Down Under

January 24th, 2008

Here is a travelling tip that maybe isn’t the most obvious for all of us European dwellers, but worth a mention nonetheless… If you ever happen to be on the other side of the world (as I happened to be earlier this month) Sydney is definitely worth the journey! Not only is this city beautiful (and warm), but it is the most kid-friendly place I have ever been.

Every slightest step has either a ramp or an elevator next to it and every restaurant brings out a highchair for you, without being asked. They also automatically bring out pens and paper (and sometimes toys), which is a huge bonus as it really cuts down on the amount of stuff you need to cart around with you. I was even in a very chic designer boutique with a girlfriend of mine, taking our time looking at dresses, and my daughter was contently lying on the floor drawing away with pens and paper provided by the boutique.

If you think about it, this is actually a very clever marketing trick. We all love to go shopping and take the kids with us, and I guarantee I spent more money in that place than I normally would have because I did not have a toddler hanging off me!

There are some beautiful parks right in the centre of the city, but our favourite attraction was the beach! Sydney’s many beaches are stunning and so easy to get to. Some of the beaches have waves and some don’t, and most of the big ones have a kid’s playing area with a paddling pool.

Such a shame Sydney is so far away from Paris as it would be one of my favourite city destinations for kids.

-Emilie

Entry Filed under: Holiday, On the Go / Travel