“Seven miles from Sydney and a thousand miles from care” was the slogan used to promote Manly as a vacation spot from as early as the late 1800’s, as Australia’s most popular seaside resort. Way before the iconic Harbour Bridge was built, Sydney-siders made their way to the surf beach by ferry.  This is still a popular way to visit the village, now filled with surf lovers, cool cafes, restaurants and pubs. There are open air markets and a bustling tourist scene.

I loved strolling along the Corso, shopping at stalls filled with locally made soaps and souvenirs. Yum Cha upstairs at the Pheonix was a delicious way to start the day with something that I could get used to…breakfast dessert,  mango crepes filled with fresh fruit and cream.

At night, dinner at China Beach was a treat. Right on the foreshore, we tasted delicious fresh seafood, Australian wines and unforgettable Asian dishes. This is not quite the Manly I grew up in. It’s grown up too.