Safe to say nobody is immune to Australia's charm.
Irish-born, Australia-based stylist Aideen Feely discusses why Sydney is king no matter what time of the year.
How would you describe Sydney?
Its cosmopolitan yet natural beauty covers the coastlines. A playground for foodies that has sun all year round. A city where public art is encouraged and where everyone calls you 'mate'.
What would be the best cultural experience in Sydney?
A day spent at one of Sydney’s Northern beaches watching surfers flock to catch a wave while eating Jackfruit burritos with a beer or two in hand.
What does the perfect night out in the city entail?
While sipping martinis on the 36th floor of the Shangri-La Hotel overlooking circular quay is a great way to start your night, it’s incomplete without a visit to The Rocks.
Laneways of small bars offering live music and an impressive list of boutique wines.
When is the best time to visit Sydney?
Late spring or early autumn is when you’ll beat the crowds and keep cool from the heat of mid-summer.
Where is the perfect spot for a healthy brunch?
After a morning of browsing the stores of some of Australia’s top designers, enjoy Insta- worthy dishes at Bill’s restaurant in Surry Hills. Famous for zucchini fries topped with nigella seeds and drizzled with yoghurt.
What is your favourite thing about living in Sydney?
If I’m not scratching off yet another exhibition from my to-do list, somewhere off the next stop is lush gardens to set down with a book and enjoy a whole lot of me-time.
Dress code?
Australian style is relaxed and effortless but it’s not all barefoot and bohemian dressing. A vibrant midi dress paired with white sneakers or a denim skirt co-ord will be just as comfortable. Just think Hailey Bieber.
Where can you source the best coffee in Sydney?
Just steps away from Manly waterfront, coffee experts at Rollers Bakehouse won’t disappoint when it comes to brewing coffee, hot or cold. Warning, the sushi-style flaky pastries on display, you won’t be able to resist.
Where would go to get a taste of Ireland in Sydney?
Besides aisle five at Coles supermarket where they do Barry’s tea bags and packets of Tayto, Irish bar PJ O’Briens is where you will find a hearty meal and just enough craic to make you feel at home.
One Australian habit everyone should adopt when visiting?
Everyone gets up really early to exercise. It could be the pastel sunrises or the yoga teacher who looks like Chris Hemsworth that gets them out of bed but it’s something worth trying.
What is one tourist attraction you can justify visiting despite giving into the cliche?
It’s cliché and the one place you will continue to take out your camera whenever you see it.
The Opera House - images will do it no justice so instead appreciate its architecture over a glass of prosecco at the opera bar.
Best spot to satisfy a sweet-tooth in Sydney?
The Grounds of Alexandria, it’s like walking into Charlie and the Chocolate Factory but it’s much prettier. Stalls and restaurants fill the gardens with tasty treats that look too good to eat.
This article originally featured in the November issue of Irish Tatler magazine.
Main image @aideenfeely
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