Adelaide

Sunny Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, is the driest Australian capital, with a Mediterranean climate, and is located on the coast between the Gulf of St Vincent and the Mount Lofty ranges. It has virtually no frost, the rainfall (mainly winter) is a bit unreliable and only a little snow falls on the Mount Lofty ranges.

The city's orderly configuration was conceived of by Colonel Light in the colonial era and it was named after Queen Adelaide. Its origins were shaped by religious freedom, civil liberties and progressive politics. Today it is a multicultural city known for its festivals, arts, sports and wine. Adelaide is the seat of South Australia's government and hosts many public and financial institutions.

This Australian city is nicknamed the City of Churches and over half its population declares itself Christian, while about one quarter declare no religious affiliation at all. Most of South Australia's population lives in and around Adelaide, though its population is growing more slowly than the national average. Almost a fifth of the city's population is degree-trained and just over half have vocational or trades qualifications.

Adelaide's population is, on average, a bit older than in other capitals, with fewer younger people, but at the same time it is a more casual and relaxed city, less inclined to worry or stress about high-end fashions and trends. The majority of people live in houses with fewer living in semis, terraces, townhouses or flats. Almost a quarter of Adelaide's population was born overseas and the most common languages apart from English are Italian, Greek, Vietnamese, Mandarin and Cantonese.

Public transport is well-provided for and traffic flows more easily and smoothly than in other capitals. Eating out is inexpensive and offers much variety for lovers of good food and fine wine. There are beautiful beaches, national parks and pleasant hill districts while the world famous Barossa Valley is no more than 60 kilometres from the city. The City of Churches is virtually a garden city and is a relaxed and pleasant city in which to live or to visit for a refreshing break.