About Sydney Expert

Who is Sydney Expert? Born and raised in Sydney, Paula is a certified tourism professional with over 20 years of experience helping visitors discover the best of the city. As an accredited member of the Australian Society of Travel Writers and a founding member of Sydney Greeters (part of the International Greeter Association), she combines … Read more

Sydney Walking Tour Apps

These Sydney walking tour apps are a great way to explore the city on a budget. We have downloaded and tested all the apps here to make sure they do what they say they do. Read on for our reviews of the best apps for walking in Sydney.  Every time I start planning a holiday … Read more

Should you book a Vivid Sydney Cruise

Vivid Sydney cruises offer water views of harbour light installations, with prices from $49 BYO experiences to $289 luxury dining packages. But before you book, you should know that while cruises offer unique views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge lights, you’ll miss many of the festival’s ground-level installations. This guide breaks down exactly … Read more

The Best New Hotels in Sydney

It’s been a while since we covered new hotels in Sydney and I am pleased to say the last two years have seen some fabulous new properties open their doors in the harbour city. We have toured, eaten at or stayed in almost all these hotels, so I can share my thoughts with you today. … Read more

Discover 25 Fun Things To Do In Parramatta in 2025

From the popular things to do in Parramatta to things best known by locals, we have found plenty of reasons to spend some time exploring Sydney’s second city. Today we encourage you to head west to Sydney’s second-biggest city, a mixing pot of culture and history where you will find a ton of food, fun … Read more

14 Newcastle Beaches You Will Love

Almost any of the Newcastle beaches on our list would fit nicely on a list of the best beaches in NSW. In fact, a couple of them are. This city, just a few hours north of Sydney, is a beach lover’s paradise. It also features historic ocean baths and boasts a costal walk to rival … Read more

Which are the Best Hostels in Sydney in 2025

Trying to decide on the Best Hostels in Sydney is no easy task. There are more than 45 backpacker hostels to choose from why wade through endless lists when we have done the hard work for you. As a Sydney local who has worked with backpacking travellers for almost two decades, I have a pretty good … Read more

Sydney Mardi Gras: A Visitors Guide

The Sydney Mardi Gras Parade is the biggest event on the calendar for the LGBTI community in Australia. I have put together this short visitors guide to help you have a great time during this fabulous festival. My best advice is to start planning now. The city gets seriously busy during the entire festival period, so … Read more

What’s on in Sydney in October

October in Sydney means warm spring days and later sunsets, with daylight saving starting on the 5th. The month starts busy with Labour Day (first Monday) and school holidays running until October 10th. Expect higher prices and more visitors during these dates – book your accommodation early. This month features some of Sydney’s biggest events … Read more

NSW Southern Highlands – a Beginner’s Guide

On more than one occasion I have found myself lost in the NSW Southern Highlands. Not literally lost – though those winding country roads can be tricky – but lost in the best possible way. You know that feeling when you discover a place that’s been right under your nose all along? That’s what hit … Read more

Visit the Blue Mountains By Train: 2 Easy Itineraries

Visiting the Blue Mountains by train on a day trip is a great way to save money and have more control over your itinerary. It’s easy and with our advice, you have everything you need for a fantastic day trip out of Sydney. Update: This itinerary was update on 6 February 2025 This page contains … Read more