How to even scratch the surface of a large city in a few days? Recommendations help, based on other’s experience and local knowledge. Inevitably you get drawn to the ‘cultural experiences’ and the “must-do” sights. Knowing you are part of a tourist circus and to relax and soak in the atmosphere. And to look at the buildings old and new.
Not a criticism as you can spin for days and see nothing. After last night’s photo shoot by the Opera House we got to experience Friday night Circular Quay atmosphere- quite a few posh clothes on show as standard. That pseudo-sophisticated code was also evident today as we perused the Art Gallery’s two galleries and the Botanic Gardens.
Enjoying the Art Gallery – particularly the immersive “Tank” audio-visual 7 screen show The Rites of When- also made me realise how galleries point you to interpret the art through their views and bias. Notes pointing out what the artist intended – which we may know from the modern art, but earlier paintings surely not? And if you need notes to understand then is that not something the artist hasn’t made obvious? So I came away thinking the old “I don’t know what I like but I like this” approach is solid. A lot was great, some just pretentious. I suspect the latter gets oohed and aahhed over most – just like the impenetrable Waiting for Godot.
The Botanic Gardens are a busy oasis near the business centre. Weddings galore have flocked there to drink the settings. Nicely central, they were founded on the land of the first farm (1788) on the Australian continent in 1816 by Governor MacQuarrie. “I say chaps, I know we’re busy trying just to live, but do let’s build a nice botany garden, near the bay. Whilst you’re at it – can you scum convicts please build my wife her own private road with a bridge too?” The 1816 bridge, Australia’s oldest, remains in situ in the gardens.
There’s a wedding on in St Mary’s Cathedral – completed in 1928. Fairly traditional inside, as is the wedding party’s clothing. Hope they had a great day.
Saturday night is party night so we’re up late at 9:40. Tomorrow a climb….
Travelling reflections 