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Why Fly To Sydney When You Can Float?

Why Fly To Sydney When You Can Float?

When the majority of people start to think about travelling to Sydney, Australia the very first thing that they start executing is shopping around for the best possible price on flights. Even though travelling by aircraft to Sydney is a very standard way of getting to this extraordinary destination, there's another method of travel that's way more enjoyable and that's arriving in Sydney from an amazing luxury liner.

Even though it is not the most standard way to travel to Sydney, travel upon a cruise ship can certainly make that voyage to Sydney a lot more enjoyable and when you arrive you could choose to utilize the cruise ship as your home base and voyage around the region taking in the many sights and sounds that make Sydney so special. Once on the land you could take in several of the incredible area attractions on foot, public transportation, or you can even choose to pick up a rental car for your adventures.

Royal Caribbean features many cruise ships that travel to Sydney and offer onboard entertainment, dining and dancing, excellent accommodations, spas, along with rock climbing walls. Travel on a luxurious, cruise ship is undoubtedly a much distinguished travel experience to a long extended flight and you can get to take pleasure in the elegance of the water in addition to sights as you travel on one of these fantastic full service ships.

For travel to Sydney, Royal Caribbean Cruises provides 2 outstanding travel experiences. Their Radiance Class is encompassed by glass and offers extraordinary glass walls along with glass elevators for an eye-catching view of your destination. The Radiance of the Seas is a tremendous ship that offers travellers a casino, self leveling pool tables, an incredible lounge, on board golf simulators in addition to a full spa on board. The food and service are extraordinary for a first class travel experience you won’t soon forget. The Vision Class ship, called Rhapsody of the Seas, is a fascinating travel experience as well, with a miniature golf course, pools and solarium, casinos and lounges to make sure your journey isn't just comfortable but also exhilarating.

Take a trip to Sydney, Australia will be made a lot more pleasurable by cruising in on a lovely Royal Caribbean luxury liner. Why fly to your desired destination when you can float in upon a resort? Surely this is the finest way to reach Sydney.

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Some Reasons To Consider Renting A Vehicle

Some Reasons To Consider Renting A Vehicle

Most people just think about renting a vehicle when they are going on vacation as a means of getting around their destination but a rented vehicle can be good for local travel as well and more people are discovering the many reasons why renting a vehicle beats driving their own for their local travel needs. It may actually be cost effective to pick up a rental when you need to hit the road.

When traveling around town on business it can be very costly if you are driving a larger vehicle. Many people drive SUV's and other larger vehicles as their primary transportation. By using a rented vehicle you will find that you can save quite a bit of money on fuel making this a good investment for driving around town on business. And if you get a business magnet for the door you can make that rental vehicle look like one of your own professional fleet.

Wear and tear on your own vehicle can really add up as well and whether you are driving around on business or pleasure travelling even a few hundred extra miles with your current vehicle can add up to costly repair bills. If you drive a leased vehicle then you also don't want to rack up a bunch of miles on it when you are travelling all around town. It is important to consider the costs of using your own vehicle as compared to the costs of renting a low end vehicle.

Car repairs can be unexpected and if your vehicle breaks down you want to make sure you have a way to get back and forth to work. Most garages will strive to get your vehicle back to you in a timely manner, but they may be delayed depending on the parts required and this is a good time to consider renting a car for a few days until your vehicle is able to get back onto the road.

Car rentals are not just for vacations and holidays but for any time that you need them. They can help you reduce fuel expenses and wear and tear on your personal vehicle when going on a family vacation or travelling around on business. The next time you have to hit the road make sure to consider renting a vehicle for your road trip it may just save you a lot of headaches down the road.

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Whale watching in Sydney: when and where

Author: Traveller

Sydney whale watching season is from April until November, i.e. then it is winter and spring in Southern hemisphere. From April to middle of August you can see Humpback whales going north to give birth and mate in the waters of the Coral Sea. In spring (September-November) Humpback whales are going back South to the Antarctic feeding ground for the southern hemisphere summer. Some kind of whales (Southern Right Whales for example) do not migrate north or South, they usually move along the coastline seeking places to mate and shelter with their newborn calves. There are more different kinds of whales you can see in Sydney, but they are much rear then Humpback whales or Southern Right Whale.


Bunch of companies (Bass and Flinders Cruises, Sydney Ocean Adventures and others) organizing tours for whale watching in Sydney if during whale migration period you considering go for whale watching in Sydney.. However you could consider whale watching in Sydney without boat. It is possible watch whales from the shore during nice and calm days. To have binoculars with you would be desirable. Best and easy accessible places are North and South heads. There are high cliffs out there and it makes very good place for observation. South Head is my preference, as there trail along the coast and you can walk almost all way down to Bondi Beach which Southern Right Whales like to visit from time to time.


Now when you know the best places, what about best time for whale watching ? I had the same question couple months ago, so decided to do some research and find out whales sightings in the past. I checked whale sightings for the last three years and put into whales sightings in Sydney chart. It is clear visible two peeks in the season. Particularly these peaks were clear last (2008) year. In June/July Humpback whales migrates North for breeding. From end of September until December they are going back South. At this time of year females with new born calves normally are seen closer to shore. It is November now and it is one of best time of year for whale watching in Sydney.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/whale-watching-in-sydney-when-and-where-1414715.html


About the Author

Originally from Europe, but lived (and of course travelled) in North America, Africa, New Zealand, Australia and likes to share his travel experience with others.


For latest information about whale watching in Sydney and other travel tips, please visit http://www.shorttraveltips.com

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Trip to Sydney

Author: neha

Seven Clock in the morning on Bondi Beach, after the relaxation seen here not at all straight. Not only sea and sky compete for the bluest blue, the number of joggers on the promenade would make fun run a medium sized credit. Everywhere boxing training groups small heart from his body, and surfers from all corners of sprint towards the sea. Nevertheless, the only people who work here stressed and pinched, the few tourists, it has not because of jet lag longer in their hotel beds.


So many fittest, attractive people in a place that can also be exhausting, especially if you digested its sumptuous breakfast buffet and is also annoyed that the bikini last season but now sits a little tight. While the average European wonders, why are there all so good-humored, and whether it has to work not something that Sydneysiders just enjoy their morning as usual at sea. What comes next is relatively unimportant, at least one stressed out, it does only in the rarest cases.

While the Australians, therefore, by the beach under the shower and finally moved to work, you can leave it as visitors go on slowly, for example, with a hearty second breakfast. In Bondi, there are several cafes around the beach. This is easy to find - you just have the coffee to follow more precisely the Soy-Latte or Skinny Cappuccino fragrance. The display usually bursting with fresh snacks. Instead of wilted lettuce leaves between cheesy bread for example, there Bircher muesli with oranges, melons, figs and grapes, or gluten-free raspberry-poppy seed scones. All tastes in the sun not only twice, but at least three times as well. These treats are the good feeling that is free not to burden the bikini and the one in Sydney already the standard.

With more than 50 beaches in the city offers the Australian city of Mecca to be any sun. From almost white to golden yellow Bondi Beach Palm Beach, surfers from Manly to the meeting place for family idyll in Nielsen Park there are guaranteed the right of each bay. Pete at the next table, who I just wanted a good appetite and with whom I now come into the conversation, tells us that he goes right after Fresh Water. This beach is located north of the city and would have his opinion, because of the wind direction today have much better waves for surfing in the south than Bondi. He had to work today, fortunately, not his job as a permanent teacher, he had terminated years ago: too stressful. Now Pete jumps only when colleagues are sick. The money and so many days like this are simply too good to work with. "Do not you think, honey?"

With more than 50 beaches in the Sydney metropolitan area offers any sun to be Mecca. The almost white Bondi Beach, Palm Beach or the golden surfer meeting Manly - It remains to be spoiled for choice
I am also surprised me and not even that Pete revealed to me here with a coffee half his life story. Finally, this sociability, according to the Australian Guide is historical. In a country that is about the size of Europe and the population of North Rhine-Westphalia, one was happy to seem always times when you talk with someone else. Well, in Sydney with around four million inhabitants, while you meet today's ever anyone else who is friendliness and openness, however, remained. Very nice. So I do not wonder too, as the bus driver when boarding entgegenschmettert me: "Hi Darling, where are you off to today?" And "Enjoy your day." Of course, that I the man to alight just like the other passengers, "Thank you, driver "shouts.

After about 15 minutes I was transported my friendly driver Bondi to Paddington. Here I get out at the top end of Oxford Street. In front of me just three kilometers are business to business, in between various cafes, pubs and restaurants, so I on the way through Paddington, Darlinghurst and Surry Hills to the CBD (Central Business District) could insert enough breaks, when I wanted. However, we can offer the lush Australian fashion other mundane, physical needs quickly recede into the background. Australian designers are professionals summer. With more than 300 sunny days a year and daytime temperatures, scrape the in winter loose at the 20-degree mark, there is not only the expected surf wear, but also clothes, dresses and more dresses from labels such as Akira, anti podium, Ksubi , Romance Born What, Sass & Bide, Zimmermann and Zambesi. The special feature of the Australian Looks: No matter how sexy the outfits are, they never seem tussig, but always very casual. Only the Australian footwear is actually getting used to: At 12 cm paragraphs seems you do not get around this drum. A little shake of the head of these stilettos, for which we not only, as they say, a gun permit, but in my view, a run rate required, I enter, attracted by the sale signs in the window, the little jewelry shop by Berenice Grebe. The goldsmith is originally from South Africa and just sold her last collection in order to move to Rome. The parting is difficult for her: "I think Sydney is a Mediterranean mixture of London and New York. It is just perfect, "she says. But her Australian husband had a job offer that could not refuse. So a few years of good old Europe. "But I will be back," Berenice said with longing gaze at the blue sky and seems like Pete, looking forward to more that they can chat with someone as enterprising advertise their wares.

As I look out the window myself up, I think that this day would actually be used much better. The air-conditioned shops are indeed still there tomorrow. Now for the first time by bus to Circular Quay. From here it is five minutes walk to the opera. And this must stop - always! About ten minutes does it take to travel around the Opera House on foot to sprint once the washing concrete steps up under the great arches, lay a hand on the smooth tiles, looking across to the Harbour Bridge and sigh deeply. Stereotypes that can make so happy! A dangerous thing - although there are no official statistics on how many of the well 150 000 backpackers who stay here every year for one year to the country and thus occur in the largest city of the continent, finally, but when I here so am guess I It must be about 99 percent. Who wants to volunteer to be anywhere else?


At the door a Notizettel stick with the phone number of the bartender when he sends an SMS, he pressed the door buzzer.
Broad grin, as if after a first-class-fatal date, I stroll through the large iron gate into the adjacent botanical garden. To complete the cliche of the day for today, I want to quickly visit the flying foxes and cockatoos. Both members of the Australian fauna, in contrast to the warm poisonous snakes, spiders and cockroaches attraktionsgesteuerte the tourist heart. As I watch the fruit bats that dangle from various branches like giant bats with Chihuahua-heads, I remember my last Kooks concert in the singer Luke Pritchard told how, after an open-air gig in Tasmania kangaroos on an adjacent Wiese watched. For a moment, as any rock star attitude had vanished. And in fact, it's great to see how people from Asia, America and Europe, adults, children, and rock stars alike jumping on animals or now in the botanical garden of screaming white birds with yellow crest forward. A bit of it is as if one understands at all the familiarity that one feels in Sydney immediately, first by poultry and Co, that you are actually at the other end of the world is. Madrid, Naples and Marseilles contribute culturally actually much stranger, than the Australian metropolis.

As it slowly, rubbish, very quickly becomes dark, a phenomenon which is known from other holiday destinations so sufficiently, but still I put down a few cultural differences: In most restaurants in town, one must bring your own alcohol. Bring your own, just BYO means that this tradition, thanks to which one can enjoy its cheapest wine from the bottle-shop for first-class dinner. Only a few dollars corkage fee will be charged. What now appreciate Australians and tourists alike, was born out of necessity. For a long time, the state licenses to sell alcohol so expensive that it is for most hosts simply not worth offering alcohol. This phenomenon has also influenced the Barlandschaft the city - but at a disadvantage. Profits could be practically achieved only with hundreds of drinking willing in one place. Thus, the typical HotelPubs like the "Coogee Bay Hotel" and the "Bondi Beach Road Hotel" alcoholic haze end blocks, which suffer on multiple levels with up to seven counters until being sacked. Worse, there are almost always what is due to the demographic structure of the public: The typical customer is male, 19-25 years old, British or Irish and backpackers. That is, without liver cirrhosis, he may come handy at all after a year of Australian home.

Only open since January 2009 due to new licensing law countless small and even smaller bars its doors in the most unlikely places. Many, like the "Pocket Bar", are so new that they are guaranteed to find in any guidebook. But if one evening in going out areas on the street and someone accosts ausquetscht for good tips, the helpful Australians usually shows at its best. So I also think "Sticky", a bar on the first floor of a building mission. To enter through the back door into a narrow side street. At the door, a piece of paper stuck to the phone number of the bartender when he sends an SMS, he pressed the door buzzer. Similarly, experimentally, as the choice of the place is, in many bars offer on the card. It seems as if one finding out her only slowly, which arrives with the guests at all. Of course there are, as in any pub usually a large selection of Australian beers, but if you explain to the bartender, we have today want something fresh, while sharp and fruity, creamy, he mixes a first-class cocktail, which contains, for example, the smoke of burnt orange peel and then the result is as surprised and excited as you yourself "That would be a great drink for the regular menu, do not you think" question, so Cocktail Mixer me Michael. I nod and sip. "Do you remember what I did put in exactly?" I shake my head. Hmmm, you get the drink but probably not on the map. Never mind, maybe even tomorrow, Michael remembers the composition. Instead of getting angry, he is happy that it tastes so good to me and is dedicated to the next guest. Stress is somewhere else. Sydney, I will stay.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/exotic-locations-articles/trip-to-sydney-3160568.html

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Sydney Australia Attractions: Have Fun Like Never Before!

Author: marythomson11

Attractions in Sydney keep on capturing various tourists from all over the world. The Art Galleries that include the Museum of Contemporary Art at Circular Quay and the Art Gallery of New South Wales are just a few of these Sydney Australian attractions.

Sydney life comprises parks, walking and gardens and an afternoon on the reserves reached by ferry from Circular Quay to Manly. Being the first settled place in Australia, Sydney has some interesting buildings like Elizabeth Bay House, Town Hall and State Library.

Preferring to take the Ferry going to the zoo or to Manly is a vital and fascinating part of the Sydney tourist attractions experience. Circular Quay , especially , which is identified as a home to the iconic Opera House and views of the Harbor Bridge is a fine-looking example of working, commuter Harbor that serve both locals and tourists. It is also walking distance to the rocks and has some fashionable seafood eateries.

You may find some of the restaurants with overpriced and unremarkable charging, but they still draw multitude of tourists from the nearby hotels since many are located in the stark CBD. It is much better off eating in the Rocks or Darling Harbor.

Sydney tours offer advance booking to save time and hassle on arrival and ensure a safe exploration of Sydney tourist attractions.

Sydney Harbor is one of the Sydney attractions that have Port Jackson, which is 19 kilometers long and has an area of 55 square kilometers. Yachts in various shapes and sizes, and boats from small to luxury jet boats compete for clear water. Just being out on the water is exciting.

Chinese Garden of Friendship is identified as the lovely oasis in Sydney; if you have the time it is well worth checking out by yourself. Beautiful water features and flowing gardens are so comforting and reasonably priced, too.

One of the few Sydney Australia attractions in which you do not need to pay is, "the Rocks which has been known as the first area in Sydney to be settled in by group of offenders who had served their time. It is just back from the harbor and it costs nothing to stroll around. Indeed, what a remarkable example of the Australian spirit it is! Most of the area has been preserved & sceneries show some parts that have been lost. Don't miss the extravagant example of Australia's wonderful tourism. However, just don't be easily annoyed of some restaurants around that charge high prices. You can find establishments that offer discounts and special offers anyway and just think the momentous experience you can gain from such a lovely journey.


Select from some of the great packages for Sydney attractions at experienceoz.com.au and experience Australia like never before!


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/sydney-australia-attractions-have-fun-like-never-before-4907725.html


About the Author

Mary Thomson - Researcher and Writer. I research and review new things introduced in the market and bring out the best and the worst about them for my readers.

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Come and feel the beautiful aura of Sydney

Author: Kev Turner

Everyone is this world loves to travel and explore brand new places. Nothing can make you feel more relaxed and happy than sharing some wonderful moments with your family members, colleagues or friends. It not only helps you to bond with your family in a better way, but, also helps you to attain inner peace and happiness.


So, if you are thinking about making your life better and full of happiness, then let me provide you some amazing information about a wonderful place. The place about which I am talking is one of the major cities in Australia. Yes, you guessed it right; it is none other than Sydney. There is no qualm about the fact that Sydney is among the most beautiful cities in the entire world.


Sydney is a source of inspiration for thousands of cities in the world. The way it has sowed the seeds of development, without hampering its culture, is simply amazing. The population of the city stands around 4 millions, which makes it the most densely populated city of Australia.


Sydney has always been considered as the global centre for education, fashion, sports, commerce, entertainment, music, culture, tourism, and arts. And, for these reasons, the city has been able to grab a place in the list of GaWC's Alpha + world cities.


In Sydney, you will never feel any problem with the accommodation. It is needless to mention that there are plenty of hotels in Sydney, and most of them will impress you with their hospitality.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/come-and-feel-the-beautiful-aura-of-sydney-4061789.html


About the Author

Kev Turner believes that hotels in Sydney make people go mad as the atmosphere is quite heavenly. He however, prefers to visit the city during the day and get back to his home in Melbourne before midnight.

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Short history of Sydney Australia

Author: Phoenix Delray

The area known as Sydney was inhabited for some 50,000 years by local Aborigines before the arrival of European settlers. The area, referred to as Warrane, was visited frequently by Europeans in the 17th century, and was first charted in 17709 by the famous explorer James Cook. On April 29, 1770, Cook claimed the entire east coast for King George III and named it New South Wales. For several years, no move was made by the birtihs empire to settle their new land acquisition, until the botanist on the Cook expedition, Joseph banks, decided to establish a colony, due in part to the American War of independence, which prevented the extradition of British convicts to the American colonies.



The history of modern day Sydney, and Australia as well, began on May 13, 1787, when The First Fleet, commissioned by Baron Sydney, set sail for Botany Bay on May 13, 1787. When the fleet assembled, they discovered that there was no fresh water locally available, and the fleet sailed further on to Port Jackson, now known as Sydney Harbor, where they discovered a pristine forest and a naturally occurring stream.



Penal colonies were established in the area shortly there after, and this practice continued until 1840, when the citizens of Sydney protested. Two years later, Sydney became an official city, and remained largely unpopulated and remote until ten years later, in 1852, when gold was discovered, and people from all over the world came to the area to seek their fortunes. Sydney transformed overnight from remote outpost to bustling mining town.



Modern day Sydney is full of wonders to explore, including the famous, landmark harbor, Sydneys Chinatown, and the many famous beaches that surround the area. One of Sydneys most famous museums, The Macleay, began as a small collection of insects and has since become of one of the leading natural history museums in the world. In addition to an impressive insect collection, the museum also showcases historic enthnographic material from the indigenous Australian peoples.



Another famous museum that should be a stop on anyones Australia vacation itinerary is the Museum of Contemporary Art in Sydney. Established in the memory of Australian expatrate artist John Power, this structure houses Australias most impressive collection of artifacts, art work, and historic documents. In 1989, the museum was relocated to its present day location, and today is one of the city of Sydneys most visited landmarks.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/short-history-of-sydney-australia-371236.html


About the Author

For more information of for help with your australia vacation planning, please visit our website.

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Benefits of Booking Last Minute Sydney Hotels

Author: sydney

We all at some point plan things at the last moment. Many people are not aware that arranging things at the last minute can bring many benefits that planning something ahead of time cannot. So, whether you are looking for something quick during an emergency or for some cheap deals for a vacation, booking last minute Sydney hotels can bring many perks that you might not have imagined.


Here are a few factors that make last minute bookings for Sydney accommodation attractive.


One of the main factors is the price. Booking last minute Sydney hotels late in the day or a few days before your visit can result in a significant price drop. This is because hotels always prefer to fill out every room at any price, rather than keeping it vacant and making no money. For example, if you are planning to visit Sydney for your favorite singer's concert, booking at the last moment will almost always get you an attractive deal. However, if you book months in advance, you might have to pay high prices because hotels usually make most profits from advance bookings.


Another vital thing to consider is that summer is the time when almost everybody is out on a vacation. So, the prices are a lot higher in the peak summer than winter seasons. Furthermore, people prefer traveling during daylight hours at the beginning of the working week. For getting cheap last minute Sydney hotels, book late in summer/winter, travel during the weekends and book rooms at night. At all these times, hotels and resorts can offer you insanely cheap deals. During off-peak seasons, you could even book some of the most luxurious Harbourside apartments at unbelievable prices.


The availability of last minute Sydney hotels has always suited those on a tight schedule. So, if you are in a job where last minute bookings are common or you are a free spirit who does not know exactly where you are traveling at the last minute, you can check out online for exclusive last minute Sydney hotels and Harbourside apartments and make the most out of your business trip or vacation.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hotels-articles/benefits-of-booking-last-minute-sydney-hotels-5180264.html


About the Author

last minute Sydney hotels

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History of sydney, why visit Sydney during your Travel to Australia

Author: Ben

History of Sydney via IRTOURING


Radio carbon dating suggests that the Sydney region has been inhabited by indigenous Australians for at least 30,000 years.[8] The traditional Indigenous inhabitants of Sydney Cove are the Cadigal people, whose land once stretched from south of Port Jackson to Petersham.[9] While estimates of the population numbers prior to the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 remains contentious, approximately 4,000–8,000 Aboriginal people lived in the Sydney region prior to contact with British settlers. The British called the Indigenous people the "Eora",[10] because being asked where they came from, these people would answer: "Eora", meaning "here", or "from this place" in their language.[9] There were three language groups in the Sydney region, which were divided into dialects spoken by smaller clans. The principal languages were Darug (the Cadigal, original inhabitants of the City of Sydney, spoke a coastal dialect of Darug), Dharawal and Guringai. Each clan had a territory, the location of said territory determined the resources available. Although urbanisation has destroyed much evidence of these settlements (such as shell middens), a number of Sydney rock engravings, carvings and rock art remain visible in the Hawkesbury sandstone of the Sydney basin.


In 1770, British sea Captain Lieutenant James Cook landed in Botany Bay on the Kurnell Peninsula. It is here that Cook made first contact with an Aboriginal community known as the Gweagal.[12] Under instruction from the British government, a convict settlement was founded by Arthur Phillip, who arrived at Botany Bay with a fleet of 11 ships on 18 January 1788. This site was soon determined to be unsuitable for habitation, owing to poor soil and a lack of reliable fresh water. Phillip subsequently founded the colony one inlet further up the coast, at Sydney Cove on Port Jackson on 26 January 1788. He named it after the British Home Secretary, Thomas Townshend, Lord Sydney, in recognition of Sydney's role in issuing the charter authorising Phillip to establish a colony. The original name was intended to be Albion until Phillip decided upon Sydney.[13]


In April 1789 a disease, thought to be smallpox, killed an estimated 500 to 1000 Aboriginal people between Broken Bay and Botany Bay.[10] There was violent resistance to British settlement, notably by the warrior Pemulwuy in the area around Botany Bay, and conflicts were common in the area surrounding the Hawkesbury River. By 1820 there were only a few hundred Aborigines and Governor Macquarie had begun initiatives to 'civilise, Christianise and educate' the Aborigines by removing them from their clans. Macquarie's tenure as Governor of New South Wales was a period when Sydney was improved from its basic beginnings. Roads, bridges, wharves and public buildings were constructed by British and Irish convicts, and by 1822 the town had banks, markets, well-established thoroughfares and an organised constabulary. The 1830s and 1840s were periods of urban development, including the development of the first suburbs, as the town grew rapidly when ships began arriving from Britain and Ireland with immigrants looking to start a new life in a new country. On 20 July 1842 the municipal council of Sydney was incorporated and the town was declared the first city in Australia, with John Hosking the first elected mayor.[14] The first of several Australian gold rushes started in 1851, and the port of Sydney has since seen many waves of people arriving from around the world.


Rapid suburban development began in the last quarter of the 19th century with the advent of steam powered tramways and railways. With industrialisation Sydney expanded rapidly, and by the early 20th century it had a population well of more than a million. The Great Depression hit Sydney badly. One of the highlights of the Depression era, however, was the completion of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932.[15] There has traditionally been a rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne since the gold rushes of the 1850s made the capital of Victoria Australia's largest and richest city.[16] Sydney overtook Melbourne in population in the early years of the 20th century,[17] and has remained the largest city in Australia since this time. During the 1970s and 1980s Sydney's CBD with the Reserve Bank and Australian Stock Exchange clearly surpassed Melbourne as the nation's financial capital.[18] Throughout the 20th century, especially in the decades immediately following World War II, Sydney continued to expand as large numbers of European and later Asian immigrants populated the metropolitan area

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/history-of-sydney-why-visit-sydney-during-your-travel-to-australia-2549727.html


About the Author

We at IRTOURING Offers Cultural Tours to iran , Best Iran tour, iran tours, travel to iran and more at http://www.irtouring.com

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How Long Does It Take To Travel Around Australia?

Author: Tina Dean

How long does it take to travel around Australia?


This question can have many answers depending what route you take, how long you stop at each destination and how long you drive for each day.


Example One – Lap of Australia


Calculating for travelling on main highways and roads following the coast where possible a lap of Australia would be about 15,600 kilometres for the mainland and travelling main roads of Tasmania is about 1,400kms, so a total of about 17,000 kilometres plus any side tracking into towns & attractions. Side tracking could easily add on several thousand kilometres and a few more weeks or months


Ideally you need a minimum of 4 to 5 months including 2 weeks or more to travel Tasmania. Preferably 6 months or more and you may have travelled around 25,000 to 35,000 kilometres if you want to enjoy it more, therefore have more time to relax and soak up the amazing experience and do a lot side tracking to National Parks etc. 9 to 12 months or more is recommended.


Many travellers travel around Australia for a year or more and just keep going as they love the lifestyle so much.


This is the example trip I have used for the above calculations, click on the above map for a view of Australia main roads.


Example starting at Sydney – travelling via the coast where possible, south to Melbourne, west to Adelaide. Across the Nullabor, Albany, Perth, north to Broome, east to Wyndham, Katherine, Darwin, Kakadu, south to Katherine, Tennant Creek, Mt Isa, east toTownsville, north to Cairns, south down the coast to Brisbane and back to Sydney. Travel to Tasmania leaving from Melbourne either by air or on the ferry ‘Spirit of Tasmania' and visit all the main tourist destinations. You can start anywhere does not have to be Sydney.


Example 2


If you want to visit Central Australia this can be done either from Port Augusta SA or from Katherine NT.



Travelling from Katherine south to Alice Springs is about 900 kilometres and add 450 kilometres to drive to Uluru and same to return to Alice Springs.


Driving from Port Augusta to Alice Springs is about 540 kilometres to Coober Pedy and then a further 690 kilometres to Alice Springs.


An alternative is to drive from Coober Pedy drive straight to Uluru first which is about 750 kilometres and then go on to Alice Springs which is 450 kilometres.


It is usually recommended that Australia is travelled in an anticlockwise direction so that when you are driving across the top of Australia and down the west Coast you will be driving with the prevailing winds. Rather then pushing into them and destroying your fuel economy.


Using the above travel plans as a guide you can work out your own travel itinerary to suit the time you have available.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-tips-articles/how-long-does-it-take-to-travel-around-australia-2068743.html


About the Author

I am Tina, married with 3 kids and live in country Victoria. I have 25 years travelling camping experience in many parts of Australia. In the past decade we have travelled to many parts of this amazing country Australia. All information provided is based on my travelling and camping experiences.


.For ALL the information you need for an unforgettable driving, camping and travel adventure in Australia! www.yourguidetravelaustralia.com.au

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Sydney: Fun World Courtesy of Land and Water Attractions

Author: Bei Maniago

Sydney: Fun World Courtesy of Land and Water Attractions

Are you planning a Sydney holiday? Good choice. Sydney is a city full of amazing surprises and beautiful contrasts. On one hand are the land attractions that will surely have your hands full of things to do. On the other are the water sights that will make you believe that nature went out of its way to please you. You can choose where you will start your adventure and fun-filled Sydney travel, but you should sample both during the course of your stay. Nevertheless, before you tour around, you must find a good Sydney accommodation to help you settle in the city.



The Land World: Sophistication and Fun



This beautiful city of Sydney is full of fun places to visit that you might not know how you could manage to see everything. The trick is in picking the largest or most famous landmarks before seeking out the smaller ones. Choose a Sydney accommodation closest to the first place you want to visit. The best place to kick-start your Sydney travel is the Opera House, which made Sydney very well-known all over the world. There are several tours that you can choose from. Pick one of the many that they offer and get ready to be mesmerized by the majesty of the opera house.



The next stop could be the Sydney Tower, which will show you an amazing 360-degree view of Sydney on observation tower sections. Dining at the topmost part of it will surely be one of the best and exhilarating mealtime experiences you will ever have. The Sydney Tower Restaurant, like the observation decks, allows a 360-degree view of the spectacular city skyline. The tower also offers OzTrek, a state-of-the-art simulator of various activities that you can do on Sydney. Sitting on the seats specially designed to enhance the experience, you can “travel” around Australia like you really were there. Pick a tour toward Australia’s wild outback and ride that fast-moving mother kangaroo or that untamed buffalo or that large emu. Don’t forget to check out Sydney Harbour and the bridge, which are just so near the opera house.



Your Sydney holiday will not be complete if you will not visit real animals that you might have seen in your OzTrek trip. Taronga Zoo is home to different animal species from Australia and from all over the world. You can try the Sky Safari cable car to experience an expansive view of the animals’ habitats.



The Water World: Fun and Beauty



Sydney’s beaches, like those in the whole of Australia, are golden and clear. You can also try the many fun-filled activities at these beaches like swimming, snorkelling, scuba diving, and surfing. Jet skis and surf boards can be rented from the shops near these beaches.



Most tourists come to Sydney for the Sydney Aquarium. This very large underwater world features huge walk-through tunnels that allow the visitors to be surrounded by water creatures without even getting wet. Endemic fish and marine species are housed in this aquarium, including the duck-billed platypus.



Another water activity that will not get you wet is watching some concerts aboard floating pontoons at Darling Harbour. Those who want to stand on solid ground while enjoying the waters can take a leisurely stroll along the waterside walks of the harbour.





Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/sydney-fun-world-courtesy-of-land-and-water-attractions-552069.html


About the Author

The writer writes for the Cheap Holiday Accommodation website. It is an Australian travel website that specializes in guiding tourists in finding Sydney accommodation and experiencing the perfect Sydney holiday they will never forget.

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Tips for Sydney travel

Author: Angelamax

Sydney Islands.

Sydney is well-known for its beach-side and surrounding suburbs, such as Strong, Bondi and Cronulla plus a lot more. During summer time, these beaches are filled with bathers, who run to savor the municipality's marvellous exotic beaches. Like Rio de Janiero and Los Angeles, Sydney is somewhat exclusive in that it's a significant area encased by magnificent beaches, making it a best vacation area. If you're going to the seaside in Sydney , don't overlook your shades, hat, and sun block, as the UV light here are higher than normal.


Trains, lines & ferries.


A mixture of all these methods of carry is the best way to savor both the vacation and person activities of Sydney. A car hire is best attained for visits outside the CBD; the community Glowing blue Mountain tops are just one of many beautiful areas you can arrive at from Sydney if you have a car. Within Sydney location itself, however, teaches and lines can truly often be quicker than generating. Sydney's included ticketing system, allowing take a trip across teaches, lines and ferries on a single solution, makes visiting on any method of teaches and lines simple.

Of all the visits you can take in Sydney , the boat to Strong is an excellent one for any vacation, providing superb perspective of the Sydney sky line and its magnificent conceal. Ferries can take half-an-hour to take a trip from Circle Quay to Strong, a relaxing trip itself and an excellent way of seeing the location. To get the Strong Ferry, you'll need to head to the fatal at Circle Quay: readily available right between the Safari Property and the Sydney Harbour Fill.

Sydney Attractions.

The Centrepoint Structure, Sydney's leading developing, soars great about the Sydney cityscape and is an incredible look to look at from Favorite Harbour. The lift trip and spinning cafe at its top are well value doing for the 360-degree surroundings of Sydney on a good day. Like any significant location, Sydney has its discuss of areas. In Sydney , though, it certainly is value seeing all the famous attractions: Bondi Beach, Strong, the Sydney Harbour Fill, the Sydney Safari Property, Favorite Harbour.... All these spots honestly do live up to the boasting, and it's marvellous to corner them all off your list before you go on to savor all the sleep of things to do Sydney has to offer.

Sydney CBD.

The center location of Sydney is a useful mix of old and new structure, areas, and avenues, with many exclusive character types showed. Take a walk around and see what you discover. Don't overlook The Rocks: this re-developed old precinct is found just outside the main financial region, and presents a mixture of the unique northeastern pay out and beginning Sydney structure with the hottest in Sydney lifestyle.

Eating in Sydney.

In modern Sydney you'll be able to example a selection of meals, such as Oriental, Indian native, Western and Middle Southern food. Fine food spots in Sydney can often be found ignoring the conceal, or along the beach at Favorite Harbour and the Rubble, indicating food for the face as well as the taste. The location has many vacation hangouts, however if you want to experience real Sydney food, discover where the people eat and go there.

Prices are usually a little more expensive than Brisbane and other significant Australia spots, in preserving with the more expensive of living here. There is a nationwide Products and Service Tax (GST), to which guidelines can be included at your attention, though these are by no means necessary.

Sydney Style.

Sydney is you will find brands like Akira Isogawa, Marcs, Morrisey and Collette Dinnigan, so for those fashionistas amongst us, you won't want to overlook taking a trip down Henry Neighborhood for your fix. Take a look also at The Rubble precinct for store looking and hip haute fashion. Sydney is you will find a lot of Australia's glamour and fashion, so fashion is a significant product in Sydney . That said, most Aussies are pretty laid-back about apparel feeling, so you won't need to fear about attire up unless it's a professional situation.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/environment-articles/tips-for-sydney-travel-5334983.html


About the Author

Angelmax, freelance writer and blogger on motivational, online business for newbies and happiness and fitness issues. I also do online business coaching and consulting, specifically for newbies.

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Retaining walls Sydney

Author: franky

Retaining walls like fences can be considered for setting boundaries on your property or can be constructed for the sheer fancy of having an aesthetically pleasing hardscapes. But the functionality of retaining walls is not limited to just beauty & boundaries, on slopes it serves as a barrier to hold back the back earth which would otherwise move downwards. Right from rural settings in the suburb, retaining walls Sydney are used in agriculture as well as landscaping. Retaining walls can be built using a variety of materials like concrete, bricks, stones or even the classic wood.


  • Concrete: Concrete retaining walls are durable in the long run. Resistant & inert to termite infestations as well as harsh weather conditions, be it extreme cold or extremely dry summer, concrete is the most preferred choice for retaining walls Sydney. Whether it is a gravity wall that you plan to build or piled and Cantilever retaining types, concrete guarantees sturdiness combined with elegance unmatched.

  • Stone: Stone is a natural choice or option for building a retaining wall. Not only do they give an earthly feel to your landscape, stacking up stones to form a retaining wall Sydney that is sturdy and permanent in nature. Stone retaining walls often provide structural stability on building sites where erosion is a potential problem. Slates, sandstone & limestone are the most commonly used types for stone retaining walls.

  • Bricks: An aesthetic choice for retaining walls, bricks can definitely augment the beauty of your garden or courtyard. Comparatively costlier as compared to concrete or stone retaining walls Sydney, they have an advantage of being easy to maintain & replace. A combination of stone & brick could also enhance the beauty of your property with its aesthetic combinations.

  • Timber: Treated timber or wood is generally the element of choice here for retaining walls. They can be used to construct both permanent as well as temporary type of retaining walls Sydney. They are generally used for garden retaining walls for smaller areas. Timber or wood used has to be treated for termites. A combination of timber and a concrete base would be an ideal choice for retaining walls.

Types of Retaining Walls

Retaining walls serves as a decorative hardscapes as well as functional retainers. The major difference:

Functional retaining walls are built for structural purposes only such as to support a path or driveway; to allow different levels in the garden; or to maintain a slope around a tree or other landscape feature. Retaining walls are many and based on their functionality can be classified as gravity walls, pre cast crib, Gabion, Reinforced concrete, Sheet piles, Mechanically stabilized, slurry & secant walls & soil nailing. Most of these are used for agricultural or constructional purposes.

Mostly used for landscaping purposes, Decorative retaining walls are used to bring character to your garden or landscape. They are used to highlight the features of your landscaped property & can also serve as seats or a base for a fence.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/construction-articles/retaining-walls-sydney-5271177.html


About the Author

British brick laying Civil Contracting have been into business of constructing retaining walls & pavements since 20 long years. Thomas, the owner also provides an array of services including reconstruction, underpinning, extensions & all type of brick repairs.

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A glimpse of Sydney's wildlife

Author: greengirl sydney

Interested about Wildlife in Australia? If you are landing in Sydney, a couple of places are distinguished for this purpose. Discover furry koalas, skipping kangaroos and shy platypus in zoos and wildlife parks just minutes from the heart of Sydney city.

Don't expect to see kangaroos or reptiles when you have landed in Sydney, if you do, you must have landed somewhere else. If you have confirmed your destination (which is Sydney) then I guess you must have your eyes checked.

Many tourists still see Australia as having a land with kangaroos on the street. Most of them are found somewhere on the bush or some place where they can feel that they have the sense of habitat. The easiest way to experience fauna in Sydney is to transport to the zoos, the largest collection of the city's wildlife is at Taronga Zoo, its size and its years of serving makes it a spectacular place to discover wildlife and preservation. Taronga zoo is located north of Sydney Harbour. To get there, take a ferry from Circular Quay and the Central Business District, the trip is approximately 12 minutes. Make it scenic, transport through one of the cable cars of Sky Safari that operates from the Top Entrance to the Ferry Wharf from 9.30am to 5.00pm daily. Not finding it cool? Take the bus.

Some people wishes to discover Australian wildlife in their original habitat and state, one way of doing this is hiring a 4WD or a campervan hire Australia, depending on your intended wildlife location. Why not, if you have more than a day and would love to do other stuff like hiking, camping, etc, this is a call for adventure. Handle some safety while doing this and always as a local about animal behaviors.

Another wildlife haven in Sydney is the Sydney Wildlife World located within walking distance of the city centre. It is an ideal place to see wildlife given the limited time. Sydney Wildlife World is adjacent to Sydney Aquarium, between Cockle Bay and King St Wharf. Also consider Featherdale Wildlife Park, located in the western Sydney suburb of Doonside, about 40 minutes by road from the Sydney centre.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/a-glimpse-of-sydneys-wildlife-1506476.html


About the Author

Greengirl Sydney travels Australia, New Zealand and USA. Choose your motorhome from Camper Australia and start your journey of exploring wildlife and vast attractions Down Under.

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Top Reasons To Participate In Sydney Networking Events

Author: sydney networking

Sydney Networking – join today!

Success women entrepreneurs are now part of Sydney Networking

Taking part in Sydney networking events is very crucial if you want to become a successful entrepreneur especially, if you are a beginner.

There are so many benefits by participating in such events. The best thing is that you will be able to meet a lot of businessmen and share a lot of information with each other. The Sydney networkingmeetings are very special because you will be able to meet at least a few new people daily with whom you can network and add value to your small business. So, let us read on to find out some useful tips to make your networking efforts more fruitful.

Sydney networking is a lot of fun because you will get to know a lot of like-minded people. All of them gather in some common place regularly to find out different ways in which they can help each other. Most of the members first try to find people who can be useful for gaining immediate results. This is however, not a healthy sign of networking. Most of the Sydney networking events are organized so that you find members who are looking out for long-term relationships in the businesses. Such relationships are meant to work well and boost both the businesses in the right way.

Never mind about the size of the Sydney networking group. Initially it may be small. But as and when it grows you can see a lot of successful and new people in the functions. This will help you to find new avenues where you can diversify or develop your business. The best thing to do in such Sydney networking groups is to find people who are ready to help you on a regular basis. Having one regular contact is better than simply having too many contacts that may not be very useful. So always look out for people who are really interested in taking their businesses to new heights through networking.

How to find the best contacts that work from a Sydney networking group? This is the most difficult question that all the new members face. However, most of such event organizers or groups have representatives who will be able to help you to find members who could be interested in your business. When you find such people try to spend more time and effort for meeting them regularly. Find out the different ways in which you can help each other. Exchange your business cards and try to understand the businesses of the visitors. Take time and go through each card and find out all the details. By doing some research you will be able to identify the right contacts in the Sydney networking events.

After your first Sydney networking event is over you will be able to get an idea of what you can expect from such events. If you want to get the most out of such meetings you have to keep a few points in your mind. In order to build a good relationship you have to be a good listener. Try to provide a referral. Never ask for referrals directly. If someone has given you a referral you should reciprocate the gesture as soon as possible. Never miss any of the meetings organized by the groups. If there are things that require follow-ups do them immediately. If you really want to grow and develop your small business in a large manner, participate in the fun-filled and productive Sydney networking events regularly.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/networking-articles/top-reasons-to-participate-in-sydney-networking-events-5212393.html


About the Author

Do you want to be on a Sydney Business Networking? If you want to be on a sydney network, visit www.sydneynetworking.org or call them @ 02 8355 3537.

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Surveyor Sydney

What To Look For In A Surveyor Sydney Company

Experience

If the surveyor Sydney Company you are working with does not have experience then you will be preparing yourself for an impending disaster. This is largely because of the fact that we all learn our most important lessons from our mistakes, and the same applies to any surveyor Sydney Company you choose, or any area of specialization for that matter. When you have found your chosen surveyor Sydney Company of choice you must never hesitate to ask for company records which give proof of the company's lengthy existence in the industry, preferably dating back to as far back as 10 years ago. Quantity surveying is all about measuring distances and it is thus important that all measurements for the job you want done are taken correctly. Any mistakes can cost you a fortune as you will have to construct a house based on incorrect measurements. So if the company is experienced you can rest assured that the company has perfected its trade in ways that give you lasting confidence in the job performed.


Certification


Surveyor Sydney Companies that are worth the substance of their words must at least belong to a regulatory board or association. All boards expect its members to be certified to work in quantity surveying and it is therefore imperative that your surveyor Sydney Company of choice be a member of at least one. Certification comes with being qualified, which in all fairness means that someone has actually gone to school for whatever it is they are doing and that they are qualified. The Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS) is an association which many a surveyor Sydney company should belong to and you need to make sure that you work with a company which belongs to this board. The AIQS is a standardization board with set quality standards which must always be delivered consistently to clients. And if at all a surveyor Sydney company which is affiliated to the AIQS fails to match up to these standards there will be a reflection in the board's records, which you can go through if you wish to.


Guarantees On Work Done


The only way to safeguard your interests is by contracting with a surveyor Sydney Company that offers a guarantee on all work done. It is this guarantee which will see to it that you are compensated for any work that is done incorrectly. And in other instances you may not have a refund facility, but the option to have the surveyor Sydney company do the work all over again, and properly. Make sure you browse through the service contract thoroughly to check for such guarantees. If there are no guarantees of any kind then you might need to ask the surveyor Sydney company to have them included.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/moving-and-relocating-articles/surveyor-sydney-5105645.html


About the Author

Are you looking for Surveyor Sydney?


Visit surveyorsydney.org or call them @ 02 8355 3536.

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Quick Tips on Hiring the Right Sydney Plumbers

There are many options in most cities for plumbers, hence the difficulty of choosing the right plumber. Sydney Plumbers don\'t come cheap so you want to be sure to pick a plumber whose work and service will fully satisfy you…the kind of Sydney Plumber you will want to recommend to your friends and family.


The number one thing you need to check when hiring Sydney Plumber is to make sure they are fully qualified and are certified by the TSSA (Technical Standards and Safety Authority). Most plumbing contractors are also heating contractors, therefore they need to have a valid TSSA number. Having a license is also very important. A license ensures that the Sydney Plumber is following rules and standards. Do your homework when researching a plumbing contractor and try to get reviews from previous customers. Advice from friends and family who have dealt with Sydney Plumber is priceless. If you don`t know anyone who has had services from Local plumber recently, online is the next best place to look for reviews of local contractors.


Keep in mind that the Sydney Plumber\'s experience is very important and normally reflects the quality of his work. Skills and abilities are usually a result of past experiences. Therefore, the more experienced Sydney Plumbers are usually the best Sydney Plumbers…as long as they still have a passion for their job.


Another factor to keep in mind when choosing the ideal Sydney Plumbers is insurance. Since plumbing comes with many risks and is considered a dangerous trade, Sydney Plumber should have his own insurance. If you take the risk and hire someone who is not insured, you might be liable for accident expenses since it happened in your home. A safe plumber is a great plumber.


Usually, if you hire an experienced Sydney Plumbers from a large franchise type company, it will be most expensive. If you can find Sydney plumber with a good reputation, you will get the best rate for the best service and quality of work. Whatever you decide on, get a written quote to make sure you are on the same page as the hired Sydney Plumber. This will save you many headaches down the line when you receive your bill at the end of the Sydney Plumbers job.
Sydney Plumbers

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/quick-tips-on-hiring-the-right-sydney-plumbers-4985548.html

About the Author

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What's New On The Hospitality Scene in Sydney

Sydney buzzes with the vibrancy of a true city of the world. It has the largess of New York's skyscrapers, the warmth of the cafes and bistros of Paris, the sparkling skyline of Tokyo. Uniquely, all its own, it touts one of the most beautiful natural harbor's of the world, fixed by the stunning architectural feat of the Sydney Opera House, it's white roof rising like the sails of the foreign ships that grace the bay. There is no debating it; it's quite stunning.

As I write this, I am sitting at the Icebergs Restaurant over-looking the panoramic vista of Bondi Beach. It's a "crowded" day, but everything's relative. Crowded on Jones Beach in New York, means you can't find a place to spread your towel. Crowded here, means you can hear your neighbor's conversation from a few meters away. There are, apparently, nets that are supposed to keep the sharks out, but every once in a while, I'm told, you'll hear them sound the shark alarm, signaling that a wayward, headstrong one has made its way through the barrier. I think that's just to spice up the excitement on the beach, but I'm not eager to test the truth, so I'm watching the action from above.

Below me is the Icebergs Club and Pool, which is a salt water pool that literally gets its salt water from a pump nestled in the rocks from the adjacent ocean and from the waves that from time to time cascade over the side of the pool. It's just exquisite, and apart from the black lines that mark the swimmers' lanes, with the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks and the side of the pool, you feel almost as if you're in the ocean, minus the threat of sharks (all but the very, very ambitious once, at least).

As a home base, I chose the Blue Sydney, primarily since it just celebrated its one year anniversary, having recently changing hands from the "W," a Starwood Group, to Taj, under the genteel auspices of General Manager Kottarapurath Mohanchandran ("Mohan" for short), whose last posting was Udaipur, where he served as GM for the Taj Lake Palace.

For those of you who have not seen the property, it is a brave and ambitious choice for Taj Structurally, it is quite different from any Taj I know, having been converted from a warehouse that once processed and stored wool. As it is a Heritage Landmark, the base structure remains unaltered, a modern hotel, reflecting its historic wharf roots.

The first thing that strikes the visitor is, "What is this?" By that, I mean that despite the 11 meter ceiling, exposed corrugated iron and timber from the original frame of the building, and defunct conveyor belts, there is a rather funky, chic bar in a vast space that is the very first hint that the purpose of the structure includes recreation and imbibing. It does not, however, appear to be a hotel, as the reception area is out of sight to the right as one enters and up a flight of stairs. Not exactly the curb appeal that screams, "hotel," and perhaps that is part of its mystique and appeal, but for the traditional among you, be advised.

The hotel sits on Finger Wharf in Woolloomooloo (no, I did not make a mistake, it really has eight "o"s, and is thus on the outskirts of the Commercial Business District or "CBD" as it is known. The wharf was constructed in 1910 during a period of expanding wool, wheat and import trading which lasted from late last century until the 1930s depression. Changes in the nature of international shipping after WWII rendered this once modern facility increasingly redundant for cargo handling.

In 1956, Shed NO. 7 was modified to handle the growing passenger trade, however this too diminished with the completion of the Circular Quay Passenger Terminal. With the exception of minor modifications, the wharf structure remains in its original condition. In the 1990s, perceived as redundant as a passenger terminal, the wharf was redeveloped as a luxury marina, entertainment and apartment complex (now hosting the likes of Russell Crowe, John Laws, and Lang Walker).

In 2000 the warehouse was converted by "W" into a luxury hotel, and the surrounding space into boutique restaurants that line the marina, offering indoor and outdoor dining with a lovely view.

Parking continues to be a challenge for the property, as is the unique challenges of maintaining a property that sits on piles drilled into the harbor bed, but those aren't challenges the guest needs to confront. Not much has changed since the hand-over to Taj, although the hotel may close for a short time to give the place a Taj lift, adding hanging silk draperies in the massive cafes area to soften it and add a touch of decor from the Indian Ocean, if only in the nature of the fabric chosen. They'll also expand the bar menu, which is fairly limited at the moment, although the cocktails offered are quite unique and inspiring, even before your opinion has been influenced by the generous alcohol pour.

They also intend to move the lobby from its out of the way location, to front and center, which I believe will be a logical and welcomed change. If there are additional changes in mind, Mohan is not saying, and we'll just have to wait for the unveiling.

The Blue has 100 deluxe guest rooms, including 36 loft rooms with city and harbor views. Be careful to request the marina side of the hotel, as it is clearly more picturesque, facing the lovely yachts, park, and city. The rooms on the other side of the hotel, while technically facing a harbor, are relatively unexciting views, except when the occasional naval vessel is docked.

The rooms are a modern, sophisticated design, with muted beiges and white, accented with blue chairs and couches, brown linen, and the occasional red pillow. There is an oversized work desk in most of the rooms, wireless high-speed access, cordless phone, 27" T.V. (soon to be converted to Plasma), Bose CD Player, VCR, king-size beds with pillow-top mattresses, 250 thread count sheets, goose-down comforters and pillows. There are even some pocket-sized office supplies in the work area: a tiny stapler, scotch tape and highlight pen in a sleek brown leather box came in very handy as I wrote my article and organized my materials.

There are seven different room categories: The Wharf Room (575 AUD), the Woolloomooloo Room (675 AUD), the Pier Rooms (775 AUD), the Marina Rooms (875 AUD), the Pier Lofts (775 AUD), the Marina Lofts (875 AUD), and the Ultra Loft (2000 AUD). I stayed in the Ultra Loft, a huge duplex with skylights and windows running the entire length of the room and overlooking the yachts below and a bedroom above with a small bathroom (Aveda travel-sized products), but managing a bath and separate shower and a small closet, the latter being inadequate in relation to the largess of the room. I personally didn't care for the separate space, going up and down the stairs rather continuously for something or other I forgot to bring up or down the stairs, or trying to turn off 12 lights without a master switch.

I preferred instead, the Marina Room, with equally panoramic views (marina side) and much larger bathrooms, despite the fact that there is no separate living space and the overall space is considerably smaller. Without doubt, it is the best value room, with identical amenities to its big brother counterpart. Rates may vary during high season. Guests I met were charming, and demographics are approximately, 50% Australian, followed by the United States, New Zealand, India, and Asia, in varying percents and in descending order.

In short, staff is friendly and efficient, housekeeping, including turn-down service, quite sufficient, Mohan is a soft-spoken, sophisticated treasure, and the anticipated changes in softening the ambience will be anticipated. Guests may be put off only by small bathrooms and closets in huge suites, the ultra-modern and somewhat disorienting entry, and the lack of an on-site restaurant, but there are plenty of lovely restaurants just outside the front door, lining the marina, a reasonable room alternative for guests in which a large ensuite is desirable, and as for the historic roots as a warehouse for wool, one can either reject it as an architectural concept, or revel in man's capacity to adapt structures for alternative use, when the initial function no longer suits.

Pleasing alternatives are the Park Hyatt Sydney, a location over-looking the Opera House, with views of it from most rooms, and adjacent to the Rocks market, cannot be exceeded anywhere in Sydney. The InterContinental Sydney, despite its lesser location has spectacular views from the 31st floor Club InterContinental Lounge available to guests on premium floors with an additional cost. I particularly enjoyed the Mint Restaurant. Jeff Campbell appears to be Sydney's celebrated chef of the moment. Following a jet-set career that has taken him to Japan, London and France he has spent three years in the company of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver where he collaborated on many of the well known Naked Chef television programs and Naked Chef books. His creations are divine.

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The 10 Most Beautiful Beaches In Australia

Australia, the world’s largest island, has some of the best surfing beaches to be found anywhere. Here, visiting the beach is as much a social experience as an opportunity for relaxation and water sports, since the beach is integral to Australian culture. While there will always be disagreement over which of the thousands of beaches are the best, the following selection represents a variety of urban and regional surf beaches that are popular with both surfers and those looking for a fun day on the beach.

Noosa Heads, in Queensland, is one of Australia’s best family beaches. Facing north, it is more like an ocean cul-de-sac, with generally gentler surf conditions than might be found on the more open beaches. Just behind the beach is the famous Hastings Street shopping strip. High fashion boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants run along its shopper-friendly pavements, shaded by lush, leafy trees.

The Gold Coast’s Burleigh Heads is famous for its pine tree backdrop and great point break surf. The famous Burleigh Barrel, a power-packed tube loved by all surfers is driven by solid swells and prevailing SE winds. Burleigh’s shopping precinct just off the beach is a quiet and eclectic collection of shops and cafes.

Byron Bay, in northern New South Wales, is considered Australia’s alternative lifestyle capital. The trendy town centre, boasting top-quality eateries and pubs, is fronted by a superb beach. The lack of high-rise development adds to the clean, laid-back appeal of this pristine location. Close to the beach strip are subtropical rainforests and national parks that you can easily visit.

On Sydney’s northern coastline, Palm Beach is noted as a residential suburb for the wealthy as much as for its surf beach. Situated on a peninsula, the beach has stunning Pacific Ocean front expanses with a variety of swells, and there are gentler waters on the west of the peninsular at Pittwater. Surrounding bushland adds to the feeling of genteel serenity.

Australia’s most famous beach, Sydney’s Bondi Beach, is where Australian beach culture originated. This stunning beach, bounded by rocky points at either end, abuts a vast promenade with a distinctively old world charm. Its wide stretch of sand is dominated by the grand old Bondi Pavilion, built in 1928. Campbell Parade, running parallel to the beach, is a people watcher’s delight.

Two hours’ drive south of Sydney is Kiama, where the beautiful Surf Beach offers a deep beachfront of pure white sand, gentle incoming waves, and an open park with cooking facilities and picnic areas. The beach is popular with families, and many visitors come to view the breath-taking Kiama Blowhole nearby.

At Portsea, in Victoria, Melbourne’s wealthy come to retire for a summer respite. Set on the western-most point of the sweeping Mornington Peninsula, Portsea boasts a fascinating, rugged ocean front beach as well as a quieter bay beach nearby. Stark rock formations, shaped by the area’s often savage winds, feature prominently around the beach landscapes. The tiny village has a feel of understated exclusivity.

Many would claim Bells Beach as Australia’s best board surfing beach. Located 100 km south west of Melbourne along the majestic Great Ocean Road, Bells is a largely untouched ocean beach with almost never-ending swells undulating across deep blue water. The beach ends abruptly with soaring cliffs of yellow and orange clay. Designated a state reserve, its unspoiled status is assured.

Margaret River, in Australia’s south west, is virtually unrivalled for the quality of its waves. The clear, open water swells and forms some of the world’s best and most consistent board and body catches. Dazzling views across the mighty river and its mouth as it spills into the Indian Ocean are plentiful. Margaret River township is a mellow precinct dotted with great cafes and art galleries.

Perth’s Cottesloe Beach is understandably that city’s pride and joy. The now ritzy suburb, just outside Perth CBD, affords unbeatable views across the ocean to gorgeous Rottnest Island. The westerly-facing beach, part of a long strip, is a fantastic place to watch the sun set on another day. The stately old surf club and restaurant provides a regal focal point.

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Things You Must Know about Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is one of those postcard, picture-perfect kind of places that if you go to Sydney, obviously you are going to want to go there. So you want to get down there, take your photos, take in the sights and sounds of Bondi Beach.

Bondi and Bondi Beach in particular is originally named from an aboriginal name, which was Bondi or Boondi, which meant to the aboriginals, who were the original people prior to the British settlement; that meant water breaking out of the rocks or the sound of water breaking over rocks. And when you go down to Bondi Beach you will understand why it was called that; because the surf crashing on the beach and on the rocks is really something quite spectacular.

Bondi Beach today is a pretty interesting place. Campbell Parade is the main commercial area and that runs along going to the beach. The beach itself is around 1-kilometer long, it runs roughly north-south and it is divided for surf club purposes. Divided into 2 halves, North Bondi and South Bondi; two separate patrolled beaches. But it is one continuous beach.

If you decide you are going to swim, please swim between the red flags. The red flags, like most beaches in Australia are patrolled by lifesavers, who are there to get you out of trouble. If you swim between the red flags that is both the safest area in the beach, and that is the area that the lifesavers are guarding and monitoring to help you if you get into any sort of trouble.

Historically Bondi was a working class suburb or a working class area; now it is a very eclectic mix. There is still a degree of the original working class inhabitants, but it is very much a place for the rich and famous to hang out, to live, to be seen and to see. There is a very strong cafe and restaurants scene, there is also some great bars there; both by the day and by the night as well.

If you are going to Bondi Beach, you will probably want to leave your car at home and get public transport. There is parking there, but it is all metered parking-relatively expensive, and the council parking inspectors are pretty common around there. If you are going there by public transport, the nearest hub for trains is Bondi Junction. Bondi Junction is around 2-kilometers up the hill from Bondi Beach. There is a major train station there at Bondi Junction and you can get a train just about anywhere in the city. From Bondi Junction you will want to jump on a bus that runs down to the beach.

During the days, those buses are very frequent; they run roughly every 10 minutes. After 7:30pm you will probably wait 15 up to 30 minutes for a bus to get down to Bondi Beach. Every bus that you get from Bondi Beach will run up to Bondi Junction. So you cannot really go wrong there.

One of the biggest attractions that people find at Bondi Beach is the People Watching. It is very much a hangout for the rich and famous, and you will see all sorts of movie stars and celebrities, Australian and otherwise. In and around Bondi Beach, people enjoy the night life scene and being seen. But you will also see some very interesting people and a good mix of the population. So People Watching can be an attraction.

Bondi Pavilion is the big cream-colored wedding cake kind of building, right there on Bondi Beach. It was built in the late 20s, early 30s, when swimming at Bondi Beach or surf bathing as it was known then became really popular. And the local council recognized that there was a need for some sort of building a formal establishment where people could bathe, could change, go to restaurants and take care of all those kinds of things. That is why Bondi Pavilion was formed.

Today Bondi Pavillion is a cultural center for Bondi and the eastern beaches. There are restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and many cultural events, short film festivals are held at Bondi Pavilion. So if you happen to be in Sydney at the right time, you get down to Bondi Pavilion and you really do not know what you could come across. It is well worth a look.

The Bondi Icebergs was originally, and still is a swimming and social club; was started off in the 30s by a group of 8 or 9 dedicated locals. They took very seriously the idea of swimming all year round, especially through the winter months, when obviously swimming is not all that popular.

Everyday of the year, the Bondi Icebergs are out swimming on Bondi Beach. And gradually from those very humble beginnings, that has morphed into what now the largest swimming club and social club in the world, and probably amongst the most impressive businesses, bars and restaurants in the Bondi area.

Bondi Icebergs is now a large licensed club perched right on the southern end of Bondi Beach, with enormous roof-to-floor glass windows that allow you to look out and enjoy Bondi Beach. You can look straight over the beach at the waves crashing in, the surfers and the sea pool that is down there as well. You can take all that in, while enjoying a nice cold drink, or dining in one of the restaurants. Well worth getting into the Bondi Icebergs for a little bit of history, and a meal or something to drink as well.

You can actually get full membership there, but the problem is that to earn full membership in the Bondi Icebergs Club, you've got to swim three Sundays out of four, all through the winter season. So 3 out of 4 Sundays, you've got to swim at Bondi Beach and you've got to do that for 5 consecutive years in order to become a full club member

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Bondi to Coogee Walk: Sydney on Display

The Bondi to Coogee Walk extends for about 6-kilometers from Bondi South to Coogee in Sydneys eastern suburbs. It takes about 2-hours from Bondi to Coogee, that is just a steady pace walking, at a reasonable pace without too many stops. Most people, like to just draw that out a little bit. There are a stack of places that you can stop, places for a swim, for a coffee, for drinks, something to eat along the way, so if you prefer you can draw it out and take up to half a day or longer if you like.

I prefer to make the walk twice, say if you started at Bondi, walk all the way to Coogee, stop there for lunch or a quiet drink in one of the restaurants or cafes there, then turn around and walk back in the afternoon. This can make a very pleasant habit. The Bondi to Coogee Walk is very easygoing, and, you don not need too many intensive preparations. The walk is well sign posted, its pathways all the way, so you can not really get lost. There are plenty of places to stop for food and drink along the way. The going is pretty straightforward, there is some uphill and there is some downhill, but nothing too strenuous for your average person of reasonable fitness.

What are you likely to see if you travel the Bondi to Coogee Walk? Well, if you start at Bondi, you will walk past the Bondi Icebergs, and pass to the south up onto Mackenzies Point. This is a point that looks over to the North, so you can see North and South Bondi, to the south you can look all the way down to Maroubra Beach in the distance. There are some pretty spectacular views, and if you have a look around up there at Mackenzies Point, there are actually some old aboriginal carvings of a whale. It takes some looking around or asking around, but these are amongst the first Aboriginal carvings that were reported in Australia.

If you keep walking south and you enter a gradual downhill, and the very beach first that you will come down to is called Tamarama. This beach is also known as Glamarama because of the large abundance of movie stars and the rich and famous that like to hang around there. This is a very small beach, used mostly by locals, and the well to do. Tamarama has a little bit of surf there and at times it can be a little bit rough and dangerous. Tamarama is a patrolled beach in a nice spot.

If you keep walking south past Tamarama, you are up a gentle rise, over the crest and down into a beautiful beach called Bronte Beach. This is my favorite of the beaches that you will likely encounter on the Bondi to Coogee Walk. Bronte is a very picturesque beach. It is nowhere near as big as Bondi, but its got a very large grassed area immediately behind it on the promenade. It has a particularly large surf, but again, it is well patrolled and if you swim between the flags, you should not have too many problems. Bronte Beach has a large cafe strip as well, there are some great cafes up there along the southern side. It is a great spot to stop for breakfast or coffee, if you are that way inclined.

Once you finish through Bronte, you will keep walking south and you will notice only the side that the rock has been carved away to make way for the road. The walls are 15 to 20 feet high on either side. That is where the trams used to be back at the turn of the century. That rock was moved away so the tram line could run to Bronte Beach. Waverley Cemetery has got to be the cemetery on the most expensive real estate in Sydney. It is a really dramatic coastline, and the views are amazing, so just looking along the ocean you will see this very large cemetery over quite a few acres, on your right hand side. Waverley cemetery is home to a lot very famous Australian People like Henry Lawson, a famous Australian Poet, Victor Trumper, who played a fair bit of Cricket and was batsman of some renown, Lawrence Hargrave, Henry Kendall, and many others have found their final resting places at Waverley Cemetery.

Past Waverley Cemetery is Clovelly, which is a small but very sheltered beach. There is not much to surf there at all, so if you are into much more of a calm paddle then Clovelly is the spot to stop for you. Stop for a bit of swim there, there is also an ocean pool as well, where you can get in and have a look. After you cross the car park at Clovelly, you will walk up some reasonably steep stairs and from the top of the stairs, you walk down and into Gordons Bay. Gordons Bay is an interesting place. There is not really a spot for swimming, there is no beach, but it is a very popular snorkeling and scuba diving area.

There is an underwater nature trail, so if you like Scuba diving, Gordons Bay is actually a really good, convenient local spot in Sydney. You follow a chain around there, and it is a very good dive. The dive is fairly shallow and divers probably would not get much more than 12-meters in depth. This means from your average tank you will get around an hour on the bottom. Finally if you walk down to Gordons Bay and crest you will come down into Coogee and Coogee Beach. This is a great spot, which you will approach from the north, down into Coogee Beach. There are lots of cafes, lots of restaurants, lots of hotels, good places to stop for a beer, something to eat and everything else you could desire. From Coogee you can turn around and walk back if you like, or you can get a Bus 353 back to Bondi Beach. If you really want to do what the locals do, then get amongst the Coogee to Bondi Walk because it is a great walk and a great way to showcase some of the eastern beaches of Sydney.

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