Sydney, Australia began its life as a penal colony and the famous district came to be known as "The Rocks". Located in the southeastern state of New South Wales, it is the foundation place of Sydney and colonial Australia's most significant historical site. Today, the penal colonies have been replaced: by restaurants, museums, parks, and business and economic epicenters. Along with its fame as the home of the 2000 Summer Olympics, Sydney is a popular travel and tourist destination, and one of the most cosmopolitan yet laid-back cities in the world.

Spend your vacation taking in shows, or just looking at, the amazing Opera House. Walk, drive across or even climb the Harbour Bridge. Hit Australia's famous, pristine Bondi, Coodgee or Manly beaches – but don't forget the "barbie"! Take relaxing walks in parks, café-hop, or make new friends; this last is easy with Australia's famous "G'day mate!" hospitality. At night also hit Kings Cross, Sydney's all-night entertainment strip, which is famous around the world and is in the same league as London's Soho and Tokyo's Ginza. Or just hit the pub with "y'mates".

By the end of your Sydney vacation, you'll be relaxed as a baby kangaroo in its mother's pouch, and greeting people with "g'day!" instead of "hello". Now that's a vacation well-spent.

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