GLBT Travelers - Sydney

I am fortunate to have been to most major cities in the world. Last week I went to Sydney for my 5th time. It was the first time in about 4 years. I was struck at how downhill the nightlife has gone on Oxford street. Other than the weekends, nothing was worth it. Even Friday night was stretching it a bit. I understand that during the special events, it is probably special, but a normal week was pretty dismal.

Don't get me wrong, Sydney is beautiful (and expensive). It is one of the prettiest cities in the world. But I certainly would not spend my money for a gay holiday there. I noticed that there were two mentions of Sydney in the NY Nightlife thread, and they had posted essentially the same idea. Such a shame.

I know exactly what you mean. We've been several times in years past for Mardi Gras, really loved it, and have often talked about returning, maybe for new years. Then in March, I had the opportunity to spend a long weekend there while travelling on business, and came away with the exact thoughts you had. No longer on my must-get-back-to list. If the opportunity arises, it's always nice to visit, but the bubble was burst during my last visit 2 months ago.

I've noticied two Sydneys. The guys on the beach, attractive and obvisiously taking care of themselves. The ones sitting in those mostly tragic open air bars (called hotels in some cases). Those ones that look like their daily routine consists of heavy drinking, excessive smoking and eating lots of bad food.

I go to Sydney for the beach scene not some of the scary stuff I see on Oxford Street.

Agreed with all posts - Oxford St has seen better days. My friends in Sydney seem to go to pool parties / private parties these days, rather than any of the bars / clubs. Mardi Gras is obviously a great time to visit, but outside of that, things can be pretty grim.

Even though I am from Sydney (well, 80km west, but close enough) I actually prefer the gay scene in Melbourne. Even the general touristy stuff is better than Sydney.

Sydney has the beaches, Melbourne has the nightlife (both general and gay), restaurants, cafes, a much better city to visit.

Dave

I live in Sydney and have to agree with all your coments. Back in the 80s and and early 90s I practically lived on Oxford St. I never bother going there anymore - it is just too seedy for my taste and there is an element of danger about it.

I prefer my local Pub or some of the myriad of Pubs that Newtown has to offer.

Yes, Sydney is very expensive these days. I actually paid $12 for 5 Bananas at the Supermarket yesterday!

Yes, Sydney is very expensive these days. I actually paid $12 for 5 Bananas at the Supermarket yesterday!


Well I can certainly understand the massive increase in price of bananas given the deterioration in gay nightlife in Sydney :cool: ......something to do with Serotonin I'm sure :p