Yep, another one of those ridiculously massive Sydney shopping centres, that also happens to be…read morequite close to the railway station. It is quite well set up though and a pleasure to explore. This is particularly the case with the walkway from the station, which provides easy access to the facility. It is also rather easy to navigate, which is also quite beneficial. Sure, I'm not really a big fan of shopping centres, but this one was rather nice.

All the old favourites are here: ranging from supermarkets, department stores, to fashion shops,…read morebeauty salons and eateries. The place is quite extensive and has two very large buildings that are over two blocks. The pace wasn't too bad today and although I did get lost and became disorientated when I left from a different exit I still managed to buy a bargain. I love the after Christmas sales and yes they still exist on the 9th January! Watch where you park. There are several entry points for the complex and parking ranges for free parking from thirty minutes, to two hours to three hours. I always head straight to the top and make my way down (a good principle in life...although you have to be careful on whom you tread on the ladder on the way up as you might come across them on the way down! ha) Yes this is a great shopping centre.

Another second-hand bookshop with a huge collection of books to browse through. Like many of these…read moreshops I actually stumbled across it quite by accident, and honestly, I could literally spend hours browsing the collection, if it wasn't for the fact that when I ended up loading up with books my luggage ends up weighing way too much. Still, the owner is really friendly, and as I mentioned, there is also a huge collection here as well.

I was only having a discussion with someone a week ago about Persian supermarkets. His argument was…read morethat the Persians make the best kebabs, to which I said, "well get thee to Joe's Pizza and Arax in Lindfield (review http://frid.co/nhjor1 )". To this he retorted that he would not be able to survive without regular visits to his local Persian supermarket... And so less than a week later I walk by a brand new addition to the Hornsby community. It was pretty small, and some of the items I think I might be able to get at other shops, but admittedly I am no expert on this type of food. That said, when I saw a bottle of sour cherry jam, I had to have it. I love a good sour cherry. Especially if it is in a German strudel... or ... as it would seem... on toast with a bit of peanut butter... :-) I know right... I am all class. :-) In any case, if this is something you are seeking out, and you are in the area, this is going to be one of your only options. They have only been open for 3 weeks so far, so are still filling out their stock base, but it is always great to be able to find different types of foods (at least I think so).

I hate, loathe and detest costume parties. I never know what to wear and I can't stand the…read morepressure! And what about all those people who rock up without even bothering? Costume parties seem like more trouble than they're worth. But what if I just threw some money at the problem? I should just accept I'm never going to be the MacGyver type who can whip up a suit of armour out of some matchsticks and a pair of pliers. And I think I've well and truly outgrown the sheet = ghost getup. No, next fancy dress do, I'm just going to go to All Costumes Great and Small and let them sort me out. For one thing I'll never be stuck for choice. These guys have everything from Abba to Zorro, as well as a great range of accessories that you buy to snazz up a home made contraption. Plus you can order online and save any potential embarrassment at your secret desire to dress up as Legolas or Sailor Moon. It's really enough to make a girl reconsider her costume party phobia.

All Things Great and Small is the perfect shop for those who require a last minute addition to…read moretheir Halloween outfit or dress-up outfit. They have plenty of affordable accessories and are well stocked. There is ample parking at the back of the shop, making the store easily accessible. The train station is only a short walk away. The staff are really friendly and are happy to suggest items to go with an outfit and point out popular items. They have a good range of outfits and costume jewellery, however, The Wardrobe at Chatswood is simply amazing. The business also has an online store on their website named "Costume Direct" which is a major plus for those who live too far away or don't have the time to pick up an outfit. Most items will arrive the next day which is another added bonus! All goods are reasonably priced and you can check out their products on their website with a list of costumes and accessories available. I bought a flight attendant badge to go with my outfit- I'm glad I did because it completed the look!

I believe this is under new management....... Their service…read moreis simply OUTSTANDING! They are very courteous to all and willing to help always! It was raining heavily last month (27 Mar 2014); an old lady was waiting outside Paradise Fruitland for the rain to stop. The owner came running with an umbrella, took all the shopping bags from the lady's hand, offered her the umbrella and walked with her to the car drenching himself. He put the shopping bags in the boot and returned to his shop wearing a satisfied look on his face of helping a woman who had visited his store. Well Done Young man!