Sydney, Darling Harbor, And the Pope!

Darling Harbour is one of Sydney's most popular recreation spots. Close to 1.3 million people visit the sunny foreshore precinct each year. The area has a colourful history and played a very important role in Sydney's early market days when it was used for receiving fresh produce and timber from Parramatta and the north coast. The past few days I've been branching out and exploring this part of the city. It's a little different from the financial district of Sydney and the "Rocks" area which is where I've spent most of my time so far. I've discovered a few eateries and Pubs outside of the common tourist traps and have found the people to be warm and friendly. This area is also the home of the "Star Casino" and "Maritime Museum." Still another big attraction is the IMAX theater - Currently showing (of all things) "Grand Canyon 3-D."

National Maritime Museum

But this week there's an even bigger attraction to Sydney and Darling Harbor: World Youth Day 2008 - WYD08. Organized by the Catholic Church, WYD brings together young people from around the globe to celebrate and learn about their faith on a more regular basis. Over 125,000 international visitors will bombard Sydney- more than the 2000 Olympics. This will be the largest event ever hosted by Australia and will include a visit by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. AKA- "The Pope."

As I walk around the city and the Harbor, I can't help but notice the many flags displayed to welcome the attendees and highlight the event. Additionally, I can't help but hear the many different languages spoken by hundreds of small groups of kids. It's truly exciting.

This clearly is a great opportunity for those young kids who are able to attend. I'm sure they will form lifetime memories and make loyal friends.

I'm not Catholic but if I happen to see the Pope I'll be sure to ask him to pray for all of us. Cause we need it!