Mon 22 Feb - Sightseeing in Sydney

With Charlie now back at work and leaving the flat at 7.30 am it was Emma who was to be our guide for the next 3 days. Our first stop was the Museum of Australia where we spent a very informative couple of hours learning about the history and beliefs of the indigenous aborigines and the effects of European colonisation. Additionally we viewed an exhibition of wildlife photography that was on display. Next it was off to the QVB, or Queen Victoria Building in downtown Sydney for a planned ‘afternoon tea’ with Shirley, Dave, and his son Jason. The location was set up in a similar manner to the Pump Room at Bath with white tablecloths and waiting staff, dainty teacups and sandwich/cake stands. However the prices were eyewatering – 37 dollars (about 25 pounds sterling) for tea and cakes per person! Needless to say, after some discussion with the management some of us were allowed to share the sandwiches and cakes! For a country that prides itself in its informal and laid back attitude this place came as a bit of a shock.
After bidding farewell to Shirley, Dave and Jason we returned to Manly where Mike had a quick dip in the irresistible sea before we four headed downtown again for our special meal at the Café Sydney. Charlie had acquired a very sporty BMW cabriolet for the evening so we were able to pose in style whilst Charlie demonstrated the searing acceleration of this little hot rod! Our evening at Café Sydney was unforgettable as we sat outside on the terrace overlooking Circular Quay with the Harbour Bridge on our left and Sydney Opera House on our right, eating incredible food and drinking gorgeous wines. What a climax to our stay!