We arrived in Sydney early morning and waited for our lift - Work and Travel were supposed to be picking us up. We waited. And waited. And waited some more until we realised they weren't coming, we couldn't get in touch so we got the shuttle bus to our hostel and later got our money back for this. We received our packs which included our mobile sim and discounts that we get when showing our YHA/Work and Travel cards. This has come in handy for a number of things.

We have been to Manly a few times since we have been here - it is one of the more gorgeous places in Sydney. You get the ferry from Circular Quay (Wharf 3) to Manly Wharf. It's $6.20 one way (double for a return) and it is about 30 minutes away. There is a beach right next to the wharf or several others to choose from. There is also a surf beach which you can get to by stepping out of the wharf and walking straight ahead down the main street to the end - you can't miss it from there.

The Rocks is a more historic part of Sydney. It is a lovely, peaceful place to stroll around. There are many little cafe's and depending on which way you go, a gorgeous view of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. On the same day we visited The Rocks, we walked around to the Opera House and through to Botanic Gardens which are also beautiful. There are many different ways to walk around the gardens so you can sepnd as much or as little time as you want in there.

The best thing that i reccommend to do is SURF CAMP AUSTRALIA. We did the Rip Curl camp (www.surfcamp.com.au) and it was honestly the best thing i have ever done. I was a little apprehensive before i went as i'm not usually fond of the Ocean, however at 7 mile beach it is so spectacular it's hard not to grow to love it. The camp itself is in Gerroa - a small village of about 500 people - the beach no more than a 5 minute walk away along a river. We attended for 3 nights, 4 days and it only cost $495. That included hiring of wetsuits and surf boards, accommodation, 3 meals per day, lessons and pure entertainment from the instructors. They are all so lovely there and not only help you as an instructor, but are absolutly hilarious. I never knew surfing would be so much fun but it was fantastic! It is quite tiring however and you will sleep and eat like never before!