Getting from SFO to Sydney

With Qantas' new direct flights out of SFO, it's never been easier to catch a flight across the Pacific. Spring for business class if you want roomy accommodations that come with fully reclining pods/beds, Qantas pajamas, and a Kate Spade swag bag filled with moisturizer, hand cream, socks and more. Even better, you won't have to beg for mere peanuts with the extensive in-flight menu from Australian celebrity chef Neil Perry, featuring fresh fish, gourmet pastas, healthy salads, and more paired with New South Wales wines (or coffee in the morning). Might as well arrive in style. // qantas.com

Adventures in Sydney

Bondi Beach + Bondi Coastal Walk

You can't go to Sydney without taking in the sights at Bondi Beach, the city's most famous stretch of sand. This is where locals and tourists alike go to see and be seen, and if you do decide to take a dip, the water is a lukewarm 70 degrees during the summer. Just remember to slather on the sun screen, Australia is right below the hole in the ozone layer (remember that?). // bondivillage.com

Taronga Zoo

Now this is why you came to Australia, right? Tales of the outback's notoriously strange (and dangerous) indigenous species have been going viral since the Internet began. So if you finally want to pet a wallaby or take a selfie with a quokka, this is your chance. The friendly zoo keepers at Taronga let us feed and play with a kangaroo (whose je ne sais quoi attitude and major RBF instantly made her my spirit animal), a cute little wallaby, a grinning quokka, and even some snoozing koalas. You'll be happy to learn that none of these animals are endangered in the wild and that kangaroos are so rampant they're even considered pests! Plus, the ferry ride to the island zoo gives you the perfect photo-op of the Sydney Opera House. // taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo

Sydney by Sea Plane

I've found that going up 1,000 feet is the best way to admire any city. Considering the fact that I've opted for engine-less gliders and noisy helicopters in the past, the sea plane was a surprisingly quiet and smooth ride. You'll get a great view of Sydney's many beaches and enough skyline photos to make everyone on your Instagram jealous. // sydneybyseaplane.com

WATSSUP Stand Up Paddle Boarding

There's no better way to take a tour of Sydney's beaches than by paddling your way along the coast. If you're working up a sweat, just dive into the clear, warm water. // watssup.com.au

The Best Restaurants in Sydney

Cuisine in Sydney is focused on local seafood (which makes sense considering their proximity to the Pacific Ocean bounty) and you can't go wrong with ordering oysters, the catch of the day, or whatever crustacean strikes your fancy at any of these restaurants. Best of all, Australia does not have an over-fishing problem like we do in the States, which means you can enjoy without having to worry about the local ecosystem.

Bennelong Restaurant at Sydney Opera House

I hate to disappoint, but up close the Sydney Opera House looks nothing like you've imagined. It's many sails are far apart, a tad smaller, and not quite so brilliant white as we've been led to believe. But that doesn't stop hundreds of Sydneysiders from flocking to its waterside bar every Friday afternoon for happy hour. If you're not one for crowds or have to quell a raging appetite from walking all day, the best way to experience the Opera House is from the inside with a candlelit dinner at Bennelong Restaurant. Showcasing a magnificent production of Australian food and wine, Bennelong Restaurant is an architectural gem and perfect for any romantic rendezvous you hope to have while down under. // bennelong.com.au

Cafe Sydney

Cafe Sydney boasts an amazing view of the Sydney Harbour from its perch on the rooftop of Customs House. Paired with delicious food and a gorgeous outdoor terrace, this restaurant should be on everyone's Australia bucket list. // cafesydney.com

Icebergs on Bondi Beach

Imagine this: a Olympic-size salt water pool on a sea cliff overlooking one of the world's most beautiful beaches in the world, as the ocean waves gently roll over the side of the pool to propel you as you swim laps. Sounds like heaven, right? And while the majestic pool is probably the most famous destination for those looking to score a beautiful Instagram, the restaurant at Icebergs is equally amazing and picturesque. With an ever evolving menu focused on regional Italian cuisine and celebrating seasonal flavors, the intimate and elegant dining room is arranged so that you always have a view of Bondi Beach and the pool below. // idrb.com

Watsons Bay Hotel Beach Club

This harbor side retreat is so cute you'll want to get married here. Located on the water's edge in Watsons Bay, it's one of Sydney's most iconic hot spots with swaying palm trees and warm sunny breezes to lure you in and tasty, refreshing cocktails made using the freshest fruits and herbs to make you stay a while. // watsonsbayhotel.com.au/beach-club

Where to Stay in Sydney

Primus Hotel

A perfect example of art deco glamour, Primus Hotel has only been open since December 2015. Perfectly positioned in the heart of downtown Sydney, Town Hall, iconic Hyde Park, Queen Victoria Building, St Mary's Cathedral and emerging Korea town are only a step away. That is, if you can pry yourself from their rooftop pool. // primushotelsydney.com

Pier One Sydney Harbour

If money is no matter, book a room at Pier One hotel. The seaside deck, view of the harbor, and soft white sheets will make it hard to ever leave your room. //pieronesydneyharbour.com.au

Top Reasons to Visit Sydney

College Football: UC Berkeley v University of Hawaii (August 27, 2016)

West Coast college football kicks off in Sydney this year. Pack as much blue and gold as you can, and take this opportunity to cheer on the Bears in another country. // calbears.com

Vivid Sydney(May 27 - June 18, 2016)

The world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas, Vivid Sydney includes light installation from local artists, music headliners, and panels on everything from gaming to fashion. It's the event of the year, and you've never seen a city look this colorful. // vividsydney.com

Handa Opera (March 24-April 24, 2016)

For one month every fall, Sydney builds a custom waterfront stage to showcase its world-class opera performances. Bring a blanket and a picnic for this unique theater experience. // sydney.com/events/handa-opera-on-sydney-harbour