If you think about Australia, what probably comes to mind is a distant paradise with an enviable ecosystem. Most of us are envious of the country’s peculiarities. Koala bears, kangaroos and cute little animals make up the collective imagination of this fascinating and wild continent, but there’s a whole lot more to see and do down under.
Today, we take a look at one of its best-known cities: Sydney. A city where many Australian cultures meet, with warm weather practically all year round and much to discover.
The city is built around Sydney Bay, one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world, with more than 240 kilometres of coastline and rivers, numerous places to explore, outdoor activities and a lot of tourism.
As with any large city, the possibilities are almost endless. Sydney has a population of 4.5 million spread over the city’s six districts. City East, City South, City West, The Rocks, City Centre and Darling Harbour. The city’s port is also the main gateway to Australia together with Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport.
Main attractions
Sydney Harbour Bridge:
The bridge rises over the bay and is one of Sydney’s most representative images. It took 8 years to complete and is still the tallest steel arch bridge in the world today, measuring 134 metres from the top of the bridge to water level, with the arch itself weighing 39,000 tonnes. You’ll know right away which bridge we’re talking about if we tell you that every New Year’s Eve the fireworks displays are broadcast all over the world as it’s the Australians who are the first to ring in the new year celebrations.
Nowadays, you can enjoy a tour of the bridge and climb to the top with all the necessary safety equipment provided. The views are more than impressive!
Sydney Opera House:
This iconic building is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s known the world over for its distinctive architecture. Buy a ticket for the auditorium and check out the inside, or head to the Opera Bar for a drink and admire the views.
Operas, operettas and musical comedies are on almost every night from January to March and from June to November.
Bondi Beach:
It’s considered the best beach in the city and one of the best in the world. Bondi is an Aboriginal word which means “surf” in English. The beautiful white sandy beach and turquoise water look spectacular but don’t be fooled. It has some dangerous sections, so make sure to stay within the locations marked safe for swimming.
There are also free public libraries on most of the beaches. And remember, Australians love barbecues!
Newtown’s bohemian spirit:
Sydney’s hippest area has street artists of all types, shapes and sizes. There are also plenty of independent bookstores, vintage second-hand shops, bars, record shops and impressively restored buildings.
St Mary’s Cathedral:
This majestic cathedral is the largest in the country and is known internationally for its beautiful stained glass windows.
Australian cuisine
Fish and seafood are a big part of Australian food. Lobsters, crabs, spider crabs, prawns and yabbies (similar to crayfish but freshwater), feature in many dishes, including the famous Balmain Bug lobster salad that all Aussies seem to love.
Marinated lamb, courgettes stuffed with cheese, oyster soup and lamb patties with apple are other traditional dishes.
And for those with a sweet tooth, make sure to try Pavlova (meringue topped with tropical fruit and whipped cream), Lamington chocolate and coconut sponge cake and Anzac biscuits (coconut and rolled oats).
