In the City: Sydney, Australia

Welcome to our feature series where we profile a unique person, place, or brand in our Travel Massive community. Today, in our In the City series, we profile Sydney, Australia – the birthplace of Travel Massive!

Sydney holds a special place in our hearts since our very first Travel Massive meet-up in 2009 at the Scary Canary Bar with Founder Ian Cumming. Five years later, we catch up with local organizer Bryon Merzeo to learn more about his city!

[Photo: Bryon Merzeo]

1. What is your connection to the travel industry?

After falling in love with travelling like many of us, I decided to take a professional route and studied tourism strategy for my Masters Degree in Europe.

2. How long have you lived in Sydney and how did you come to live here?

6 years. It’s amazing!  I bought a one way ticket to come and check it out as a possible place to settle in and it won me over.

3. What surprises people most about Sydney?

First, being a long haul island destination, we’re not overwhelmed with tourists like London or Paris. Second, Australia is HUGE and Sydney is nowhere near the outback!

4. Are there any misconceptions about your city or the people?

There are few (if any) aboriginals that you will see.  In all my years here, I have seen about ten, and you’ll find the most unique aboriginals are buskers!

5. Best travel tip for visiting Sydney?

WALK around and explore.  Like most cities, you see more when you allow yourself to wander down streets, paths and alleyways that look interesting.  Or hire a local guide to show you the most authentic spots.

6. Best local food to try?

Kangaroo of course!

7. Best local drink?

Micro Brews are making a strong appearance, as well as small batch ciders.

8. Best local neighbourhood to explore and why?

Any of the beach communities APART from Bondi – you will be more immersed in the Australian lifestyle.

[Photo: Bryon Merzeo]

9. Best local event travellers should experience?

The New Years Fireworks. You will have goose bumps from the beauty and spectacle the city puts on each year.

10. Best cultural tradition?

Hitting the local beaches for sunbathing, a swim, and a cold beer.

11. Best spot to get off the beaten track?

Travel one hour in any direction from Sydney and you will be in a National Park, with very few people and lots of nature and wildlife.

12. Best time of year to visit and why?

Summer season, December-February.  Outdoor festivals, openair cinema, BBQ’s, and lots of sunshine = lots of fun.

13. Is there a lingo or local word travellers should know when visiting your city?

“Mate” is used all the time. You can use this as a friendly greeting to address almost anyone in public or in business too, like “Hello Mate” or “Thanks, Mate”

14. Any strange or weird by-law(s) in Sydney?

Car passengers can drink alcohol, which makes for very fun road trips!

15. Is there a must-have app you recommend for travellers headed to Sydney?

Nope, put the phone away and look around!

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In the City is a monthly series that profiles a unique Travel Massive city around the world.