Bondi Beach, Gap Park & A Morning Walk Through Sydney

My third morning in Australia began with a sense of calm.
A good night’s sleep had washed away much of the fatigue from the previous day.
I stretched lightly, got ready for the schedule ahead, and headed down for breakfast.

Hotel breakfasts always have their own charm—
different from what I eat in Korea, yet delightful in their own way.
Colorful dishes filled the table, and I found myself imagining the day’s adventures as I ate.

A Quiet Morning Walk Around the Hotel

Time in Australia was flying by much faster than expected.
Since we had some time before departure,
I decided to take a stroll around the area near our hotel.

It wasn’t a bustling downtown, but the clean streets had a distinct “Australian vibe.”
A famous cathedral, St. Mary’s Cathedral, was nearby,
so I walked a few blocks to see it.

The cathedral was grand and striking—
the kind of architectural beauty I’d seen often during my trips to Europe.
It made me wonder how many people’s dedication and labor had created such a place of peace.

Next to it was Hyde Park, one of the oldest parks in Australia,
but unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to explore it fully.

A Rainy Start — Sydney in a Different Mood

Back at the hotel, we boarded the bus for the day’s schedule.
Light rain began to fall,
and Sydney through the rain-streaked window had a different sort of charm.

Some people walked with umbrellas,
others simply wore raincoats without bothering to open an umbrella—
a small glimpse into everyday Australian life.

Bondi Beach — A Calm and Romantic Rainy Coastline

Our first destination was Bondi Beach.
Despite the rain, the beach had a peaceful, almost romantic atmosphere.

Travelers walked across the wide stretch of sand under their umbrellas.
Gray skies, turquoise waves, silhouettes of people walking—
the harmony of it all brought an unexpected sense of calm.

I also noticed several locals out for their morning jog.
Even on a rainy day, running seemed to be part of their daily routine.
Seeing them made me think of my own school days—
I used to be quite fast, rarely losing a race.
But I haven’t run in a long time.
Maybe one day I’ll start again… though not today. ^^

Dudley Page Reserve — A Wide-Open View of the Skyline

Next, we arrived at Dudley Page Reserve,
a grassy hill with a panoramic view of the Sydney skyline.
It must be stunning on a clear day.
Rain and wind kept us from staying long,
but even a quick glance at the wide-open scenery felt refreshing.

Gap Park — Majestic Coastal Cliffs & A Message That Touched My Heart

The third stop was Gap Park,
one of Sydney’s most scenic viewpoints.

Rain came and went,
but the weather was still good enough for a coastal walk.
The cliffs were magnificent,
and at one moment, sunlight peeked through the clouds
as if waiting for our arrival.

As I walked along the trail,
I came across a small sign at Don Ritchie Grove—
and it stopped me in my tracks.

“Always remember the power of the simple smile,
a helping hand, a listening ear and a kind word.”
— Don Ritchie

Don Ritchie lived near Gap Park
and was known for approaching people who appeared distressed on the cliffs.
He would invite them for tea, talk with them, and simply listen.
He is credited with saving more than 160 lives.

His message felt profound.
Not heroic acts, not grand gestures—
but simple human kindness: a smile, a hand, a listening ear, a gentle word.

As someone learning coaching,
this quote deeply resonated with me.
It reminded me how small gestures can move someone’s heart
far more than we expect.

One of the Most Beautiful Views of the Entire Trip

A little further along the trail,
I encountered one of the most stunning views of my entire Australia trip.

The Sydney skyline appeared in the distance,
framed by clouds, ocean, hills, and soft light.
It looked like a postcard—
a perfect blend of nature and cityscape.

I paused to take it all in,
hoping the moment would stay with me long after the trip.

Closing Out Day 3 in Australia

Despite the rain,
Bondi Beach and Gap Park offered a deeply refreshing experience.
The beauty of Australia’s nature,
the sound of the waves,
and Don Ritchie’s words left a strong impression on my heart.

As I continue learning and practicing coaching,
his message will remain a guiding reminder.

More Australian stories to come—
stay with me as the journey continues. 🌿✈️🇦🇺

For Your Dream Life
by Dream Max