Tag Archives: travel

Vivid Nights in Sydney – Lights, Laughs & City Love

If you’re in Sydney and haven’t experienced Vivid Sydney 2025 yet, you’re missing out on something truly special. I went with my friend the other night, and it was an unforgettable way to see our city in a whole new light—literally.

Kicking off our night at Circular Quay with the Opera House lit up by David McDiarmid’s cool “Kiss of Light” projections—talk about celebrating love and inclusion! Plus, the Harbour Bridge looked amazing nearby, making it the perfect start to our adventure.

From there, we hopped on a ferry to Barangaroo, exploring the installations along the way. Barangaroo Reserve was a highlight, boasting a concentration of light features that felt like stepping into a dream. The interactive displays and immersive experiences made it a standout spot.

We continued our journey through Darling Harbour, where the water reflected the dazzling lights, creating a mesmerising scene. The atmosphere was electric, with live performances and a buzz of excitement in the air.

This year’s theme, “Dream”, invites everyone to explore the boundaries between reality and imagination. With over 42 large-scale projections and installations spread across five festival zones—including The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line, and Martin Place—there’s something to captivate every visitor.

Notably, the Light Walk is completely free, making it accessible for all to enjoy the stunning displays after 6pm each night.

Vivid Sydney 2025 runs until Saturday, June 14, so there’s still time to immerse yourself in this luminous celebration. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s creativity and community spirit.

So grab a family or friends, bundle up, and let the lights guide your night.

Note: For more details on installations, food options, and event schedules, check out the official Vivid Sydney website.

M from Nepaliaustralian

XOXO

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Hello from Tasmania: Our Summer Holiday Adventure

Our summer holiday this year took us to the charming city of Hobart, Tasmania, and we couldn’t have had a better time! From the moment we boarded our flight, we were filled with excitement, and by the time we landed, Hobart had already started to win us over.

Hobart is such a unique place—nestled between the mountains and the sea, it’s a city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. It’s smaller and quieter than some of the major Australian cities, but that’s part of its charm. For our family, it was the perfect spot to unwind and explore together.

We stayed in a lovely Doubletree by Hilton in the city, which gave us easy access to everything Hobart had to offer. The kids absolutely loved it—they could run around freely, and it felt safe and peaceful. The peaceful surroundings gave us the space we needed to recharge, yet we were still close enough to all the action.

As for the food, we were in heaven! Hobart has so many incredible options—whether we were grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a leisurely meal. We enjoyed everything from fresh seafood a to delicious local treats.

On one of our days, we ventured out to the Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum—a fascinating experience for the whole family. The kids were fascinated by the life-sized husky statues and learning about the Antarctic explorers. We also took a stroll through the beautiful Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, where the kids had a blast running around and exploring the stunning plant displays.

We also visited Bruny Island, a short ferry ride from Hobart, where we enjoyed the incredible views, wildlife, and delicious local cheeses. Another memorable stop was Port Arthur, a historic site with such a powerful story. Walking around the grounds and learning about its history was both educational and thought-provoking for the whole family.

One of the most exciting moments was when we watched the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Hobart. The kids were mesmerised by the dazzling display over the harbour, and it was such a special way to ring in the new year together.

We couldn’t leave Tasmania without exploring Salamanca Market—the vibrant stalls filled with local produce, crafts, and handmade treasures were fantastic. The kids loved browsing through the goodies and picking out a few souvenirs.

Another unforgettable adventure was our visit to the Tall Trees Walk and Russell Cascade waterfall. The towering trees made us feel so small in the best possible way, and the kids had a blast hiking through the forest. The Russell Cascade Waterfall walk, with its lush greenery and stunning views, was a perfect way to connect with nature and unwind.

Another highlight was the breathtaking Mount Wellington. We drove to the summit, and the views were nothing short of spectacular. The kids had fun hiking around, and we enjoyed the panoramic vistas of Hobart, the Derwent River, and the surrounding wilderness.

Throughout our trip, it was the little moments that made it special: watching the kids discover new things, sharing meals at cozy cafés, and taking in the scenery. Hobart may be a small city, but it’s full of charm and adventure, and it’s a place we can’t wait to return to.

Hobart, Tasmania—thank you for the memories! It was the perfect place for our summer holiday, and we can’t wait to see where our next adventure will take us.

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Take care,

M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO

A Family Day Out at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Our recent trip to Tasmania was filled with incredible experiences, but one of the highlights was spending half a day at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens in Hobart. As a family of four, we’re always looking for places where both adults and kids can enjoy themselves, and this garden turned out to be perfect for all of us.

From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by lush greenery and beautifully maintained paths that seemed to lead us into a different world. The kids immediately dashed off to explore, thrilled to find so much open space where they could run around and burn off their energy.

One of the first spots we visited was the Japanese Garden, and it completely stole our hearts. The tranquil ponds, delicate wooden bridges, and the soft rustle of the leaves created such a peaceful vibe. My husband and I took a moment to sit on one of the benches, soaking in the calmness while the kids excitedly pointed out the koi fish swimming gracefully in the pond. It was one of those rare moments where everyone was happy and content in the same place.

Another highlight was the Tasmanian native plant collection. We spent time admiring the unique and diverse flora that this island is known for. It was amazing to see plants we’d never encountered before, and the kids had fun trying to guess the names (with some hilarious results).

The Subantarctic Plant House was a bit of an adventure in itself. Stepping into the cool, controlled environment was like visiting a miniature version of Tasmania’s subantarctic islands. The kids found it fascinating, and we all learned a lot about the unique ecosystems of these remote places.

The gardens are so vast and varied that there was always something new to discover. From colourful flower beds to the aromatic herb garden, every corner offered a little surprise. We even found a lovely spot to sit down and enjoy some snacks we’d brought along, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

What made this visit truly special wasn’t just the stunning scenery but the chance to slow down and connect as a family. Watching the kids laugh and run freely while we explored together was such a joy. It felt like we’d hit pause on the busy-ness of life and stepped into a place of pure calm and beauty.

By the time we left, we were all feeling refreshed and inspired, with plenty of photos and happy memories to take home. The kids even asked if we could visit again next time we’re in Tasmania, which says a lot considering their usual attention spans!

If you’re ever in Hobart, I can’t recommend the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens enough. Whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or on your own, it’s a place that offers something for everyone—a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and fun.

Please follow me on Instagram! and Please follow me on TikTok to stay updated on my adventures.

Take care,

M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO

A Family Adventure to Somersby Falls: Embracing Nature on a Drizzly Day

There’s something magical about the sound of raindrops tapping against the leaves, the fresh earthy aroma of a damp forest, and the gentle mist that cloaks everything in a veil of mystery. Our recent trip to Somersby Falls in the Blue Mountains was just that—an enchanting blend of nature, adventure, and family bonding, all under a soft drizzle that added to the charm of the day.

We set off with our backpacks loaded with essentials—snacks, water, raincoats, and an adventurous spirit! Despite the drizzle, the kids were buzzing with excitement, and their curiosity about the waterfalls kept the energy high throughout the drive. The walk to the falls is relatively short and easy, though the rain made the rocks a bit slippery. A good pair of non-slip shoes was a lifesaver. The kids loved hopping over puddles and pointing out tiny streams trickling down the rocks, which had sprung to life thanks to the rain.

As we descended the stairs and heard the distant roar of the falls, we knew we were in for a treat. The sight of water cascading down the mossy rocks was breathtaking, even more so with the mist from the drizzle adding a dreamy effect. We spent hours exploring the area, and the kids were thrilled to spot small critters and interesting leaves along the way. The natural pools near the falls became a point of fascination—they dipped their hands in the cool water and watched the ripples dance across the surface.

The drizzle didn’t deter us; instead, it made everything feel more adventurous. We shared laughs as the kids tested their “rainproof” jackets and marvelled at the droplets that sparkled like diamonds on the greenery. After a while, we found a sheltered spot for a snack break, listening to the calming sound of the falls and soaking in the serene atmosphere. It was a reminder of how beautiful and refreshing it is to step away from screens and schedules to connect with nature and each other.

A few tips for anyone planning a similar adventure: wear waterproof jackets and sturdy shoes, pack light snacks, and walk carefully on slippery rocks, especially with younger kids. Most importantly, embrace the weather—a little rain adds to the magic.

The drizzle didn’t just make our trip to Somersby Falls memorable; it made it magical. Watching the kids explore with wonder and sharing simple joys as a family reminded us why we love these little adventures. If you’re looking for a day out that blends fun, relaxation, and a touch of nature’s magic, Somersby Falls is the place to be—even on a rainy day. In fact, especially on a rainy day.

Please follow me on Instagram! and Please follow me on TikTok to stay updated on my adventures.

Take care,

M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO

The Newmarket Room Restaurant review

For my birthday this year, my hubby surprised me with a lunch date at The Newmarket Room Restaurant. It turned out to be an unforgettable experience with amazing food, a quiet and cosy ambiance, and impeccable service.

We kicked off our lunch with some refreshing mocktails. I opted for a Strawberry Mojito that was perfectly sweet, tangy, and refreshing, while my hubby chose a Tropical Paradise blend (pineapple and passionfruit)—a fruity delight with just the right hint of citrus.

Entrees: A Perfect Start

  • Chargrilled Octopus: Tender, smoky, and seasoned to perfection. The slight char added a delightful depth to its flavour, and it paired wonderfully with a tangy dressing.
  • Lamb Cutlet: Juicy, perfectly cooked, and bursting with flavour. The herb crust was crisp and aromatic, complementing the succulent meat beautifully.

Mains: A Culinary Feast

  • Chicken Roulade: Stuffed with herbs and cheese, the roulade was moist and full of flavour. It was served with a creamy sauce that tied all the elements together.
  • Barramundi Fish: Fresh, flaky, and cooked to perfection. The buttery lemon sauce elevated the natural flavours of the fish, making every bite heavenly.
  • Crispy Eggplant: As a vegetarian option, this dish was a standout. The eggplant was light and crispy on the outside, tender inside, and paired with a tangy tomato-based sauce that was simply divine.

Dessert: Birthday Bliss
For dessert, we indulged in a Dark Chocolate Mousse as my birthday cake. It was rich, velvety, and decadently chocolatey. The mousse was topped with a hint of sea salt and fresh berries, creating a beautiful balance of flavours that ended the meal on a high note.

Final Thoughts
The Newmarket Room Restaurant exceeded all my expectations. The food was absolutely delicious, with flavours that showcased the chef’s creativity and attention to detail. The ambiance was intimate and relaxing, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion.

Thank you, hubby, for making my birthday so memorable! 💕 If you’re looking for a place with incredible food and a serene atmosphere, I’d highly recommend checking it out.

What’s your favourite go-to restaurant for a celebration? Let me know in the comments! 😊

Please follow me on Instagram! and Please follow me on TikTok to stay updated on my adventures.

Take care,

M from Nepaliaustralian
XOXO