It’s difficult to believe that this thriving state capital of New South Wales was once a penal colony. Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the First Fleet, established the first British colony in Australia at Sydney Cove in 1788. Today, you may learn about the Gadigal Aboriginal people, the traditional caretakers of this area, on guided tours and in the city’s great museums, and discover Sydney’s storied history in the narrow, cobbled laneways and antique buildings of the Rocks.

Sydney is still alive with the pioneering spirit of its forefathers. Climb the Sydney Harbor Bridge, surf the green-barrel breakers on the city’s golden beaches, or take a panoramic flight over the city. And the thrills don’t stop in the metropolis. The city is surrounded by wildlife-rich wilderness areas, which provide for interesting day trips.