Sydney: Often mistaken as Australia's capital city, Sydney is one of the most popular tourist vacation destinations in the world. With an average of 240 days of sunshine a year, and access to some of the world's most famous attractions, it's not surprising! Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, is Australia's oldest city and is situated on Port Jackson - arguably one of the world's most beautiful natural harbors. The harbor is best seen at the weekends when it fills with a spectacular array of cruisers, yachts and sailing boats.  A boat trip on the harbor will offer visitors unparalleled views of the world famous Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge.

Climate

Although the city does not suffer from cyclones or significant earthquakes, the El Nio Southern Oscillation plays an important role in determining Sydney's weather patterns: drought and bushfire on the one hand, and storms and flooding on the other, associated with the opposite phases of the oscillation. Many areas of the city bordering bushland have experienced bushfires, notably in 1994 and 2002. The city is subject to infrequent severe hail storms and wind storms.

City Beaches

With more than 70 uncrowned beaches within easy reach of its cosmopolitan heart, Sydney is a mecca for sun worshippers and surfers alike. From famous ocean beaches like Bondi to Manly, to less well-known strips of golden sand, you'll be spoiled for choice during Sydney's long hot summers

A spectrum of the arts

Sydney offers everything from performances at the Opera House to street shows and theatres, making it one of the world's hot spots for visual and performing arts. Opera, ballet, modern dance and local and international theatre are all catered for. You can even take in a show while cruising on the harbor.

 

Around the clock

They say that Sydney never sleeps. In daylight hours the city buzzes with life and performances while all-night pubs, cutting-edge dance clubs, and gay reviews on trendy Oxford Street, can keep you out until dawn. Fancy a late-night meal or a final coffee - that's not a problem in Sydney

 

Choice of hotels

Whether it's a five-star hotel, a cozy boutique establishment or a top-notch backpacker hostel you'll find plenty of quality rooms at value-for-money prices in Sydney. Stay right in the heart of the city with views of the harbor, or next to the beach with a warm sea breeze and the swish of waves