The story so far ...

Emma and I have been friends for almost 17 years. We met at college and have been friends pretty much ever since.
I've been living in Australia since 2002. I love my life down under but I miss my best friend terribly.
But finally, she's making the 25,000 mile round-trip to Sydney to hang out with me for a week - and see the sights.
It'll be wonderful no-matter what we do, but I want it to be a trip neither of us will never forget.
So here's the plan ...

Friday March 5th

We're going to be staying local with a delicious brekkie at the New Deli cafe in Marrickville, before heading into the city to check out two of Australia's biggest icons - the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
We'll play the sightseeing by ear depending on jetlag, but will be having an early dinner at my local Vietnamese restaurant.

Saturday March 6th

Leisurely morning, followed by early afternoon at the Observatory Day Spa in the city.
Once we've had our fill of pampering, we'll be heading to cocktails at arguably Sydney's most impressive cocktail bar The Summit.
Once suitably watered, we'll be catching top Aussie comedian Brendan Burns at Sydney's Comedy Store.


Sunday March 7th

We'll be heading to Maroubra Beach late morning for a BBQ with David, Richard and families before heading home for an afternoon of relaxation.


Monday March 8th

A leisurely morning taking in Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach and other Eastern Suburbs beaches before grabbing a drink and bite to eat at Watsons Bay.
From there we'll be making our way north west a couple of hours to the Hunter Valley, the premier wine region in New South Wales.


Tuesday March 9th

A day morning of wine tasting followed by lunch at the Champagne House and hopefully an afternoon chilling out on the balcony of our lodge in the Brokenback Ranges.

Wednesday March 10th

Head back to Sydney mid-morning, nothing planned for the rest of the day (as yet) but dinner at night at Blancmange in Petersham.

Thursday March 11th

Leisurely day, wander through Newtown for a few drinks before heading to Britpop Indie night Loaded in Kings Cross for a night of dancing.

Friday March 12th

Back into the city one last time to take a water taxi to Aqua Dining - a lovely restaunt with a stunning view - before grabbing a water taxi back to Circular Quay and heading home to pack :-(