The Hindu Business Line : Dock at Sydney...

As the Qantas Mumbai-Sydney non-stop flight announced its descent into Sydney, the clouds parted to provide a view of Sydney Harbour, reputedly the most stunning in the world. Rising majestically out of the waters were the two architectural wonders synonymous with Sydney ; the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House.

Nothing prepares a first-time visitor to the terrific buzz that seems to envelope the city and its people. Some might argue that New York and London are where it all happens but the drive through Sydney's beautifully appointed streets on a sunny morning completely charmed one. The city presents a unique blend of dining, shopping and recreation options that is the lifeblood of any new-age city today. Australians swear that they would much rather have a seafront home here than anywhere else in the world. Sydney residents will go to great lengths to convince you that it is the most beautiful city in the country and their harbour, the world's best.

The waterway captures the vibrancy of this New South Wales destination like nothing else does. Ferries crisscross the harbour, with most originating at Circular Quay where the colony was born in 1788. Besides commuting, Sydney residents use the ferries for leisure and the harbour is always a happy sight with canoes, kayaks, sailing dinghies and yachts bobbing on the water, irrespective of the weather.

Day one in Sydney was brilliant with a bright blue sky accompanying the trip to the Opera House. Danish architect Joern Utzon's muse, which marked a turning point in western architecture, is in the middle of its first-ever makeover in more than 30 years. The former reception hall now has a stunning new interior, with Utzon's signature use of natural timbers and a 14-metre brightly coloured tapestry dominating one of the walls. The room offers a magnificent easterly view of the harbour and is currently used for performances by child prodigies. Walking through the rocky historic site of Sydney's first European settlement, alongside the harbour, one gets a sneak preview into life in the city itself. Beautifully restored colonial buildings rest cheek-by-jowl to lend a uniquely Australian village atmosphere, complete with cobblestone lanes that lead visitors to art and craft shops, cafes, fine dining restaurants and boutiques stocking world-class designer labels. Amidst the many cafes and historic pubs with garden courtyards that are perfect for a light meal, Rockpool, situated bang in the middle of the rocks, is the place to be in for fine food and wine.

Endless variety

The city is ideal for those who want to pack some action into their holiday; despite harbouring a fear of heights, a specially designed `bridgesuit' gave one the courage to climb to the summit of the Harbour Bridge. BridgeClimb offers all visitors a certificate of achievement — that I'll surely frame — and a complimentary group picture.

The Sydney Tower, at 305 meters, offers a different kind of high — breathtaking views of the city with the deep-blue oceans on one side and magnificent mountain ranges on the other. Just about everyone will love OzTrek, the southern hemisphere's largest simulated ride, taking visitors on a virtual adventure across the country's cultural, historical and geographical terrains in 3D. A water-taxi crisscrossing the Taronga Zoo affords close encounters with Australia's wildlife, as well as exotic animals from around the world.

For the kids...

Children will love the National Opal collection, which displays the largest collection of the country's national stone, and learn how the stones were formed millions of years ago and how they are mined today. One can even buy some of these stones with their fiery, lustrous colours. The countless museums, art galleries and aquariums spoil you for choice.. A helicopter tour of the city, aboard a luxury jet helicopter, is a thrilling way to take in the harbour sights. You can even fly to an elaborate luncheon tour of the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley.

... and the adults

Bondi beach is where the `sun worshippers' shed their clothes and inhibitions for a day of fun and frolic. Bondi lovers head to the waters with equal enthusiasm, for some surfing or water skiing. The Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, situated atop a hill, offers not only an awe-inspiring view of the sea and the beach but also a Mediterranean seafood menu to die for.

Cultural melange

Sydney is also in many ways a cultural melting pot where many an immigrant has found his/her calling. One evening we cruised along the harbour on showboats in the company of the young Indian CEO of Blue Line Cruises, which operates the boats. Also present was his Japanese wife. As the sun set in a blaze across the harbour, and lights came up on the city's spectacular skyline, Sudhir Warrier recounted his arrival in the city as a catering student and the slow but successful climb to the top slot at his company.

Sydney is also where Tetsuya Wakuda, a self-effacing culinary genius, runs Tetsuyas, which is listed among the top 50 restaurants in the world for the past few years. The 22-year-old Japanese arrived in the city penniless and, after landing the job of a dishwasher in a restaurant, worked his way up. Wakuda's restaurant is booked for months in advance. His admirers will tell you how the restaurant once turned away Nicole Kidman (she is Australian) and Tom Cruise when they landed up without reservation!

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