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Last Updated: Sep 14th, 2008 - 22:35:57 |
Sydney has beaten off competition from New York, Cape Town and Rome to win the accolade of the world's best city.
The honour was bestowed upon Australia's oldest city by the readers of US magazine Travel + Leisure, and it is the eighth time Sydney has won the award.
Sydney's tourism minister, Sandra Nori, said the award was a "tremendous compliment" to the people of Sydney. So what is it about Sydney that makes it so highly revered?
One of the greatest charms of the city has to be its diversity. One moment, you can be standing at Sydney Opera House, and a 20-minute bus ride later you can be bronzing yourself on the beach.
Sydney's most famous strip of sand is undoubtedly Bondi Beach. A favourite among travellers for many years, Bondi boasts beautiful white sand and great surf. Set back from the beach can be found a wide range of places to eat, drink and shop, with a friendly buzz meaning once you visit you won't want to leave.
Sydney city centre has plenty to offer those who can tear themselves away from the beach though. One of the most famous landmarks is Sydney Harbour Bridge, and it is possible to make the heady climb to the top. Although not the cheapest thing to do, it provides the most exhilarating and stunning view of the city, and the photo taken at the top will provide you with an unforgettable experience.
For a taste of 'Old Sydney' then The Rocks is the place to go. It is situated at the foot of the Harbour Bridge and the emphasis remains on the historical nature of the area. One of the city's oldest pubs, the Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, is worth a visit. There are also a wide variety of craft shops and art galleries, as well as the Sydney Observatory and a weekend market.
Circular Quay is built around the Sydney Cove, and is in many ways the focal point of the city. It acts as the transport hub for both the railway system and the ferry quays. There is always some sort of street entertainment going on, and of course Sydney Opera House is adjacent to it. The Opera House, one of the world's most unique constructions, opened in 1973 and remains one of the most photographed icons by tourists. Opera, classical music, ballet, theatre and film can all be enjoyed at this remarkable venue.
From Circular Quay, the ferry can be taken to many of Sydney's other attractions. Manly possesses a fine beach and is worth visiting, or you might fancy a trip to Taronga Park Zoo. Another recommendation is Watson's Bay, home to the famous Doyle's restaurant. For those on a budget, rather than eat at the restaurant, treat yourself to takeaway fish and chips, some of the finest you are likely to enjoy. A short walk takes you to South Head, the entrance to the Harbour, and Hornsby Lighthouse.
For more conventional sightseeing, then it is best to head to Macquarie Street. Here you will find an extraordinary concentration of impressive buildings including Parliament House, Sydney Hospital, the Mint Building and Hyde Park Barracks. Entry to all of these places is allowed. Nearby can be found the impressive Art Gallery of New South Wales and the superbly kept Royal Botanic Gardens.
Another tourist attraction is Darling Harbour, which has undergone significant transformation in recent years and now represents the perfect place for families to enjoy themselves. Among the attractions are Sydney Aquarium, the Australian National Maritime Museum and an Imax theatre. Cockle Bay Wharf offers many excellent restaurants and bars.
Before heading back home, it is worth picking up a bargain or two by taking a wander around Paddy's Markets. There are over 1,000 stalls selling everything from fashion accessories to designer clothing, electrical goods to Sydney souvenirs.
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