Sydney

Description

Sydney, located in a coastal basin, circled by the Pacific Ocean, the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury River, is the largest urban conurbation in Australia, with a population of nearly 4 million. The city was founded at the end of 18th century when a fleet of convicts from England landed at Sydney Cove. The transportation of convicts to Australia was the idea of the British Secretary of State, Lord Sydney. Hence the new settlement’s name. The first settlers lived a harsh existence, living in wood hovels, eking out insufficient food, and undergoing cruel punishment from the guards. Worse suffering, however, was brought upon the Aboriginal natives, who were stricken in huge numbers by the infectious diseases brought by the colonists. Five years later, in 1793, the first free colonists arrived, attracted by the pleasant weather and freely available land. The settlement expanded quickly throughout the nineteenth century, as the citizens set up many businesses, uninhibited by burdensome government. Throughout the twentieth century, rapid growth continued as immigrants arrived from both Asia and Europe.

There's lots for the visitor to see and do. Perhaps the best place to start your tour is in the oldest part of the city, the Rocks. Here many of the buildings date from convict times - examples would be Cadman’s Cottage, Susannah Place, Campbells Storehouse and the Merchants House.

Next comes that icon of Sydney, famous the world over, the Sydney Opera House.The building is thought by many to be one of the archictectural wonders of the modern world. Designed by the architect Jorn Utzon, it was inaugurated in October 1973. And be sure to go to an opera, a concert or a ballet during your stay in the city.

The green-fingered will much enjoy a visit to the verdant Royal Botanic Gardens, an oasis of greenery sited between the waterfront and the concrete heartland of the city. A footpath follows the harbour front, giving great vistas over Sydney Harbour and Farm Cove.

Another great favorite with visitors is Sydney Harbour Bridge. The pedestrian can cross the bridge on a pavement that runs next to the road. Visit the Pylon Lookout on the south side of the bridge to see an absorbing display on the construction of the bridge.

Ok, now it's time to let the beachbody within you escape, with a trip to magnificent Bondi Beach, a world mecca for sun and surf. The sandy beach looks out on a large moon shaped bay of wave swept ocean. The beach is each to reach by bus from Circular Quay Bus - just hop on bus #380.