A Cultural Adventure: Dhow Cruise Trip In Dubai

BY  Arnab May 12, 2023

The Acropolis of Athens is an iconic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and a testament to human achievement in architecture, engineering, and art. What’s even better? You get Acropolis Of Athen Tickets at quite affordable prices! The Acropolis of Athens is located on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Athens. It consists of several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, as well as the Propylaea. These buildings were constructed in the 5th century BC and are considered some of the most impressive examples of classical Greek architecture. If the Acropolis of Athens is the place that you want to visit, you will need to purchase Acropolis of Athens Tickets. These tickets can be purchased online or even at the entrance of the site. The ticket includes access to the Acropolis as well as several other archaeological sites in Athens, including the Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora. Visitors to the Acropolis of Athens should be prepared for a steep climb to reach the top of the hill. However, the effort is worth it for the stunning views and the opportunity to see one of the most important historical sites in the world. The site is open year-round. But it can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it's best to arrive early in the day to avoid long lines. Site Monuments at the Acropolis of Athens Here are some of the site monuments you cannot miss while you are in Athens: The Parthenon The Parthenon is the most famous of the Acropolis site monuments as well as one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It originates from the 5th century BC as a temple in dedication to the goddess Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. The temple features a massive colonnade, a pediment with sculptures depicting scenes from Greek mythology, and a frieze that tells the story of a religious procession. The Parthenon remains an outstanding example of classical Greek architecture. Despite earthquakes damaging it and other natural disasters over the centuries, it is a testament to the skills of the ancient builders who created it. The Propylaea The Propylaea is the monumental gateway to the Acropolis and originates from the 5th century BC. It features impressive columns and a grand staircase. Its design is a fitting entrance to the sacred site of the Acropolis. The Propylaea is an excellent example of classical Greek architecture. Its imposing presence still impresses visitors to the site today. The Erechtheion The Erechtheion is a temple in dedication to both Athena and Poseidon and it originates from the 5th century BC. The temple features several distinctive elements, including the famous Caryatids, columns shaped like female figures. The Erechtheion is famous for its intricate design. It includes a variety of different levels and sections, as well as stunning decorative elements such as sculptural friezes and ornate moldings. The Temple of Athena Nike The Temple of Athena Nike stands in honor of the goddess Athena. This was a symbol of victory and reached completion in the fifth century BC. The temple is a small but elegant structure featuring beautiful friezes and commanding views over the city of Athens. Despite its relatively small size, the Temple of Athena Nike is a significant example of classical Greek architecture and an important part of the Acropolis site monuments. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a semi-circular theater that was built in the 2nd century AD. It was constructed in honor of Herodes Atticus. He was a wealthy Roman citizen who sponsored many public works projects in Athens. The Odeon was used for concerts and other performances and is still used for cultural events today. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Acropolis site monuments. The architecture is an important reminder of the cultural significance of the ancient city of Athens. The Theatre of Dionysus The Theatre of Dionysus is an ancient Greek theater originating from the 5th century BC. It was the site of the first performances of many famous Greek plays. It includes the works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. The theater was in dedication to the god Dionysus. He is the patron of theater as well as wine and became the birthplace of theater. The Theatre of Dionysus is an important part of the Acropolis site monuments. It is a must-see destination for anyone who likes the history of theater. The Stoa of Eumenes The Stoa of Eumenes is a long-covered walkway that originates from the 2nd century BC. It held public gatherings and as a marketplace as well as is an excellent example of ancient Greek architecture. The Stoa features a colonnade with beautiful columns. Its location on the Acropolis offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Temple of Olympian Zeus The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest temples in Greece. It has been standing tall since the 6th century BC. The temple is in dedication to the god Zeus and features a massive colonnade with 104 columns. Only 15 remain standing today. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is an impressive example of ancient Greek architecture. It is a reminder of the importance of religion in ancient Greek society. The Sanctuary of Asclepius The Sanctuary of Asclepius, a small temple, is a dedication to the god of healing as well as medicine. Its making date is in the 4th century BC. The temple features beautiful columns and a small altar and was a popular destination for pilgrims seeking healing as well as wellness. The Sanctuary of Asclepius is a reminder of the importance of health and wellness in ancient Greek society. It is an interesting addition to the other more well-known site monuments on the Acropolis. Read Also: The Best 5 Places To Visit In Sicily This Year 10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In November – Travel Guide 2022

BY  Sibashree Oct 22, 2025

“The cats protect the city from mice, and in return, the people feed them.” The local shopkeeper told me as I was walking toward a dozen cats sitting on the stone steps at a locality near the Old Town. On a backpacking trip to Kotor, Montenegro, I found cats on the ancient walls, in cafes, and everywhere! Stretching their bodies in the Sun and with their purrs, they indeed looked like the guardians of the city. And it is them who made me feel at home. However, it’s not just the cats that make Kotor in Montenegro an ideal budget travel destination for backpackers. It now features in the second spot as one of the most underrated budget backpacker destinations by Bamba Travel. Its medieval streets, historic architecture, hiking routes, and seafood offer the most affordable travel options for backpackers. Also, it is a less-crowded place than most hotspots in Western Europe. Is there more to a Kotor Montenegro budget travel experience? We will figure out the answer in this blog. We will also talk about how to reach Kotor, Montenegro, the modes of transportation for moving around and more. Let’s plan a trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Natural Beauty Of Kotor, Montenegro Speaks: Understanding Its Location  Another vivid memory I have of Kotor is how I started my hike to the Kotor Fortress before sunrise. I was halfway up, and nature was getting ready to be bathed with the first rays of the Sun. The chirpings of birds and that smell, a mix of the scent of an oven after a cake is freshly baked, and the dew-drenched leaves created an ambiance that was inexplicable. Nevertheless, a local shepherd offered some cheese and rakija (homemade brandy), and we talked about life. Then, the Sun illuminated the entire Kotor Bay. Now, if not this, what is magic for a backpacker or traveler? Now, thanks to the unique natural location of Kotor, Montenegro, you can encounter many such magical experiences. Located in the Bay of Kotor, Kotor is a coastal town of Montenegro, and it is a part of the Kotor Municipality. It sits between the Adriatic Sea and the Dinaric Alps and has a mountainous terrain. How To Reach Kotor, Montenegro? How Tourists From Different Parts Of the World Can Visit Kotor?  The easiest way to reach Kotor is to travel to the Tivat Airport. Located at a distance of around 7 km, it is the closest to Kotor. You have to travel the remaining route by local transport. Podgorica Airport (40 km) and Dubrovnik Airport (44km, Croatia) are the two other airports near Montenegro. You will get flights from major European cities to these airports, and buses also run from neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina to Podgorica and Kotor. Furthermore, you can travel from Belgrade in Serbia to Podgorica in Montenegro and from Belgrade in Serbia to Bar in Montenegro. In addition, if you are traveling from Italy, you can take a ferry from Ancona on Italy’s eastern coast and take a ferry to Bar in Montenegro. You will have to make a journey of around 13 hours to reach your destination. Flights, Trains, Buses, And Other Modes of Transportation  For a backpacker, it’s a must to explore the Bay of Kotor in a boat. This boat takes you to many nearby towns and villages. However, for me, the trip to Perast was the highlight of these boat trips. The village has fewer than 300 people, and the quaint village offers some of the grandest views. Furthermore, if you want to move around and explore Kotor and its nearby localities by road, you will get car rentals, taxis, and shuttles. Why Is Kotor Montenegro, Budget Travel So Popular Among Backpackers?  While Greece and Croatia get all the attention on big tourism platforms, Montenegro in the Balkans is emerging as a favorite of the budget backpack travelers, thanks to the steady numbers. According to a report published by the International Trade Administration on 20th May 2024, tourism contributes 30% to Montenegro's GDP. Furthermore, the country is planning to boost its tourism prospects with a great focus on the following areas. Ecotourism  Cultural Tourism  Rural Tourism  Furthermore, another report published in ReportLinger suggests that the number of tourists to Montenegro is likely to reach 3.4 million by 2028. This is again a 2.8% rise from the number of 2.9 million tourists in 2023. Also, the tourism revenue is expected to reach $95 million by 2028. Now, in this scenario, Kotor is emerging as a sustainable tourism gem after a successful sustainability assessment by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The Port of Kotor in Montenegro, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and the Municipality of Kotor have done a successful assessment of the city. Vladimir Jokić, Mayor of Kotor, has commented, “As the Mayor of Kotor, I am pleased to say that Kotor is one of the few cities in the region that has undergone an important sustainability assessment process as a tourist destination. Together with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and CLIA, we brought together various stakeholders from public life to gather their input. All participants from public life, city government bodies, state authorities, universities, the civil sector, the economy, and entrepreneurs took part in this process. The assessment results provided us with a clear insight into the impact of tourism on our city, which will help us develop effective strategies for sustainable tourism – that is, how we should move forward regarding tourism.”  So, Kotor today is a benchmark in sustainable tourism in the European region, and it is a budget-friendly travel destination among tourists for the following reasons. 1. Affordable Accommodation Options, Including Hostels And Guesthouses  Kotor has plenty of budget stays, from cozy guesthouses run by local families to hostels right inside the Old Town. Many include free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and kitchen access. Prices start at around €10–€15 per night during the off-season, and you’ll often meet other travelers sharing tips over morning coffee.  2. Stunning Natural Beauty With Mountains And The Adriatic Sea  Kotor sits where the rugged Dinaric Alps meet the calm Adriatic Sea. Whether you’re hiking up to the fortress or just wandering the waterfront, every corner feels like a postcard. The Bay of Kotor, often called Europe’s southernmost fjord, is perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just soaking in the sunset.  3. Rich Cultural And Historical Heritage In The Old Town  The Old Town is a maze of medieval lanes, Venetian palaces, and stone churches dating back to the 12th century. Walking here feels like stepping back in time and the best part is that exploring them is absolutely free! You can easily spend hours admiring its architecture and lively squares without spending a cent.  4. Numerous Free And Low-Cost Attractions  Many Kotor Montenegro activities are budget-friendly and free. Strolling along the Marina is the most relaxing experience I had at Kotor, Montenegro. Furthermore, the entrance fees to the museums and cathedrals here are very few. You need to just pay a few dollars. Overall, the magic of Kotor lies in exploring the city on foot or by boat the Kotor Bay. 5. Easy Access To Hiking Trails Like The Ladder Of Kotor  1350 Steps! Yes, you have to climb 1350 steps to complete the Ladder of Kotor hike. However, climbing up so many steps is a rewarding experience as the panoramic views of the city and the surroundings are breathtaking. 6. Budget-friendly Local Cuisine And Street Food  Kotor Montenegro food is comforting and simple, an extension of the simplicity of the city. I fell in love with sell burek or the savory pastries here. The filling in these pastries will remind you of your mother or grandmother who can create the biggest magic on the plate with the simplest ingredients. Furthermore, the family-run taverns or konobas here served the best grilled meat and seafood at the most affordable price.  7. Proximity To Other Balkan Destinations  You can easily include visiting places such as gems like Budva, Podgorica, or Dubrovnik in your Kotor Montenegro itinerary. Regional and international buses are available during the daytime and nighttime to explore these places on a budget. 8. Friendly Locals And A Welcoming Atmosphere  Montenegrins are hospitable, and language is never a barrier here. Many people here speak English. Especially the younger ones are well-versed in the language. So, it does not matter whether you are visiting Kotor for the first time or the last time. You will connect easily. 9. Vibrant Backpacker Community And Social Hostels  Kotor Montenegro hostels are beyond budget-friendly accommodations. These turn out to be the local social hub for solo travelers. Many of these hostels focus on activities such as:  Hiking Trips  Group Dinners  Local Events  Pub Crawling  So, you make new friends and earn new experiences with the locals guiding you. 10. Opportunities For Volunteering And Work Exchanges  Are you a digital nomad? Or, are you staying longer in Kotor? Many cafes, hostels and eco-projects in the city offer work-exchange programs or volunteer services. Explore platforms such as Worldpackers and Workaway to explore the listed job opportunities. Furthermore, there are many hostels and cafes where you can work for a few hours and get free accommodation and food in return. I have found several such listings on Worldpackers. You will have to work for 20 to 24 hours a week and have to shoulder working at receptions, administration, cleaning and housekeeping. You will get a shared dormitory and one meal in exchange for these services.  How To Plan The Kotor Montenegro Budget Travel For A Week? A week in Kotor can cost as little as $300–€400. Here is a quick breakdown. Montenegro Budget Travel Expenses Cost Breakdown Accommodation in Hostels $15–$25 per night Meals $5–$10 per meal at local eateries Kotor Montenegro Transport $10–$20 for buses and local travel Tours and Entrance Fees $5–$15 Total Average Daily Cost $35-60  Top Budget-Friendly Hostels In Kotor, Montenegro  Have a look at the table below for the list of budget-friendly hostels in Kotor, Montenegro. Staying in a hostel is one of the cheap ways to travel to Kotor Montenegro for backpackers.  Hostel Name Address Highlights Google Maps Montenegro Hostel 4U Bokeljskih brigada bb, Kotor • 30 Seconds from the beach• Great social vibe• Rooftop terraceClick HereHostel Pupa Njegoseva 254, Suranj, Kotor • Near the bus terminal and Old Town• Cozy common area Click HereOld Town Youth Hostel Stari Grad 284, Kotor • Inside Old Town• Party-friendly• Great for solo travelersClick HereHostel Centrum Stari Grad, Kotor • 2-minute walk from Old Town gate• Communal kitchenClick HereMontenegro Backpackers Home Old Town, Kotor • Great location• Excursions available• Well-equipped kitchenClick HereGuesthouse STEP Near Old Town, Kotor • Terrace Hiking • Access Budget-Friendly Click HereKotor Nest Coliving Kotor, Old Town • Ideal for digital nomads• Modern amenitiesClick Here Is Visiting Kotor Montenegro, Worth It?  I was walking through Old Town and stumbled upon a group of elderly men playing traditional Montenegrin music on guitars and accordions. Locals stopped, clapped, and danced spontaneously. They even invited me to join in. I learnt the local dances right there on the cobblestones. Now, this is the spirit of Montenegro, it’s about living life to the fullest and understanding the magic of minimalism. Furthermore, the main attractions such as the St. Tryphon Cathedral, the town of Perast, the Blue Cave, the Bay of Kotor, and the City Walls allow you to soak in its cultural heritage, history, and scenic beauty on a budget. Is Kotor, Montenegro, Struggling With Overtourism? Yes, like Venice, Barcelona, and many other major European cities, Kotor, the “Unsung” coastal beauty, is also struggling with the perils of overtourism. The rising number of cruises to the city is leading to this problem. As a result, the locals are now advocating for higher entrance fees. So, discussions are going on about raising the entrance fee, which is 1 Euro. This is justified because housing costs are rising due to the increase in tourism, and there are also environmental concerns. And it is not just homeowners who are worried about these growing numbers. The local shopkeepers and NGOs who work for community development and environmental issues are also concerned by the sudden boost in tourism. During my trip, I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Mandic, an environmental activist in the city. She said, “Hundreds of tourists are visiting the city every day. They are writing the city’s future, which will be irreversible.”  The Municipality of Kotor and the local tourism authorities will monitor the numbers to maintain the pristine charm of the coastal town. Montenegro Budget Travel: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Montenegro budget travel. 1. Are 4 Days Enough For Kotor, Montenegro?  Yes, 4 to 5 days are enough to explore the city of Kotor in Montenegro. You can walk through the Old Town, enjoy a boating tour in the Bay of Kotor, visit the nearby towns, and explore local life by having food at the family-run taverns in Kotor. 2. Is Kotor Or Budva Better?  Kotor and Budva both places are beautiful. However, Kotor is less touristy with its quaint cafes and the medieval Old Town, which stands as the eternal witness. Furthermore, Kotor is more suitable for budget-travelers as walking, hiking, cycling and biking are the best modes of knowing this city of Montenegro.  3. Which Language Is Spoken In Montenegro?  Montenegrin is the language of the people of Montenegro. However, Montenegrin is a part of the Serbo-Croatian language variety. So, it is similar to other languages such as Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian.Furthermore, many people here, especially the younger ones speak in English.  4. Can You Drink Tap Water In Montenegro?  Yes, you can drink tap water in Montenegro. Furthermore, you will find fresh water springs around Lake Skadar and in the mountains. Furthermore, food in Montenegro is also checked in labs to ensure complete safety. 5. What Are The Common Crimes In Kotor? Burglary and theft are the most common crimes in Kotor, Montenegro. Along with pickpocketing and snatching of purses, these crimes also include theft at ATMs. Furthermore, these crimes increase in number during the peak tourist season or the summer months.Also, organized crimes, especially the ones related to drug smuggling, are quite common in Kotor. In fact, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report “Montenegro-UNODC Strategic Partnership Framework (2024-2029),” “..., organized crime in Montenegro is mostly related to drugs smuggling. Montenegro is part of the ‘traditional’ opiate route from Afghanistan to Europe, or so called ‘Balkan Route’. In terms of trafficking routes, heroin is thought to come via road to Montenegro from Albania, Kosovo or Serbia and travel further towards Croatia and other European countries. 6. What Is The Best Time To Visit Kotor, Montenegro?  The summer months of July and August are the peak months for visiting Kotor in Montenegro. However, for budget friendly travelers, November to February is the ideal time for a visit to Kotor. Despite rainfall being a factor, these are the months for skiing and watersports in nearby mountains. Also, with the number of tourists being fewer in these months, the accommodation charges are lower than in the peak season.On average, your daily expenses in these months will be around $5 less than the peak summer months.

BY  Sibashree Oct 13, 2025

Honestly, it’s fun watching Sydney flip personalities through the year. The city doesn’t really do that dramatic hibernation thing. It’s almost always, well, pleasant? But the city’s mood still shifts. Beaches, bars, parks! They all swap energy depending on the season. If you’re plotting a Sydney escape, it’s worth thinking about what you want most: are you after sun, culture, quiet nights, or rowdy days? Here’s how things actually feel, season by season. What Is The Best Time To Visit Sydney?  Check out the ultimate seasonal fun in Sydney in all months. Choose the best season based on the experience you want.  1. Summer (December – February): The Ultimate Beachfront Escape Let’s be real. Sydney in summer is a bit of a show-off. Those endless evenings that don’t seem to end, warm days (but not sticky-hot like you’d find elsewhere), and, yeah, every cliché about Aussie beaches is true but still sort of magical.  Bondi turns into a spectacle. You’ll hear more accents than at the UN. It’s noisy, crowded, alive. Some days, the sand’s so busy you give up, laugh, and just sit on the steps with chips. Restaurants spill outside, tables fill hours before sunset. Harbour’s packed with yachts, and it looks expensive even if you’re just gawking from the ferry.  Quieter beaches are a fifteen-minute drive away, yet barely touched—Nielsen Park, Balmoral (babies paddling at your ankles), everyone grilling sausages and pretending to argue over who forgot the tomato sauce. Oh, and parties—don't even start. New Year’s Eve on the harbor? Fireworks everywhere, Opera House in the background, people cheering, hugging random strangers! January packs in music, theatre, and weird art pop-ups. There’s always a movie playing under the stars if that’s more your speed. Stay At Villa Mirage, Manly. It’s open, breezy, all huge windows, like the house wants you barefoot and salty. You’ll be constantly outside or sliding indoors to cool off. Kind of surprising how close you can get to the water. Top Experiences If you’re ever going to splurge, charter a boat. Nothing beats skyline views with nobody elbowing you for space. NYE from a private rooftop—wish lists get made for moments like that. And dinner at Icebergs isn’t fancy, it’s just what you do when seafood’s this fresh. Must-Visit Event: Sydney Festival. All month. Don’t need a plan—just walk into anything. Free gigs. Roving acts down hidden alleys. VIP bits if you really want the works. Insider Note: Don’t wait to book. Everyone and their dog comes here for New Year’s. Start looking half a year out if you’re fussy. 2. Autumn (March – May): Tranquility & Wine Country Retreats After summer’s chaos, autumn is sweet relief in Sydney. It slows, locals breathe out, kids go back to school, and you can finally grab a good table without begging.  Still warm enough for swimming most afternoons and some weeks trick you into thinking summer’s still here. Sun doesn’t burn; air feels soft, and honestly, you might forget there’s ever “bad” weather here. You'll see way more families picnicking, groups laughing a bit less loudly, maybe a dog asleep in the sand. Nights are for al fresco meals and walks where you lose track of time. And if you like a drink, the wine harvest in the Hunter Valley is peak chilled-out luxury. Tours are mellow, winemakers like to chat, and the lunch spreads go for days. Not as crowded as you’d expect. Stay At Villa Hunter. It’s one of those “don’t take photos, just look” places, especially at sunset. Cozy inside if it cools off, but the terraces are where you’ll end up. Promise. Top Experiences Harvest Season in Wine Country: A private tour is perfect, especially with a driver who knows where to sneak you backstage. Yachts at dusk (better colors than any summer sunset), art galleries popping up everywhere. Must-Visit Event: Racing Carnival. Doesn’t even matter if you care about horses. It’s glammed-up, playful, equal parts gossip and spectacle—go for the people-watching. 3. Winter (June – August): Cozy Luxury & Cultural Indulgence For a city known for beaches, winter’s surprisingly good. Not freezing (ever), usually sunny, and the city gets all grown-up on you—fireplaces, dark cozy corners, long dinners.  Sure, water’s cold, but if you’re nuts, those outdoor pools are open and there’s always a few swimmers bobbing around like penguins. Food just gets better, with the chefs dialing up the rich, warm flavors. Opera, live shows, quiet bars with crackling fires! It’s a different crowd, slower energy. Also, prices drop, and top hotels don’t hide it; they want you there. Book a suite just because you actually can. Stay At Mosman Waterfront home. Real luxury is coming in from a walk with wind-stung cheeks straight into a sauna or steam room. Watch storms over the harbor without moving from your sofa. Top Experiences Bring the chef to you: big, lazy dinners without hassle, just laughter and empty plates. Hit an opera—winter draws the serious productions. Spas are empty, treatments longer, nobody rushing. Must-Visit Event: Vivid. Whole city lit up with trippy lights, projections—impossible to explain if you’ve never seen it. Just go. Get a hot drink, wander until you can’t feel your toes, call it a night. 4. Spring (September – November): Rejuvenation & Exclusive Outdoor Adventures Spring's that sigh of relief as days grow longer, flowers everywhere, parks suddenly packed again. Jacaranda blooms drop purple confetti on the sidewalks.  Kids, dogs, runners, everyone’s out. You get those mornings where it’s just cool enough to want coffee outside, afternoons warm enough for t-shirts. Outdoorsy types love it as hikes don’t leave you sweaty, yet the ocean’s recovering warmth is ready for the brave. Wildflowers on the coastal walks, whales offshore sometimes, if you’re lucky. Quick Tip: Go inland for a day, the Blue Mountains are classic this time of year—flowers, trails, views for days. Stay At Villa Utopia. Completely open, full of light, you’ll forget what “indoors” means. Sort of house that hosts as many little gatherings as you want—no one stuck inside. Top Experiences Hot air balloon rides at dawn over the Hunter Valley. Pack a camera or just stand there and gawk. Create-your-own picnic after a hike, art shows cropping up with surprisingly friendly crowds. Must-Visit Event: Sculpture by the Sea. Bondi to Tamarama walk turns into a giant, outdoor art fair. Could get busy, but that’s half the fun. Stroll, stop, eat ice cream, repeat. Final Thoughts: When Should You Book Your Luxury Stay In Sydney Look, there’s no truly “wrong” season here. Want the full sun-blasted, classic travel-mag Sydney? Summer or spring.  Looking for something more laid-back (and lower-key on price)? Autumn and winter are criminally underrated. Honestly, it doesn’t hurt to overlap two seasons for a rollercoaster of city moods. Whatever time you settle on, the right stay, big, easy, friendly homes, will turn it luxe anyway. Sydney has a way of outdoing itself.