Taylor Swift 2013 The Red Tour - Sydney Australia

SWIFT BECOMES FIRST SOLO FEMALE ARTIST 

IN 20 YEARS TO HEADLINE STADIUMS 

ACROSS AUSTRALIA

7-time GRAMMY winner and international superstar Taylor Swift is heading down under with her blockbuster THE RED TOUR. The talented singer songwriter today confirmed she will be performing stadium shows in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, as well as an arena date in Auckland, later this year as the first overseas leg of her acclaimed THE RED TOUR.

Notably, Taylor Swift will be the first solo female in twenty years to undertake a national stadium tour of Australia, with the last being Madonna’s Girlie Show tour in 1993, also promoted by Frontier Touring.

Taylor Swift, currently headlining sold-out stadiums and arenas in North America on her THE RED TOUR, made today’s announcement in response to strong fan demand. Australia and New Zealand are the first international markets outside of the USA to be announced for THE RED TOUR.

The 7-time GRAMMY winner’s THE RED TOUR performance features two multi-level stages, elaborate
costumes, dancers, aerialists and changing sets. Taylor Swift, who writes all of her own songs, is a seven-time GRAMMY winner, and is the youngest winner in history of the music industry’s highest honor, the GRAMMY Award for Album of the Year. She is the only female artist in music history (and just the fourth artist ever) to twice have an album hit the 1 million first-week sales figure, and is the first artist since the Beatles (and the only female artist in history) to log six or more weeks at #1 with three consecutive studio albums.

Taylor has an album on Rolling Stone’s prestigious The 50 Greatest Albums of All Time (by women) list, Time magazine has named her one of the 100 Most Influential people in the world, and she is Billboard’s youngest-ever Woman of the Year. Taylor has career record sales in excess of 26 million albums and 75 million song downloads worldwide, and has had singles top both the country and pop radio charts around the globe.

When: WED Dec 4th 2013 - 6:30pm
Where: Allianz Stadium, Moore Park, Sydney - All Ages
How To Get There: http://www.sydneycricketground.com.au/about-us/location/
Tickets: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx?sh=TAYLORSW13
Official Tour Website: http://www.frontiertouring.com/taylorswift
Taylor Swift Website: http://taylorswift.com/

Staying in SYDNEY for Taylor Swift's 2013 Red Tour?  

Need accommodation near venue Allianz Stadium, Moore Park?

Look no further than Metro Hotel Sydney Central - a 10 minute drive or taxi ride to Allianz Stadium whilst being close to other iconic Sydney attractions. 

Website: Metro Hotel Sydney Central

We are currently running these hotel specials to save you money!

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering this Capitol Theatre Hotel Package

For $165.00 per room per night you get:

• One night's accommodation in a Superior Queen Room
• Hot Buffet Breakfast for 2 adults
• Extended check-out to 12 noon the following day

• Book Online & Terms here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/242
• Or call: 02 9281 6999

Want to try another hotel? Metro Hotel on Pitt, is also only a 10 minute drive or taxi ride to Allianz Stadium.

Website: Metro Hotel on Pitt

We are currently running these hotel specials to save you money!

Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Winter Sydney CBD Getaway Hotel Package

For $134.00 per room per night you get:

• Free wireless internet
• A bottle of wine on arrival
• Late check out of 12 noon
• Staying in a Standard\Single\double\twin room*

• Book Online & Terms here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/306
• Or call: 02 9283 8088

Blue Man Group - Performing First Time In Australia 10th to 25th Aug 2013

FIRST TIME IN AUSTRALIA!

Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment. The blissful party atmosphere created at their live events has become the trademark of a BLUE MAN GROUP experience.

Blue Man Group is not just a show, it’s a state of mind. Best known for its wildly popular theatrical productions and concerts that combine electrifying music, sensational technology, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment, Blue Man Group creates experiences that defy categorization.

When: Showing between 10th to 25th Aug 2013
Venue: Sydney Lyric Theatre, Pirrama Rd, Sydney NSW 2009, Australia
How to Get There: http://sydneylyric.com.au/index.php/plan-your-visit/how-to-get-here
Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/bluemangroup
Official Website: http://bluemangroup.com.au/

Australia Groupon is having a LIMITED TIME discount deal for the Aussie shows.

With the deal you get $85 A-Reserve Ticket to BLUE MAN GROUP (Up to $110 Value) Excl. $7.95 Booking Fee.

Groupon Deal: http://www.groupon.com.au/lp/PK9/index.php?dealid=717205520&nlp=&CID=AU_CRM_1_0_0_199&a=715827892

Need Accommodation in Sydney for the Blue Man Group Australia Show?

Book your accommodation with Metro Apartments Darling Harbour - only a 13min walk to the Sydney Lyric Theatre via Pyrmont Bridge - with spectacular Darling Harbour views! If you choose to drive or catch a taxi, it's only 5 mins away.

Each of our affordable and comfortable serviced apartments has a LCD TV with 28 free Foxtel channels, telephone, free WiFi, ensuite bathroom and small balcony.

Each room also has a kitchen so you can whip up a delicious meal at any time. If you don't feel like cooking, located near by are various restaurants and cafes.

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is offering this limited time Blue Man Group accommodation discount below.
Blue Man Special staying in a standard apartment:
•  $199 for Sunday – Thursday
•  $299 for Friday – Saturday
•  Complimentary Wine on arrival
•  Minimum 2 night stay
•  Complimentary upgrade to a Executive Apartment (subject to availability)
•  Conditions: Non Refundable

Book Online: Metrodarlingharbour@metrohg.com
Or Call: +61 2 9290 9200 (and mention the Blue Man Group Special)
Location: 132-136 Sussex St Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia

Traveller Reviews on TripAdvisor.com About Metro Hotel on Pitt

“Lions Tour stay in Sydney”

Reviewed 15 July 2013 

Twenty one of us stayed at the Metro for a week during this leg of the British Lions tour to Australia. We were made welcome by the helpful reception staff who quickly sorted keys etc for the group. The rooms were clean and well equipped and met all our requiremnets. Our "deal" did not include brekafast but Dave the restaurant manager soon made us feel at home. The food was basic but plentiful and it certainly fulfilled our needs. The cost too was surprisngly less than the extortionate prices we had experienced in Melbourne. 

The hotel is ideally situated and is within walking distance of the main sites tourists are likely to visit. There are also plenty of pubs and eating places locally. Be careful though. There are two Metro Hotels on Pitt Street which the taxi drivers often found confusing. This hotel would be ideal for all but the most demanding visitors. A bit pricey but it still represented good value for money. The arrangements were made for us by an Australian agency -Travel by Tracey- which is run by a very approachable and kind ex pat Welsh lady who hails from Bridgend. What more needs to be said!

• Stayed July 2013, travelled with friends
  • Value
  • Location
  • Sleep Quality
  • Rooms
  • Cleanliness
  • Service

Source: http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/ShowUserReviews-g255060-d256620-r167636175-Metro_Hotel_on_Pitt-Sydney_New_South_Wales.html

Room with a View ~ Getaway in Darling Harbour

Photo Credit: TripAdvisor.com of view from Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour balcony

There is nothing better than the comfort of luxury accommodation when you’re away from home.

This is exactly what you will find at Metro Apartments Darling Harbour, in the heart of Sydney.

Situated directly across from Darling Harbour, Metro Apartments is a popular choice for regional visitors to Sydney eager to find a home away from home’ in close proximity to all major attractions.

This month Metro Apartments is offering an added incentive for people who book before August 30 who will get a complimentary upgrade to an executive apartment if available.

Head west from your apartment and you’ll find yourself at King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay, popular precincts on the shores of Darling Harbour.

Enjoy a cocktail in one of the many boutique bars, a meal in one of the harbourside restaurants, or a 3D movie at IMAX.

Play tourist at Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World or Australian Maritime Museum, or stroll across the footbridge to try your luck at The Star casino.

If you are looking for world class shopping, walk east from your apartment and into Sydney’s retail heart, with the Queen Victoria Building, Westfield Sydney and flagship David Jones and Myer stores.

For unique Asian food and culture, head south to Sydney’s Little Japan, Little Korea and ThaiTown.

For sightseeing, head north beside the sandstone walls of the Hungry Mile and Barangaroo, recently marked for redevelopment.

Located in two separate buildings in Sussex and King Streets, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour offers a selection of 32 recently renovated one bedroom apartments.

While the Sussex Street building offers larger, contemporary styled apartments with views over Darling Harbour, the King Street building has a more exclusive, intimate appeal.

With only nine apartments and a rooftop pool for the exclusive use of guests, King Street is perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway and the feel of being in a world class city with all the comforts of home.

All apartments are priced to be affordable for mid-week and weekend getaways.

Each apartment is appointed with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, dryer and ironing facilities, air conditioning and heating.

Parking is provided at a discounted rate at the nearby Kings Parking on Sussex Street.

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour has a range of special packages on offer.

Book Metro Apartments Darling Harbour and other Metro Hotels properties by calling the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321. Alternatively bookings can be made online at www.metrohotels.com.au

Top 5 Lesser Known Attractions Near Darling Harbour

If you're staying in Darling Harbour and have visited all the major tourist attractions, here are the top 5 lesser known quirky, fascinating landmarks nearby.

1. Chinese Garden of Friendship
The Chinese Garden of Friendship was designed by Sydney's Chinese sister city, Guangzhou in China. Chinatown, Sydney complements the area's already rich Chinese heritage and culture. The gardens were officially opened in 1988 as part of Sydney's bicentennial celebrations and they were named the Garden of Friendship symbolizing the bond established between China and Australia.

Location: Southern end of Darling Harbour, near Sydney Entertainment Centre and China Town.
☎ +61 2 9240 8888 Email: chinesegarden@shfa.nsw.gov.au
Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/sydney-Things_To_Do-Chinese_Garden.htm
Open: 9:30am – 5pm. Modelled on the typical private gardens of the Ming Dynasty, the
garden offers an insight into Chinese heritage and culture. Adults $6 children $3.


2. The Pyrmont Bridge
Pyrmont Bridge in Darling Harbour is one of the world's oldest surviving electrically operated swingspan bridges. The current swingspan bridge opened in 1902 and replaced the first Pyrmont Bridge which began operating in 1857. The swingspan allows access for vessels that are too tall to travel under the bridge. In 1902, Darling Harbour was Sydney's industrial heart and served as the gateway to a bustling hub of warehouses, railway yards and international shipping.

☎ +61 2 9299-7541
Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/sydney-Education-Heritage_and_History-Pyrmont_Bridge.htm
Opens weekends and public holidays at 10:30am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm (weather
permitting). The Pyrmont Bridge is an old swing bridge that historically was a main
thoroughfare into Sydney. Now it only carries pedestrians across the harbour and the
monorail. See the centre span swing and a tall ship leave the bay. Tours of the control cab by
appointment.


3. Darling Harbour (Harbourside) Fireworks
Darling Harbour will light up almost every Saturday from now until Christmas. The harbourside is lined with a large number of restaurants, cafés and bars that offer almost any food or drink you name. So you can feast on your favourite food while you watch the night sky go red and blue and golden and green as the fireworks begin to shoot up high in the sky. The beautiful fireworks that form attractive patterns of light come with cheerful music having a rhythm that syncs with the fire shots.

Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/sydney-Things_To_Do-Harbourside_fireworks.htm
Enjoy the fireworks from Cockle Bay, on from 9pm every Saturday on Cockle Bay Harbour.
They last for only 15 minutes but are fun to watch especially if you have a family. A good trick
is to get a balcony seat around some of the restaurants and you can see the fireworks whilst
having dinner or drinks.


4. Harbour Cruises
On any day, the harbour is a vibrant blue and dotted with hundreds of sailing boats, cruise boats and ferries.
The only way to fully enjoy the harbour and visit its many sights is to take a cruise. Cruises are many and varied and include, cocktail cruises, lunch time cruises, dinner cruises, night cruises, sightseeing cruises and specialised cruises for Christmas, New Year's Eve, Mother's Day among others.

Depart from the King St Wharf on the eastern side of Darling Harbour, or from Circular Quay
in the City There all types to choose from:
Website: http://www.boatcruises.com/
• All Occasion Cruises (AO Cruises) operates private bookings on Sydney Harbour, dinner
with food and beverage packages to suite all budgets.
• Magistic Cruises has Sydney Harbour dinner cruise,wine cruises, lunch cruise and
sightseeing cruises.
• Sydney Show Boats Cruise has dinner with live cabaret show performances and comic
magician.
• Captain Cook Cruises. The Sydney Harbour Explorer Cruise allows hopping on and off at a
number of attractions, or a 1 1/2 hour cruise of the harbour. Coffee cruise departs at
10am and 3pm Website: http://www.captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/
• Matilda Cruises, (Wharf is next to the aquarium entrance). Departs 12:15pm daily.
Seafood lunch cruise. Website: http://www.matilda.com.au/


5. Events Tumbalong Park
Tumbalong Park, controlled by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, consists of 5 hectares of public open space located within the Darling Harbour Precinct. The park contains an extensive network of ornate water features, native and exotic shrub beds and a central grassed amphitheatre which hosts a wide variety of community events throughout the year.

Photo Credit: Jim Eliason

Website: http://www.eventfinder.com.au/venue/tumbalong-park-sydney
At first look, appears a bit like an oval, but is actually a large open space with a stage for
outdoor performances. Something going on here most weekends, and a good place to lay out
a picnic blanket free.



Need affordable accommodation close to Darling Harbour?

Look no further than Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour!
Right at the heart of Darling Harbour, close to the list of attractions above, within walking distance to public transport and taxis, close to shops, restaurants and cafes, plus the rooms have spectacular views of Sydney Harbour!

Website: Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Start Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour are offering this Start of Financial Year Special for $220.00* per night (minimum 3 night stay) including:

• Guaranteed free upgrade to Executive 
• 3 Night Minimum stay is required
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/314

Schools Spectacular 2013 @ Sydney Entertainment Centre

This year is the 30th Anniversary of the Schools Spectacular. Since 1983 this event has grown to become more than just a showcase highlighting the talents of the students of New South Wales public schools. It is an iconic cultural event incorporating students from diverse backgrounds and communities from the length and breadth of the state.

The Schools Spectacular is an Australian variety show featuring more than 3,600 students from over 400 NSW public schools and is an established and well recognised event on the Sydney live entertainment calendar.

The Schools Spectacular is a world-class arena production and one of the largest annual events of its caliber anywhere in Australia – and arguably the world. From its ability to produce national and international stars, to its role in promoting inclusiveness and reconciliation, the Schools Spectacular has no peer.



It showcases a cast of 2,000 dancers, a combined choir of 1,300 and an 80-piece full symphony orchestra.

The Schools Spectacular delivers outstanding, cutting-edge youth dance and musical performances, featuring state-of-the-art sound, lighting and staging. It is televised nationally in prime-time and also incorporates the World’s Biggest Classroom exhibition program showcasing a broader range of student talent and skill.

The Schools Spectacular is a remarkable New South Wales success story and is proudly presented by the NSW Department of Education and Communities.

When: 

• Friday 29 November - 12:00pm (preview) and 7:30pm
• Saturday 30 November - 2:00pm and 7:30pm

Where: Sydney Entertainment Centre - 35 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
How To Get There: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/show/transport
Tickets: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/tickets
Schools Spectacular Website: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/

Staying in Sydney for the 2013 Schools Spectacular?  

Need accommodation near Sydney Entertainment Centre?

Look no further than Metro Hotel Sydney Central - a 3 min drive or 6 min walk to Sydney Entertainment Centre whilst being close to other iconic Sydney attractions. Great for families with kids of all ages. 

Website: Metro Hotel Sydney Central

We are currently running these family package specials to save you money!

Capitol Theater Family Accommodation Package

For $205.00 you get:

• One nights accommodation in a Deluxe 2x Double Bedded Room  
• Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
• Chocolates on arrival

• Book special here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/246
• Or call: 02 9281 6999

Spoil Your Child Special Package

For $215.00 you get:

• One nights accommodation in a Superior 2 Double bedded room for up to two adults and two children (children aged below 12 years)
• Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
• Goodies Bag on arrival for each child
• Daily 24hrs internet

• Book special here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/315
• Or call: 02 9281 6999

Sydney Pizza Festival 2013 ~ Buon Appetito!

A Little History of The Pizza

In 1889, as the Queen of Italy, Margherita di Savoia, was visiting the city of Naples, one great culinary curiosity filled her mind.  She had heard that everyone in the city, both rich and poor, were addicted to a round, flat bread called Pizza. When she expressed her desire to try this, the royal court ensured that one of the best chefs in Naples, Raffaele Esposito, took care of the preparation of a special pizza for the Queen. The result was the Margherita, a pizza evoking the colours of the Italian flag: green (basil leaves), white (mozzarella) and red (tomato sauce).

From Campania, the phenomenon of pizza-making and appreciation for this southern speciality spread all over Italy. The humble Pizza welcomed new ingredients, new recipes and adapted itself to the taste of Italians from region to region.

Thanks to the massive Italian migration in Australia during the 20th century and consequently, the opening of many pizzerie, pizza did not take long to conquer the taste buds of the Australians.

The 13 pizzerie included in this festival, both in Melbourne and Sydney, have been selected due to their commitment to authenticity and extremely high quality, while following the authentic way of making pizza. Their ingredients are scrupulously sourced from Italian and local producers while their contribution to the understanding of authentic Italian Pizza amongst the wider public is constant and driven by passion.

So many variables influence the process of pizza making: between the oven, the flour, the water, the external temperature and, of course, the Pizzaiolo, who will add his mastery to it.

While the pizzas are different from one pizzeria to another, a following of devoted pizza lovers has been established and it is truly unique. It is now your turn to discover which pizza is your favourite!

Buon appetito!
Matteo Rubbettino
Pizza Festival Director

Sydney Pizza Festival events throughout July: http://pizzafestival.com.au/sydney/events/event/

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Staying in Sydney for the 2013 Pizza Festival? 

Need accommodation in Sydney CBD?

Metro Hotels offer comfortable and affordable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close to major public transport hubs so you can visit the event locations. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (close to Wynyard station)
• Metro Hotel Sydney Central (close to Central station)
• Metro Hotel on Pitt (close to Town Hall station)
• Aspire Hotel Sydney Ultimo (close to Central station)

Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Our city also offers a free bus service (it's a completely green bus) that loops around the main streets of Sydney. Many major Sydney attractions can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.

For discount specials on our hotels and apartments, visit this page: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special

State of Origin 2013 - Game 3 @ ANZ Stadium NSW

ANZ Stadium will host the biggest rivalry in Australian sport when NSW take on QLD in match three.

Game 3 will see the series return again to ANZ Stadium on Wednesday July 17.

State of Origin Series is the greatest rivalry in Australian sport and with New South Wales desperate to end a seven year losing streak, it is sure to be another gripping contest.

Critics have labelled the all-conquering Maroons as one of the finest Rugby League teams ever assembled and they'll be looking to make it eight straight against a NSW Blues outfit with newfound resolve after a heart-stopping finish to last year's series. The series takes on extra importance, as the Blues under new coach Laurie Daley look to end the Maroons record breaking seven consecutive series winning streak.

Secure your tickets now for what promises to be a memorable night in the Australian sporting calendar for 2013!

Gates Open: 5.30pm
NSW Cup Reps v QLD Residents 1st Half: 5.45pm
State of Origin Kick Off: 8.00pm

• Buy tickets: Ticketek
• Official NRL Website: http://www.nrl.com/
• ANZ Stadium NSW: http://www.anzstadium.com.au/Home.aspx
• ANZ Stadium Location: Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127, Australia
• How to get there: Trains from Central to Olympic Park station http://131500.com.au/

Need hotel accommodation in Sydney for the State of Origin Game 3 match?
Try the affordable and comfortable rooms at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - only a 30min train from Central station to ANZ Stadium at Olympic Park station.

Sydney City Hotel Accommodation: Metro Hotel Sydney Central  (30min train to ANZ stadium)
Metro Hotel Location: 431 - 439 Pitt Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia

Hotel Discounts: 

• http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/242
• http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307
• http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/246 (great for families)

Hotel Features:

• Licensed restaurant and bar (Open for breakfast and private functions only)
• Rooftop swimming pool (unheated)  
• Laundry/dry-cleaning services
• Complimentary newspapers at reception
• Smart bar
• Foxtel in all rooms
• Wireless Internet available in all guest rooms, public areas, and function room

To Book Online: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/sydney-hotels/metro-hotel-sydney-central-1
Phone: +61 2 9281 6999

Email: Res@metrosydneycentral.com

Latest Reviews from TripAdvisor.com on Metro Hotel Sydney Central

“Upgrade on an upgrade!”

Reviewed 4 July 2013 

We got a late special on wotif for an upgrade to a deluxe room on a Saturday nigh for $140. When we arrived we were upgraded to a master suite on the top floor! The hotel was great for doing things down the Central end of town, eg the outlets at Haymarket, book store at Central and a short walk to the QVB. It was very well furnished and was very quiet, especially considering its so close to the train line. Will definitely stay here again, it would be a perfect place to stay if you were seeing a show at the Capital!

• Stayed June 2013, travelled as a couple
  • Value
  • Location
  • Sleep Quality
  • Rooms
  • Cleanliness
  • Service

Source: http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g255060-d257308-r166248934-Metro_Hotel_Sydney_Central-Sydney_New_South_Wales.html

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“Pleasantly surprised”

Reviewed 6 July 2013  via mobile

Just stayed here for the lions tour i was surprised we got the room at such a competitive rate given how busy the hotel and city were.Great overall value, service from the front desk was excellent. Location is good really central, the room was adequate.

Source: http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g255060-d257308-Reviews-Metro_Hotel_Sydney_Central-Sydney_New_South_Wales.html#REVIEWS