Sydney, the capital of New South Wales,
is Australia's oldest and largest city with a population of
around 3,986,700. Sydney is built around a huge harbour and
hosts many tourist attractions as well as a number of
beaches, bays and a couple of national parks. The city also
has an anglo-mediterranean style and a growing Chinese and
Asian influence.
Set on a large harbour it has the
natural advantages of walks around the harbour foreshores,
spectacular views bayside parks and gardens and the
architectural magic of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera
House.
It’s well-known for
its carefree style and outdoor lifestyle. Sydney is a also
an architectural dream. Many homes overlook the water or
nestle in the bush, and are cantilevered over cliffs or dug
back into the scenery.
The city of Sydney is divided into North
and South by the Sydney Harbour, with both Sydney Harbour
Bridge and Tunnel [which is under the harbour] connecting
them. Most of the tourist attractions are in the South part
of the city, with a large business and residential area in
the North.
Sydney's climate is in its
favour - the warmest months of December to February have an average
maximum temperature of 26º Celsius. Being close to the ocean, hot
days are often tempered by cooling sea breezes and evening
temperatures are balmy - perfect for relaxed outdoor dining. June to
August are the coolest months, with daytime temperatures rarely
falling below 7º Celsius. Even on mid-winter days, with their
bright blue, wide-open skies, an overcoat is usually not necessary
in Sydney.
