The city area of Sydney is so built up that it looks quite American. The culture here is a wonderful one. It is a nice mix of British, American, and to a lesser extent, Asian influences. The people who live in this city seem happier than do the residents of Chicago or other American cities I've visited. The people are for the most part handsome, tanned and toned, probably coming from living in such a comfortable climate. The Aussies are so friendly, always making sure to stop to have a short conversation with you, just to make sure you are enjoying yourself. They are very proud of their country, and with good reason. They live at a slower pace, happy and secure in their society. If you can't tell already, I admire them tremendously. A couple of other quick notes about Sydney. Kings Cross, the area in which my hotel is located, is considered the red-light district, an area the guidebooks all mention is noted for it's seedy and dangerous feel. Obviously, the people who write these things haven't been to American cities or to the dingier red-light areas of Europe. In kings Cross there are a number of strip clubs, and you do see some addicts and prostitutes, but dangerous feeling, hardly.
There is an area known as Darling Harbour, which is home to many of the city's interesting sites, including the fantastic Sydney Aquarium, the informative Maritime museum, and the beautiful Harbourside shopping complex, which has to be one of the nicest malls in the world where goods are actually prices in a way most people can afford. The area also has an Amusement park for kids called Segaworld (I didn't go here, not my style), and the world largest IMAX screen, almost 8 stories high. Hyde Park is home to the handsome ANZAC memorial, and I spent an afternoon just lounging and reading the paper. I also visited Cadman's Cottage, where the oldest remaining colonial cottage has been turned into a national memorial. Also in Sydney's downtown was the AMP Tower, which had an observation deck that provided a sweeping panorama of Sydney and surrounding areas. I did spend time the visiting Sydney's two most famous beaches, Manly and Bondi. Don't worry, I did the Aussies a great favor not scaring them off the beach by revealing my white, flabby American flesh. I hadn't intended to swim anyway, since I am still traumatized by seeing Jaws at a young age. The best thing I've done so far is called Bridge Climb, where a guide takes you in special suits up to the top of the Sydney Harbour bridge. It takes three hours and in absolutely amazing. Anyone interested can check out their web site at www.bridgeclimb.com.au .