www.womanthismonth.com March 2016 66 LIFESTYLE | travel Gaelic Gaiety St Patrick’s Day is a huge celebration around the world. Ankita Mamgain tells you where to head to paint the town green. When you think of St Patrick’s Day, there are a few things that instantly come to mind: the colour green, a gloriously dark beverage that we are forbidden to name and tiny leprechauns. One of the most celebrated cultural festivals worldwide; this pure Irish tradition, which started in Dublin, has certainly conquered the world and many famous landmarks turn green on the day to commemorate Ireland’s patron saint every year. March 17 marks the day Irish descendants – and everyone else, for that matter – celebrate all that good old St Patrick represents. Whether it be drinking green ale (or something else that starts with ‘g’) or wearing tall leprechaun hats and yelling the official slogan of the parade – “Kiss me, I’m Irish!” – this is one occasion when, no matter whether left of centre or right, everyone agrees, green is good. So while the Emerald Isle would be an excellent choice if you want to be part of the celebrations, there are certain cities elsewhere that have taken St Paddy’s festivities to a whole new level. SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA At one point, the Irish Australian population outweighed the Australian population in Sydney, so it’s no surprise that it takes St Patrick’s Day celebrations very seriously. The sun-kissed city revels in a sea of green and hosts a massive parade that, according to some reports, is ranked fourth biggest in the world The Sydney Opera House also participates and shines bright green upon nightfall. We all know how proud the Australians are of their staple brews, but this is one time good old Irish stuff flows endlessly through the taps. Pop into any local watering hole and enjoy a pint of happiness. Once the hangover wears off, and it might take some time, hit the city’s legendary beaches. There are several beaches near Bondi that are just as beautiful, including Tamarama, Bronte and Coogee. Then, of course, take the customary pictures in front of the Opera House, go up the Harbour Bridge, camp on Cockatoo Island and take time out to indulge in the many gastronomic gems of this wonderful city. Coogee beach St Patrick's Day parade The Opera House
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