Sydney

I woke up in Sydney to a wonderfully horrible bout of homesickness. That's right, Nicole missed home. It didn't happen when I went to college or EVER, but I actually missed all you American fools. But you're not here for my ramblings. The photos await!

Yes, I went to the Opera House. Yes, I took tons of pictures. To get there, I walked around the point at Mrs Macquarie's Chair. It was the perfect lookout for the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 

After that lady's chair, I walked through the Royal Botanic Gardens of Sydney which were absolutely beautiful. They have plaques describing each plant and what area of the world it comes from. I counted about 12 different types of palm trees in one area alone.

Botanic Gardens

Botanic Gardens + the Harbour Bridge in the background

FINALLY, I made it to the Opera House! I marched right up to it and put my hand on the damn thing because I'm in freakin Australia. It was smaller than I imagined, but still stunning to finally stand next to. 

After weaving my way through the throngs of tourists (I refuse to be considered one- haven't busted out the selfie stick...yet), I relaxed in the Circular Quay with a drink, an overpriced mediocre salad, and great views of the bridge.

The next day, I met up with Ann-Marie and we explored around Chinatown and Darling Harbour. The harbour was pretty busy at night with restaurants, a group ballroom dancing, and fist-bumping Jersey Shore-type clubs.

Sydney's Chinatown

Darling Harbour