In which I make a resolution

[serinde]

I have decided, determined, and resolved that I shall not approach my next vacation as the Allies approached Operation Overlord, which had been my usual wont. For our upcoming trip to the Antipodes, I will not make detailed plans of what points of interest we need to hit on which days for greatest efficiency, complete with scheduled & defined meal locales and other hysterics. I shall instead treat it as a vacation, where I shall wake in leisurely fashion[1] and, over a relaxing intake of (reputedly-excellent) coffee and pastry, discuss with my Beloved Husband what we feel like doing that day.

I make this declaration because a) I'm getting way too much like my mom, particularly when A Plan is deviated from; and b) for the sake of my pooky, who is starting to get a hunted look whenever I nag him for "So what do you want to doooooo when we go?".

[1] As leisurely as I can, anyways. On vacations I tend to be about like a kid on Christmas morning, snapping awake at the crack of dawn and bouncing on the bed to wake everyone else up in my sheer excitement at YAY NEW STUFF YAY. Steve hates this, too.

Comments

[syringavulgaris.livejournal.com]

We have two weeks in total (incl. the Endless Flights to and from), so something like 5 days in Melbourne, a day or two driving up the coast, and remainder in Sydney.

[querldox.livejournal.com]

If you really want to wing things, I used a site called wotif.com which has discount hotel rates across Australia...but only starting 28 days out.

Both Sydney and Melbourne have zoos that are worth seeing. I only went to the Sydney Aquarium (right downtown in Darling Harbour) and it was quite good.

Melbourne is quite easy to get around via their extensive tram system. Pick up a pass for it.

Do not even think of playing poker at the Star City Casino in Sydney; the rake is insanely high. Crown Casino in Melbourne is reasonable.

I recommend doing the Sydney Bridge climb, which does have to be reserved in advance. It's not particularly physically challenging (although obviously not recommended if you have significant fear of heights). The only caveat is that I think it's priced a bit on the high side, but it's also an experience you really can't get anywhere else.

The Royal Botanical Gardens are right next to the Sydney Opera House and make for a nice break from the city.

The Chinatowns in both cities are worth hitting.

One option for lodging that's a lot more common in Oz is the serviced apartment. Essentially, it's what it says; an apartment complete with full kitchen, often washer and dryer, etc. Just doesn't get maid service every day and just has a basic reception desk in the downstairs lobby. I stayed in a couple when I was there and was quite satisfied; they also tend to be more spacious than hotel rooms.