Sydney, Australia

Break part two! Sydney was probably number one on my list of places to visit while studying abroad in Australia. Calling it beautiful is an understatement.

When I stepped out of the airport and got my first views of the city, I was instantly reminded of Chicago, which was really comforting to me. The crowds, skyscrapers and business are all the similar, but have a European twist.

Despite the rain, my friends and I were determined to make the best of the small amount of time before break ended.

Of course, all the major tourist areas were our first priority. We were lucky enough to catch a young tour guide that showed us around and knew all the history and fun facts behind the city and monuments.

All the action was on the harbor, they had several lookout spots that viewed the bridge, opera house, and dozens of fancy cruise ships. I went into semi-shock standing on the steps of the Sydney Opera House. We made a completely full day out of walking around and gazing at all the sights.

On Saturday, the locals were running their weekend tradition, the markets. Either you’re there featuring your own specialty, or you’re shopping around for something unique and artsy. They had everything from baked goods to Aboriginal paintings.

We filled the rest of the time trying out restaurants, different neighborhoods and reccommended night spots. I can definitely say that I will never forget the memories I have made over this break. There is something liberating and empowering about being young, living your life and seeing the world.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”  -Mark Twain