Friday, Dec 20
Not much of touring today; was indoors most of the day.
In the evening, we went to Bondi Beach, a very popular tourist spot in Australia. 'Bondi' comes from the Aboriginal word 'Boondi' meaning 'surf', and not surprisingly surfing is a common sport here.
The beach is an impressive vast curvy expanse of white sand caressed by relentless waves. It's populated by tourists looking to soak in the sun or take a dip in the waters or ride the waves.
It's overlooked by an array of eateries humming with revellers indulging in gastronomic delights. There are also fitness freaks stretching themselves or pulling themselves up hanging from a beam. Beach volleyball too is common here.
One can see some beautiful street art also here.
Bondi Beach is a very densely populated place: a little over one square kilometer area has over 10,000 people, from different parts of the the world - English is not the native tongue of many people here.
The Gap
Just a few kilometers away is The Gap, a beautiful cliff overlooking the Tasman sea.
Before the British came in 1788, this was the home of the Aboriginal tribe Birrabirragal. Later, the settlers used this cliff as a strategic military surveillance point to guard against invaders.
One gets an amazing view of the sea on one side and the city landscape on the other.
(To be continued)
Hi Pradeep - fascinating to see these images; and to read your comments; also I'm glad you're introducing us to some of the indigenous peoples and their languages; I can see the smoke-haze over Sydney ... take care - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteHi Hilary, thank you for your comments. I like visiting places which give us an insight into the history and culture of the place and its people.
DeleteThe smoke haze is bad. Both the fire and haze are getting aggravated by the heavy gusts of wind.
Must be a nice, relaxing place to hang out.
ReplyDeleteHi Liz. Yes. Interesting places with lots of historical traditions and customs masked as it were by the glossy modernity.
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