🐋 Sydney Adventures & Whale Tales: One of Our Favorite 2024 Travel Memories

Last year, we set off on an unforgettable adventure to Sydney, Australia, and it’s safe to say — it captured our hearts. From breathtaking harbor views to a once-in-a-lifetime whale encounter to a misty mountain day full of wonder, this trip was packed with moments we’ll never forget (and absolutely had to jot down in our journal!).

🏨 Where We Stayed: Shangri-La with a View

We stayed at the Shangri-La Sydney, and the view alone made our hearts skip. From our window, we could see the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge — postcard perfect, every day. It was the kind of view that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and say, “Wow.” Morning greetings with that skyline? Unbeatable!

🐋 A Whale Watching Memory to Last a Lifetime

If there are whales to be found, we are going to see them! One of the most magical moments of our trip was a whale watching tour. It was just the right size for families — not too crowded, and thoughtfully run. Our tour operators were true pros and knew exactly where to go to find us a whale encounter quickly.

Out on the water, we had the incredible luck of watching a whale breach, tail flap, and glide beside us, putting on a show that felt like it was just for us. The energy on the boat was pure joy. There’s something about seeing such a massive, graceful creature in the wild that leaves you in awe — and a little speechless.

Whale Breaching

🏞️ A Day in the Blue Mountains

Another highlight was a breathtaking Blue Mountains day tour, booked through Viator. This one took us outside the city and into a world of waterfalls, cliffs, and eucalyptus-scented air.

We rode the Scenic Railway (the steepest in the Southern Hemisphere!), took in jaw-dropping views at Echo Point, and explored Scenic World, where boardwalks wind through Jurassic forest. Between skyways and cable cars, it felt like stepping into a storybook — one with misty mountains, ancient rock formations, and just enough adventure to make our hearts race.

📝 What We Jotted

Our Jolly Jottings journal got a workout on this leg of the trip. Here are a few prompts we used as a duo:

• Draw the moment you saw the whale breach — what sound did it make?

• What was your favorite part of the Blue Mountains? Describe the colors, smells, and sounds.

• If you could bring home one memory in your pocket, what would it be?

• What did this trip make you feel thankful for?

📚 Want to Follow in Our Footsteps?

You can book the same whale watching and Blue Mountains day trip experiences we loved through our Viator affiliate link. It’s an easy way to plan your adventure and support Jolly Jottings — at no extra cost to you!

✨ Adventures Worth Remembering

This trip reminded us why journaling is so important. Adventures come and go, but stories — your stories — last. Jotting down those funny moments, surprising sights, and big feelings helps keep the memories alive long after the bags are unpacked.

Have you ever been to Sydney or seen a whale in the wild? We’d love to hear your favorite memories or must-do tips in the comments below!

Happy adventuring — and may your jottings be jolly.