BridgeClimb SydneyCredit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a twilight BridgeClimb Sydney experience overlooking Sydney Harbour.
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DOWNLOAD WORLD TOURISM DAY NSW VIDEO AND IMAGE ASSETS VIA THE CONTENT PACKAGE LINK ABOVE.
World Tourism Day is an opportune time to dust off those travel to-do lists and make some additions for all the future trips you’ll be able to take in NSW.
Driven by insights* about the types of trips that travellers are craving most when lockdown lifts, we’ve gathered the best Sydney and NSW experiences on offer so you can start planning your next holiday now. From Sydney icons, hidden beaches, gourmet food trails, mountain adventures, luxurious getaways and more - NSW has it all.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said: “We’re all keen to get out and travel once again, and with strong vaccination rates in NSW we expect that will be possible soon. Now is the time to start planning your NSW road trip or uniquely Sydney staycation - what better way to reconnect with friends, family and even yourself than to make unforgettable memories while exploring our spectacular State.
“This World Tourism Day let’s celebrate the joy of travel, the amazing attractions and experiences on offer across NSW and the local tourism operators who make our State not only a must-visit destination but one to return to.”
Here are 30 memorable NSW tourism experiences to fuel future travel:
World Tourism Day 2021 Credit: Destination NSW
World Tourism Day - Hype Reel
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World Tourism Day 2021 Credit: Destination NSW
World Tourism Day - Hype Reel
Captain Cook Cruises, Sydney Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying harbour views aboard a Captain Cook Cruises vessel in Sydney Harbour.
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Captain Cook Cruises, Sydney Harbour Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying harbour views aboard a Captain Cook Cruises vessel in Sydney Harbour.
Rejuvenation: 60.7 per cent of travellers are seeking utter relaxation
With picturesque landscapes and luxury settings, Sydney and NSW know how to help travellers unwind.
- Feel like you’ve got a tropical island all to yourself at Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island, where white sandy beaches meet World Heritage-listed rainforest and barefoot luxury.
- Gather friends and family and cruise the calm waterways of the Murray River on a Magic Murray Houseboat.
- Stress will melt away as you linger over golden sunsets on Sydney Harbour with champagne and oysters at TWR bar at Crown Sydney, or get out on the water and bask in the glittering views from the top deck of a Captain Cook Cruises vessel.
Awe-inspiring: 41.7 per cent of travellers want to explore somewhere new
The Harbour City always has something unexpected to show off, and NSW is full of hidden gems to uncover your new favourite place.
- Go inside the sails of the Sydney Opera House with a backstage tour of this iconic harbourside theatre.
- Taste the flavours of Vietnam and explore the vibrant migrant history of Cabramatta with Taste Cultural Food Tours. Order dinner with a side of drag at The Imperial in Erskineville and rediscover that desire to dance all night long.
- Learn all about Sydney’s rich and fascinating Aboriginal heritage on a guided cultural tour in the Royal Botanic Garden.
- In Batemans Bay, feel the thrill of shucking an oyster straight from the water on a Region X Oyster Tasting Kayak Tour.
The Imperial Erskineville Credit: Destination NSW
Patrons enjoying a Drag n' Dine night at The Imperial Erskineville in Sydney's inner west.
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The Imperial Erskineville Credit: Destination NSW
Patrons enjoying a Drag n' Dine night at The Imperial Erskineville in Sydney's inner west.
Adventurous: 28.4 per cent of travellers want to take a road trip
Sometimes it’s as much about the journey as it is the destination, and a road trip in NSW leads to endless unique adventures and is the perfect way to reconnect with friends.
- Drive through the Blue Mountains on your way to the Hawkesbury region, picking up baked goods at Black Cockatoo Bakery in Katoomba and taking a selfie in front of the Three Sisters.
- Stop off at the Corowa Whisky and Chocolate Factory on your way to Moama on the Murray River to sip their handcrafted amber spirits.
- Head south to follow the oyster trail in the Sapphire Coast, stopping for a freshly shucked dozen at Merimbula Lake, Wapengo Rocks and Wonboyn Lake.
Freedom: 28.4 per cent of travellers want to feel immersed in the great outdoors
After months of staying at home, it’s no wonder so many of us are seeking out a nature escape. There’s plenty of places in NSW to get away from it all.
- Feel as free as a bird with a scenic flight over the otherworldly rock formations of Mungo National Park.
- Soar with Sydney Seaplanes across the sparkling harbour, finishing with a seafood lunch at Jonah’s on Whale Beach.
- Swim up close to the underwater world at Shelly Beach in Manly on an Ecotreasures snorkelling tour.
- Stay dry and explore the vibrant marine creatures at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium.
Dive Jervis Bay, Jervis Bay Credit: Jordan Robins
Man swimming with seals during a snorkelling tour with Dive Jervis Bay.
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Dive Jervis Bay, Jervis Bay Credit: Jordan Robins
Man swimming with seals during a snorkelling tour with Dive Jervis Bay.
Connection: 19 per cent of travellers are looking to rekindle the romance
Secluded getaways, dramatic views, luxurious rooms – Sydney and NSW can turn it on. Feel the love again at some of the state’s most special stays.
- Sleep under the stars in your own Bubbletent overlooking the Capertee Valley.
- Spend the night beside the animals at Wildlife Retreat Taronga Zoo.
- Indulge in champagne and majestic views from an intimate room at Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour.
- Wine and dine your way to romance with world-class dinner and drinks at Icebergs Dining Room + Bar at Bondi Beach or Pilu at Freshwater on the Northern Beaches.
Heart-pumping: 15.2 per cent of travellers want to feel the thrill of a sporty adventure
Adrenaline-seekers, we’ve got you covered.
- Experience the rush as you speed down the sand dunes of Port Stephens on a sand board or quad bike with Sand Dune Adventures.
- Watch in awe as whales glide right past you on a swim or dive with Dive Jervis Bay on the South Coast.
- In Sydney, feel on top of the world and try the new Sydney Harbour Bridge Aboriginal Burrawa BridgeClimb; try to keep your cool on the memorable slides of Raging Waters; and take in the colours, shows, magic views and squeal-worthy rides at Luna Park.
- Learn how to surf at Let’s go Surfing in Bondi, Maroubra, Byron Bay or Ballina, or SUP at Watsons Bay in Sydney with WATSSUP and at Jervis Bay on the South Coast with SUP with George.
*Source: Traveller Pulse July 12 Survey, Destination NSW.
For more information on things to see and do in Sydney go to www.sydney.com.
Share your favourite holidays in Sydney and NSW on social media using @sydney #ilovesydney @visitnsw #lovensw.
This World Tourism Day, leading operators in Sydney’s leisure, accommodation, hospitality & attraction markets encourage consumers to book in advance to revel in #jola – the joy of looking ahead.
Sand Dune Adventures, Port Stephens Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a day of sand boarding with Sand Dune Adventures on Stockton Sand Dunes, Port Stephens.
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Sand Dune Adventures, Port Stephens Credit: Destination NSW
Family enjoying a day of sand boarding with Sand Dune Adventures on Stockton Sand Dunes, Port Stephens.
More News
Dorian RestaurantCredit: Dorian Restaurant
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
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A line-up of globally renowned chefs will feature across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen as part of Vivid Sydney 2024
Tickets on sale from Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com
Imagery: here
From near and far, some of the hottest names in the culinary world will appear at Vivid Sydney this year as part of Vivid Food, embracing the festival’s 2024 theme, Humanity, and highlighting food as a fundamental part of the human experience, connecting us through the universal language of cuisine.
This year’s roster of renowned local and international culinary talent across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen will craft diverse, innovative menus that celebrate our shared heritage and the rich tapestry of global cultures present in Sydney’s food scene, through a series of dynamic events spanning intimate fine dining experiences through to communal fire-cooked feasts.
Vivid Residence will bring Latin America’s best female chef 2022, Manoella ‘Manu’ Buffara of Manu Restaurant, to take over Peter Conistis’ waterside venue, Ploós, while hatted restaurants Fred’s, AALIA and The Charles Brasserie & Bar will be among the top dining spots hosting Vivid Chef Series events and unmissable foodie collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs including Max Coen, Sally Abé and Ivan Brehm.
Vivid Fire Kitchen returns to the Vivid Food program in a new home on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes including Christine Manfield; Firedoor's Lennox Hastie; Texas' Jess Pryles; Michelin-starred Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt; LA’s Shalamar Lane and more, firing up The Goods Line with cooking demonstrations and tasty BBQ fare from tandoor and teppanyaki to First Nations tucker.
This announcement bolsters an already impressive Vivid Food 2024 program including the Our Shared Humanity series featuring leading Australian chefs; Atelier by Sofitel – A Culinary Connection; VividPlace Food Trail, A Culinary Canvas by Danielle Alvarez, the return of Aster Vivid 2024 and much more, all with a nod to Vivid Sydney, Humanity.
John Graham, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, said:
“After a successful launch last year, I am pleased to see Vivid Food returning for a second year. Food is a cultural cornerstone, a fundamental part of the human experience, something we can all share and through that shared experience, enjoy new flavours and perspectives.
“Sydney has a wonderful food scene and Vivid Food is a great chance to explore that local scene. The Vivid Food program will range from headline experiences including the free BBQ demonstrations at Vivid Fire Kitchen. We invite Sydneysiders and visitors from across the globe to join us and enjoy one of Sydney’s great strengths.”
Vivid Sydney Festival Director and Vivid Food curator Gill Minervini said:
“Vivid Food captures the essence of our shared humanity through the global language of food. It’s a celebration of how cuisine can mirror the diversity of cultures, while also being a bridge that connects us all. We’re thrilled to announce the incredible local and international culinary talent joining the Vivid Food program across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen, who will bring to life the rich tapestry of Sydney’s food scene. Our diverse range of Vivid Food events, from intimate dining experiences to communal feasts, promises to bring people together and showcase the unique and collective culinary heritage that makes our city so special.”
Stephanie Calape, Vice President of Culinary Events at IMG, which produces Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen in collaboration with Vivid Sydney, said:
“Following the phenomenal popularity of last year’s inaugural Vivid Food experiences, which saw Vivid Residence sell out within 48 hours, we are excited to bring back another incredible, diverse array of experiences and chefs for 2024. From world-renowned Chef Manoella Buffara’s one-of-a-kind fine dining Vivid Residence experience at Sydney’s Ploós, to Vivid Chef Series’ unmissable mash-up of Sydney and the world’s most exciting chefs, and the star-studded, immersive Vivid Fire Kitchen festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Manoella Buffara Credit: Manoella Buffara
Manoella Buffara for Vivid Residence
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Manoella Buffara Credit: Manoella Buffara
Manoella Buffara for Vivid Residence
Vivid Residence
Culinary artistry meets social responsibility at Vivid Residence as Latin America’s Best Female Chef 2022, Manoella Buffara of Manu Restaurant, Brazil, which was awarded the The Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award 2023, graces Peter Conistis’ waterfront venue, Ploós, right in the heart of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Renowned for putting Curitiba on the global culinary map, Buffara’s approach integrates local produce with a commitment to environmental and social sustainability. During her Vivid Sydney residency, Buffara will showcase her pioneering approach to fine dining for the first time in Australia, celebrating New South Wales’ produce alongside her team and Ploós's esteemed chefs.
Chef Manoella Buffara said: “I’m incredibly excited to be part of Vivid Food in Sydney, an event that highlights the importance of cuisine in our culture. As the culinary capital of Australia, Sydney becomes a hub for vibrant flavour exchanges, bringing together top chefs and local producers to create memorable food experiences. In the heart of this bustling city, I will launch a pop-up that showcases my love for high-quality ingredients and authentic flavours. Sharing my cooking and stories with Sydney is a true honour, and I look forward to being part of this amazing food event that Vivid Food offers.”
Buffara and the team will create two menus, with a nine-course tasting menu for dinner, and a seven-course tasting menu for lunch. Tickets for the nine-course dinner menu are $420 per person, with the shorter lunch tasting menu costing $320, with bespoke beverage pairings also available. Vivid Residence will run from 24 May to 2 June 2024 offering a unique dining experience in the middle of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.
Vivid Chef Series
The Vivid Chef Series will take over Sydney’s food scene, with the city’s best hatted restaurants and chefs pairing with some of the world’s most exciting culinary talent to bring the global contemporary culinary scene to Sydney for a limited number of nights.
The series of exclusive dinners will see local and international talent collaborate to create a never-to-be repeated menu that celebrates the best NSW produce and suppliers, imbued with global culinary sophistication.
London chef Sally Abé, who will take over The Charles Brasserie & Bar as part of Vivid Chef Series, said: “As a passionate chef, I am thrilled to be a part of the Vivid Food series in Sydney. It is an incredible platform that celebrates the intersection of art, culture, and gastronomy, allowing me to showcase my culinary skills in a vibrant and innovative setting. I am excited to immerse myself in the diverse food scene of Sydney and collaborate with talented chefs from around the world, creating unforgettable culinary experiences.”
Chef collaborations include:
- The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abé | Once comrades in arms on the other side of the globe whilst working at the three Michelin-starred restaurant The Ledbury in London, Sally Abé of The Pem will be reuniting with Billy Hannigan of Sydney’s hatted The Charles Brasserie & Bar, for three unmissable lunches and dinners. The menu will merge Hannigan’s European-inspired cooking style with Abe’s passion for nostalgic British cuisine. Joining them in the kitchen will be head pastry chef Rhiann Mead, who will add her signature sweet and innovative flair to the evening.
- AALIA x Ivan Brehm | Ivan Brehm of Michelin-starred Singapore restaurant, Nouri and Paul Farag of AALIA (two hatted Sydney restaurant, previously named Gourmet Traveller’s NSW restaurant of the year, 2023) will collaborate on two exclusive dinners that celebrate global food traditions. The dinners will blend AALIA’s expertise in Middle Eastern cuisine with Nouri’s celebration of global food traditions, for a menu that honours diversity of cultures paying tribute to the richness of our collective culinary heritage.
- Fred’s x Max Coen | Max Coen of London Michelin-starred Dorian and Ben Greeno of acclaimed Sydney restaurant, Fred’s will unite for four exclusive dinners that fuse their culinary philosophies. Chef Coen’s meticulous focus on ingredient-focussed wood-fired grilling will meet Greeno’s farm-to-table approach and hyper-seasonal cooking, for a menu that celebrates the beauty and artistry found in simplicity, all while utilising the best in local produce.
Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.
The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
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The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
Fred's x Max Coen Credit: Steven Woodburn
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
#feelnewsydney
Fred's x Max Coen Credit: Steven Woodburn
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
Vivid Fire Kitchen
Vivid Fire Kitchen will light up its new home of The Goods Line across 23 nights, with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes joining forces with acclaimed local flame-focused restaurants for a festival of accessible fire demos, cooking sessions and exclusive BBQ dishes, with drinks, DJs and entertainment ablaze with Fire Sculptures, Flame Shooters and fire drums. Using the best NSW produce, a line-up of acclaimed local and international chefs will serve up a selection of flame-seared street food from around the globe, from tandoor and Argentinian Asado, First Nations tucker, alongside hearty sausages, tender brisket, charred eggplant, and aromatic satay, offering a nightly multicultural feast.
Guests will enjoy demonstrations combining local produce and raw-fire cooking from chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie of Sydney’s two-hatted Firedoor who returns for Vivid Food 2024; one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs and culinary ambassadors Christine Manfield; reigning Seafood Champion in the World Food Championships, John McFadden; chef, restaurateur, proud Bundjalung woman and owner of Karkalla restaurant, Mindy Woods; Michelin starred chef of Sweden’s Ekstedt at The Yard, Niklas Ekstedt; Texas-based live fire cook, author, TV personality Jess Pryles; Pitmaster of LA-based My Father’s Barbeque, Shalamar Lane and more.
Australian chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie who will appear at Vivid Fire Kitchen, said: “For me, food is an integral part of my creative expression because it engages all my senses and allows me to connect with ingredients and people on a deeply personal level. Vivid Food celebrates the rich and diverse nature of our food culture of Australia, reminding us that food is not just about sustenance but a powerful form of connection supporting community, evoking emotions, and creating lasting memories.”
Alongside BBQ offerings and the blazing atmosphere on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk, Vivid Sydney audiences will also be able to enjoy dishes from a curated selection of Sydney’s hottest dining concepts at Vivid Fire Kitchen, from casual eateries to acclaimed restaurants, including Messina Milk Bar, a culinary time capsule that transforms beloved chocolate bars and classic sweets into modern gelato delights. A menu highlight: a warm Milo fudge sundae, specially developed to warm you up on cold winter nights.
Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen events are produced by IMG in collaboration with Vivid Sydney. IMG is the global events company behind the likes of Gourmet Escape, Taste Festivals, The Big Feastival, New York Fashion Week: The Shows and Frieze art fairs.
Vivid Food is part of Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, which will run from 24 May to 15 June 2024. Tickets for Vivid Residence and Vivid Chef Series will go on sale Friday 19 April via https://www.vividsydney.com/food. Vivid Fire Kitchen events, taking place at The Goods Line in Ultimo, are free for all to attend. Food and drink can be purchased on site.
For more information and tickets, visit vividsydney.com
Niklas Ekstedt Credit: Niklas Ekstedt
Niklas Ekstedt for Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024
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Niklas Ekstedt Credit: Niklas Ekstedt
Niklas Ekstedt for Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 as part of Vivid Food.
#feelnewsydney
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 Credit: Destination NSW
Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 as part of Vivid Food.
Media contacts:
Hannah Fedeli, +61437166571 or hannah.f@thecru.agency
Shannon Blanchard, +61432543377 or shannon@thecru.agency
James Toovey, Vivid Sydney PR Manager, +61407828310 or james.toovey@dnsw.com.au
About Vivid Sydney
Vivid Sydney is the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, celebrating creativity, innovation and technology, and transforming Sydney into a kaleidoscope of colour and events for 23 nights. Staged for its 14th year in 2024, Vivid Sydney will bring together mesmerising displays from the world’s brightest light artists, exhilarating live music performances, deep-dive discussions with thought leaders, and innovative experiences from food creatives. Vivid Sydney attracts domestic and international visitors, fuelling economic growth while fostering a cultural celebration across Light, Music, Ideas and Food. Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. For more information and tickets, visit vividsydney.com
About Destination NSW
Destination NSW is the champion and voice for the visitor economy within the NSW Government. Spearheading a whole-of-government approach to visitor economy growth, Destination NSW influences and shapes the visitor economy through strategic research, policy and thought leadership, stakeholder engagement and consultation, commercial partnerships and investment in visitor experiences, business support, marketing and events. Destination NSW is also the major investor in Business Events Sydney (BESydney) for the purpose of securing more international and domestic conventions, incentive travel reward programs, corporate events and exhibitions.
About IMG
IMG is a global sports, events and representation company. It is a leader in rights management, multi-channel content production and distribution, consultancy and fan engagement; owns, produces and commercially represents hundreds of live events and experiences; and manages licensing programs for the world’s best-known brands and trademarks. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.