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| Area (sq km): | 7,686,850 | |
| Population: | 20,434,176 | |
| Nationality: | Australian | |
| Local Name: | Australia | |
| Language: | English | |
| Time Zone: | +8 - +10 GMT | |
| Currency: | 1 dollar = 100 cents |
|
| Rate: | www.xe.com | |
| Capital: | Canberra | |
| Dialling Code: | +61 | |
| Electricity: | 230V/50Hz | |
| Internet Code: | .au | |
| Religion: | Catholic, Anglican, Other Christian |
|
| Climate: | Arid, Temperate, Tropical |
|
| Government: | Federal Parliamentary Democracy | |
| Inoculations: | None | |
| Driving: | Left | |
| Int'l License: | Not required | |
| Banking: | M-F 9.30-17.00 | |
| Major Airports: | Adelaide(ADL), Brisbane(BNE), Canberra(CBR), Darwin(DRW), Melbourne(MEL), Perth(PER), Sydney(SYD) |
UNESCO Site: Sydney Opera House
Described by some as one of the modern wonders of the world, Sydney Opera House is one of the most photographed structures in the world. You will marvel at not only the Sydney Opera House's modern expressionist architecture, but also at the amazing range of spectacles of the performing arts on offer all year round. Rent Sydney accommodation on your Australia holiday and reserve your seat at any of the wondrous shows including opera, concerts, ballet, theatre and more.
What a treat it is to enjoy a cultural performance in this unique temple of the arts, framed by the blue waters of Sydney Harbour and the backdrop of Sydney Harbour Bridge!
Origins of Sydney Opera House
The origins of the Sydney Opera House date back to 1953, when the need of a larger venue for major theatrical productions arose. In 1957, after a competition where 233 entries were received, the project of the Danish architect Jorn Ultzon was chosen.
The construction of Sydney Opera House started in March 1959 and was completed in 1973. One of the most outstanding features of Ultzon’s design is the precast concrete sail-like shells that gleam in the sunshine and are beautifully lit at night. In 2007, Sydney Opera House was rightfully inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Opera House Tours
There are five main performance areas held within the curved walls of the Sydney Opera House. They are: the Concert Hall, the Opera House, the Drama Theatre, the Playhouse and the Studio. There are guided tours every day from 8:30-17:00. Tickets including the tour, plus dinner and a performing art function can be purchased at a great value for money.
Sydney Opera House Restaurant
Dining at Sydney Opera House is a mouth-watering experience. The several times award winning chef, Guillaume Brahimi, offers classy and delicious fare at the elegant Bennelong Restaurant. Here the excellent food and wines are served before and after the performance. Another great option is to savour a sophisticated High Tea in the afternoon accompanied by the melodious tones of an opera singer. Priceless!
The Sydney Opera House is without doubt one of the sights to see on your Australia holiday. And whether you rent an apartment, villa or beach house, Sydney accommodation available from VillasPeople.com is the ideal place from which to explore all the sights that Sydney has to offer.