Winter Warmer @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour is offering this Winter Warmer accommodation special staying in an executive apartment including:

• Free Sparkling Wine 
• Free Chocolates
• Late checkout of 12 noon

$229.00* Sunday - Thursday, $349.00* Friday - Saturday (minimum two night stay)

Location: 132-136 Sussex St Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia
Phone: +61 2 9290 9200
Book this special online: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/298
Website: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/sydney-hotels/metro-apartments-on-darling-harbour-4



Terms and Conditions:

• Rates are based on two adults
• * Minimum two night stay 
• Offer is strictly subject to availability and may not be available for special event dates.
• Rates are not valid with any other offer.
• All other terms & conditions will be provided when making your booking
• Bookings are non-refundable.
• Offer valid until 30th June 2013

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour

Apartment Special

New images showcasing the spacious rooms of Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour, each Executive Apartment with magnificent floor to ceiling views of Darling Harbour. Wake up to breath taking views of Sydney every morning whilst being close to world renown Sydney tourism hot spots and the convenience of shops and best restaurants Sydney has to offer.

These loft-style one bedroom apartments are each equipped with kitchen so you can whip up a meal when inspiration strikes, laundry facilities, as well as ensuite bathroom, LCD TV with Foxtel channels, telephone, free WiFi to keep you connected and balcony.

Whether you're visiting Sydney for the first time or a well seasoned traveller, stay close to the best Sydney attractions such as: Sydney Aquarium, IMAX Theatre, Cockle Bay Restaurants, Maritime Museum, Chinatown - restaurants and taverns, Sydney Entertainment Centre, Sydney ferries and the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Top 10 Rainy Day Activities in Sydney/Darling Harbour

There's plenty to do in Sydney when it rains, including visitor attractions, museums, pubs, cafes, restaurants, shopping and much, much more.

We've put together a list of the top 10 things to do when it rains in Sydney. Read on...

1. Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck

We would say that this is a great thing to do in Sydney on a wet day, wouldn't we? But it's completely true! Visitors to the Sydney Tower Eye Observation Deck can look out across the entire city for the best views from the highest point in all of Sydney, come rain or shine from the comfort of the heated (or air-conditioned in the summer) internal Observation Deck.

2. SKYWALK at the Sydney Tower Eye

Yes - that's us again, but we're still telling the truth! SKYWALK is a truly all weather Sydney experience, where visitors can go one step further than the Observation Deck by heading out to take in the best sights of Sydney in the open air in all but the most extreme weather conditions. Strong winds and electrical storms are all that normally stop us heading out on SKYWALK, and to be completely honest, such cancellations are rare. There's nothing quite as exhilarating in Sydney than SKYWALK.

BOTH of the above Sydney activities come with our Weather Promise, meaning that in the event of bad weather, guests can get a FREE pass to return for another equivalent visit within 7 days. Find out more about the Weather Promise here.

3. Darling Harbour visitor attractions

There's plenty to see and do at Darling Harbour, Sydney's main entertainment and leisure precint, which is just a short walk along Market Street from the Sydney Tower Eye. Attractions at Darling Harbour include SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madame Tussauds Sydney, The Australian National Maritime Museum, IMAX Cinema, Powerhouse Museum, Kingpin and Strike ten pin bowling and countless restaurants, cafes and bars. Harbour cruises, tours and whale watching trips also depart from Darling Harbour (some of these activities are seasonal). You can save money on seeing many of these great Sydney visitor attractions with our heavily discounted Sydney attractions passes.

4. Shopping in Sydney

Sydney is without doubt one of the best places to shop in the entire southern hemisphere. From internationally renowned designer labels through to home-grown, locally produced goods, Sydney has it all. Modern shopping centres, such as the Queen Victoria Building and Westfield Sydney directly beneath us here at the Sydney Tower Eye, combine with markets in suburbs such as The Rocks, Paddington, Glebe, Bondi and many more, to offer a truly ecletic, world-class shopping experience for locals and visitors alike. There are few other cities in the world that can offer the breadth and quality of shopping like that of Sydney.

5. Australian Museum

For many people across the world, iconic Sydney epitomises Australia, so it's perhaps fitting that the Australian Museum is located here in Sydney - just a short walk across Hyde Park from the Sydney Tower Eye and SKYWALK. Opened in 1827, the Australian Museum offers visitors a journey through Australia's history, showcasing everything from remarkable fossilised remains, flora and fauna, aboriginal culture and exhibitions, such as the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition.

6. Drinking and partying in Sydney

We Aussies love our pubs, beer and a good shindig, so it's only polite to embrace this culture with us during your visit to Sydney - everyone's welcome! From historic pubs, such as The Lord Nelson and the Hero of Waterloo on The Rocks, to stylish city bars and clubs like the legendary Ivy and the Establishment on George Street, Sydney offers a social scene to die for. Local beers, famous Australian wines and cutting-edge cocktail trends mix together to create the best night out - or nights out - of your life!

7. Eating out in Sydney

Sydneysiders know it, and visitors find out quickly upon arrival: Sydney is food heaven. High end Aussie contemporary restaurants, seafood, sushi, Asian, Italian, South American, Central American, African - everything you can imagine and more, Sydney will endulge your every fancy. Even fast food tastes better in one of the world's best looking cities. Be sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment on a rainy day though, otherwise it could be burger and fries in the rain with the seagulls on Circular Quay.

8. Run to the hills!

OK, we said 'things to do on a rainy day in Sydney', but one of those things to do, if the rain persists, is get out of Sydney and head for them there hills! The truth is you can escape the city and be up in the Blue Mountains within 90 minutes if you get a good run in the traffic heading west. The pretty mountain towns of Katoomba and Blackheath are perhaps the most popular places to visit, due to their jaw-dropping views over the Three Sisters and Govett's Leap respectively. Better still, another couple of hours into the mountains will take you through the Capertee Valley. It's a little known fact, but the amazing Capertee Valley is actually the world's longest canyon, and the second deepest - just after the Grand Canyon. It's truly mighty.

9. Do a Shark Dive in Sydney

Well, it's raining and you're going to get wet anyway, so why not get REALLY wet and jump in the oceanarium at Shark Dive Xtreme at Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary with over half a dozen huge sharks, some measuring up to 3 metres in length! Australia and sharks go hand in hand - there are more species of shark in Australian waters than anywhere else on earth - so to hop in with them is to truly sample the real Australia. There are huge turtles, gigantic stingrays and other monsters of the deep all waiting to have a swim with you. Discounts are available when you book online on the official Shark Dive Xtreme website. When in Rome...

10. Stay at the hotel

Why not? After all, Sydney boasts some of the most comfortable, well appointed and flat-out luxury hotels you're ever likely to lay your head in. There's the super high-end suites at the Star Casino hotels for the super high rollers, and the jaw-dropping harbour views from the upper levels of the Park Hyatt, overlooking both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House - not too shabby. There's always cheap hotel deals to be had online at any one of the dozens of other Sydney hotels dotted around the city centre, surrounding suburbs and beaches. Cheap accommodation deals are a bit of a Sydney thing, and a quick Google of hotel deals in Sydney can yield a real gem, especially if you're visiting midweek or outside peak periods (i.e. school holidays).

Metro Apartments Specials

There's always something to do in Sydney, no matter the weather, but the best way to start your Sydney visit is without doubt to head on up to the Sydney Tower Eye and SKYWALK to survey our amazing harbour city from over 250 metres above its buzzing streets.

TOP 8 Things To Do This School Holidays

The NSW school holidays are less than a week away, not sure what to do or where to take them during the break? See below for the top 8 school holiday ideas that will be fun for the kids AND the grown ups :)

8. Disney On Ice: Princesses & Heroes 
What could be more magical than combining Disney princesses and ice skating together?
Disney on Ice presents Princesses and Heroes show, for 4 days only! Book your tickets for the 10 to 14th of July shows this school holidays. You'll get to see your favourite princesses, heroes and villains - from Ariel the Little Mermaid and Prince Eric, to Princess Jasmine, Aladdin, Cinderella, to Belle, Snow White, Tiana and the brand new member Rapunzel - skate, dance and create magic on ice right before your eyes.

Cost: from $28.50
When: 10th - 14th July 2013
Where: Allphones Arena, Sydney Olympic Park
Tickets: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx?sh=DISNEYIC13
Official Website: http://www.disneyonice.com.au

7. Wildlife Sydney Zoo
If you love animals but want to stay in Sydney, visit the Wildlife Sydney Zoo, where you'll get to see all sorts of weird, wacky and wonderful iconic Australian animals. From kangaroos, koalas and kookaburras to possums, lizards, echidnas, frogmouths to quolls - they even have creepy crawlies like giant cockroaches, bull ants and venomous snakes (behind glass of course!). This is sure to be a great day out for the family, with animals and reptiles for the whole family to enjoy.

Cost: from $14.00
When: Open Daily from 9am - 6pm (last entry STRICTLY 5pm)
Where: 1-5 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour, Sydney 2000 Australia
Tickets: http://www.wildlifesydney.com.au/tickets/#single-visit

6. Sydney Sealife Aquarium aka Sydney Aquarium
If you want to see marine and fresh water animals without getting wet, then Sydney Sealife Aquarium is your ultimate destination! From dugongs to huge sharks, massive stingrays, majestic turtles, jellyfish, penguins, sea dragons, thousands of tropical fish, enormous crabs and more, you can experience it all at Sydney Sealife Aquarium this school holiday. The aquarium is like no other place, offering underwater views of sharks and other marine life, to exhibits of freshwater rivers, tropical North waters such as the impressive Great Barrier Reef exhibit and other amazing Australian coastline waterways - all without leaving the city.

Cost: from $15.40
When: Open 365 days a year - 9am to 8pm. Last entries are STRICTLY 7pm.
Where: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Tickets: http://www.sydneyaquarium.com.au/tickets/

5. Madam Tussauds
Do you have older kids? Got teenagers? Then they'll love getting up close to their favourite stars and celebrities at Madam Tussauds wax museum at Darling Harbour! At the same time, they'll get to meet the identical likeness of famous historical figures and villains. Get your photo taken with your idols and other world famous figures, and see what it might be like if you were ever to come across these celebrities in real life!
Here's a short list of some of the wax celebrities you'll see: Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Lady Gaga, Leonardo DiCaprio, Bruce Willis, Marilyn Monroe, Johnny Depp, Rihanna, Michael Jackson, Kylie Minogue, Delta Goodrem, Slim Dusty, Hugh Jackman as Wolverine and more!

Cost: from $15.40
When: 9:00am to 8:00pm daily (last admission 7pm)
Where: Aquarium Wharf, (next to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium) Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW 2000
Tickets: http://www.madametussauds.com/Sydney/OldBuyTickets/Default.aspx#sthash.jQXnZPCD.dpuf

4. Luna Park Sydney
Want to have wacky, fun rides at an amusement park? Then check out Sydney's iconic Luna Park! There you'll find rides ranging from dodgem cars, giant ferris wheel, flying saucer spinning ride, tumble bug, giant slide called Devil's Drop, spinning spider, mirror maze, wonky walk, to the favourites wild mouse and tango train and much much more! They even have fun rides for the little ones: space shuttle, magic castle and whirly wheel!

Cost: Varies - see here for more info http://www.lunaparksydney.com/buy-tickets
When: Varies - see here for more info http://www.lunaparksydney.com/open-hours
Where: 1 Olympic Dr, Milsons Point NSW 2061, Australia
Tickets: http://www.lunaparksydney.com/buy-tickets

3. Powerhouse Museum
The little kids and the big kids will both love the Powerhouse Museum this school holidays! The museum is jam packed with activities and games for all ages. The Magic Garden is for 2-8 year olds and they'll get to fish in digital ponds and have loads of fun catching butterflies. For the older kids, experience what it's like to fly into space with the Zero Gravity Space Lab where you can experience the illusion of weightlessness!

Like to build stuff? Try the All-day Science Workshops where kids from ages 8-13 can be budding young scientists and engineers where they learn and play with activities designed around architecture. More into chemistry? Want to play with stuff that's slimy, explodes, oozes and sticks? Then Science On Show will sure to prove a hit where kids of any age can learn and play with substances that do weird and wacky things! A bonus for the parents - the museum has FREE WiFi throughout the venue and the cafe.

Cost: from $6.00 (Children under 4 go in free)
When: 10.00am – 5.00pm every day except Christmas Day.
Where: 500 Harris St, Ultimo (behind Chinatown and Darling Harbour)
Tickets: http://www.powerhousemuseum.com/visit/hours&charges.php
Kids Activities: http://play.powerhousemuseum.com/whats-on/

2. Sydney Tower Eye aka Sydney Centre Point Tower
If you're not afraid of heights and want to experience the ultimate views of Sydney, you can't go past The Sydney Tower Eye. Wow the kids and add a bit of fear factor with this amazing walk coupled with fantastic views of the city. With a range of tours and walks available, they have packages to suit those of the not-so-faint hearted to people who are afraid of heights. Try the Skywalk Tour where you'll be walking on glass, 268 metres above Sydney streets directly beneath your feet for a bird's-eye view of the bustling city below.

Cost: from $10.50
When: Open 364 days a year from 9am to 10:30pm  (last entry STRICTLY 9pm)
Where: Corner of Pitt Street & Market Streets, Sydney 2000 Australia
Tickets: http://www.sydneytowereye.com.au/tickets/#single-visit

1. IMAX Theatre Sydney
If you're feeling cold and a bit lazy, but want to offer the kids a fun day while getting to sit down and enjoy something, then you can't go past watching a movie or a documentary at Sydney's IMAX Theatre - featuring the LARGEST screen in the world! For the ultimate viewing experience, try a 3D show where objects in the screen seem to come to life right before your eyes. Pre-show ceiling lights also add an aura of amazement for the little ones as the ceiling mimics a clear twinkling night sky. Watch your favourite movie and relax for a family day out.

Cost: from $16.00
When: Monday - Sunday 9:30am to 10:00pm
Where: 31 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour NSW 2000, Australia
Tickets: http://www.imax.com.au/prices/


Need affordable, family-friendly accommodation close to all these top 8 attractions around Sydney?
Metro Hotels offer family-friendly comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close these venues and major public transport hubs. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (close to IMAX, Wildlife Zoo, Sealife Aquarium)
• Metro Hotel Sydney Central (close train/bus or taxi ride to all listed attractions - except Olympic Park)
• Metro Hotel on Pitt (close to Sydney Tower Eye & quick train ride to Luna Park @ Milson's Pt)
• Aspire Hotel Sydney Ultimo (close to the Powerhouse Museum)

Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Our city also offers a free bus service (it's a completely green bus) that loops around the main streets of Sydney. Many of the attractions can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.

If you'd like to arrange a stay in a Metro Hotel around Sydney, here are some specials available for booking: 

Spoil Your Child Hotel Special @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central
Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering this Spoil Your Child Special for $215.00 including:

•  One nights accommodation in a Superior 2 Double bedded room  up to two adults and two children (children aged below 12 years)
• Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
• Goodies Bag on arrival for each child.
• Daily 24hrs internet
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/315

School Holidays Special @ Metro on Pitt
Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this School Holidays Special from $205.00 per night (maximum 2 people per package) including:

• One nights accommodation in a Superior Queen room for up to two adults and two children (children aged below 12 years) 
• Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children   
• Daily 24 hours FREE internet
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/281

Powerhouse Museum Family Accommodation Package @ Aspire Hotel
Aspire Hotel Sydney is offering this Powerhouse Museum Family Accommodation Package for the Best Available Rate + $20.00 including:

• Accommodation for up to two adults and two children
• DVD Player Rental and 2 Dvds (from our select range only)
• Car Parking (for the duration of your stay)
• Staying in a standard room
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/276

Qantas Wallabies play the British Irish Lions

Qantas Wallabies team to play Lions in first Test named

6/20/2013
By Qantas Wallabies Media Unit

The Brumbies pair of Ben Mowen and Christian Leali’ifano, alongside the NSW Waratahs outside back Israel Folau, will all make their international debuts after today being named in the Qantas Wallabies starting line-up for Saturday’s opening Test of the DHL Australia 2013 Lions Tour at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.

Leali’ifano, who starts at inside centre, and Folau, wing, join an exciting backline which sees the Gold Coast-raised James O’Connor team with Queensland halfback Will Genia as the inside back combination.

The selection reunites a combination which last appeared on the brief Spring Tour which bookended the 2011 season, where the pairing started against both the Barbarians at Twickenham and then Wales in Cardiff, with both matches being won.

Injury has hindered both since, with O’Connor being ruled out of all of last year’s Test programme, firstly due to a lacerated liver, and then by a hamstring complaint.

Genia featured until the mid-point of the inaugural Castrol EDGE Rugby Championship, signing off as the third captain employed by Australia during an extraordinary year when he damaged knee ligaments during the record fifth consecutive success over South Africa, which saw Australia retain the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate in Perth.

The inside back combination reflect personnel changes of a magnitude that just six of the starting XV from Australia’s most recent outing; the 14-12 win over a Warren Gatland-prepared Wales at Cardiff at the end of 2012, will feature in the run-on side for the Tom Richards Cup opener.

These players are fullback Berrick Barnes, centre Adam Ashley-Cooper, No 8 Wycliff Palu, lock Kane Douglas and the props, Ben Alexander and Benn Robinson.

A product of Kingaroy in country Queensland, the 27-year-old Barnes excelled from the back for Australia last year, where he was one of five fullbacks used by the Wallabies for the campaign, but featured from the position in six of the final eight Tests, missing the other two through injury.

Barnes, who in Cardiff became just the 37^th player to appear in 50 Tests for the Wallabies, was Australia’s leading point-scorer in 2012, with the 110 he scored, boosting his career tally to 193. 

O’Connor [208 points from 37 Tests], Barnes, Leali’ifano and replacement back Kurtley Beale [80 points from 36 Tests] all provide specialist goal-kicking prowess within the match night squad.

The night will be a massive occasion for all of the Wallabies, but none more so than Brumbies skipper Ben Mowen, who will become the 869^th player to represent Australia.

He does so in the state where he was raised, in front of a huge contingent of family members.

Starting on the blindside flank, from where he will call the lineouts, Mowen has led the Brumbies with distinction for the last two seasons, steering them to the top of the Australian conference in this year’s Super Rugby standings. 

He had earlier appeared for both Queensland and New South Wales prior to heading to Canberra.

Provincial team-mate Leali’ifano makes a belated debut, a year later than expected, after he appeared certain to be Australia’s flyhalf in the series against Wales this time last year, before cruelly breaking his ankle weeks out from the start of that tour.

The gifted 25-year-old has started exclusively from inside centre this term and claims that Test spot, with his experienced Brumbies team-mate Pat McCabe running from the bench as he completes a return after his Spring Tour came to a shuddering halt when he broke a bone in his neck. 

Leali’ifano will become Wallaby number 868 in what will be the 549^th Wallaby match to be recognized as a Test by the Australian Rugby Union while the selection of the 867^th Wallaby will complete an incredible opening to the rugby union career of Israel Folau, who will join dual-international ranks less than halfway through in his first season in the game.

A Queensland State of Origin and Australian Kangaroo representative in rugby league, Folau joined the NSW Waratahs this season after two years in Australian Rules Football with Greater Western Sydney.

Folau has featured at fullback in Super Rugby but moves to the wing for his Test debut, with the 34-times-capped Digby Ioane having recovered from a recent knee operation in time to gain the other winger’s berth

Up front, Douglas has won the race to partner the returning Wallabies skipper James Horwill in the second row, with Horwill’s second row partner at the Reds, Rob Simmons, backing the pair from the subs bench.

The youngest member of the Wallabies squad; 21-year-old Liam Gill, has also made the bench, where he will act as understudy for Michael Hooper, the team’s Player of the Tour from last year’s Spring trip to Europe.

Hooper featured on 13 occasions during his remarkable freshman season as a Wallaby while Gill’s Test introduction was no less impressive, appearing in eight Tests.

The Australian starting front-row features a combined total of 180 previous Test appearances, with Stephen Moore (76) the most capped Wallaby hooker, while just one prop has featured in more Tests than the 56 played by Benn Robinson.

The trio is completed by Ben Alexander, whose 49^th appearance will place him on the verge of becoming just the fourth Australian prop to complete a half century of Tests.

Although the run-on line-up features three who are playing their first Tests, the starting XV is still an experienced one, boasting a combined 519 previous Test appearances.

The Qantas Wallabies team to play the British & Irish Lions in the opening Test for the Tom Richards Cup on Saturday June 22 at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane (kick-off: 8.05pm AEST,

Darling Harbour Apartment

Sydney 07/07/13 tickets still available

http://myrugby.rugby.com.au/myrugby/images/ARUimages/2013/site/rugbychampionship/ANZStadium.jpg

http://www.131500.com.au/events/british-and-irish-lions-v-qantas-wallabies

Wangdrak Rinpoche, Khenpo and Abbot of the Tibetan Gebchak Nunnery

24/06/2013 - 13/07/2013

Wangdrak Rinpoche, Khenpo and Abbot of the Tibetan Gebchak Nunnery, is returning to Australia in 2013, following his successful visit last year. He will be visiting Sydney and Melbourne from 24 June to 13 July.

Wangdrak Rinpoche on his last Australian visit.

In his role as Abbot, Rinpoche oversees the training of the nuns of Gebchak Gonpa, as well as being responsible for their spiritual and material well being. On this extended visit he will share stories of the nuns, meet new students and lead weekend retreats and extended meditation sessions.

Below is the list of Wangdrak Rinpoche's 2013 Australian engagements:
 Darling Harbour Apartment

Sydney and Blue Mountains:

The Wisdom of Experience – The Feminine Practice Tradition of Gebchak Gonpa
Friday 28 June 2013 ~ 7pm
Vajrayana Institute
9 Victoria Avenue, Ashfield, NSW 2131

Ground, Path and Fruition from the Perspective of Feminine Wisdom
Saturday 29 June 2013 ~ 10am – 4pm
Yeshe Nyima Centre
49 High Street, Harris Park (Parramatta), NSW 2150

Meditation on Buddha Nature
Sunday 30 June 2013 ~ 10am – 4.30pm
4/52 Govett's Leap Road, Blackheath, NSW 2785

The Feminine Practice Tradition at Gebchak Gonpa
Monday 1 July 2013 ~ 7pm
Kunsang Yeshe Centre
61 Rutland Road, Medlow Bath, NSW 2785



More Information:

Email: gebchakaustralia@gmail.com
Phone: Sydney – Leona (02) 47877666 or (mob) 0408448739

Supanova

A Geeky day out

Running from 21 to 23 June 2013 in the Dome and attached halls of Sydney Showground, Olympic Park is Supanova. Bringing the worlds of comic books, television, film, literature, gaming and anime together in an eclectic and colourful mix of costumes, celebrity guests and tons of exhibitors, Supanova is not to be missed for the pop culture fan or anyone who wants a fanciful good time.

The floor at SUPANOVA

Supernova Apartment

The guest list is far too exhaustive to go into, but this year includes Carrie Fisher, Margot Kidder, David Hasselhoff and Karl Urban. You'll also see the stars of Merlin, Torchwood, Dr Who, comic writers, artists, authors and special effect gurus.

Get along to guest panels, signings and photos, Anime & cartoon screenings, trivia, Cosplay karaoke, tons of competitions and too many exhibitors to count.

Whether it be Star Wars, Star Trek, Dr Who, or anything culturally relevant in the last half a century, or Anime – this is for you.

The Best Views of Sydney

It sometimes seems as if the locals of Sydney are obsessed with views: the view of the Harbour, the view of the Opera House, or the best view in town. In a city famous for its picturesque outlooks, the question remains as to how mere mortals without the prime real estate in town can enjoy the sights.

The obvious answer? Get to the highest point that you can find.

For a thrilling experience as well as a stunning view, it might be a good idea to take a ride on the Sydney Seaplane. For $170 per person, with a minimum of two adults, you can take off from Rose Bay and take fly over Sydney's beaches, including Bondi.

It is also possible to extend the simple 15 minute package in order to see the Northern Beaches. The trip will cost $235 per person, with a minimum of 2 adults, but the flight will take you on a much more scenic journey.

If you aren't a fan of flying, or you baulk at the cost for such a short trip, you might consider visiting the Gap Park at Vaucluse, where you can take in the full glory of the cliffs of the headlands of Sydney - before wandering down to the beaches for some fish and chips.

Best View Apartment Darling Harbour

If, however, you are more interested in a view of the city, your best bet is one of the famous Sydney landmarks: Centrepoint Tower. As Sydney's tallest free-standing structure, the Centrepoint Tower (also known as the AMP Tower or Sydney Tower) is the perfect location to take in the urban landscape of the CBD.

The Centrepoint observation deck is equipped with 18 binoculars so that you can get a close look at the major landmarks. The tickets will set you back $24.99 for adults and $14.99 for children, but the view will be not be easily forgotten.

City Mile Dash Darling Harbour

City Mile Dash is a challenging and exciting lunchtime corporate speed race created by Cancer Council NSW. A challenging distance never attempted by any other racing event, designed to settle some old rivalries.

 City Mile Dash Apartment

It’s the chance to challenge your workmates and whip the other corporate competitors around a 1 mile (1.6km) course right in the heart of Sydney. The inaugural City Mile Dash held in 2011 was hugely successful – attracting over 800 participants and raising over $108,000 for Cancer Council NSW.

Alarmingly, 1 in 2 Australians will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. But it doesn’t have to be this way – in fact 30% of cancers are preventable. It’s about time we did something about this!

So, are you ready for ‘Sydney’s Fastest Lunch Break?’ We’re challenging all men and women to run, jog, sprint, wobble, or dash to the finish line for just one mile. Raise the most funds as a team and you could win great prizes! Raise the most money individually and secure your spot in the ‘first-class’ leaders race ahead of the pack. Click here to see winning tactics

When
Friday 14th June at 1pm
Register and collect your bib on the day
Where
Barangaroo Sydney
Entry gate via Hickson Rd.
Click here for Google maps

“The City Mile Dash is a run like no other. An opportunity to ‘dash’ alongside the beautiful Sydney Harbour where you can race your mates and challenge other company teams for corporate bragging rights. It will be fast and furious and a great way to spend a Friday lunchtime…what could be better? It’s all for a great cause – raising funds to help fight cancer. Join us at Barangaroo for the Cancer Council City Mile Dash!”
Race Director, Graeme Hannan from X-Tri

Do you often skip a lunch break?

Recent UK research shows prolonged time spent sitting at a computer increases risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke. And further, you’re missing precious sunlight by not going outdoors during the day. In turn, this affects your body’s production of melatonin, which affects your mood.
Did you know that just 30 minutes of exercise each day, even just going for a walk, won’t only make you feel good but it will also reduce your risk of these serious diseases. Do your part – not only to help fight cancer but also for your own health benefits. Get up from behind your computer, register to the City Mile Dash and help beat cancer!

Top 4 Attractions in Sydney on a Rainy Day

Sydney has quite the reputation for glorious sunshine and great beach weather, but there are times also where we experience some wet down periods too.

Just when you thought venturing around Sydney during the rain is a major let down, there are some things you can still do and see. The great thing about these attractions is they're kid friendly.

Here's the top 4 things to see and do in Sydney on a rainy day.

1) Take an Opera House Tour

One of Sydney's most iconic landmarks, the Sydney Opera House is an amazing building architecturally from the outside, but did you know that amazing architecture is also just as good if not better from the inside?

Image Copyright Sydney Opera House Tour Website

You can take a tour of the Sydney Opera House at $35 per adult or if you hold a concession card it's $24.50. There are also family passes at $90 with each additional child at $12.50.

For full pricing terms and conditions click here

Darling Harbour Apartment

2) Visit the WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo

If you can't venture out in the rain, then the next best thing is to be indoors and still able to see the native Australian wildlife all under the one roof. Housing hundreds of iconic Australian animals including koalas, kangaroos, snakes, wallabies, birds and even a huge Saltwater Crocodile.

Wild Life Sydney Zoo is located conveniently located in the heart of Sydney Darling Harbour and offers heaps of fun for adults and kids. To find out more and plan your visit, head over to their main website for more details on pricing and family discounts.

3) Meet Celebrities at Madame Tussuads

That's right Sydney now is the home of it's very own Madame Tussuads and what better way to spend a rainy day than catching up with a few celebrities?

There are so many celebrities the paparazzi would have a field day! Just take a look at the different sections of figures you'd be able to see here.

The all new attraction is located at the Aquarium Wharf in Sydney's Darling Harbour, see here for the map details. There is also limited all day parking nearby in two convenient locations.

And finally, a classic that has been revamped.

4) SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium

For as long as I can remember as a little one, Sydney Aquarium has always been a favourite of mine and recently it has been revamped and it's bigger and better!

This one is sure to be a treat with the kids as you get to bring them on a journey through amazing sea life and discover over an incredible 13,000 animals from 700 different species including the world's largest variety of sharks and rays.

Tickets range from $26 per adult if you purchase online, and child (4-15 years) are $15.40. If you hold a concession you only pay $25. And a family pass is $60 which covers 4 members including a maximum of 2 adults.

See more of their online special pricing here.

And there you have it, there are plenty of attractions and things to do, see, touch and explore with the kids and gets everyone out of the miserable rain in Sydney.

End Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

End Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour - Metro Hotels

Madame Tussauds Wax Museum Sydney ~ Celebrities, Saints, Royals & Villains

Madame Tussauds is a wax museum in London and has expanded with branches in Sydney, Amsterdam, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Las Vegas, Shanghai, Berlin, Washington D.C., New York City, and Hollywood. The current owner is Merlin Entertainments Group. It was founded by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud and was formerly known as "Madame Tussauds. Madame Tussauds is a major tourist attraction, displaying waxworks of historical and royal figures, film stars, sports stars and other celebrities.

Marie Tussaud was born as Anna Maria Grosholtz in 1761 in Strasbourg, France. Her mother worked as a housekeeper for Dr. Philippe Curtius in Bern, Switzerland, who was a physician skilled in wax modelling. Dr Curtius taught Tussaud the art of wax modelling. One of the oldest surviving sculptures by Curtius is of Madame du Barry.

Tussaud created her first wax figure, of Voltaire, in 1777. Other famous people she modelled at that time include Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Benjamin Franklin and casted death masks of victims of the French Revolution. Following Dr Curtius's death in 1794, she inherited his vast collection of wax models and spent the next 33 years travelling around Europe. Her marriage to François Tussaud in 1795 lent a new name to the show: Madame Tussaud's.

Madame Tussauds wax figure

As a result of the Napoleonic Wars, she was unable to return to France, so she travelled throughout Great Britain and Ireland exhibiting her collection. From 1831 she took a series of short leases on the upper floor of "Baker Street Bazaar". By 1835 Marie had settled down in Baker Street, London, and opened a museum.

Today, the wax museum is a wonderful place to get up close to your favourite celebrities, see the Royals and view life-like famous historical figures and people of note.

List of sculptures in Sydney's Madame Tussauds:

• Angelina Jolie
• Brad Pitt
• Lady Gaga
• Leonardo DiCaprio
• Bruce Willis
• Marilyn Monroe
• Johnny Depp
• Rihanna
• Michael Jackson
• Kylie Minogue
• Delta Goodrem
• Slim Dusty
• Hugh Jackman as Wolverine
• Iron Man
• ET
• Jackie Chan
• Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's
• Alfred Hitchcock
• Oprah Winfrey
• Rove McManus
• Ned Kelly
• Captain Cook
• Madam Tussaud herself
• Nelson Mandela
• Barack Obama
• Dalai Lama
• Queen Elizabeth II
• Albert Einstein
• Jimmy Barnes
• Keith Urban
• Dannii Minogue
• Miranda Kerr
• Eric Bana 
• Mark Webber
• Donald Bradman
• Layne Beachley
• One Direction (coming October for 3 months only)

Location: Aquarium Wharf, (next to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium) Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW 2000
Opening Times: 9:00am to 8:00pm daily (last admission 7pm)
Tickets: http://www.madametussauds.com/Sydney/OldBuyTickets/Default.aspx

Coming to Sydney to see Madame Tussauds? 

Need accommodation near Madame Tussauds?

Metro Hotels have two hotels and one self-serviced apartments within Sydney CBD and within walking distance to Madam Tussauds at Darling Harbour. The hotels are 2-5 minutes walk to major train stations and close to buses and taxis that can take you to Darling Harbour.

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
• Metro Hotel Sydney Central
• Metro Hotel on Pitt

If you'd like to arrange a stay in a Metro Hotel or Apartment, here are some specials available for booking: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special

Luminous at Darling Quarter Darling Harbour

Darling Quarter is now home to the world's largest permanent interactive light display - Luminous.

Launched on Friday, May 18, the city side of Tumbalong Park - Darling Harbour will be illuminated from 6.30pm, six nights a week.

This interactive installation is free to view and is sure to delight families and children.

Darling Harbour Apartment

The 'canvas', designed by renown lighting designer Bruce Ramus, covers some 557 windows and spans a distance of a remarkable 150 metres. The energy efficient LED digital facade was manufactured by architectural lighting specialists, Klik Systems.

On Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, Luminous displays 'soft' images, such as clouds or waves and on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, various artworks are displayed.

The public are invited to interact with the installation via the two touchscreen consoles or alternatively, you can use a smart phone or tablet. Simply log on to Luminous at Darling Quarter to create your very own light show.



Over the coming months, the Luminous public space will be home to a range of special events - so head to the Darling Quarter Precinct website for all the latest news and offers.