Destinations Of the Month

 
Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia, with a metropolitan area. Sydney is located on Australia's south-east coast. The city is built around Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, leading to the city's nickname, "the Harbour City". It is Australia's largest financial centre and the economic capital, home to many national headquarters of corporations, including the Australian Stock Exchange. Sydney's leading economic sectors include property and business services, retail, manufacturing, tourism and health and community services. Sydney is a major international tourist destination, often referred to as the international gateway of Australia, and is notable for its beaches and twin landmarks: the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

This cosmopolitan city is surrounded by the iconic beaches, World Heritage areas, lush hinterland and acclaimed wine regions of the State of New South Wales (NSW).Just a 1½-2½ hour drive north from Sydney, the Hunter Valley long ago recognised the value of tourism, and wine tasting in the Hunter is now an institution, and an excellent introduction to the variety and quality of Australian wine.Alternatively, Sydney's most popular recreation area for people who prefer the bush to the sea, the Blue Mountains attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year with its scenic beauty and rugged terrain of tree clad slopes and sheer sandstone cliffs. Other areas we include are Port Stephens, where you can cruise with wild dolphins.

It has been recognised as a global city by the Loughborough University group. The city has played host to numerous international sporting events, including the 1938 British Empire Games, 2000 Summer Olympics and the 2003 Rugby World Cup. In 2008, Sydney will also host the 23rd Roman Catholic World Youth Day. Sydney is one of the most multicultural cities in the world which reflects its role as a major destination for immigrants to Australia. According to the Mercer cost of living survey, Sydney is Australia’s most expensive city, and the 21st most expensive in the world.