Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Sydney: Australia's Global 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.

And because of its size, you can almost always find something in the climate you prefer. Keep in mind that it's on the other side of the equator from the U.S., so their summer is our winter, and so forth.

Sydney is Australia's largest city, and one of the images of Australia familiar to us is the famous Sydney Opera House sitting in its Harbour. Sydney is the ideal spot to start your Australian adventure.

Life in Sydney centers around the harbour and the waterfront. The city abounds with world class restaurants, energetic nightlife, and a colorful cultural scene. For outdoor enthusiasts, beautiful national parks and stunning beaches are within easy reach.

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 frequent, inexpensive and easy to use.

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

4)Monorail: Sydney's Metro Monorail an above-ground rail systems. The route goes around Darling Harbour.

5)Light Rail: Light Rail is the environmentally friendly way to get around. From Sydney Central to Haymarket through Darling Harbour, Star City, Sydney Fish Markets, Glebe, Leichhardt and Lilyfield...just jump on board.

Where to Stay in Sydney

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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