REUTERS

Pedestrians walk next to the Queen Victoria cruise liner, docked at the Circular Quay, in central Sydney.

Stretches of sandy white beaches, champagne lunches on lavish yachts, exotic and rare flowers nestled in a botanical garden that neighbours skyscrapers and the iconic opera house, a buzzing night life, wild and wonderful animals and striking architecture. These are just some of the attractions tourists can look forward to in Sydney.

With Thai Airways operating daily flights from Bangkok to Sydney, international visitors can flock to experience the cosmopolitan hospitality, view classic and contemporary art and enjoy life.

“With THAI’s special rates and fares, you and your family can experience “the harbour city” for yourself,” explains Thamanoon Kuprasert, general manager of Central, Eastern and Southern Africa for Thai Airways International (THAI).

The harbour has been transformed into an entertainment and shopping Mecca, where visitors can enjoy delectable seafood lunches with a breathtaking view of the sea and the best Australian wines. This port is also perfect for kids, with wandering clowns, magicians and street performers, singing the famous tune “Waltzing Matilda”.

The best way to view the city is to go for a walking tour. Be sure not to miss a climb up the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Known as the “coathanger”, it is one of the most famous bridges in the world as it captures incredible panoramic views of Sydney from 134 metres above the harbour.

Even though climbing the bridge is a feat of endurance, taking the average person about 2.5 hours to climb, you will know that once you have reached the top it will be worth the experience, as the view is truly breathtaking. If you are lucky enough to be in Sydney over New Year’s Eve, you will be amazed at the displays of fireworks that are put on show for tourists all around the world to see. Be one of the first in the world to celebrate the arrival of a new year.

When the sun goes down, the night sky unveils the beauty of the harbour under the glimmering velvet sky. You can start your evening off with cocktails and live music at the Opera Bar, where you can be assured to have the best seat in the house to view the harbour by night. If you are in the mood for dancing, then head down to “Home” located at Cockle Bay. This three-storey glass-encased club faces the sparkling lights of Darling Bay, which some say makes you feel like you are dancing on the water.

You can also enjoy the soothing sounds of jazz and blues music at The Basement, where local and international bands light up the stage. You can either have a few drinks or book a table and stay for dinner.

Sydney is also known as a surfer’s paradise as its coastline has a multitude of magnificent beaches. Manly and Bondi are two of its famous beaches, Manly is a great beach for soaking up the sun, wandering its plaza or hiring a bicycle to ride around the promenade, where you can stop at delicious sea front restaurants to sooth those taste buds.

Bondi is a great beach for swimming and catching a few waves. It’s known for its international surfing competitions and for the stamina and strength of its professional lifeguards who have been flaunted as the best in the world. There are also number of restaurants where you can experience a taste of different cultures in Sydney, including, Lebanese, Greek and Italian.

Enjoy “Thailand’s Plus Promotion” which allows you to travel to Indo-China, Australia and New Zealand for a fraction of the cost. For more information, visit www.thaiair.co.za or phone (011) 268 2580.

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