Wanderlust Wonders: Vivian’s Journey Abroad (week 6)
Down Under Diaries- Week 6
This pre-final week in Sydney has been nothing short of a whirlwind adventure. From heart-pounding jet-pack shows to savory delights at the Greek festival to calming moments at the White Rabbit Gallery, each day this week unfolded like a colorful crepe of excitement and enrichment.
Highlight #1: Lunar New Year Jet Pack Shows
Continuing the celebration of the Year of the Dragon, I attended two jetpack shows at Darling Harbour. The matinee performance included two lion dancers with jetpacks and their colorful costumes dancing gracefully against the backdrop of the Harbour. As the sun went down and the moon arose, Darling Harbour transformed into a neon-lit wonderland. With fireworks and fire shooting up the sky, jet-packers returned for a mesmerizing encore. Gliding and flipping effortlessly through the air, they seemed to defy gravity. As I stood there, wide-eyed and breathless, I realized that sometimes, the most extraordinary experiences are found in the simplest of moments. Both shows, a blending of tradition with skill and artistry, were spectacular to witness!
Highlight #2: Greek Festival
The City of Sydney Council hosts multiple cultural events throughout the year, including the Greek Festival. Held at Tumbalong Park, the air is filled with infectious rhythm of traditional music, and the scent of sizzling fried foods wafted through the crowd. Upon entering, we are greeted with a huge stage of Greek performers (dancers, singers, musicians, etc). As I wandered through the festival grounds, I discovered rows of tents showcasing Greek treasures including hand-crafted jewelry, vibrant clothing, and adorable baby products. Each stall offered a glimpse into the beauty and unique culture of Greek artistry.
However, beyond the food and the shopping, what truly made this festival special was the strong sense of community and camaraderie that permeated the event. Everywhere I turn, I am greeted with warm smiles and friendly faces, each person eager to share their love for Greek tradition and heritage. I feel grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an enriching cultural experience. Through music, food, and fellowship, I gained a deeper appreciation for Greek culture and its timeless festivities.
Highlight #3: The White Rabbit Gallery
Amidst Sydney’s busy streets and crowded cafes, I stumbled upon a hidden gem tucked away in the Chippendale neighborhood. Founded by businesswoman and philanthropist Judith Neilson in 2009, the White Rabbit Gallery symbolizes cultural exchange and artistic expression and is housed in a former 1940s Rolls-Royce service depot. This Chinese contemporary art haven is a world of innovation and imagination. As I walked around, I could not stop grinning at the diversity of the collection. From bold sculptures to intricate paintings, each artwork is a testament to artists’ boundless creativity. Among them, a particular piece stood out: what appeared to be ordinary cardboard boxes revealed themselves to be crafted from pure marble! More than just a museum, this gallery is also a teahouse as it offers fresh Asian snacks and tea. I sampled 奶香烏龍茶 (Milk Fragrance Oolong Tea) and now consider myself a tea drinker!
As our time in Sydney draws to a close next week, I find myself overwhelmed with appreciation for the whirlwind of experiences this city has blessed me with. Each memory, heart-pounding or calming, will always be cherished. I eagerly look forward to new adventures next week, as well as the final week in Sydney!
Vivian Kuang ’25
BSBA in Management and Organizations Freeman College of Management