Opera House at sunset - Now Sydney's most recognisable construction, it was only finished in 1973. It took 14 years to build it, cost 14 times more money than originally estimated ($102 million dollar instead of a mere $7 million); the architect left the project during the construction phase, enraged over the feuds and intrigues that accompanied the building process - a real Soap Opera (Lonely Planet). Still, I think it was all worth it: it is a beautiful building that defines the harbour's relaxed atmosphere. All photos were taken at sunset, around 5 pm, from the Harbour Bridge.

Manly is one of the northern suburbs of Sydney and is best reached by ferry. It is best known for its awesome beach that arguably even beats the surfing hot spot Bondi Beach on the Southern Shore. Great deep-blue and turqoise waves rolling towards the beach, breaking on the rocks... a long, broad beach, sand so fine as never found in Europe... we had a damn good time there! Fish & chips on the beach, then a relaxing stroll along the water, watching the surfers... the 34 best photos of this trip.

Sydney Impressions ... is a collection of photos from several locations in Sydney: Bondi Beach, Darling Harbour and the Chinese Garden. There's also a photo of the Pacific Sky leaving Sydney Harbour and passing Macquarie's Point.

Maroubra Beach This was the first time I went to the beach to swim - although spring had already been around for a month and a half, it had so far been a disappointment - five weeks of rain. Maroubra Beach is one of the southernmost beaches of Sydney - closer to Botany Bay than to the city center. We enjoyed the first warm day that actually allowed a bit of sunbathing - although the water was a freezing 19°C.

Coogee Beach Eternal competitor to Bondi, this is another of Sydney's classic beaches. Personally, I prefer it to Bondi - quieter, less crowded, a bit more style.

Watson Bay is a quiet little city beach close to the harbour Heads, quite some distance from the inner city. It's a nice place to while away an afternoon, plus it's got such a cute light tower.

Bronte Beach One of the southern beaches, though a lot smaller than Bondi or Coogee, it's got its own charms. It was the site of our farewell party for the international students.

View from AMP Tower A few shots taken at dusk, from the AMP Tower.