Sydney, Australia, thrust into the spotlight when it hosted the 2000 Summer Olympic Games was once again over run by media outlets from around the world, not to cover international competition, but to compete in a competition of their own: who could get the best photo of new celebrity bride Nicole Kidman.
The recent nuptials of superstar Kidman and country singing sensation Keith Urban has put Sydney in the headlines; it’s being touted as “one of the world’s most enchanting cities in the world.” Visitors agree… the city’s food and wine scene is sophisticated, its arts scene thriving, and its prices relatively affordable compared to most European or North American cities. In fact, some of Sydney’s (the capital of the state of New South Wales) best features won’t cost you a cent. Days here are filled with brilliant sunshine, fresh air and leafy streets. And though it is Australia’s largest metropolitan area boasting a population of more than four million -its spectacular waterfront location makes you feel like you are in a quaint seaside community.
A trip to Sydney is not complete without visiting Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic sights. Sure you can photograph it, but did you know that you are also allowed to climb the 200 stairs inside the southeast pylon for a true “top of the world” feeling? The views from the top are breathtaking. The bridge is popular for its size, symmetry and function in uniting the city. From the northern end of The Rocks, the bridge crosses the harbor at one of its narrowest points, linking the southern and northern shores and joining central Sydney with the business district of North Sydney.
A trip to the Harbour Bridge is not only enjoyable; it’s educational. The Bridge tour is peppered with historical facts like this one: “The two halves of the mighty arch were built out from each shore, supported by cranes. In 1932, after nine years of work, when the ends of the arches were only centimeters apart and ready to be bolted together, a gale blew and hurricane force winds set them swaying. Thankfully the bridge survived and the arch was soon completed.”
Another must-see Sydney attraction is world famous Bondi Beach. It is considered the “grand dame” of Sydney’s beaches. The long stretch of beach has powder soft sand and cobalt blue water—well suited for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. When you head into the water it is important to remain between the posted flags which indicate the presence of lifeguards. Bondi also includes a free family-friendly pool at the northern end of the beach and a saltwater pool at the Bondi Icebergs Club.
Bondi is easy to get to from most parts of Sydney: just take a train to Bondi Junction and follow the beach-bound buses that depart from the station. Beyond the beach itself, there is an interesting mixture of classes and cultures. Bondi is considered a trendy part of Sydney, where million-dollar penthouses and five-star restaurants sit side-by-side. Campbell Parade, which runs the length of the beach, is a busy shopping area full of milk bars (the local term for a local convenience/snack stores), surf shops and affordable fish’n’chip joints, where you can enjoy fresh seafood. Bondi is also the center of a thriving backpacker scene.
If you enjoy spending time outdoors in a city where culture and entertainment thrive, Sydney may be the ideal spot for your next family vacation. For more information about Sydney including details on weather, climate and accommodations visit Australia.com.