Thursday, July 17, 2008

Sydney, Darling Harbor, And the Pope!

Darling Harbour is one of Sydney's most popular recreation spots. Close to 1.3 million people visit the sunny foreshore precinct each year. The area has a colourful history and played a very important role in Sydney's early market days when it was used for receiving fresh produce and timber from Parramatta and the north coast. The past few days I've been branching out and exploring this part of the city. It's a little different from the financial district of Sydney and the "Rocks" area which is where I've spent most of my time so far. I've discovered a few eateries and Pubs outside of the common tourist traps and have found the people to be warm and friendly. This area is also the home of the "Star Casino" and "Maritime Museum." Still another big attraction is the IMAX theater - Currently showing (of all things) "Grand Canyon 3-D."



National Maritime Museum





But this week there's an even bigger attraction to Sydney and Darling Harbor: World Youth Day 2008 - WYD08. Organized by the Catholic Church, WYD brings together young people from around the globe to celebrate and learn about their faith on a more regular basis. Over 125,000 international visitors will bombard Sydney- more than the 2000 Olympics. This will be the largest event ever hosted by Australia and will include a visit by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. AKA- "The Pope."


As I walk around the city and the Harbor, I can't help but notice the many flags displayed to welcome the attendees and highlight the event. Additionally, I can't help but hear the many different languages spoken by hundreds of small groups of kids. It's truly exciting.



This clearly is a great opportunity for those young kids who are able to attend. I'm sure they will form lifetime memories and make loyal friends.



I'm not Catholic but if I happen to see the Pope I'll be sure to ask him to pray for all of us. Cause we need it!

11 comments:

Speedcat Hollydale said...

Well, if you do in fact meet the Pope, ask him why his hat is so tall ... and get a photo of the new Popemobile!!!

Great photos - thanks for taking us all with on your trip to Austrailia.

Jane Turley said...

Hey, you'd only just got back from Austrailia and now you're back there again! You are working too hard Mr I and should have some more play time! (Although with all this sightseeing I do wonder.....)

Speedcat Hollydale said...

You still down under?????

Heather Dugan Creative / Footsteps said...

Wonderful photos! -Almost feels like I'm strolling along with you...
Please post more when you're able.

intrepidideas said...

Speedy, I was looking all over for the Pope but he was too illusive. Never saw him or the Popemobile. Maybe next time. Also, I've been home to L.A. and then to Chicago since this visit. So I'm not Down-under right now, but may have to go back soon. :)

intrepidideas said...

Miss Jane, you're right. I've been working way too hard. But it's all relative. I need some down time. Any ideas?

intrepidideas said...

Footsteps, welcome back from your trip. Very nice photos on your blog as well. I think maybe you were strolling along with me... Didn't we stop for tea? (smile) I hope to post more soon.

Jane Turley said...

Hmmm... let me think. I know! You could pop on those lovely 4th grade shorts again and skip down to the beach...

Don't forget to take the slingshot and pea shooter though! (Just incase you have an unexpected encounter with a crab clamping those little pinkies through your sandals...)

Heather Dugan Creative / Footsteps said...

Tea was lovely as was the stroll. Can't wait to see what else we saw...

Anonymous said...

Looks like a fantastic place! I get itchy to travel again.

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