New Years in Sydney, Australia

(3 Reviews)

Anthony Warrior

Atlanta, GA
Group Travel Agent

Choosing me as your group travel agent opens the door to an exciting and seamless adventure that’s more than just a trip- it’s an experience you’ll share, laugh about, and remember together. I know that group travel is about creating connections a...

Start of the 2019 New Year

On my first visit to Sydney, I was captivated from the moment I stepped off the plane. Sydney, Australia had always fascinated me, even though it’s not the first city to ring in the New Year. Year after year, millions flock to Sydney to witness one of the most spectacular fireworks displays in the world, and I’ve always wanted to be part of that experience. My wife, Michelle, knew how much this meant to me and fully supported the adventure. Finally, my dream vacation began to take shape. By carefully managing our hotel points, we booked a 10-night stay at the perfect location: Marriott's Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection. You wouldn’t believe how close we were to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and other main attractions.


Next, it was time to lock in our flight. Do you remember that old commercial, "Delta is Ready When You Are"? Well, I can confirm – they truly were. We flew round-trip out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and for such a long flight, Delta Comfort+ was the way to go. Not only were the seats great, but the extra legroom also allowed us to stretch out, settle in, and enjoy the ride there and back.


As part of my training as a travel agent, I meticulously planned all our daily activities, factoring in start and end times, transportation, and experiences that we would both enjoy. From our arrival in Sydney, everything fell into place seamlessly, and we could fully enjoy each moment without worry.


One of the highlights of Sydney was exploring The Rocks, Sydney’s historic quarter, filled with cobblestone streets, bustling pubs, and lively street performers. The area’s colonial-era charm gave way to a festive energy as people gathered for the new year's eve countdown. We made out way to the waterfront just in time. The sky was a deep midnight blue, and the harbor was packed with boats twinkling with fairy lights, all waiting for the main event. The countdown began, and the excitement was contagious. When midnight struck, the first firework exploded in a blaze of color, lighting up the entire harbor. It was mesmerizing - the bursts of reds, blues, and golds reflecting off the water, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge illuminated in waves of brilliant light. The sheer scale of the show was breathtaking, and for those few minutes, it felt like the entire world was celebrating together. The fireworks seemed endless, filling the sky with color and sound. Each explosion was grander than the last, and I found myself cheering along with thousands of others, united by the joy of welcoming a new year in one of the world’s most iconic locations. By the end, I was exhilarated, left with a memory of Sydney at its most vibrant.

The following days were spent exploring Sydney’s beaches and neighborhoods. At Bondi Beach, I watched surfers catching waves with the same energy that had filled the harbor on New Year’s Eve. From Bondi’s golden sands to the trendy cafes of Surry Hills, Sydney revealed itself to be a city of contrasts, where natural beauty and urban life blend seamlessly.


That trip left a lasting impression on me. I realized that Sydney was more than its landmarks and stunning views; it was a city with a lively spirit, a place that knew how to celebrate, to live fully. Watching those fireworks, surrounded by people from all over the world, was the perfect way to experience Sydney for the first time. I left feeling as though I’d caught a glimpse of the city’s heart, already planning when I could return to feel that magic once more.

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