Things That Make Sydney So Great
Thursday, July 28, 2011 at 8:22PM
The first thing that strikes you when thinking of Sydney is the gorgeous harbour side city with the iconic Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. During my one year stay in this wonderful city, I was lucky to experience so many diverse colours and flavours this beautiful city has to offer. Each experience was unique and has had a lasting effect. Summers in Sydney are the best with miles and miles of beautiful sandy beaches making it a delight.
The natural geography of sea cliffs and wind and sand eroded rocks paints an amazing picture on any of the Sydney’s costal walks. I realised why people travel from the other side of the globe to see the New Year Eve fireworks at Sydney Harbour Bridge. In this cosmopolitan city, you can find a touch of diverse cultures in the world within couple of minutes’ walk. The tight cobblestone alley ways in the area of Rocks gives a European touch to the city; this area is famous for the European style restaurants and pubs…a perfect place to chill out in the evening. Chinatown is the perfect location if you enjoy Asian cuisine. Sydney Aquarium and the wildlife center in the Darling Harbour are a perfect place to get a close look at marine life and the animals in the outback.
Sydney is known for its sunny beaches - Bondi, Manly, Coogee, to name a few. The food and wine festival at Manly is a must visit as you’ll get to taste a variety of exclusive range of wine. Manly is also good for shopping and the restaurants serve some of the best seafood platters and beer battered fish & chips. Bondi is especially popular for its surf waves.
Another attraction in the city is the much-loved Luna Park. Located near the northern pylon of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, it is an amusement park with rollercoaster rides, a giant Ferris wheel and other activities perfect for a weekend hangout with friends and family.
The New Year Eve fireworks at the Harbour Bridge is of course the greatest attractions of all. People start gathering near the bridge from afternoon to catch a glimpse of the fireworks that last for a half hour.
The people in Sydney are very friendly. Everywhere you go, you’re greeted with a smile. The city is also a shopper’s paradise. The Queen Victoria Building near Town Hall station in the heart of the city houses some of the world's best brands.
Sydney nightlife is replete with pubs, lounge bars and beer cafes. The Rocks is an area usually densely packed with tourists, business visitors and locals out for a crowded, busy night out. The Opera Bar with its unbeatable location overlooking the Harbour Bridge is well stocked with spirits (their range of gin and vodka is particularly impressive) and beers including Redback (one of the few places in Sydney to offer it on tap). They also have their own house pour, OB - an organic brew crafted for the bar by the Red Oak folks. Regular outdoor jazz acts sweeten the deal.
From Sydney, there are many holiday getaways just a few hours’ drive including Wollongong, Grand Pacific Drive, Hunter Valley, Newcastle, Blue Mountains, Jenolan Caves and Snowy Mountains. All of these make for a great weekend trip!
