After the success of the 2000 Summer Olympic Games, Sydney has become increasingly recognized as one of the world's great cities. Its diverse and accepting population of more than 4,000,000 means its cultural communities bubble with energy and ideas, resulting in a creative, modern atmosphere. The city's stunning natural harbour is spanned by the beloved Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Circular Quay hosts its famous Opera House, which sits at the edge of the water looking at though it is about to cast its sails.

Sydney is the country's oldest city, and its first residents settled at the Rocks, where all walks of life combined together to create the beginnings of a burgeoning economy. Kings Cross' funky architecture is highlighted with trendy boutiques and cafes, and Darling Harbour is perhaps most notably the location for the Australian National Maritime Museum and the Chinese Garden of Friendship. Australia's pre-history can be discovered at the Indigenous Collection at the Australian Museum, and the short trip north to Hunter Valley finds established vineyards creating several full-bodied, fine wines.