You can't say you've seen Sydney until you've seen Bondi

Bondi Beach is as symbolic of Australia as the kangaroo. When you see a photograph of a kangaroo, you automatically think of Australia. When you see a picture of Bondi, you know exactly where it is: no caption is needed. Bondi represents the true "Aussie Spirit": beach lloving, sports crazy, but serious and responsible at the same time.

It is not just since it was discovered by Sydney's early settlers that "Bondi" and "surf" have been synonymous. The name of the suburb comes from an aboriginal word meaning "the noise of waves crashing on rocks." That's exactly what the waves do, too, on the rocks on the headlands to the north and south of the famous beach.

Today, all the action at Bondi takes place on the beach between the two headlands. Directly in the middle of the beach is Bondi's iconic Surf Lifesaving Club. First established in 1907, the Bondi Surf Lifesaving Club is the oldest club of its kind in the world. The club's primary objective throughout its history has been to live up to its name and save lives. Many of the surf life saving techniques used by this club have been adopted throughout the world, especially since Sunday, February 6, 1937. On that day, club members made over 300 rescues in a single day. Although five lives were lost, the club received international acclaim for saving hundreds of lives.

The tram to Bondi used to be almost as famous as the beach itself. Since the last tram ran in 1961, it has been replaced by buses. The beach is so popular, even though a bus from nearby Bondi Junction runs every ten minutes, during the summer months, every bus is packed. Aside from the bus services, there is a large parking area in front of the beach. However, it is still a challenge finding transportation for the estimated 40,000 people who visit Bondi on a hot weekend in the middle of the summer. Somehow,it manages to do so in style. Even on the most crowded days, the atmosphere is festive and everyone gets catered to by the local businesses along Campbell Parade and on Curlewis Street, the two main roads.

Bondi is not only a popular destination on hot summer weekends. It is one of Sydney's most popular suburbs all year 'round. In the colder winter months, the beach still attracts surfers and members of the famous "Bondi Icebergs" swimming club, but more sensible visitors enjoy strolling around the headlands on the tranquil coastal walking track.

Bondi is equally popular at night, when the pubs, entertainment venues, restaurants and other nightspots come to life. Bondi's nightlife reflects its diverse community and tastes. Along the same stretch of road, you can find a bohemian bookshop/cafe featuring a poetry reading or folk singer, a pub showcasing the talents of a local band and a sophisticated restaurant/cabaret.

Because of its iconic status and non-stop activity, Bondi is one of Sydney's most popular destinations for tourists. Bondi accommodations range from very modestly priced backpackers hostels to five star hotels with sweeping ocean views. If you are visiting Sydney, you may as well stay in Bondi, since you will undoubtedly be visiting there anyway. Not visiting Bondi is not an option: you can't say you've seen Sydney until you've seen Bondi.

Take a few days off, find Bondi Accommodation, things to do and other travel related information about the area on bookitnow.com.au. Or visit our Australia blog for more Australian holiday ideas.