Models Jordan and Zac Stenmark's Local Tips For Sydney
What better way to experience a new city than with local recommendations? Born Sydneysiders and Australian models Jordan and Zac Stenmark share their Sydney secrets.
Jordan and Zac Stenmark at Broken Head Beach, Byron Bay, New South Wales © Tourism Australia
Identical twins Jordan and Zac Stenmark were first discovered by fashion designer Tom Ford in 2011. Their careers launched with a 60-page international editorial with renowned magazine L’Officiel Hommes in Paris, and since then they have worked with some of the biggest names in the fashion industry. Here are their local tips for a visit to Sydney.
Where to stay
Park Hyatt, Sydney, New South Wales © Park Hyatt
Spot a star
Snap a picture with a star at the iconic Summer Bay! The beautiful coastal suburb of Palm Beach in Sydney’s Northern Beaches is the set for the famous Aussie TV show Home and Away.
We love the Park Hyatt hotel on Sydney’s famous harbour waters as you get the view of two of Sydney’s most amazing landmarks from one place – the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The service is great, and the staff are so friendly.
If you want a quick getaway, Palm Beach in Sydney’s Northern Beaches is the way to go. Barrenjoey House has a great restaurant and accommodation.
What to do
Bondi to Bronte Walk, Sydney, New South Wales © Destination NSW
Feeding the kangaroos at Symbio Wildlife Park south of Sydney is a must-do, as is the spectacular coastal walk from Bondi to Bronte Beach in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
In the winter months, grab a ticket to an iconic Aussie game – Australian Rules Football – and watch the Sydney Swans take on their rivals, the GWS Giants.
I grew up on the Northern Beaches, so I’d say go up to Palm Beach or to Avalon for a local experience. Go to beaches where there aren’t many people, that’s one of the best things to do in Sydney.
Where to eat
Cafe Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales © Anson Smart
If you’re looking for a healthy meal, try Ora in the beach suburb of Manly on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. It’s an authentic organic café with all the right ingredients. Manly is really easy to get to from the city, too – just take a ride on one of the iconic yellow and green Sydney ferries. If you want a delicious seafood lunch, Cafe Sydney, near Circular Quay, is outstanding.
What to buy
Paddington, Sydney, New South Wales © Tourism Australia
Gould Street in Bondi and The Intersection in Paddington are great spots to shop some of Australia's best brands. If you want to take home a special reminder of your trip, we’d recommend buying something truly Aussie – a pair of Budgy Smugglers (our fun version of speedos! You can buy them online, or they have a shop in Manly) or some RM Williams boots.
When to go
Sydney New Year's Eve, Sydney, New South Wales © City of Sydney
We think one of the best times to visit Sydney is Christmas; you get all the festive fun on the beach followed by the famous New Year's Eve festivities where you can watch the world’s best fireworks display.
The Westpac Open AirCinema, which runs in January and February at Mrs Macquaries Point, is also great for a movie under the stars with unrivalled views of the harbour.
