The first day included a massive walk around downtown Sydney. It rained pretty much the entire day, but I refused to let that spoil the start to a new adventure.
I played the part of "obvious tourist #50,000" when I made my way into Sydney. I went straight for the Opera House. I'm not ashamed because even on a rainy day it was incredibly special.
This was incredibly close to my hotel and I was central to most everything I wanted to see on the first day. This was essentially the first real sight I saw. Let me tell you, the Harbour bridge is massive. A good place to watch the ships pass by.
This little bird friend hung out with me in the rain for a solid hour as I rested my feet. He was patient as I tried to get a lovely portrait of him. Stay dry bird-o!
When I started my walk, I really had no plan for the day. Luckily, that seemed to pay off because I stumbled across this cathedral just outside of the Royal Botanic Gardens. A good place to dry off and enjoy quiet atmosphere.
I found a quiet place in the back to soak in the atmosphere. It was peaceful and just what I needed after a long series of flights. This is also the spot I realized I needed a wider lens.
There's apparently a Hyde Park in Sydney! It's green and lovely in the rain. If it wasn't for the rain, I would have spent a lot more time here laying in the grass and looking up and the sky.
Almost cruelly the sun came out late that evening. The observatory was an interesting spot that I ended up frequenting often as I walked back to my hotel. Would sightsee here again.