Traditions and customs in Sydney

1. Surf lifesaving and swimming between the flags

Volunteer patrols set red and yellow flags marking the only supervised water. Rips kill swimmers here every year.

• Tip: Swim between the flags. This is the single most important local rule on any Australian beach.

2. Barbecue culture

Free public electric barbecues in parks and on beachfronts, used constantly through summer.

3. Coffee culture

Flat whites and a strong independent café scene; ordering a 'regular coffee' means nothing here.

4. Australia Day and Invasion Day

26 January is a national holiday and simultaneously a day of mourning and protest for many Aboriginal people.

• Best time: 26 January

5. Aboriginal cultural tours

Guided walks on Gadigal country covering rock engravings, bush food and pre-colonial history.