I was in Sydney a year and a half ago and even then, the Olympic-tension was in the air. Construction was already being done everywhere, prices were beginning to climb, things were getting congested, destruction of little hostels was underway to make room for larger places. So if you plan on heading over to Sudney for the Olympics, be warned, it's gonna get ugly over there.

On a recent trip to Sydney, I had the delight of spending the afternoon at the Museum of Contemporary Art in the Rocks at Circular Quay. At the museum partly for business and partly for pleasure, I realised the magnificence that is the location (across the harbour from the Opera House), the grandeur that is the building, and the brilliance that is the art. Needless to say, the combination led to a visually invigorating afternoon! With free admission (by donation), premium location and terrific exhibit collections, the museum is a must see to anyone in Sydney!

Bondi Beach is probably the most famous stretch of sand in Australia (and that is saying something for a country full of beaches). And inspite of the general hype that surrounds the beach, it is worth the time and effort to check out (except before, during and after the Olympics, when the beach volleyball competition creates havoc). It's one of those quality beaches, with good body surfing waves, soft white sands and plenty of people. Sure it is not an isolated paradise, but it is a beach experience not to be missed!

Funky, Interesting, Strange, Weird, Annoying...these are just some of the words that spring to mind when trying to describe some of the art at the MCA. But don't just listen to me. Go see it for yourself. Right now entry is free so head on in but don't forget to come back here afterwards & give us your opinions.

Hitchhiking- travel on the cheap. Sure, you'll meet interesting folks but thumbing a ride does pose risks. Use public transportation in Sydney; hitchhiking is dangerous when dealing with downtown gridlock. Outside the city, though, stand where drivers can see you and pull off the road safely. Don't hop in right away. Exchange small talk (where you're going) and go with your gut instincts. Doesn't feel right? Decline politely. On the other hand, if you choose to accept, be sure to express your thanks. If you're lucky, you'll gain more than a few free miles; you'll remember interesting conversations and perhaps gain a friend.

If you've had enough of the city, try taking a day-trip to the Blue Mountains, about 2 hours west of the CBD. Particularly refreshing in summer, the Blue Mountains are a great place to go bushwalking, have a picnic or just to get away from it all. The more heavily touristed areas include the 'Three Sisters' and Echo Point, and the Scenic Railway is not to be missed. A nice bushwalk will get you to Wentworth Falls - well worth the effort for the view.

On a sunny day head for Bronte beach with some picnic food, fire up one of the zillion barbies they provide right there on the grass, and join in the fun of an Aussie picnic at the beach! There are so many bbq's available that you'll only have to wait a few minutes if at all. There are people kicking the footy, kids riding bikes, joggers and general good fun being had by all. It's a very Aussie thing to do and a great location to do it in.

Most suburbs/neighbourhoods have a local RSL (Retired Servicemans League) where many people, young and old, opt to go for a night out. These are the cheapest places around, and often serve cheap meals too. There are invariably pool tables, sometimes pokie machines, and always some great old characters lurking around. This is a real Sydney thing, and you're not a true Sydney-sider if you haven't been to a number of RSL's! It's a great alternative to the pub to kick your night off to a cheap and fun/relaxing start!

Ever since the arrival of the First Fleet back in 1788, Australia has been a land of immigrants. Now, more than ever, you can find a diversity of culture in Sydney that would be the equal of any other major cosmopolitan city in the world (yes, that includes New York). If you're looking for a taste of South-East Asia, head out to Cabramatta, in Sydney's south-west, where for an afternoon you can lose yourself among the many stores and restaurants of Sydney's Vietnamese and Laotion community. Fancy something more Middle-Eastern? Then anwhere in the Granville, Punchbowl or Auburn areas should keep you happy, where the Lebanese and Turkish community welcomes you with doner kebabs, delicate cakes and pastries, and even a halal KFC! If Greek is more your thing, then the inner-city area around Marrickville is just the ticket. More souvlaki than you could possibly eat, gently supported by an abundance of Demis Roussos and Nana Miskouri.

Being a harbour city, Sydney has no shortage of expensive maritime tour operators plying their trade, hoping to catch weary travellers unawares with their promises of classic views, and all-you-can-eat on-board buffets. But don't be fooled. You can get far better value for your tourist dollar by politely declining their glossy brochures, and instead heading down to Circular Quay (located between the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House) and jumping on the first available ferry. The Manly Ferry, a local favourite, takes passengers on a 30 minute trip from Circular Quay past North Head and around to the beach-side suburb of Manly. The ferry docks on the opposite side to the beach, so be sure you actually walk down the main street and head down to the surf! Other great ferry rides include the Sydney-Parramatta River Cat, and any of the local services visiting such places as Watson's Bay, Balmain or Neutral Bay.