White beaches, blue harbours, gilded lifestyles and lots of flash.

Sydney is Australia's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. It's blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk.

Although it's come a long way from its convict beginnings, Sydney still has a rough and ready energy, and offers an invigorating blend of the old and the new, the raw and the refined. While high culture attracts some to the Opera House, gaudy nightlife attracts others to Kings Cross.

Travel Warning: Carry-on Baggage Requirements

As of March 31, 2007 all passengers flying to and from Australia on international flights will only be permitted to carry small quantities of liquids, gels or aerosols in their cabin or carry-on luggage. Small containers of 100 mls (3.5 fl oz) are permitted and must be sealed in a transparent plastic bag. Details of the new security measures can be found at the Department of Transport website.

Domestic travel is not affected by these regulations.

severity: Mid-level alert

Fast Facts

Population

4,400,000

Currency

Name: Australian Dollar
Code: AUD
Symbol: A$

Electrical Plugs

Australian-style plug with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade
220-240V 50Hz

Languages Spoken

Official: English

Time Zones

GMT/UTC +10 (Eastern Standard Time)

Country Dialing Code

+61

Weights & Measures

Metric

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Traveller Tips & Discussion

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