About Sydney City
Sydney is one of the world’s most spectacular locations. Surrounding a large weaving harbor and set against beautiful beaches, its dramatic skyline and natural beauty set a breathtaking backdrop to this vibrant, modern, young city. Sydney is the capital city of the state of New South Wales, Australia.
Sydney is a young city. Although the land had been occupied by Aboriginies for 50,000 years, it only became a city when the British established a prison settlement for British prisoners in 1788. From this, it grew into a city by accident, rather than design.
Sydney is home to over 4 million people and has a rich and diverse mix of cultures from a wide range of countries and backgrounds. Forty percent of Sydney’s population were born overseas. English is the language spoken in Australia, however, because it is a multicultural city, many large services provide information in other languages as well. Sydney’s people have given the city a distinctly cosmopolitan flavor, making it a welcoming city for people of nationalities. Sydney is friendly and you’ll hear the phrase “no worries” used ubiquitously which appropriately sums up the easy-going attitude of Sydneysiders.
Sydney is economically strong and has performed well in the face of the Global Financial Crisis. The currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar and its value is stable. You’ll be able to find whatever your heart desires in Sydney’s CBD and inner-city shopping precincts; from major department stores and shopping centers to a plethora of restaurants and harbourside activity.
Beyond the CBD, the city fringe’ includes a number of inner suburbs – each with its own special character and personality. These areas embody what Sydney life is all about – uniqueness, history, and chic urban living. The suburbs offer a quieter, more family orientated living.
Sydney enjoys a warm to temperate climate with four seasons; spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Summer peaks at around 32 degrees Celcius and drops to 10 degrees in winter, which, thankfully, is a short season. For this reason, sports and other outdoor activities like festivals are a large part of the Sydney lifestyle all year round. Sydney has a strong arts scene with world-class events and fringe arts to see any time of the year.
