Canberra is often described by Australians who haven’t been there as a boring town, full of politicians, bureaucrats - and not much else. But those who go there find beautiful galleries and museums clustered around a lake and cupped in bushland.

One of only two capital cities in the world that have been built to a premeditated design, Canberra is rather eerily symmetrical. Placed about its nice, planned combinations of straight and curving streets are the old and new Parliament Houses, the National Gallery, and the National Museum.

The ACT is 80km (50mi) from north to south and is about 30km (19mi) wide. It is landlocked within the mountainous terrain of southeastern New South Wales, 305km (190mi) from Sydney by road. Canberra and its surrounding suburbs are in the northeast of the territory, while the Namadgi National Park occupies the whole southwestern area. The population grew from 50,000 in 1960 to 100,000 in 1967 and has soared to more than 300,000 today.

Canberra is arranged around the artificial Lake Burley Griffin. In the peculiarly named central business district, Civic, on the northern side of the lake, are the shops, businesses, university and suburbs such as Reid, Braddon, Turner and Acton. Parliamentary and other administrative buildings are located to the south of the lake, surrounded by suburbs such as Parkes, Barton, Forrest, Deakin and Yarralumla (home to the prime minister, when he deigns to tear himself away from Sydney, and the governor-general). Canberra is also surrounded by the satellite towns of Woden, Belconnen and Tuggeranong.

Canberra’s airport is about 7km (4mi) southeast of the city. Interstate buses arrive at the Jolimont Centre, which is in the centre of Civic. The railway station is in Kingston, on the south side of the lake. Most shops and restaurants are in Civic and Manuka, also just south of the lake, with a few cafes sprinkled through the inner suburbs. Each satellite town has its own charming mall. Civic is also the centre of Canberra’s nightlife, which is somewhat more lively than its reputation suggests.

Getting Around
Public transport in Canberra means the ACTION bus service (popular tourist buses covering most sights include Nos 33, 34, 40 and 80), which runs regular routes throughout Canberra and is a relatively cheap way to get around. ACTION’s Flexibus evening service will, incredibly, veer off the set route to go as close to its passenger’s destination as possible. They will also come and collect you if you call (13 17 10). The airport is 7km (4mi) southeast of the city centre. A shuttle minibus runs to the Jolimont Centre in town and to various hotels.

Another good way to see Canberra is by bicycle; Canberra has an excellent network of bike paths.

Good Day Mate! Sydney has seemingly surpassed Melbourne as the showcase city of Australia (although there may be plenty of arguments against such a statement from pro-Melbourne folks). Sydney used to be my second home back in those days when i was a university student. I got sick and tired of the city and eventually decided to leave soon after finishing my studies.

Highlights:
Sydney Opera House: Although it has become something of a cliche, the opera house is a magnificant Australian icon. It is a must-see for any first-time visitor to Sydney. In fact, it should be seen from all directions - from the Botantic gardens, up-close, and from a slow ferry to Manly to appreciate its beauty.

Weekend Markets: If you are tired of seeing the same overpriced, overhyped commercial goods in the shops, weekend shopping in the markets will be enjoyable. Even if you don’t buy anything, it is fun watching the craftperson at work, chatting with them, or rummaging through trunks of vintage treasures.

Ferry ride: Ferry rides are fun and offer some of the best sights in Sydney. Take a ferry ride to Manly or any coastal area and sit on deck with a camera and just snap away at the beautiful sights (especially in the evenings).

Coastal walks (Bondi to Bronte): Get out of urban Sydney and to the beaches. Even if you don’t swim or sunbathe, a walk along the rugged coast will offer you breathtaking sights and good exercise.

Taronga Zoo: A very good zoo, not necessarily great. But it’s location makes it one of the best ways to spend a morning or an afternoon in Sydney. Home to the famous Crocodile Hunter himself, Mr. Steve Irwin.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
If you have not taken a map of Sydney and circled about fifty things you want to see yet, stop by one of the Tourist Information centers and get some free maps and brochures. Circle away, as there is plenty to do in Sydney.

Sydney is visually impressive, so take your time and enjoy that. If you’re souvenir shopping keep in mind that Sydney is often one of the most expensive places to buy anything in Australia. So if you can get the same thing somewhere else, do. Unless of course you know where to look.

Best Way to Get Around:
Public transport works very well in Sydney and is one of the best in the world.

Train: The train network out to the suburbs is extensive, and there are stations near all of the major sights.

Bus: The bus network is very good, and you may find yourself taking it if you’re going to any of the city beaches, but buses are just as susceptible to traffic congestion as cars are.

Ferries: Ferries aren’t and are a wonderful way to get around.

I found Melbourne a very enjoyable city and was once voted as the most livable city in the world. Of the major cities I visited in Australia, Melbourne easily has the most character and was the most interesting. It is also incredibly comfortable for a city of its size. The Victorians are darn proud of their city and its OZ Rules Football.

Highlights:
CAFES AND RESTAURANTS: of which Melbourne has many good ones. Most with pleasant patios or other outdoor dining areas.

AFL AT THE MCG: The Melbourne Cricket Ground is the mecca of Australian Rules Football, and to see a game here is an experience you shouldn’t pass up.

MARKETS: whether it be the large Victoria Market or a smaller one such as the Prahan Market, you will enjoy the colours, flavours, and overall atmosphere of the city’s public markets.

GARDENS: the city’s many public gardens provide some of the most enjoyable greenspace you could expect to find in a city.

OLD MELBOURNE GAOL: Kind of creepy, but quite interesting.

ARCHITECTURE: Take some time to look at the buildings and enjoy the city’s wonderfully preserved Victorian architecture.

Quick Tips/Suggestions:
Be prepared for sudden changes in weather as this region is notorious for that. People here like to spend a lot of time outside, meaning that shops, restaurants, etc are often open to the elements at least to some extent. So dress warmly when it’s cool.

Best Way to Get Around:
The Met, the city’s public transportation system, is made up of trains and trams (streetcars). It’s cheap and works wonderfully. It will get you where you need to go quickly and save the cost and hassle of car rental and parking. Let alone traffic.