Having a strong interest in design we have almost limitless areas to observe and enjoy.

Ok , our obvious one is furniture, however the beauty of architecture and style surrounds us every day, and it occurred to me last week that we all probably forget about the local wonders around us.

If you are honest with yourself, how often have you taken the time to enjoy your local environment as seen through the eyes of a tourist? I would guess that after the first few months of living in your area, the day to day living has overshadowed the excitement of your city.

Here’s some advise – take some time to be a tourist again. If you drive to work every day, put aside one weekend, get on a train or ferry and go exploring in the same way you do when you are overseas or interstate. I bet that you will find something new and interesting that you overlook in your normal daily grind.

Rekindle the excitement of lying in a city park watching the clouds blow along the skyline and around the amazing buildings that almost every city has. Take time to escape from reality and enjoy your locality. (Was that perhaps a terribly annoying tourism advertising campaign in the making ?)

It is refreshing, invigorating and inspiring – and who knows what you will find.

The architects and designers throughout time have used the world around them for inspiration, so why can’t we?

Websites such as : http://www.australia.com/  www.timeout.com www.sydney.com www.visitlondon.com  and many other sites in areas around your home will ignite your desire to be a local tourist ! Enjoy ! Don’t forget, the smartphone you probably carry in your pocket will help you find many of the hidden wonders in your city or town.