Scintillating Sydney!

I’ve always wanted to go to Sydney.  For years, dreams of the gorgeous Sydney Opera House and other amazing attractions have caused me to save my pennies so that one day I could finally visit.

It all came true when I booked Virgin Vacations Essential Sydney package.

I thought I’d compile this list of statistics and favorite things to do just in case you are planning your own trip to this scintillating city!

Population
Established in 1788, Sydney is a large city with 4,254,900 people.  It is the most populous city in Australia and is the state capital of New South Wales.  It is Australia’s largest financial center and is a major international tourist destination.

Climate
Of course, one of the main reasons tourist flock from all over the world is the fabulous climate.  Sydney has an oceanic climate with warm summers and mild summers.  The warmest month is January and the coldest month is July. Rainfall is fairly evenly divided between summer and winter, but is slightly higher in the first half of the year.

Demographics
In the 2001 census, the most common self described ancestries identified for Sydney residents were Australian, English, Irish and Italian.  31.2% of the population was born overseas and only 1% was identified as being of indigenous origin.  The median age of a Sydney resident is 34, with only 12% of the population over 65 years.

Economy
The Central Business District in Sydney is home to most of Sydney’s financial centers.  The largest economic sectors in Sydney are property and business services, retail, manufacturing, and health and community services.  Sydney is the largest corporate and financial center in Australia and is also an important financial center for the Asia Pacific region.  The Australian Stock Exchange, Sydney Futures Exchange and the Reserve Bank of Australia are located in Sydney.

Not surprisingly, tourism plays a very important role in Sydney’s economy.  In 2004, Sydney had 7.8 million domestic visitors and 2.5 million international visitors.

Speaking of tourism, here are five highlights of the city that aren’t to be missed…

Tourist Attractions

• Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb – Don’t be scared, the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb is easier than it first appears, as the gradient leading to the top of the bridge is not that steep.  Although costly, it is worth every penny for the exhilarating experience and amazing views.

• Taronga Zoo – Opened in 1884, the Taronga Zoo has many fabulous exhibits including an Asian Rainforest, which provides a unique insight into the majesty and wonder of the jungle homes of an amazing array of rare Asian wildlife including Asian Elephants, Silvery Gibbons, Francoise Langurs, Asian Turtles and Fishing Cats.  Be sure to check out the free animal presentations and shows throughout the day.

• Royal Botanic Gardens – This veritable oasis of greenery boasts breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.  Admission is free and the gardens are home to The Sydney Tropical Centre with the Pyramid Glasshouse, the Herb Garden, The Fernery, the Rose Garden, a walled Cactus and Succulent Garden and the Oriental Garden.  A wonderful place for picnic and sunbathing.

• Manly Beach – A beachside resort and favorite with many, Manly Beach has an array of beaches to explore and breathtaking coastal walks.  It’s a great place to hang out too as shops and restaurants abound near the Corso.

• Sydney Aquarium – This breathtaking attraction features three meter Grey Nurse sharks swimming safely behind glass walls.  You’ll also enjoy the ‘Walk on Water’ display with a specially constructed viewing area with glass floor and walls in the Aquarium’s Seal Sanctuary.  There is also a Barrier Reef section with two floating oceanariums, a crocodile pool, and an education center.

I hope you will plan your own trip to this fantastic city.  I know that I am already saving for another to further explore Sydney and to experience some of the other amazing Australian destinations.

Posted by on 04/16 at 03:28 PM

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