Hello Abilitiers!
X-mas is just round the corner and we thought we would give you a bit of an insight into what you might want to see, do and/or visit during the festive season break. Below suggestions are just that and you might find something that would absolutely kick ‘the back side’, as some of us may say in Advanced Evening. If you do find something better than you definitely deserve to be a part of our class or as we call ourselves ‘The cool bunch’. So without any further ado, here we go! 
Are you ready for Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Oz?
We realized that as students, money is sometimes an issue for us. Having considered this we made some research about what you might be able to do without spending too much cash.
If you want to spend less than 50 dollars, here are some options:
* You might stroll around Darling Harbour, take some shots of the Opera House and check out The Rocks.
* It would be lovely if you managed to do the Coogee – Bondi Coast Walk. If you do though, you’d better take some snacks and water with you as it’s a fairly long way.
* If you feel that it’s time to celebrate among your friends with your family is away, it’d be a good idea to have a picnic at the Botanic Gardens or at the Domain. Again, be careful! Most of the places/shops are going to be closed so you’d have to buy everything beforehand.
* Last but not least you could spend your day in Darling Harbour watching fireworks. But, if you’d prefer do something else you could also wander around the Botanic Gardens and enjoy the very same attraction from there. It’d be wise to remember that you have to be there really early in order to avoid the crowds.
What if you could celebrate Christmas and New Year’s Eve without spending tons of money but your budget was a bit bigger than $50? Let’s say $200 and less? If you’re in that category, then read on.
A good idea would be lunch while cruising around the Sydney Harbour. Not surprisingly a lot of people would have loved to enjoy a seafood buffet with an open bar, at the same time experiencing the unbelievable views of one of the most famous harbours in the world with the phenomenal Opera House in the background. If you decide to do it, you will only have to dish out $130!
How absolutely amazing would that be? If I were you I would not let this opportunity pass.
If you really like the idea of having a lovely dinner on board but without having to spend the above amount, you should check out these budget options:
* $75 Dinner Dance Cruise
For dancing and music enthusiasts
* $55 Home and Stars (Band)
For rockers and people who totally dig live music
* $55 Retro and Stars (Karaoke)
For romantics and amateur singers
If you’re still not sure what to do, here is the main reason why you should choose one of the above.
Simply imagine having an incredible and unforgettable Christmas this 2011. It’s an experience that you shouldn’t be adding to your bucket list. So, to sum up; stunning boat, great food, good music, experienced staff. All this sounds like guaranteed fun for Christmas at a very affordable price!
However, if you would rather do something else, we can recommend other possibilities.
Supposing, you’ve got a travel bug and love adventure. If that’s the case, then you wouldn’t want to miss out on going up the coast to a secluded and remote beach such as Seal Rocks, which is only three hours drive up north. Because this camping site is situated right at the beach you’ve got a terrific chance to fall asleep with the sound of waves and greet New Year (!) admiring the sun, which rises right from the ocean…so to speak. It’s self-evident that, if you went there and didn’t forget to grab a pair of flippers, mask, and a snorkel you could discover a vast array of aquatic life! Moreover, you could take a walk to Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse; the 2nd most easterly point of Australia and try to spot a whale!
Wouldn’t that be different to what you’re used to?
It’s vital to note that this option will cost no more than $34 per night per site.
Last but not least are the fireworks in Sydney Harbour. You’ve probably seen them on TV but I’m sure it’s a totally different kettle of fish to watch them live. You’ll see a range of unique pyrotechnic extravaganza and surprises this year, such as lightning bolts, crescent moons and a star inside a ring. What if I tell you that this fantastic show is available for free? Wouldn’t you love it?
If you want to spend some extra money, you can experience it while having a boogie with an awesome waterfront view and the best DJs in the world keeping you the company.
As you can see, it’s not necessary to spend heaps of money to celebrate the arrival of 2012 in Sydney. If you were looking for something unusual you would always find a bargain both in terms of actual price and emotions it provides.
Hope some of our suggestions will help you in making your Aussie New Year’s an unforgettable one!
For now though have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Roger and out.
‘The cool bunch’ aka Advanced Evening
Coogee beach is a much more ppolee friendly, swimming beach. There is a big rock pool and a small one for kids.