We spent about 3 weeks in Canberra in 2001 or 2002 and about a week in Sydney.  We travelled by train between Sydney and Canberra and then rented a car in Canberra and drove around a bit (to beautiful Kangaroo Valley, etc).  I think the thing we appreciated more than any other (except for the friendliness of everyone we met) was the absence of crowding.  More than three cars together in Canberra would be considered a minor traffic jam, and the roads between towns were truely open and scenic.  More than one person outside of Sydney told us that Sydney was too crowded for their liking.  While the city and harbour are spectacular, and certainly not crowded by US or European standards, we had to agree that we preferred the small town/city atmosphere of Canberra also.

I can swear there ain't no heaven but I pray there ain't no hell. _ Blood Sweat & Tears