Sydney: Contemporary Art Museum & Manly Beach.

I don't have a great deal to report from the last two days, but with a bit of spare time I thought I would blog anyway :) Sydney was always the place I had chosen to relax a little and have a few days of doing very little. That's why I'm here almost two weeks... I have seen the bulk of what I wanted to see, I am more or less just  seeing out the last few days with minimum effort! The weather has picked up again, with today nearing the 30c mark again...

Yesterday, I visited yet another art museum ( I really don't know what's going on...) which was located in 'the rocks' area by the harbour. The Museum was split into two parts. The traditional Australian art section and the special exhibition of 'Taboo' art (most of which was racist or discriminatory...very odd!) Once again, it was far more interesting than I had imagined and I enjoyed it. Even more so than the art designer I visited with.. Even better... it was free entry!

Today I went to Manly beach again. This is my personal favourite of all the beaches I have visited (albeit only 3). This beach seems more of a treasure for the locals, and the fact you have to take a ferry from the city center and take in the incredible views; makes it my favourite. The promenade and streets here and full of people roller blading, skating and cycling. Apparently it's the Manly way! The beach is a longer stretch than the others too, making it hard to get too packed. The waves here today were 'average' according to a life guard, but they were the biggest I have seen. I almost rented a body board but I stuck with swimming in the end. I've never got into the sea and been glad the water is cold. When the sun is beaming down on you at 30c, the cold water is refreshing. It's so relaxing to just stand in the water. I literally think I could have done it all day... Those last few sentences weren't just to annoy you all, promise.

Hostel life is certainly interesting. They are not places for people who want a good 8 hours sleep every night. Or peace and quiet. I've seen some weird things, met some annoying people, but had a good laugh too. The people in my room are all English and a good laugh... I've been quite lucky with my room, as some of the others look like hell. One new guy is a bit of a nutter though and has decided he is going to attempt to sleep on the common room sofa, as he is out of cash. Good luck with that one. Most of my room mates are spending far longer here in Australia and are looking for work etc.   Not all of them like Sydney. I for one think it's lovely, but perhaps I would feel different if I was staying here long term. It's quite a small city, and everything is very busy and quick. I have heard Melbourne is even more chilled out and more relaxed. I had originally planned to visit, but due to lack of funds I had to leave it. Maybe one day!

That's about all for now. New Zealand is fast approaching, but I have realised it is only a week on Sunday until the US! Not long now... very excited. But first I must travel back in time... More on that next week. Hooked you all there.