This past week in Sydney, I got to experience two ends of the spectrum of experiences that the city has to offer. On Friday the lively and rowdy crowds of Sydney’s rugby scene and on Sunday the creative and artistic work highlights of the Sydney Opera House.
Visiting Allianz Stadium to watch a rugby game was amongst one of my favourite memories made thus far on our trip. Having never seen the sport live, I can honestly and sincerely say that the game is an amazing experience and the fans are so passionate about their teams. Everyone who we met (including a posse of about 14 year old boys who quickly became our best friends) were so friendly and outgoing, helping us understand the somewhat foreign game. The Waratahs won on a walk off try as time expired and we got to experience some of the most excited and electric fans and celebrations. Allianz Stadium provided the perfect venue for the match as the new stadium was clean and welcoming and was super easy to access by public transport.
The Sydney Opera house is undoubtedly one of, if not the, most unique piece of architecture that I have ever seen. Getting to hear and see about both the interior and exterior features of the opera house was eye opening into just how much work and effort was put into the creation of Sydney’s crown jewel. The building being designed by an foreign architect then Australia’s mistreatment of that same architect to the point which he felt uncomfortable to even return to the country was very surprising. Furthermore, the project’s expenses of over 100 million dollars was shocking as the country only allotted 7 million dollars originally. With that said though the building and its grounds were stunning from the massive concert hall with its magenta felt seats and the huge arching tiled semi-domes that make of the exoskeleton of the building.
I was very pleased with my week in Sydney and the diversity of activities which I was able to participate in, but I look forward to having some family come visit next weekend and a potential day trip this week
