I’ve heard it said that Sydney has the most beautiful harbor in the world, and it really is spectacular!

I took the bus down to Circular Quay, and saw the Opera House for the first time. I walked around it and admired the great architecture, and had a few beers at an outdoor cafe. After that I walked all the way round to the south end of the bridge, admiring the massive pillars supporting the bridge, and strolling through the nice old neighborhood of The Rocks.

Walking around is always a good way to get to know a city, so I walked down through the city back to the hotel. This has been a long hot day, so I think I’ll just take a shower and read about some sights to see in the Lonely Planet guide the rest of the evening.

After arriving in Sydney this morning at about 10:00, I’ve finally managed to find a nice hotel for the next few days. A double room for $45 per night is pretty good… I’m staying at The Windsor Private hotel near Central Station, so it’s just a short bus-ride to the harbour.

The weather is great – 30 degrees and sunny – although the sky is a bit hazy because of the bushfires around the city. Afterwards I’m going to to see the Opera House and the harbour for the first time! My friend Pål is coming down here tomorrow morning, and we’re gonna try to see as much as we can of this beautiful city.