Tourist traps Watch out for the “schmiddy”, an insult to beer dreamt up by some of Sydney's more chic bars. The standard draft beer measure in NSW is a schooner (about three-quarters of a pint), and the (even) smaller measure is a middy. A schmiddy is half way between the two, but charged at premium schooner prices. Also, be wary of souvenirs masquerading as aboriginal art. You have to pay more for the real thing, but it's worth shelling out the extra.And as with all cities, most taxi drivers are good, but some will take the long way round.

Tipping etiquette The 10% norm applies in restaurants where service hasn't been added. But taxi drivers don't expect tips and neither do hairdressers or bar staff. Hotel porters can be tipped, but it's mostly confined to five- star establishments.

Internet cafés There are plenty around Sydney, mostly in areas where you find backpackers. The main hubs in the city can be found near Central Station and in Kings Cross. Otherwise, Bondi, Coogee and any other beach suburb have plenty of Internet cafés.

CULTURAL DOS AND DON'TS
If Australia is the “lucky country” then Sydney must be the lucky city. And most Sydneysiders feel that way—they love the city and think it's pretty much the best in the world. Along with all Australians, people in Sydney are also fiercely patriotic. Although Sydney feels a bit like a cross between the US and Britain in terms of culture, locals are proud of their country and its distinct identity. That said, most people are pretty relaxed and there aren't too many cultural don'ts. Sydney is a melting pot of races, with the majority of immigrants settling here. Alongside the UK and New Zealand, China and South-East Asia are the main sources of immigration but the sheer range of people living here will surprise you: Middle Eastern, East European, Central Asian and a host of Western European nationalities. Sydney is also one of the world's gay capitals, so expect open displays of same-sex affection particularly along the Oxford Street entertainment and dining strip. Also during the Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras festival, which runs every February into early March.

Gifts to buy There is a shop selling Australiana on the corner of virtually every street. A lot is cheap and nasty but some is worth it: leather Jackaroo hats (without the corks!)— Akubra is the best-known brand; maybe a kangaroo leather wallet (remember “roos” are bred for meat in Australia—it's no different to buying a cow leather wallet); or a didgeridoo. Also look out for RM Williams boots— archetypal outback footwear.