Meet the locals in the aviary at Adelaide's Botanic Garden. Photo / Sarah Ivey
This is a city of myriad charms, says Sarah Ivey of South Australia's sprawling capital.
Flying into Adelaide on the relatively short flight from Auckland you could easily mistake the city for Christchurch (pre-earthquake, of course). The tree-lined avenues that create a grid-like pattern provide a solid platform for historic buildings that mimic that insatiable Cantabrian romance.
The people of Adelaide, quite fittingly, also resemble
Cantabrians. Their friendly approach to outsiders makes everyone feel welcome and the city seems to be without the pretentious folk that can be found in the cities further north. It boasts a casual, laid-back feel, yet there's plenty to do for those passing through.
Rundle Mall, the shopping heart of Adelaide, attracts fashionistas and country blokes alike. There's something for everyone, and many a hidden gem can be found down the staircases and alleyways beyond the street-front stores.
The Crowne Plaza, Adelaide's newest hotel and a great base for a short visit to the city, is within walking distance of most of the city's central attractions, and these walks are enjoyable even if, like me, your feet are being pinched by the shoes you bought a size too small because they were the last pair and you just had to have them.
