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Sydney Tower
By Steve Willard

See Sydney Australia from 250 metres in the air.

Sydney's Centrepoint Tower (now curiously re-named "OzTrek"), offers a 250 metre high viewing platform from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and its picturesque harbour and suburbs. Hotelz Australia recently took a peek at the views on offer.

The Tower is located on top of the Westfield Shopping Centre located in the Pitt Street mall in central Sydney. After ascending a number of elevators I found a long queue of visitors waiting for a single cashier who was notably discourteous to her customers.

Not a good start to the visit. Entry is around $22 for adults with discounts for students and children. "No student card no discount" the cashier crowed to the person in the queue ahead of me who attempted to claim the promised student discount.

Once you have paid, you have the choice of a free movie about Sydney or can proceed direct to the tower itself. These days there are comprehensive security checks before you get to the elevator for the ear popping 250 metre ride to the top.

Stepping out of the lift you are immediately greeted by fabulous views across the harbour side suburbs - a green landscape dotted with red roofed houses surrounded by beautiful blue waters. Sydney Tower allows 360-degree views and you can wander about for as long as you wish enjoying the panoramic views. Snacks and an extensive range of souvenirs and postcards are also available.

Particularly good are the views across Darling Harbour and Pyrmont, and to Sydney's Olympic Park and beyond. If you have sharp eyes you will also spot the famous "Coca Cola" billboard at the entrance to Kings Cross, Sydney's sin centre. You will also enjoy excellent views down over Hyde Park and the city streets.

Unfortunately Sydney Tower's views towards the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House are obscured by the tall buildings on the harbour of the CBD and those hoping to catch a glimpse of these Sydney icons will be disappointed - both are largely blocked by concrete towers though you will spot them from some positions.

Sydney tower is a popular attraction and can get crowded. However it is a beautiful spot to sit down and relax a while and enjoy the views and well worth a visit whilst you are in town.

Other distractions are available at Sydney Tower - more adventurous visitors can venture outside the tower (harnessed) to a glass bottomed viewing area. There are also restaurants offering a meal with a view and prices to match.

If you need a hotel room or resort for your stay, check out our great rates on Sydney Hotels.

More articles on Australia : For a complete list of Australian Travel Guides on this site click here.
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