The Christmas Advert- 2012

It's the middle of November and of course that means Christmas adverts are on our television screens. Like hanging stockings and mince pies, some yuletide adverts have become part of the Christmas tradition,  with many Facebook statuses and tweets suggesting that as soon as you see the Coca-cola Christmas advert the festive season has arrived. Here is my guide to 2012's Christmas adverts and some of the best ever made.

John Lewis

These are perhaps the most talked about Christmas adverts of the last few years. Created by Adam and Eve, these big budget cinematic commercials are accompanied with song, often a popular song covered in a different style. Past songs include, Ellie Goulding singing 'Your Song' and Slow Moving Millie singing The Smith's, 'Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want'. The 2012 advert called 'The Journey' sees a story of a snowman embarking on a trip to find the perfect gift for his female companion. This sweet story includes Gabrielle Aplin putting a folk twist on the 1980's classic, " The Power of Love". Entirely shot in New Zealand, this £6 million production is what everyone expects with a John Lewis Christmas advert, it's schmaltzy, sentimental and for many it gives you that Christmassy feeling.

Marks and Spencers

The staple store of the British High Street has always gone for the glitzy and glamourous. Celebrities adorned the screen highlighting everything we love about Christmas. Take the 2009 advert which included, Stephen Fry, Joanna Lumley, Jennifer Saunders, James Nesbitt, Myleene Klass, Wallace and Gromit, Twiggy, Phillip Glenister. The 2010 advert included Peter Kay, Jamie Redknapp and Danni Minogue whereas last years advert featured the 2011 X Factor contestants. Nonetheless, the 2012 advert doesn't include any celebs, in fact I'd argue it is not actually that festive apart from the start. The advert begins with the iconic Christmas song, 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' but that then ends and the advert quite simply sees lots of scenes of people moving to different party songs with a background that suggests it could be any time of the year. Overall an underwhelming effort by Rainey Kelly Campbell Roalfe that just doesn't feel like a Christmas advert at all.

Coca-Cola

For many this is the ultimate Christmas advert. The advert that suggests Christmas is here. The most iconic perhaps? It has always got to have two elements, number one: illuminated lorries and number two:  the tune:

"Holidays are comin', holidays are comin..."

Iceland

Iceland adverts are arguably the cheesiest on television. They conjure up memories/nightmares of Kerry Katona and Stacey Solomon suggesting that prawn rings and frozen vol-au-vents are the new must have 'treats' at Christmas parties. Nevertheless, the festive advert this season doesn't involve any corny celebrity endorsements but a young girl wandering through a snowy forest. The 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory' song, 'Pure Imagination' provides a nice accompaniment to create a solid Christmas advert.  

Waitrose

Picture the scene, a empty soulless TV studio and standing in the middle, Heston and Delia. Got it? Sounds so christmassy doesn't it? Obviously not but Waitrose's intentions are good yet the advert isn't. The focus this year is on Waitrose not spending money on a flashy festive advert but investing it in a their 'community matters' scheme. It's a nice idea but isn't the most eye-catching of adverts and it will be interesting to see whether the gamble pays off.

ASDA

The ASDA advert has come in for some criticism with people taking to Twitter to suggest it's actually sexist. The commercial shows a mum who is working hard to try and get everything ready for Christmas. Each scene sees something go wrong but in the end her hard work pays off and all the family is shown having a lovely time. It's predictable but fun and certainly not worth getting in a huff about.

Go Compare

Even Go Compare have their own Christmas advert this year. It includes Louis Spence and the Go Compare man...the less said the better.

Here are some other classic Christmas ads from years gone by:

John Lewis (2011)- 'For the gift you can't wait to give' 

Guinness (2006)

Irn Bru (2006)

Marks & Spencer (2009)

What's you favourite Christmas advert? Feel free to comment below.

Plus, my next post will look at the best Christmas films, make sure you check back soon. 

The Graduate: The struggle of finding a job

A university degree nowadays is a pretty common occurrence. In a graduation speech at Dartmouth college in the United States, comedian, Conan O'Brien jokes to the graduates,

"Today, you have achieved something special ----something only 92 percent of Americans your age will ever know:  a college diploma.   That’s right, with your college diploma you now have a crushing advantage over 8 percent of the workforce."

 Whilst O'Brien's speech is dripping with sarcasm it also completely true. Consequently, there are thousands of graduates each year competing for a job, each have a university degree and each are trying to be unique. Some graduates decide to postpone entering the job market and undertake a masters, others travel but most are hoping to start their career. 

One of the key obstacles I have found in attempting to get a job is the need for work experience or internships. These placements themselves can be incredibly difficult to secure as yet again there are many people vying for these experiences. Accordingly, not only is it difficult to get a job but it is difficult secure experience that you need to get a job. 

Luckily I've managed to secure placements with two advertising firms and a regional newspaper. This has definitely boosted my CV and given me invaluable experience. Nonetheless, just like having a degree doesn't mean you are guaranteed a job, neither does work experience. Consequently, I decided it  was important to seek a longer internship that would give me a greater understanding of the media and advertising. However, this is yet again where one may run into difficulty. Very few of the internships I and several others have applied for are paid. This makes it very difficult to fund your time during the internships, unless you work both weekdays and weekends. Secondly, the majority of the opportunities are in London. I live in the North of England and thus need accommodation when living in the South but find it difficult to pay rent whilst undertaking an unpaid internship. Nevertheless, companies and agencies can do this because positions are so contested and thus graduates are willing to work for free. Desperate to start their careers. This then arguably isolates those who can't afford to undertake an unpaid placement. 

One thing that can't be doubted is the need to make oneself unique. Stand out from the crowd. Be different, original and imaginative. There are jobs out there. Don't be disheartened through rejections. Use interviews as experiences and learning curves. Be prepared to work for free, work hard and impress to enhance that CV. I'm still seeking a job in the media and advertising but I'm not going to give up. I've got to grasp the opportunities that come my way.

"When you've worked hard and done well and walked through that doorway of opportunity, you do not slam it shut behind you." -Michelle Obama, Democratic National Convention

Conan O'Brien's words of wisdom at the Dartmouth College Graduation are filled with honesty and optimism for graduates and everyone. Watch it and smile. 

London 2012- Inspired a generation and more

It would be an understatement to suggest that the London 2012 Olympics were a resounding success. Inspired a generation? You bet it did. Mo Farah, Jessica Ennis, Tom Daley, Usain Bolt, the list goes on and on. These athletes didn't just inspire one generation but all.

The Olympics brought a buzz do the whole of Great Britain. People were smiling. Post Boxes were turning gold. The country was glued to the fantastic BBC coverage. These athletes presented exceptional role models to everyone and many contrasted them to the pampered overpaid modern footballers. Everywhere you looked there were stories to be told, such as the first Saudi Arabian female competitor to personal stories such as Tom Daley's strength to take bronze after losing his dad in 2011. London 2012 offered so many incredible moments that means it is incredibly difficult to single out favourites. I asked the question on Twitter and it seems other people feel the same way. Tom McMinigal stated, "The most amazing thing about the games for me is that from our perspective there's been so many amazing individual stories".

Insidethegames.biz

Hannah Dunnett (@dunzel123) suggested that her top three moments included, Tom Daley diving to win bronze, Federer's dignity in defeat versus Murray and also when a boy from the crowd asked for a hug from Andy Murray. Jo Hopewell (@lilHopewell) said her favourite moments also included Tom Daley, the many rowing medals and Mo Farah's golds. Each of these moments and many more are drenched in a glitter that has captivated the eyes of the public. Moments of magic that have inspired a nation to participate in sport.

"The Olympic Spirit is neither the property of one race nor of one age." Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the Modern Olympic Games

Nonetheless, the athletes were not the only winners at the 2012 Olympics. London was showcased unbelievably through the various venues. The opening ceremony and track and field events created iconic moments that will go down in history. The Beach volleyball in the historic horseguards parade, races finishing on infront of Buckingham Palace, horses galloping through luscious British gardens and of course the phenomenal Olympic park.  This was a phenomenal advertisement for London and Britain.

View of beach volleyball from the London Eye

Here is a selection of my favourite moments of the London 2012 Olympics:

Jessica Ennis

The poster girl of the Olympics overcomes the pressure of the nation upon her and takes gold in style in the women's heptathlon.

ITV

Mo Farah

An incredible story that shows the wonderful modern multicultural Britain. Farah grabs two golds to ensure everyone is doing the Mobot.

Telegraph.co.uk

David Rudisha

Kenyan, Rudisha, smashes the world record in the 800m in style. Also seems like an incredibly nice guy when interviewed.

comrz.com

Tom Daley

The 18 year old, Plymouth diver, holds his nerve to secure a phenomenal bronze and celebrates with his team by jumping in the pool.

guardian.co.uk

Gemma Gibbons

The moment she qualified for her Judo semi-final was goosebump making. The crowd roared as Gemma looked up to the sky and mouthed "I love you Mum", who sadly passed away when Gemma was a teenager.

Usain Bolt

This guy personifies coolness and confirmed his legend status with three gold medals. Entertaining whenever the cameras are on him. Bolt has done wonders to inspire youngsters into running. 

Telegraph.co.uk

Katherine Grainger

After three successive silvers in previous Olympic games, Grainger finally secured that Gold she had been after for so long. This was followed by an emotional hug with Olympic legend, Sir Steve Redgrave.

Dailyrecord.co.uk

I could go on and on with the individual stories, Chris Hoy, Bradley Wiggins, Laura Trott, Victoria Pendleton, Louis Smith, Beth Tweddle, Greg Rutherford, the rowers, the kayaker's  and Andy Murray all provided moments to smile, be proud, inspire and motivate. Everyone was tuning into sports they had never watched before, became experts on dressage, tweeted messages to athletes. This was the social media games with more than 150 million tweets being recorded during the games. The public became citizen journalists in the heart of the action, uploading images and stories to Facebook, tweeting messages and 'instagramming' moments they'll remember forever.

"When our time came, we did it right. Britain, thank you."

Lord Sebastian Coe at the Opening Ceremony 

London 2012 was a celebration of positivity and peace. As the Olympic charter states that the aim of the games is, “using non-discriminatory sport to educate the globe’s citizens on values of peace, justice, mutual understanding and international friendship”. I think it's fair to say it achieved this aim. Sport provided a vehicle to bring people together as well as inspiring generations. A legacy left for a bright future. 

If only the Olympics could be a yearly thing. 

What were your favourite moments of the games? Tell me by leaving a comment below.

Fundraising and Social Media

I am currently managing the promotion of a charity cycle ride from Lands End to John O'Groats and within hours I have seen how powerful social media can be in raising awareness of just the smallest campaigns.

At 62 years old Richard Day has recently been diagnosed with diabetes and subsequently, took up cycling to improve his fitness. Nonetheless, today saw him begin a cycle ride from Lands End to John O'Groats to raise money for the NSPCC. He wanted to challenge himself whilst doing good for a fantastic charity.

(Richard at Lands End on 29th August)

Facebook and Twitter has proved integral in raising awareness of Richard's challenge, allowing individuals to interact with his journey. Real-time updates allow the public to see Richard's progress, hear funny stories about his journey and also follow his route.

Facebook allows users to offer encouraging messages of support but also to share the cause through likes, 'shares' and commenting.  Twitter similarly, through retweets can reach a huge audience, especially if targeted to relevant celebrities, such as Mark Cavendish, Tom Daley and various sports journalists.

If you would like to follow Richard's progress on Facebook, please like his: Facebook page or alternatively follow him on Twitter at: @DayCycleRide.  Additionally, you can donate as much or a little as you want by clicking on this link: Richard Day's Fundraising Page.

Social Media has the ability to raise the profile of the smallest campaigns to raise significant awareness. One man's spirit and compassion coupled with social media's ability to increase awareness could really help charities such as the NSPCC. A snowball effect of charity.

The Golden Oldies

Eligible for a free bus pass and pension but some of the best artists I've seen live have been over sixty-five years old. You would think that as artists get into OAP status their performances may deteriorate, in some cases this is true but in others they are just as good. This blog post will look at four concerts I've been lucky enough to go to over the past two years. Some people have still got it and others haven't.

Randy Newman

Newman is an incredibly underrated songwriter and in my opinion a legend. Often known for his movie scores in Disney Pixar films such as the Toy Story and Monsters Inc he provides a memorable and iconic soundtrack. I've seen him twice at the Sage in Gateshead and both times has given a humorous and at times moving performance. No support act, no band and no fuss. Just a man and his piano. He chats to the audience, shows a sense of humour and gives a background to many of his songs. This is an artist who has written satirical masterpieces such as, 'Short People' and "Political Science' but also moving classics such as 'Louisiana 1927', 'Feels like home'  and 'Marie'. To many he is known for 'You've got a friend in me' and the Academy award winning 'If I didn't have you' and these are no doubt great songs. Nonetheless, he also wrote the often covered , 'You can leave you hat on', 'Mama told me not come' and 'I think it's going to rain today'. This short selection show a tremendous selection of songs. Interestingly, during his concert he suggested that he wrote the song 'Lonely at the top' in the hope that Frank Sinatra would sing it. A song about the difficulties of being so famous:

'I've been around the world

Had my pick of any girl

You'd think I'd be happy 

But I'm not.......

Oh its lonely at the top'

                                                                                     (Randy Newman, Lonely at the Top)

If you only know the Pixar songs I urge you to delve into his wonderful catalogue of evocative lyrics, stunning melodies and a dry humour. Newman is a pleasure to watch live, a 68 year old that is still captivating and you really feel as if you're in the presence of greatness.

Clevescene.com

Frankie Valli


Oh what a night! Franki Valli was one of the best concerts I have been to recently and he is an incredible 78 years old. He got everyone out of their seats clapping and dancing to classic hits such as 'December 1963', 'Can't take my eyes off you' and 'Working my way back to you'. Like Newman, he engaged with the audience and did every song you would expect. I've had the misfortune of going to some concerts and they've missed out many of their big hits to promote their new album. Valli was perfect. It would be hard not to enjoy the concert. I couldn't believe how good his voice actually was and it rarely varied from the iconic sounds of the 1960s. To have the stamina to put on such a quality concert at his age was phenomenal. If you love the classic hits from 'Beggin' and 'Sherry' to ' My eyes adored you' and 'Big Girls Don't Cry' this concert is for you. I wore a smile from start to finish.

The Beach Boys


Now this was a concert I went to several years ago but one that will always be etched in my mind. People dancing in the aisles! Hit after hit! I would jump at the chance to see The Beach Boys again. Every song I loved they sang, whether that be tunes such as 'Help me Rhonda' and the classic, 'Surfin' USA'. The Beach Boys will always put me in a great mood, the happiness in their music is infectious as are their concerts, even today.

'Aruba, Jamaica, ooo I wanna take you;  

To Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama 

Key Largo, Montego baby why don't we go 

Down to Kokomo '

(The Beach Boys, Kokomo)

Clashmusic.com

Paul McCartney

Hyde Park, July 2010. This was the best concert I've ever been to. I love the Beatles but also the Wings, and in his late sixties, McCartney didn't disappoint. There was no way he could do all his songs otherwise we would be there for hours but the diverse selection he performed was incredible. Classic Beatles hits such as 'Something' placed next to the energetic, 'Jet'. McCartney ensured he built a rapport with the audience, insisting they joined in and giving stories behind certain songs. For example, 'Blackbird' was a song written in support of the civil rights movement. The songs remain iconic, the goosebumps appeared with songs such as 'Let it Be' and of course the crowd pleasing, 'Hey Jude'. Two and half hours of legendary music, value for money was an understatement and McCartney thoroughly appreciated the audience's attendance. The best concerts achieve a relationship between the audience and the artist, McCartney still has it.

There are some artists I've seen that have been incredibly underwhelming, leaving out their biggest songs, with poor vocals and  zero chat to the audience. Nevertheless, the best I've seen of the older generation are those listed above. If Randy Newman, Frankie Valli, The Beach Boys or Paul McCartney are ever on near you I guarantee you'll have an unforgettable time. All over 65, all legends, all still amazing live.

Around the World in several blog posts- North America

If I had to choose a continent to live in it would probably be North America. Brimming with exciting cities, stunning landscapes and a small but incredibly rich history. The United States comes in for an awful lot of criticism but as a nation they've done a lot in such a short space of time. A country brimming with iconic sights, famous routes and incredible stories.  Quite simply, I love it.

Canada is a country that epitomises the great outdoors but also has some brilliant cities. This is a a list of some of my favourite places I've visited in North America but there are many more I'd love to include.

1. Orlando, Florida

Some would probably say that Orlando isn't the most cultural destination but lets not be snobbish, Orlando is the epitome of fun. Located in the heart of Florida, just an hour from both the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico, a place where the sun shines and the rollercoasters roll. Home to Walt Disney World, an area the size of Greater Manchester, this is a haven for excitement. Disney do things to perfection. Pristine gardens, wonderfully themed rides and captivating shows ensure that no one leaves a Disney theme park or even hotel disappointed. Disney world is suitable for all ages but of course is most magical when youngsters get to meet Micky and Minnie Mouse. If you haven't been don't judge it, the scale and detail of Disney World is simply breathtaking, providing a great holiday destination.

Don't forget Universal Studios is home to the real thrill rides of Orlando, full of loop the loops, plummeting drops and of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

A destination for those who love theme parks and fun. Nonetheless, it offers so much more. A shoppers paradise. A golfers dream. A visit to the Kennedy Space Centre. A tour of 'On the Road' writer, Jack Kerouac's house? The opportunities are unlimited, you'll just have to go.

Taken by myself

If you are looking for places to stay, villas are often the best option. I'd recommend the villa below, it sleeps up to ten, has its own pool, a game room and is located on a golf course within walking distance of restaurants and supermarkets. A perfect place to unwind. For more information visit:

grandfloridianvilla.co.uk

2. Victoria, Canada

A slice of little England. Quaint and picturesque. If you're ever in Vancouver get the idyllic ferry trip to Victoria. Wander down by the harbour and admire the colonial architecture. Victoria is a small town but without a doubt is worth a visit. It is also home to the stunning Butchart Gardens, a must if you ever find yourself in the area.

helmsinn.com

3. Key West, Florida

This has to be one of my favourite places in the world. There is something I love about it that I cannot quite put my finger on. The electric but relaxed atmosphere of Duval Street combined with stunning blue waters and bobbing yachts. Beautiful homes, you'd expect to see in Hollywood movies, line the streets and one of these belongs to Ernest Hemingway. It's different to anywhere else, a mixture of the USA and the Caribbean.

guardian.co.uk

4. Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

Cruises have often been deemed the holiday choice for the elderly. Nevertheless, since I was four years old I have been on cruise holidays as they offer such a great way to see the world. Waking up somewhere different everyday. Several years ago I had the pleasure to visit Alaska and see the salmon jumping upstream, bears wandering in rivers and countless whales. However, one of the highlights was a visit to the Hubbard glacier. This is nature at its most dramatic, a sea of ice advancing into the sea is not only breathtaking but brings home the dangers of climate change.

Taken by myself

5. Las Vegas, Nevada

Now I'm not a gambler and was only seventeen when I visited Las Vegas. I enjoyed every minute though. The hotels are attractions in themselves, canals wind their way through the Venetian, dazzling fountains front the Bellagio and a rollercoaster winds around New York New York. Sin city is city of excitement, like the Big Apple, a city that never appears to sleep. It isn't just slot machines and roulette tables though. I was lucky enough to see LOVE, a Cirque de Soleil performance to Beatles music, an experience I'll never forget.

On top of that, Vegas also is the perfect base to explore the awe inspiring Grand Canyon. We took a helicopter ride over the Hoover Dam and then over the canyon. As we reached the canyon edge, Ride of the Valkyries was played in our ears creating a surreal unforgettable moment.

Vegas isn't everyones' cup of tea but don't dismiss it just because of the casinos. It's got a lot more to offer. Viva Las Vegas!

My next post will display some other exciting destinations somewhere else in the world.

Podcasts- who needs the music?

For those who don't know what podcasts are, they are pretty much radio without the music. They are perfect to listen to in the car, sat on the train or just lying in bed. Some make you laugh, some teach you things you didn't know and some are awful. I've compiled a list of my favourite podcasts that are definitely worth a listen.

Desert Island Discs

The Desert Island Discs podcast archives are simply brilliant. Years of well known people choosing their eight favourite songs, a book and a luxury item. It is fascinating to hear the songs chosen by celebrities. For instance, Simon Cowell believes Bobby Darin's 'Mack the Knife' is one of the greatest songs ever sung and Jewish comedian, Jackie Mason was captivated by Susan Boyle's 'I dreamed a dream'. These podcasts play little snippets of the songs due to legal reasons but that's perfect, especially if you don't like the song. Kirsty Young is fantastic interviewer and brings out the incredibly interesting stories of the castaways. James Corden, Emma Thompson, Alan Ahlberg, Whoopi Goldberg and Betty Driver are just a few of the exceptional podcasts. One learns about depression, troubled childhoods and heartwarming stories. My Dad even adapted the Desert Island Discs format into a dinner party, where people choose their eight favourite songs. These are then put on in the background and people can discuss the songs if they wish. These podcasts invite you into the lives of the rich and famous, intriguing and interesting. Download a few of your favourite celebs and see what they like to listen to.

Photo from Times Literary Supplement

Frank Skinner on Absolute Radio

I think Frank Skinner to be one of the funniest and quickest comedians there is. Skinner is part of trio that makes for a hilarious twice-weekly podcast. Emily Dean joins Skinner and provides a snobbish but often humorous outlook on life. Describing her obscure crushes, such as the son of John Darwin, the canoe man who faked his death or comedian, Miles Jupp. The final cog in the trio is comedian, Alun Cochrane. I've seen him do stand up several times and he's very funny so I was thrilled when he joined the show. Providing grumpy observations, Cochrane is great addition to the show. The three of them discuss their experiences in the week, what's annoying them and what's happening on TV. Full of puns, sharp wit and often brutally honest chat, I always look forward to its release.

Podcast Directory

Scott Mills Daily

I often find it hard to keep up with these podcast as they are release on every weekday but they are always worth a listen. Scott Mills is for me the best dj on Radio One and works well with his sidekick Beccy and Chris. Regular interviews with popstars, funny games and silly chat can see time pass away very quickly. The game Innuendo Bingo is also great fun, where listeners send in innuendo from TV and radio. Chris and Beccy have to fill their mouths with water and try not to laugh at the innuendos. Great fun and easy to listen to.

Radio Four News Quiz

Host Sandi Toksvig chairs are topical news quiz with some of the best comedians around. Jeremy Hardy and Andy Hamilton are regulars, who provide arguably a radio version of 'Have I Got News For You'. Only half an hour long, this provides a brilliant witty view of the weeks news.

BBC Podcasts

Mountains, Wine and Paradise

As my previous posts have shown, Sydney is a fantastic, vibrant city but there is so much more to Australia. In the past I've been lucky enough to visit all the major Australian cities and sights such as the Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock and even Ramsey Street. This time I had the pleasure of visiting three very different places: mountains, vineyards and paradise.

Blue Mountains

The first time I visited the Blue Mountains I cracked my head open. I stuck my head between two railings and forgot there was one above me. I lifted my head and bam cracked my head open on the metal bar. Luckily I came away injury free this time. Located a couple hours outside of Sydney, the Blue Mountains provide a perfect escape from the bustling city. Breathtaking vistas, such as the Three sisters, forests and waterfalls provide an awe inspiring landscape. There are also  quaint towns such as Blackheath and Leura, with traditional high streets, it really felt like I'd travelled back in time. Any visitor to Sydney should seriously consider a day trip to the mountains. The fresh air, the spectacular views and homely towns provide a refreshing alternative to the urban jungle of Sydney.

The Hunter Valley

This was a real treat. Again a two hour bus ride from Sydney, North to a beautiful area of vineyards and kangaroos. We enjoyed an organised tour around some of boutique vineyards of the Hunter Valley. Tasting at least five wines at each of the wineries, you could easily feel a little drunk if you drank every single one. Luckily for those you didn't like you can pour it away in the spitoon. Semillion and Shiraz were consumed an awful lot as the Hunter Valley is renowned for these two wines. Kangaroos were seen. One sommelier even gave us a rendition of Gershwin's 'Summertime'.  A fantastic day out whether you like wine or not. 

Hamilton Island, The Whitsunday Islands

Hamilton Island is the closest place to paradise I've been to. I went to the Thai islands last summer and I much prefer Hamilton. Not Gap Year trodden. Full of exotic birds, sandy beaches and a marina, dotted with restaurants and small shops. Another bonus, this is purely a golf cart island. Two and half hour flight from Sydney you arrive to your own golf buggy and zip around the roads like your in a real life version of Mario Karts. Flight and boat trips take you to the Great Barrier Reef or as we did to the stunning Whitehaven Beach. Always in the top ten beaches in the world, the whitest purest sand. If I was on desert island I hope it would have a beach like this. 7km of unspoilt beauty. One drawback: we had to wear stinger suits in the sea. Subsequently, we looked more like power rangers than tourists. Nevertheless, I didn't want to get stung by a jellyfish so I donned the tight, bright yellow suit and resembled a dishevelled teletubby. The view from our apartment was one of the best I've ever seen and we even had cockatoo who dropped in many times to squawk "hello". I can live with that.  I've seen paradise and I like it. 

If you like what you are reading, please feel free to follow me on Twitter or Pinterest by clicking on the links at the right hand side of the page. 

Sydney- a city like no other

Back in England. It's cold. It's raining. I've got the holiday blues. Sydney provided so many memories and photos, I really feel there is no city like it anywhere in the world. Amazing food, boundless entertainment opportunities and a stunning harbour, Sydney is a city I cannot wait to visit again. This article explores some of things I did whilst in the city, including a few of my own snaps.

Spit Bridge to Manly walk

Sydney is full of beautiful walks and this is supposedly one of the best. It didn't disappoint. Starting at Spit Bridge, which joins the North Shore area of Sydney to the Northern Beaches, including Manly, Curl Curl and Dee Why. Snaking along the coast, the trail takes you around quiet inlets with crystal clear waters and bobbing yachts. The walk then ventures into the bush and you'd have no idea you are so close to a city. Views across the to Balmoral, Watson's Bay and the city are with you for a lot of the walk, meaning there are plenty of photo opportunities. The final stretch of the walk offers a view of Manly, a buzzing town with a long sandy beach. Back to the city on the famous Manly Ferry. This is a fantastic walk and takes around three and a half fours. It offers a different scenic route to the well known tourist traps closer to the city.

La Traviata

Now I've always been a bit skeptical of Opera. Not now. Verdi's tragic La Traviata was performed in Sydney Harbour with astounding views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Under the stars, with an iconic backdrop, it would be an understatement to say the Opera was atmospheric. The Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs MacQuaries Chair and the waters of Syndey Harbour provided a captivating outdoor theatre. Familiar melodies and even subtitles provided a fantastic experience. A tragic story, phenomenal singing and stunning fireworks made La Traviata a true spectacle. This was the first Opera put on in the harbour by HANDA and I hope it isn't the last.

Coogee Beach

I was told by someone that Coogee was "interesting". They said it a way that wasn't good, a euphemism for awful perhaps. Well this person clearly hadn't beent there or was too quick to judge. Full of coffee shops, fashionable restaurants and a stunning sandy beach. Just a few bays south of Bondi Beach, I feel that Coogee is the best beach I came across. Bondi itself is arguably quite tacky and thronged with people. Coogee has the perfect balance, a great atmosphere but not too busy, close to restaurants and easy to get too. A walk from Coogee to Bondi showed the power of the sea as several of the beaches prohibited swimming, including Bondi. Coogee is relatively safe, with fun but often powerful waves. My final day included a visit to Coogee Beach, the waters were ridiculously clear, the water refreshing and the beach buzzing with families. There was even a sea swimming competition around Wedding Cake Island. Underrated Coogee is certainly interesting, in a good way.

Sydney Fish Market

This may seem odd but I don't particularly like fish but the fish market is a must. A bustling experience, admiring the catches of the day. Oysters everywhere, calamari, crabs, lobsters and sea urchin roe. An assault on the senses.

The centre of Syndey is fantastic, whether shopping in the Queen Victoria Building, catching a ferry from Circular Quay or enjoying some seafood in Darling Habour. Explore further from the CBD and you''ll find even more exciting experiences.

My next post will look at places further afield from Sydney, so make sure you visit soon.

Sydney- the best city in the world? Part One

It's hot. There is a beach five minutes walk away. It's beautiful. It's littered with iconic landmarks. It's Sydney. I am currently on holiday visiting my sister in Sydney, Australia and what a city it is. I have been several times before and have come to the conclusion that Sydney is a serious contender for the greatest city in the world. What makes it so special? Here are few suggestions and some pictures I have taken that I feel show off one of the greatest city in the world.

Beaches


I cannot think of a city anywhere in the world that has such quick access to so many wonderful beaches.The other day I walked several of the Eastern suburb beaches, from Coogee to the infamous Bondi Beach. A dramatic coastline, with plunging cliffs and crystal blue water make for an idyllic walk. Nonetheless, one can also see mother nature's power as waves kept pushing a lady against a rock or marooning people away from the beach with lifeguards continually shouting, "Swim round to Bronte mate". This trip has certainly taught me that the sea can be scary. That aside, the beaches her are amazing, golden sands and of course a paradise for surfers. Further up the coast, Manly, Curl Curl and Dee Why are also fantastic beaches so Sydney residents are spoilt for choice. If you favour smaller waves there are also calm beaches within Sydney Harbour, such as Balmoral. The choices for sunbathing and swimming spots are endless.

Bronte and Tamarama Beach

Views

Sydney is full of iconic scenes and of course at the top of the list is the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. When one first thinks of Sydney it is these two sights you think of the most. Whilst they are amazing and everytime I see them I am still in awe, there are so many more sights to see. Sydney's skyline itself is incredibly impressive, with the Syndey Tower standing tall. Arguably, the skyscrapers are a little dated and don't have the modern feel of London's Gherkin or the stylish Chrysler Building in New York.

Taken from near Watson's Bay

Nonetheless, with the skyline in the same view of Sydney harbour,  alongside the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, this view is unbelievable. It seems wherever you look there is a view to be admired.

Taken from Blue Point on the North Shore

There are stunning sights to see away from the city centre, Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. These include the Pine lined, Manly Beach, the former fishing village of Watson's Bay and the nature reserve of Gordon's Bay. Nature alone or combined with man work to create some of the best views I have ever seen.

I'll be writing several more posts on why Sydney is such a brilliant city, so make sure to visit soon. For now follow me on Twitter by clicking here.