $400 deposit + $30 processing fee by April 30, 2019, and receive a $50 discount off the total cost of the vacation. Discount will be applied to your final payment.** This trip DOES NOT qualify for our refer a friend program. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Please register before you pay your deposit. Once you complete your registration you will be redirected to our booking page. Click here to register.

INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. Click here for information on how to get insurance to protect your holiday

INCLUSIVE FEATURES:

8 Days | 7 Nights Accommodation Twin Share based on the Hotels as specified in the itinerary or similar (4 Hotels) - 4 Days in Sydney & 4 Days in Cairns All taxes Host Dinner Full Day Sydney Tour Cairns Full Day Reef Tour w/Lunch Meals as specified in the itinerary Wifi (Hotel) Private Coach transportation as specified in the itinerary English Speaking Guide only where specified in the itinerary Hotel Porterage is included unless otherwise stated Entry Fees & Excursions as specified in the itinerary Goods and Services Tax (GST) $20 ETA Processing Fee Roundtrip Airfare From Sydney (SYD) to Cairns (CNS) Noir Girl Magic Passport Ready T-shirt (Australia Edition) **B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner**

EXCLUDED FEATURES

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 18 of 27 8009066756 (office) EXCLUDED FEATURES

International Airfare Airport Porterage Beverages - unless otherwise stated Gratuities/Tips Personal items such as phone calls, souvenirs, email, laundry charges, optional tours. Early Check-in or Late Check-Out - unless otherwise stated Optional Add-ons or Upgrades Blue Mountain Nature and Wildlife Tour $175 (Sydney) Hunter Valley Food, Wine, & Chocolate Tour $200 (Sydney) Cairns Full Day Kuranda Tour w/Lunch $200 Surcharge for Special Event Periods - Over these periods, you may incur a surcharge and suppliers may also carry additional terms and conditions. OPTIONAL TOURS

Blue Mountain Nature and Wildlife Tour $175 (Sydney) Hunter Valley Food, Wine, & Chocolate Tour $200 (Sydney) Cairns Full Day Kuranda Tour w/Lunch $200 CANCELLATION POLICY/REFUND POLICY

FINAL PAYMENT DUE ON OCTOBER 1, 2019. You will receive an invoice for your final payment via PayPal. Deposits and processing fee are non-refundable Cancellations received 90 days prior to departure will be 100% non-refundable. There will be no refund for unused land arrangements after departure. All cancellations required in writing and must be acknowledged by eBiz Travel. INSURANCE IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 19 of 27 8009066756 (office) Fun Facts

Sydney

State:New South Wales

Country:Australia

Sydney by the Numbers Population: 208,374 (city); 5,029,768 (metropolitan) Elevation: 19 meters / 62 feet Average Annual Rainfall: 122 centimeters / 48 inches Average January Temperature: 23°C / 73°F Average July Temperature: 13°C / 55°F

Quick Facts Electricity: 240 volts, 50Hz, AC

Time Zone: GMT +10 (GMT +11 Daylight Saving Time); Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST)

Country Dialing Code: +61

Area Code: 02

Did You Know? Sydney was founded in 1788 when a group of 400 settlers and 750 convicts arrived on the First Fleet from Britain. Convicts were sentenced to the Australian continent for crimes as small as stealing food. Although most know Sydney as the Harbour City today, many still use the nickname Sin City given its fascinating origin story.

More than 250 languages are represented in Sydney daily. Among the most popular non-English languages spoken across the greater metropolitan area are Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Greek.

Arguably the most iconic attraction in the city, the Sydney Opera House cost a total of AUD102 million to create, a whopping AUD7 million more than its estimated cost.

Orientation Sydney is the capital of New South Wales located on the southeastern Australian coast. It is approximately 286 kilometers (178 miles) northeast of Canberra and 163 kilometers (101 miles) south of Newcastle.

Information

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 20 of 27 8009066756 (office) Information

EMERGENCY SERVICES

The emergency phone number for police, ambulance or fire brigade is 000.

CLIMATE

Australia has the opposite seasons than the Northern Hemisphere. The summer months of December to February the weather in the north of the country is very tropical and experiences monsoon weather, whereas, in the southern States, it is a very dry heat and generally sunny. Over the winter months between June to August, the northern states are very dry whereas the south experiences its wettest periods with snow falling on the highest alpine regions in New South Wales and Victoria.

SHOPPING

Australia’s major capital cities have a variety of complexes to find a bargain. Whether it be funky boutiques, designer labels you’ll find them in a range of shopping malls, arcades, department stores, and local markets. Shopping hours are generally from 09;00am to 18:00hrs with late night shopping in major cities on a Thursday or Friday night.

BANKING

Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD) and has both notes and coins. Denominations of notes are $5 (pink), $10 (blue), $20 (orange), $50 (gold) $100 (green). Coins are 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 & $2. Currency exchange is available at hotels, banks and international Airports. The most commonly accepted credit cards are visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club Cards. Banks are open Monday-Friday 9am-4pm, with limited banks opening on a Saturday morning from 9am-1pm.

GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST)

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 21 of 27 8009066756 (office) GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST)

A 10% Goods and Services Tax is charged and for international visitors, this may be claimed back. If $300 or more has been spent in one store, and no more than 30 days prior to traveling from Australia a claim can be made at the departure area of an International Airport

TIPPING AND BARGAINING.

Hotels and restaurants do not add a service charge onto bills. Tipping is at your discretion and at more upmarket Hotels and Restaurants it is a general rule to add 10% of the bill for good service. It is not a general custom in Australia to bargain for goods.

HOTEL CHECK-IN AND SECURITY BOND:

Upon check-in, many hotels require a security bond in the form of a credit card imprint. Please ensure that your clients are aware of this requirement.

COMMUNICATION

The Australian official language is English. Languages other than English which are common in our communities are Italian, Greek, Cantonese and Arabic. Some sightseeing companies will offer their tours in a language other than English.

DRIVING

Australian’s drive on the left hand side of the road. A current drivers license must be held in order to hire a vehicle in Australia. Should the license be written in another language other than English, a certified English translation must be presented as well. Seat belts must be worn at all times. Speed zones should be adhered to as police cameras operate throughout Australia.

TIME ZONES

Australia spans 3 different times zones. Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) is GMT +10 and includes Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, Tasmania and Australia’s Capital Territory (ACT). Australian Central Standard Time (ACST) is GMT + 9 ó and includes South Australia and Northern Territory. Australian Western Standard Time (AWST) is GMT + 8 and covers Western Australia. Australian Daylight savings Time (ADST) is observed in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory. Clocks move forward an hour during (GMT +11) and usually occurs between the last weekend in October and finishes the last weekend in March.

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 22 of 27 8009066756 (office) District Guide

A city surrounded by water, Sydney is a fusion of spectacular architecture and white beaches. Set amongst native bushland and lush national parks, the key to this city's identity is its harbor.

Central Business District The Central Business District is a pastiche of quarters and boroughs. The multi-cultural nature of this city and its inhabitants ensures an authenticity that is at the heart of its liberal and embracing spirit.

Circular Quay is the gateway to the harbor. An active transport anchorage, the quay is adorned by architectural and national icons—including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House.

West of Circular Quay, discover the quirkily named Rocks. This is the original site of convict settlement in Australia, and boasts some of Sydney's best restaurants. Above The Rocks is Observatory Hill, a stretch of parkland with an 1858-built observatory that is still operational. Situated on the southeastern side of Circular Quay is the central business district's financial corridor. A mass of multinational conglomerates locate their Asia-Pacific headquarters here. Stately buildings such as the State Library of NSW and Parliament House are found in nearby Macquarie Street.

When locals use the term "the city center," they are referring to Pitt Street Mall, Market Street and a maze of interlinked arcades. Another central city icon is the architecturally striking Sydney Tower . The conveniently located Sydney Town Hall, inter-connected to Town Hall Station, allows easy access to the city's rail hub and also offers underground access to the fantastically opulent Queen Victoria Building.

In the southwestern corner of the city, Chinatown is a feast for the senses. This district is home to Market City and Paddy's Markets, where you will find the usual fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as some astonishing bargains.

Built to commemorate Australia's bicentenary, Harbourside is Darling Harbour's signature shopping and entertainment complex. Nearby are the Chinese Garden, the Australian National Maritime Museum, the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, and the Powerhouse Museum. Just up the road is the extravagant Star City Casino. Nearby, Cockle Bay Wharf is a sophisticated boardwalk of nightclubs, restaurants and live music venues.

On the Eastern side of Hyde Park is The Domain, an expanse of parkland that hosts the city's calendar of outdoor concerts. This area is full of attractions such Royal Botanic Gardens.

The Eastern Suburbs Oxford Street is the main artery in this district. This elongated street runs from the central business district in Darlinghurst and works its way into Paddington, past the sprawling Centennial Park to Bondi Junction. The street is famous for its art-house cinemas, cafes, bookshops and designer labels.

At the lower end of Darlinghurst is Kings Cross, Sydney's 24-hour red-light district. Amongst the crass strip joints and tattoo parlors are intimate jazz clubs, hip cafes and great record shops.

The East's harborside suburbs of Elizabeth Bay, Double Bay and Rose Bay culminate at Watson's Bay, which offers stunning views of the city. Savor the view from the nearby world famous Doyles on the Beach seafood restaurant. On the other side of this peninsula is South Head, the southern gate between Sydney Harbour and the open sea. Along the nearby coast discover Sydney's best-known and best-loved beaches, including Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte and Coogee.

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 23 of 27 8009066756 (office) discover Sydney's best-known and best-loved beaches, including Bondi, Tamarama, Bronte and Coogee.

The South The first fleet landed at Botany Bay, and the suburbs between here and South Cronulla Beach include the huge local government area, Sutherland Shire. The character of the south is typified by waterways and gardens, which lead to Sydney's southern boundary—the vast Royal National Park.

The Inner West Glebe and Newtown are the main suburbs in this district. The inner-west is crammed with restaurants offering international cuisines, new and secondhand bookshops, backpacker hostels, health food shops and traditional pubs.

Further west is Leichhardt, also known as Little Italy. Wander past Norton Street's shops, art- house cinemas and delicatessen-shops, which sell a selection of cheese, imported espresso machines and ceramic tiles.

The Greater West Homebush Bay, the center of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games is situated in the Greater West. ANZ Stadium and a host of sporting facilities are all close by. Neighboring Parramatta is the major transport and commercial hub of the west. Between Parramatta and the Blue Mountains (Sydney's western boundary) is Cabramatta—Sydney's Little Vietnam, and it is worth the trip for the great shopping and culinary experience.

The Upper North Shore Sydney's northwest corner intersects at The Hills District—a semi-rural region that is fast developing into a residential quarter. The leafy Upper North Shore is one of Sydney's wealthiest areas. Ku-Ring-Gai Chase National Park, situated in the center, is a beautiful spot for bushwalks or picnics.

The Lower North Shore Everything below Chatswood is the Lower North Shore. Some of the prettier spots are Balmoral Beach and Blues Point Reserve at the end of Blues Point Road. An essential stop is Taronga Zoo , a scenic animal sanctuary.

The Northern Beaches From beautiful Palm Beach, down through Whale, Avalon, Bilgola, Newport and Mona Vale Beaches—the northern beaches not only offer great surfing, but great sailing as well. Lush parks and gardens surround million-dollar holiday homes, making for an idyllic setting.

Dining and Drinking

Sydney is a city that enjoys good food and entertainment. The city's restaurants and cafes truly reflect its multicultural influence and diverse population. The choices read like an atlas, so enjoy authentic flavors and cooking styles from across the world.

Australian Cuisine Traditional Australian fare is reputedly a meat pie and a can of beer, and in keeping with tradition, legendary locations like Harry's Café de Wheels provide the best pies. Meanwhile bush-tucker,

which reflects the Aboriginal flavors of Australia—is only now featured on a handful of menus. It

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 24 of 27 8009066756 (office) which reflects the Aboriginal flavors of Australia—is only now featured on a handful of menus. It was not until 1993 that restaurants were allowed to serve Kangaroo meat. At Circular Quay, find solace in the miraculous cooking of acclaimed Chef Matt Moran, at Aria, a stunning restaurant that serves modern Australian fare. In the same area, Peter Gilmore's Quay is nothing short of an enigma, an award-winning Australian restaurant that offers dreamy views of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Other excellent choices include The Cottage Bar & Kitchen in Balmain, and the rooftop wonder Cafe Sydney. Seafood Being a harbour city, seafood is a main dining feature, and the Sydney Fish Market ensures a fresh and plentiful supply of barramundi, snapper, mussels, prawns, calamari and octopus. The seafood-serving king Doyles, is not only one of the oldest fish restaurants in town, it also has a fantastic view from its beachside location in Watsons Bay. Dine at the splendid waterside at the Flying Fish in Pyrmont, or the internationally-inspired Fish at the Rocks. Italian Cuisine The city's booming cafe culture has an overtly Italian influence. To sample some of the best coffee, head for Bondi Beach. Bar Coluzzi, bills, La Buvette and Tropicana are just some of the hip coffee spots. There are some central-city cafes also worth discovering. If you prefer tea however, then pay a visit to Sejuiced in Bondi Beach. Norton Street in inner city Leichhardt, is also known as Little Italy, and if you have a passion for pasta, this is the place to go to.

European Cuisine The European influence does not stop with Italy. Bistro Moncur offers some excellent French cuisine whilst Stanbuli reflect the Mediterranean flavors of Turkey and Spain, respectively. Sample Eastern European cuisine with a visit to Corner 75.

Asian Cuisine Asian cuisine is also very popular in Sydney. Chinatown in Haymarket, and the newer version in Chatswood, ensure a constant supply of excellent Chinese eateries. From massive yum cha (dim sum) restaurants such as Marigold Restaurant, to the Chinese Noodle Restaurant, aficionados of chop suey and roasted duck are spoilt for choice. Sydney's Asian cuisine also includes Malaysian, Thai, Singaporean, Vietnamese, Sri Lankan, Filipino, Indian, Iranian and Cambodian, to name but a few. Establishments such as The Malaya, and Lebanon & Beyond offer oodles of noodles, a suffice of rice, free tea and flavors to be savored.

Japanese Cuisine Then there is Japanese…with well-established trade links, Japanese food has a long-held tradition in Sydney's eating culture. Sushi, sashimi, noodles, tempura and teriyaki—it is all here. Sushi Suma and Raw Bar are some of the recommended venues.

Restaurants Per District In terms of restaurants per district, this is the basic rule—the western suburbs offer plenty of Cambodian and Turkish, whilst in the south, there is Greek and Lebanese. Head north for Indian, African and Japanese, and east for Indonesian and European. Dine with a view at The Boathouse and Catalina. Go vegetarian at Govinda's. Bars and Pubs Rulings in the late 1990s, allowing gambling in drinking establishments, have seen many pubs stripped of their traditional identity. Some pubs do, however, manage a mixture of everything, for example the Golden Sheaf in Double Bay offers gambling, pool, live music and a great outdoor drinking and eating area. There are still some traditional pubs, as well as some very trendy, modern ones. Also note—many pubs are called hotels—some offer accommodation, others are just drinking establishments.

For a taste of traditional drinking visit Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, as well as the Fortune of War

Hotel, The Dry Dock and Mercantile Hotel. Whilst Scruffy Murphy's is testament to the fact that

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 25 of 27 8009066756 (office) Hotel, The Dry Dock and Mercantile Hotel. Whilst Scruffy Murphy's is testament to the fact that Irish pubs are everywhere. Many pubs also serve great food. The Slip Inn has a noted restaurant, as does The Australian Heritage Hotel.

There are pubs dedicated to sport and pubs with beer gardens and beach or city views like The Coogee Bay Hotel. There are modern, gleaming bars with harborside locations such as Pontoon. There are live music venues, such as Bat & Ball Hotel, and pubs for lounge lizards including Burdekin Hotel. For that extra something enjoy some of the best Australian wines in the Grace Wine Bar.

So the list is endless, and whatever your poison—however you like to drink it, the Sydney scene offers a liquid for all tastes.

Entertainment

Sydney has a vibrant, world-renowned arts scene, with a diverse range of contemporary, classical and experimental performances. Many of the city's sports venues, such as the Allianz Stadium, Sydney Cricket Ground and ANZ Stadium are also utilized as arts and entertainment venues.

Performing Arts One of Sydney's major centers is the Opera House, where Australia's preeminent companies perform ballet, opera, music and theater. The city's selection of traditional theaters includes the dazzlingly baroque State Theatre. The renovated Capitol Theatre is all gold and Grecian statues and is the venue for long-running musicals. Nearby is the Lyric Theatre and the glitzy Event Center in Star City Casino. Popular Belvoir Street in Surry Hills and The Ensemble, over the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Kirribilli, feature well-known Australian actors. For something alternative, try The SBW Stables Theatre, Old Fitzroy Hotel pub theater and the Performance Space.

Other popular venues include The Bondi Pavilion Theatre for drama, the Enmore Theatre for concerts and the Seymour Centre for all kinds of performing arts. The City Recital Hall in Angel Place and the restored Customs House are welcome additions to the music scene. For jazz, head to the Basement at Circular Quay.

Cinema The city movie-strip is located near the Sydney Town Hall, with a cluster of Hoyts locations. Oxford Street's Chauvel features independent releases, while Cinema Paris shows IMAX blockbusters. For a summer evening under the stars, take a picnic to Centennial Park for the Moonlight Cinema, or Excite OpenAir Cinema, by the harbor at Mrs Macquarie's Chair.

Museums & Galleries The Australian and Powerhouse Museums are fun and educational. The National Maritime Museum has naval ships to explore, and Hyde Park Barracks houses the ghosts of former convicts within its history museum. The State Library of New South Wales is a treasure trove.

The Art Gallery of NSW, overlooking Woolloomooloo Bay, is one of Australia's premier institutions. The gallery features a collection of Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander works, as well as Australian, European, Asian and contemporary art. The Museum of Sydney has an innovative approach to educating visitors about colonial and indigenous history, and The Museum of Contemporary Art's international collection is housed in an imposing art deco building. In Surry Hills, the Brett Whiteley Studio Museum, was once his paint-spattered workshop. Jump on the ferry to The Manly Art Gallery & Museum to see approximately hundreds of paintings and displays

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 26 of 27 8009066756 (office) ferry to The Manly Art Gallery & Museum to see approximately hundreds of paintings and displays tracing the history of beach culture.

Nightlife Sydney's club scene is a movable feast, with venues coming and going as quickly as fashion trends. One of the perennial favorites is Home at Darling Harbour. Oxford Street is bustling with places frequented by a relaxed and friendly crowd, like Goodbar, which is pumping until dawn every weekend with live music and DJs. On a list of the city's best bars and pubs you will find SlipInn. Other popular venues include the Golden Sheaf and the iconic Beach Road in Bondi.

Sydney is one of the world's best capitals for the LGBTQ community. The scene is in Oxford Street and its surrounds. Stonewall has three floors of party, where they host many different events from regular DJ sets to full on drag shows. You'll find a happy, mixed crowd on the dance floor at ARQ nightclub. The 24-hour Judgement Bar is a popular spot for any time of the day or night.

Edwina Warder [email protected] page 27 of 27 8009066756 (office)