TDN Weekend

The InterContinental in Double Bay is a favourite accommodation option for reg- ular horse racing visitors, located around 20 minutes by taxi from Sydney Airport. The Eastern Suburbs area is popular for its range of restaurants, vibrant nightlife and down-to-earth Aussie pubs: horse racing and rugby union will always be showing at The Oaks and the Woollahra Hotel. Other popular hotels include the Lang- ham and Shangri-La located at The Rocks. Originally Sydney's convict settlement with a reputation for drunken debauchery, broth- HOVDQGXQVDYRXU\FKDUDFWHUV{7KH5RFNV{LV now home to artisan markets, friendly pubs and some of Sydney's liveliest celebrations. An introduction to Sydney should begin with an obligatory trip to Circular Quay and a cocktail at the Sydney Opera House. Opened in 1973, the Opera House was de- signed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon who won a competition with his visionary 'sails' design. The Government slightly under- estimated the building costs, with the $7 million budget blowing out to $120 million – ultimately a fair price for a truly beautiful, instantly recognisable national icon. For those keen to have a bird's eye view of Sydney, the Harbour Bridge climb at dusk is highly recommended. This is no simple walk across a bridge – the climb goes up and over the arches with spectacular 360° views from the top; slightly gut-churning if you're un- comfortable standing 60 metres above sea level on a metal plank. After working up a fear-induced appetite, bridge-climbers can savour a superb range RIƬQHGLQLQJH[SHULHQFHVLQWKH6\GQH\ Harbour precinct. Hatted (the Australian equivalent of Michelin-starred) restaurants ZLWKLQDƬYHPLQXWHZDONRIWKHPDMRUODQG- marks include Aria, The Bridge Room and Quay. One of the top Sydney restaurants, Ben- QHORQJ RƪHUV VSHFWDFXODU YLHZV RI WKH Harbour Bridge from inside the Sydney Op- era House. The menu represents the best

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