Hey people...there is more to Australia than just Sydney!
Sydney is the 'unofficial' capital of Australia - everyone seems to think that Sydney is the most happening place in Australia (at least the people who live there would like to think so).
I am of course biased, being from Melbourne, but Melbourne was voted the most liveable city in the world for a reason - it has a lot more to offer than Sydney does.
Don't get me wrong, Sydney is a great city - but it is way to busy for my tastes. I like a more relaxed life-style.
I would suggest if you were coming here for the first time, you should experience more of Australia than just the big cities. Our country is huge and has many beautiful landmarks (such as Uluru (Ayers Rock)), Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and the Great Ocean Road. All of these places are beautiful and would be much more fulfilling than the big cities.
If you have to go to a 'city' though, I would suggest that you go to southern Queensland - from the
Gold Coast north to the Sunshine Coast. This area is far more indicative of what the Australian lifestyle is like than the cosmopolitan impulse of the big cities.
All in all though, once you come here you won't be disappointed. Just be sure to venture outside of the city. If you are set on going to Sydney - travel. Get to Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie and Newcastle - see the country: it's beautiful.
Cheers,
:wiggle:
