G L A N C E S

I always pictured Australia as a tamer version of Africa: an exotic continent with extensive deserts, peculiar wildlife, and a sparse population. The good thing is the absence of some things African: no famine and no megalomaniac warlords.  And at least everybody speaks English. Well, some form of it, anyway.  We knew we were not going on any safari, but the pull to go Down Under was still irresistible.

Sydney

Most cities were built around rivers or harbors, and Sydney is no exception.  The main business district is built on the land surrounding the central part of its expansive harbor.  Sydney's skyline is not exactly memorable, but turn the other way, and the view is breathtaking.  We won't argue with its Aussie billing as the most beautiful harbor in the world.   This area is flanked by the massive iron "Coathanger" Harbor Bridge and the sails of the Opera House.  On the land between them is the Circular Quay, transportation hub and romantic promenade.  Ferries, speedboats, trains and buses all take off from the quay.   It's quite a spot for dining al fresco and taking a stroll to view the sunset.  At the foot of the Harbor Bridge is the Rocks, early settlement area now turned into exclusive housing development.  Newly-renovated apartments are going for several million dollars each, and trendy restaurants and shops dot the area.

The unique Opera House, with its sail-shaped trusses, was designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon in 1960.  Mr. Utzon left the project early in its construction due to a dispute with the managing committee, and has yet to see his creation in person.  In 1999, he accepted an appointment to help design future development of the building. The structures are actually inspired by the sections of an orange, and the principle of the sphere is what allows each piece to stay up.  We were not able to catch any performance, but the daytime tour of its stunning structure and theaters is well worth it.

One of the best ways to see it all is from the top.  The famed Bridge Climb, a moderately-paced three hour journey, saw us across catwalks and up ladders, then up the arch of the bridge, 134 meters from the water's surface. The bird's eye view of the harbor while trundling on formidable iron makes for an unforgettable experience.  

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