SYDNEY

The gateway to Australia

Sydney is Australia's largest and most cosmopolitan city. It is the capital of the state of New South Wales. Although the majority of the 'sydneysiders' are of British and Irish descent, there are substantial minorities of immigrants from Italy, Greece and Asia. Sydney is a sprawling city, and, though the centre contains many tall buildings, most of its inhabitants live in one or two  storey houses in the suburbs and travel into the centre to work.

Hyde Park and the Botanical Gardens complement city highrise

Sydney is the biggest port in Australia, with a huge natural harbour spanned by the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. On 31st December, Sydney Harbour hosts the spectacular New Year's Eve firework display. It is also a major cultural centre, with one of the world's most imaginative and best-known opera houses.

Sydney's famous harbour is flanked by the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge

Australians are famous for their ability to relax and enjoy life. In Sydney they can sail, go to one of the many sandy beaches, including the famous Bondi Beach (a paradise for surfers and swimmers), or simply cook up an fresco meal on the barbecue in the garden.