Sydney

Sydney is the quintessential Aussie City. It is big, loud, brash, gregarious, modern, enthusiastic and confident. It is also set in stunning natural surroundings. It began life as a penal colony and is the earliest of European settlements in Australia. Canberra may be the capital city in an administrative sense but all the locals' view Sydney as The Capital City. It is the most populous of all Australia's cities and contributes massively to the nations economic well-being.

Sydney is a visitor's town, packed with a choice of things to see and do. Sydney offers museums, great shopping, beaches, world-renowned sights (you know the one I mean) theatres, bars and restaurants. All this and sunshine too. The sum of Sydney's parts adds up to a vibrant and exciting place to stay.

What to Do and Where to Go?

Australian Museum

A lively Natural History Museum that gives an insight into the nature of the countries flora and fauna. Australia's wildlife is unique and much of it is on display here. Also on display is an insight into the development of Aboriginal culture. There are also sections on Australia's geological wealth and views of the neighbouring eco-systems of Indonesia, Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific.

Art Gallery of New South Wales

Canberra may be home to the national collection but as with other things the greatest collection resides here in Sydney. Amongst the collection are major areas of Aboriginal art. As well as this there are extensive collections of British, European and American art. Much of the collection is given over to the Australian artists who have recorded the growth of this country from penal colony to the modern country it is now.

'Meet you in the pub mate?'

Sydney still has many examples of the typical Aussie pub or 'hotel'. There is no finer place to blow the froth off a few than in one of these places. Should your tastes be a little more refined then there is still plenty of choice in a wide range of cocktail bars and cafes.

The Rocks

Site of an early European settlement that was to earn infamy as an area of boozing, brothels and brawling. The area has been revitalised since and is now a lively area of shops, bars and restaurants.

Darling Harbour

A docklands facelift has transformed this part of the city into a major entertainment centre. With all manner of shops, boutiques, bars and restaurants the place is lively enough but it is also home to some larger attractions including the Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Exhibition Centre and Sega World.

On the Beach

You just cannot go to Sydney without at least once hitting the beach. Around the Harbour itself the beaches are fine but it is where the Harbour gives way to the Ocean that the real action is. To the north - about 7 or 8 miles is Manly whilst to the South, about the same distance, is Bondi. Both are places that help define the word 'Beach'. In all there are some 70 or so sandy beaches to choose from. Don't forget your thongs!

The Opera House and The Bridge

Sydney's twin, globally recognised, symbols. Both are spectacular and striking. The Opera House was completed in 1973 the Bridge much earlier - 1932. Both can be viewed to stunning effect from a boat on the water. The Opera House, which also includes two theatres and a concert hall as well as the Opera facility and a number of bars and restaurants, has the stunning appearance of a ship at sea. Walking across the Bridge affords a superb view of the rest of the city and the South-eastern Pylon can be climbed to a museum and observation deck.

There's More?

Much more. If time allows Sydney has other worthwhile places to visit. You might try the National Maritime Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art or the Museum of Sydney. There is also the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Powerhouse Museum, Hyde Park, The Domain or Circular Quay amongst others.

I'm gasping for a drink, something to eat and somewhere to sleep?

Sydney is a 21st Century city with all the amenities one would expect. It is also a very cosmopolitan society. These two factors combine to give a wide choice of restaurants to suit all tastes and accommodation, from backpacker hostels to top class hotels, to suit all budgets.