Sydney Australia

From its early origins as a British penal colony to its current status as one of the brightest vacation hotspots on the planet, Sydney, Australia has definitely seen some changes. It's rather ironic to think that in 1788, British lawmakers condemned prisoners to live out their days on this island in the South Pacific, where today, visitors by the millions travel to its shores for the ultimate vacation.

While Australia has numerous attractions, Sydney is perhaps the most elegant and sophisticated of them all. A brilliant mix of eclectic modernism and the romantic ruggedness of its natural surroundings, Sydney is a city of contrasts and one that handles it beautifully.

The Allure of Sydney, Australia

Sydney is perhaps most popularly recognized as a beach resort. With perfect beaches like Bondi, Coogee, Cronulla, Manly and Wattamulla, it's not hard to see why swimming and surfing are top draws. But Australia's beaches aren't the only attractions Sydney has to offer.

Sydney is a breathtaking city with countless must-see places of interest. Within the city's central section, you can find many museums. From the grandeur of tthe Museum of Contemporary Art to the impressive collections of indigenous artifacts and ongoing research of the Australian Museum, there's a history lesson mixed in with each of the incredible exhibits.

Darling Harbour is aptly named as it is a gorgeous place to spend the day. The famous Sydney Aquarium is located there as well as the Australian National Maritime Museum. The world famous Sydney Opera House is found right on the serene splendor of Sydney Harbour. It's one of the most easily recognized buildings in the world, so bring your camera for a prime photographic opportunity.

Sydney, Australia is also home to some of the world's finest wildlife parks. Get up close and personal with the fearsome crocs at the Australian Reptile Park or if you prefer cute and cuddly, then visit the Koala Park Sanctuary.

Sydney's Winning Gamble

In 1997, Sydney's only casino, Star City, first opened its doors. It was a gamble that paid off huge for the city. Today, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to Sydney each year just for a chance to enjoy the games at this beautiful hotel casino. For most, the opportunity to enjoy a casino vacation as well an Australia travel adventure is simply too hard to resist.

If you're looking for a vacation where you can literally have it all, from catching some rays on a pristine beach to enjoying some of the world's greatest natural attractions to playing a few hands of poker at a world-class Australia casino hotel, then Sydney, Australia should be your high on your list of vacation choices.