Sydney, Australia Hotels and City Guide

What is the secret to happiness? Is it being surrounded by beauty? Feeling the sun on your face and the cool waves lapping at your feet? Or does it come from within, from the self-confidence that comes from being strong, vital, and fresh? It’s not such a secret to beautiful Sydney, Australia, recently named by Forbes Magazine as one of the happiest cities in the world. The sand, the surf, the laid-back friendliness: you don’t need to be a resident to enjoy the riches of this incredible city.

Sydney, known as “Harbour City,” is located in New Wales, in the southeastern portion of Australia. It is the country’s oldest and largest city and has always been the cultural hub as well. Sydney has a rich heritage and a great deal of cultural diversity: one-third of its residents are born overseas, and many have English, Irish, or Scottish ancestry. The White Australia Policy limited immigration to northern European countries in the 20th Century– though a good number of Chinese people emigrated. After World War II, immigrants from eastern and southern Europe and Asia began moving to the city. Today, the city boasts an interesting and diverse population that is reflected in its art, cuisine, and its many cultural offerings.

Even the land is diverse in Sydney; where else can you find lush tropical rainforests, refreshing beaches, marshes, and agricultural fields? This variety benefits not only the Sydney economic and ecologic systems, it also provides numerous opportunities for adventure for its residents and visitors. You may have images of kangaroos bouncing around the Outback, but also picture world class opera and theater, beautiful botanic gardens, beaches and gorgeous mountain views, wonderful parks, and interesting architecture.

Anthony Trollope wrote the following in 1888 of the Sydney Harbour: ‘It is extremely difficult - and in truth, well-nigh impossible - to convey to one who has not visited Sydney any adequate idea of the beauties of its scenery. Words can give you a glimpse into this incomparable world, but to experience the many beauties of Sydney, walk along its gorgeous beaches, stand beside its rushing waterfalls. Discover, explore, and see why this is “where everybody wants to go.”

Sydney City Facts

Sydney Population: 177,000 permanent residents
Sydney Metropolitan Population: 4.4 million
Sydney Metropolitan Area: 12,144.6 square kilometers (4,689.1 square miles)
Telephone Area Codes: 2, country code +61
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD, $)
Time Zone: Standard Time Zone (UTC/GMT +10 during Standard Time and UTC/GMT +11 during Daylight Savings Time)
Language: English, Australian English
Electricity: 240 volts, 50Hz. V-shaped, flat prongs, either two or three flat prongs.

Sydney Districts

When traveling, it can be tempting to stick to the beaten path, so you don’t get lost in unfamiliar cities. But while in Sydney, make sure to get out there and explore! There is a whole world of wonder and beauty waiting, and all it takes to discover it is a willingness to venture a bit further, and of course, a bit of knowledge about the area.

Sydney can be divided into different neighborhoods or districts, and each contains wonderful sights and opportunities for visitors and residents alike. Whether you want to spend lazy afternoons on Bondi Beach, bike around Bicentennial Park, or visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales, you can do it all with just a little planning. And with knowledge comes the confidence to take advantage of all the unexpected treasures you will find on the way. The following are important districts to include in your visit to Sydney:

Darling Harbour

Usually the first stop on any visitor’s agenda, Darling Harbour is surrounded by attractions, not the least of which is the boardwalks affording some of the most spectacular views in the city. There are beautiful fountains, an aquarium, parks, and many popular restaurants lining the waterfront. Window shop, dine, and experience some of Sydney’s nightlife - there are a host of tourist attractions to take advantage of. Darling Harbour offers a wonderful introduction to Sydney.

Hunter Valley

Move over, France and California. Australia is making a name for itself in the wine industry, and Hunter Valley is Sydney’s own wine district. Visit one of the 80 wineries, including small boutique winemakers. Sip the robust, full-bodied fruits of their labor, and enjoy this side of Australia. It’s perfect for a romantic weekend escape.

Kings Cross

Kings Cross, east of Darling Harbour, is known to most Australians as a red light district, and for many years, most visitors to the city steered clear of it. Today, however, trendy shops and cafes are springing up and the area is trying to reclaim its past as a cultural center. As apartments and buildings are restored and new ones built, this area is experiencing new life. The Kings Cross Food and Wine Festival is certainly a delicious step in the right direction.

Circular Quay

In the beautiful Sydney Harbour is the small Sydney Cove. Here you will find Circular Quay, just a short walk from many of the city’s best attractions. The quay offers visitors an incredible view, and from the peaceful walkway, you can easily get to the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and the Taronga Park Zoo. Circular Quay is a great jumping-off point for your Sydney adventures or a beautiful place to sit and take in all the Aussie air.

City Centre and the Rock

Along with Circular Quay, the Centre and the Rocks comprise the oldest, non-Aboriginal settlement in the city. The Rock is just below the beautiful Harbour Bridge and is home to many of Sydney’s historical landmarks. Known for years as Sydney’s museum outdoors, the area now has shops, restaurants, and trendy cafes. The Centre, the Rocks, and Circular Quay have been revamped, and visitors will love strolling down the cobblestone streets in this historic district, shopping, dining, and sight-seeing. Don’t miss the Rocks Discovery Museum and the Farmers Market. A special treat for weekend visitors is the Rocks Weekend Market, where you can look for artwork, house wares, beauty products, and fashions by up-and-coming designers.

Darlinghurst

Stylish Darlinghurst is vibrant, young, and fresh. South of Kings Cross and to the east of Darling Harbour, this trendy area is fully stocked with great restaurants, cafes, and clubs. Stanley Street holds Sydney’s Little Italy, where you will find delicious, authentic cuisine. While here, make sure to visit Potts Point and see the many Victorian and art deco buildings. Darlinghurst is also home to Woolloomooloo, one of the oldest sections in Sydney. You will find parks, the Australian Museum, and much more in Darlinghurst. Make sure to come hungry and sample some of Sydney’s best food.

Manly

Manly is a wonderful place for a budget-friendly Australian vacation. The accommodations are affordable, and there are a host of fun attractions nearby, such as Ocean World, the Art Gallery and Museum of Manly, the Corso, a huge pedestrian-only mall, and of course, beaches! Along Sydney’s North Shore, the Manly Region has three kilometers of harbour and ocean beaches. A great way to spend some of Sydney’s 342 days of sunshine.

Eastern Beaches

Sydney is known for its gorgeous beaches. Hit the East side and visit the famous Bondi or Coogee Beaches. You can surf, swim, dive, snorkel, and sunbathe to your heart’s content. Dine with excellent views of the water. Don’t miss Tamarama Beach and Bronte Beach if you have children: there are a lot of fun activities for families. Clovelly Beach is a mellow destination, particularly for snorkelers and divers. There is certainly no shortage of exceptional beaches from which to choose. Each has its own character.

Hotels in Sydney, Australia