MY TOP THREE SYDNEY CAFES... WITHOUT A BAG OR WALLET!

BY MARCIA LEONE

Sydney is blessed with an amazing cafe culture. So when Optus Pay asked me to take the coffee challenge and enjoy my favourite cafes without my bag, phone or wallet- just a simple SmartCup that has Visa Paywave built right into it-  I thought it would be a great opportunity to share my top three cafe spots in Sydney and this new way to enjoy them- no bag, no wallet, no worries!

1. BESPOKE & GRIND, MARRICKVILLE... This is my true local- walking distance from my house and opposite the newly upgraded park you can find me here on a daily basis. They are known for their delicious homemade sausage rolls, gluten free sweets, the best breakfasts, smoothies & of course coffee. The cafe is tiny, but full of charm and character. It's so easy to pop down for a take away coffee or smoothie and sit in the park while Archie plays. And now I can leave my phone, wallet & bag at home!

1. THE GROUNDS, ALEXANDRIA | This is my go-to for lunch between meetings as it's located smack bang in the fashion and PR central. It's also great for kids and mummy catch ups. I often stop by to pick up some flowers and a coffee to-go. Just try and get out of there without their famous cronuts!  I purchased both the flowers and coffee with a tap of my smart cup. Cup in one hand, flowers in the other and off I went.

1. THE CRABBE HOLE CAFÉ, BONDI... Located at Bondi Icebergs, arguably the most photographed and Instagramed spot in Sydney! This relaxed cafe located on the balcony overlooking the pool is a summer go-to (mid-week if I can). I love to pop down for a couple hours once a week, grab a smoothie and chill by the pool. And now, because of Optus Pay, I don't have to bring my wallet which makes jumping in for a swim much easier.

Optus Pay lets you pay with a flick of your payment accessory anywhere Visa payWave is accepted. Simply use it like you would a card- tap the cup and go. There are five ways to use Optus Pay- your smartphone, wristband, payment sticker, payment tag (attach to your watch) & the SmartCup by Frank Green.

I found it so refreshing not to worry about a phone or wallet or putting my card down my bra- especially when I pop down to my local. Obviously using a Smart Cup also saves on waste which is a bonus. The staff couldn’t believe how cool it was to tap my cup and go. Yep, this really is the future!

To set it up you simply download the Optus Pay app, register your details and add up to four payment accessories. You can load up to $500 on your mobile at any one time, just transfer money securely from your bank account and you’re ready to go.

For more info on OPTUS PAY visit click HERE