Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Sydney: Australia's Iconic City

By Chris Linch

The breadth of diversity in Australia is staggering. Physically, surreal landscape of the Australian Outback gives way to the beaches, which give way to the cities, and so on. Culturally, the urban richness of Sydney competes with the exotic splendor of the Aborigines. The trouble with Australia is choosing what you want to do.

There is no special season to visit Australia either. Since they are on the other side of the equator from North America, their summer is our winter and their fall our spring. But the size of the country means that whenever you visit you can probably find something in the climate you prefer as well.

We are going to explore Sydney probably the most well-known city in Australia. Its Opera House floating in Sydney Harbor is one of Australia's most famous images. Sydney's laid-back outdoor lifestyle and physical allure make it one of the world's easiest and most pleasant cities to visit. The people who live here are a friendly, energetic bunch with a tell-it-like-it-is approach to life as visitors to the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games found out.

All of Sydney's attractions lie within easy reach of the city center. Sydney's harbour is its playground, and a prominent factor in so much of what the city has to offer. The city has a dynamic cultural life, vibrant food scene and a colorful cityscape of outstanding contemporary and colonial architecture. Stunning beaches and accessible national parks deliver unforgettable experiences.

Getting Around Sydney is easy

1)Ferries: Ferries are the most pleasant and popular way to get around Sydney. With 37 wharves around the city, most Sydney residents use ferries for their daily commute.

2)Buses: Buses service is cheap, and easy to use.

3)Trains: The CityRail network is fast, convenient and clean.

4)Monorail: Sydney's Metro Monorail is on of the few above-ground rail systems in the world. Ride it for the experience. The circular route winds its way through the CBD and around Darling Harbour.

5)Light Rail: Popular with the eco-conscious residents, the Light Rail travels all over the city and you just hop on and off.

Where to Stay

1)Four Seasons Sydney - Elegant contemporary hotel. The hotels 500 plus rooms and suites overlook the Harbour and offer views of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

2)Park Hyatt Sydney - Elegant hotel built on the harbour directly under the Harbour Bridge. Offers spacious rooms, outstanding service, and spectacular views.

3)The Observatory Hotel- The Observatory Hotel is one of Sydney's most acclaimed hotels, where stylish tradition meets modern efficiency. The sophisticated 100-room hotel puts guests at their ease and offers a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere. Located the heart of the historic Rocks district and only a short walk from the city and bustling King Street Wharf, the hotel offers easy access to nearby fashionable bars, restaurants, and a wide variety of entertainment, including the Opera House. Spacious, elegant, beautifully appointed, the rooms and suites at The Observatory Hotel are designed to meet the needs of the most fastidious guest.

When it comes to which city is Australia's true global city, there's no argument. It's Sydney - with its sense of style, its love of sport and exuberant celebrations.

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