Sydney, the city that has it all
Sydney is one of the main locations set aside for those moving to Australia thanks largely to the fact that it is the most populated city in the country.
Located in the south east of the country, Sydney is the capital of New South Wales and has been ranked among the top ten most liveable cities in the world in a study carried out by Mercer Human Resource Consulting, The Economist and Monocle.
In the inner sanctum of the city you can find modern bars, restaurants, art galleries, theatres and shopping centres as well as a great deal of green space.
Add to that iconic buildings and structures such as the Sydney Opera House and you can easily see why it is such an attractive place to be for so many people in the Australia.
Don’t let the shiny, modern exterior fool you into thinking the city doesn’t like to keep an eye on its history. You can also find a big chunk of history in its art galleries and museums that are keen to look back on their aboriginal heritage.
A Tribal Warrior cruise offers visitors and residents the gain a good insight into Aboriginal culture and history as does the Royal Botanic Gardens
The Australian Museum offers a rare cultural glimpse at artefacts including boomerangs, didgeridoos, baskets and ceremonial pieces, a perfect day out for all the family.
That’s not all to keep the kids entertained on a family day out either, with Sydney Observatory in The Rocks a popular attraction along with the IMAX Theatre.
For those not afraid of heights there is also the Sydney Tower, the city’s tallest structure at 250 metres high as well as the Justice and Police and Powerhouse Museums.
Moving out of the city centre just a few miles and the area around Sydney is equally as breathtaking. There are a plethora of National Parks close by to Sydney, all of which included breathtaking views and revitalising fresh air.
Parks including the Royal National Park, Ku-ring-gai Chase and Thirlmere Lakes are all less than a couple of hours drive from the centre and offer the chance to walk, hike and camp in pristine countryside.
Thirlmere is part of the Greater Blue Mountains Heritage Area which famed in the New South Wales area for its wildlife, forest retreats and serene freshwater lakes.
The perfect antidote to a fast-paced week in the city.
Venturing back into the city, there are a number of different sectors and areas of Sydney, all of which offer their own unique Aussie charm.
Starting right in the heart of the settlement, Sydney City offers a vast array of the city’s attractions including designer boutiques, fine restaurants, bars and lavish department stores.
The circular quay is generally regarded as the main focal point of the region, and is used as a good meeting spot. This is in easy walking distance of the two main weapons in Sydney’s armoury, Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
Then, we come on to Sydney Harbour, a spectacularly beautiful urban lagoon complete with yachts, launches and kayaks. With its associated islands – Fort Denison, Shark, Clark, Rodd, Goat and Cockatoo – the region has a great deal of cultural and historical significance and is far from just pretty.
In fact, Cockatoo Island is one of 11 Australian Convict Sites that can be found on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Given that Sydney is located just off a few miles from the sea, it’s perhaps not surprising that many of its areas are water-themed and Darling Harbour is just one of them.
This is widely thought of as the liveliest place in the city, thanks primarily to a buzzing waterfront precinct.
Just a ten-minute walk from Sydney City centre, Darling regularly hosts a full calendar of outdoor events and is home to the tranquil Chinese Gardens of Friendship.
King Street Wharf is generally thought of as the prime nightspot and is packed with sleek dining establishments and funky clubs. There are also several outdoor bars and cafes in nearby Cockle Bay Wharf.
Another benefit to living in Sydney is the proximity of the beach, again ideal for a family day out.
Beaches such as Bondi and Manly as do any of the other beaches, be they at Coogee, Dee Why or Palm Beach.
You could even have a scout around and try find one of your very own secluded spots of paradise. Around Sydney Harbour, the eastern coastline and the Royal National Park there are plenty of beauty spots to be explored.
All in all, there is a reason why Sydney is the most populated city in Australia. The fact is that it has a little bit of something for everyone.
Whether it’s untouched countryside, a plush city centre, sandy beaches or interesting historical venues, Sydney’s got it all.
If you’re moving to Australia, find out how our international removals team can help to arrange packing, storage and transportation on your behalf.