A traveler to Sydney is able to enjoy one of the most cosmopolitan cities, located on one of the most beautiful harbors, in the world. Port Jackson is not only the heart of Sydney; it symbolizes the sun, water and outdoor spirit of those who inhabit it. Sydney was the location for the 2000 Olympics. History First settled in 1788 by convicts and military personnel from mother England, and now a bustling metropolis of four million people, the early township was founded at Sydney Cove, a small bay on the southern side of the harbor. This cove, now called Circular Quay, is today the departure point for the Sydney ferry service. On the western side of the cove, known as The Rocks, restored shops, together with modern restaurants and Irish pubs, provide an important entertainment area for workers in the nearby CBD (Central Business District). By day, many eager tourists wander to get a glimpse of early Sydney and the southern aspect of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The billowing sails of one of the world’s most beautiful buildings - the Sydney Opera House, dominate the eastern side of Sydney Cove. Stately and serene beside the botanical gardens, with its striking design it fittingly houses the artistic muse of modern Sydney. Although Britain and Ireland have provided the cultural and ethnic roots of European settlement in Australia, since the Second World War an active immigration program has seen the arrival of migrants from many different countries, in particular from Italy and Greece. More recently, a lot of the arrivals have come from eastern Asia, such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand. Newcomers from Asia have tended to settle in the capital cities and they have developed an active, thriving Chinatown on the southern outskirts of Sydney's CBD. Beaches A visit to Sydney would not be complete without a trip to one or more of its famous beaches. There are several dozen sandy beaches that nestle along the suburban coastline. Bondi is about 15 minutes from the CBD by taxi (and there are plenty of buses) and is in Sydney's eastern suburbs. A trip to beautiful Manly on the northern side of the harbor is only about 30 minutes from the city traveling by ferry from Circular Quay. This has to be one of the most relaxing, picturesque and enjoyable rides you will ever experience! Accommodation If you prefer five star hotels, there are a number connected to international chains that can be found in downtown Sydney. These are normally situated so that they command panoramic views over the city and harbor. The Sheraton and Hilton chains are represented. Other five star locations include the Menzies Hotel, Four Seasons Hotel, Park Hyatt, and Shangri-La Hotel. The Swiss Grand Hotel overlooks the beach at Bondi. At the other end of the scale, there is a flourishing backpacker industry. Budget-priced backpacker hostels can be found in the CBD at Central Station, at Potts Point (near the city) and at major beaches, such as Bondi, Coogee, and Manly. These are some of the best hostels to be found anywhere. Restaurants The arrival of migrants since the fifties has given an enormous boost to the variety and quality of Sydney's restaurant cuisine. These abound in popular areas, such as The Rocks, and Bondi. Important clusters are also to be found in near city suburbs, including Oxford Street; King Street, Newtown; and Glebe Point Road, Glebe. For a special treat try the revolving restaurants atop the Sydney Centrepoint Tower - beautiful by day, glorious by night! Sydney has developed into one of the most appealing and friendly cities you could hope to visit. You can walk the streets without fear; enjoy theaters, restaurants, gardens, sporting activities, cultural events, beautiful beaches and magnificent views - all within close proximity to the city center. But one word of caution: make sure you have bought your ticket to return home - you may not want to leave.
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