Whether you are looking for a shopping trip, an adventurous holiday or a romantic breakaway, New South Wales has it all.

From the cosmopolitan hub of Sydney’s CBD to the vast ranges of the Blue Mountains and the beautifully manicured vineyards of the Hunter Valley, there is something for everyone. Sonia Morrison recently visited and is hooked. For a little first hand inspiration read on to discover why….

Bursting with character, Sydney is great whether you seek exhilaration, exploration or total relaxation. Spending time wandering around Sydney’s CBD and Paddington is a must; it never fails to satisfy any shop-oholic tendencies.

Recreation is a Sydney speciality. Soak up the coast on the ‘Bondi to Bronte’ coastal walk, or take on the ‘Rose Bay to Watson’s Bay’ and ‘Spit to Manly’ walks which hug the harbour offering spectacular views. If you are up for an adrenaline rush, challenge yourself by climbing Sydney’s Harbour Bridge or enjoy a thrilling jet-boat jaunt on the harbour.

Culture-seekers can enjoy music, theatre, opera and dance at the famous Sydney Opera House.

A great way to enjoy the harbour is to take a ferry from Sydney to Manly. Once there you can enjoy a relaxed afternoon on the beach and an early evening meal of fresh fish and chips complimented by one of the fabulous Hunter Valley wines.

Speaking of which, just 90 minutes drive north of Sydney you will find the Hunter Valley, a mecca for food and wine enthusiasts. Explore the wineries by coach, horse-drawn carriage, hot air balloon or even bicycle. Also close to Sydney is the Blue Mountains region, its stunning natural landscapes need to be seen to be believed.

If you’ve never been to this region, you must, it’s so good that the rest of us go back again and again.