The hotel is conveniently located near Hyde Park, which is perfect if you’re like me and don’t fancy the stress of driving into the city. We caught the train to Museum and enjoyed an easy five-minute walk to the hotel door.

The room was gorgeous, with a big king size bed and stunning views of the park. We were just as impressed with the bathroom, which we took full advantage of before heading out for the night. With the steamy Sydney weather it was perfect! It was also large enough for us both to use at once, perfect considering we were running late as usual!

After a big night partying the massive king-sized bed was welcome. The combination of the smooth cotton quilt and soft eider-down pillows was sublime. I also loved all the extra space, a real treat when you’re used to sleeping in a queen bed! Needless to say, I wished I could take the bed home.

After such a late night the 11 am check-out was a real luxury. It gave us enough time to rise naturally, and enjoy the buffet breakfast before packing up our belongings and heading home. And enjoy the breakfast we did. Done right, breakfast is my favourite meal of the day. Of course if you don’t make it to the buffet at the right time you could strike some food that’s going cold. But the Marriott staff do their best to ensure that doesn’t happen. One hot food option that’s always fresh are the omelettes, made to order just the way you like them. I loved mine filled with ham and plenty of gooey oozy cheese.

Needless to say, we waddled out of the Marriott thoroughly satisfied and refreshed!

Location: Sydney Marriott
Address: 36 College Street, Sydney
Public transport: Take a train to Museum station. The hotel is a short walk across Hyde Park
Parking: Paid parking is available on site. It’s $25 to self park and $35 for the valet service per day
Cost: Rooms from $199 a night
Website: http://www.marriott.com.au/hotels/travel/sydcc-sydney-marriott-hotel/

Image source: Mirvac website

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

The Sebel Pier One is the latest Sydney hotel to open its doors to dogs!

Rooms at the luxury hotel start at $225, and you can add an extra $60 for the privilege of staying with your pooch. Eleven rooms have been set aside for dogs: three heritage, six queen-sized waterside, and two king-sized waterside.

The hotel has a dog minding service for those times you want to see the city or have dinner without Rover’s company.

It’s a pricy proposition, but one that’s still sure to appeal to pet lovers who don’t want to leave their best friend behind!

Address: 11 Hickson Road, The Rocks
Public transport: The hotel is a short walk from Circular Quay train station and ferry wharf
Parking: Valet parking is available for a fee
Cost: Rooms from $225, plus an extra $60 for a dog
Website: http://www.sebelpierone.com.au/

Image source: Miguel Ugalde @ Stock.xchng

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

The offer includes a double pass to the Aquatic Centre, two tickets to ANZ Stadium’s behind-the-scenes tour, a night in a superior room, buffet breakfast for two in the Bascar Restaurant the next morning, and a luxurious 1 pm checkout.

The package is available until the end of the year. Call (02) 8762 1700.

Location: Pullman at Sydney Olympic Park
Address: Olympic Boulevarde, Sydney Olympic Park
Public transport: The hotel is a short walk from Sydney Olympic Park train station
Parking: Valet parking is available on site
Cost: $285 Gold Medal package
Website: http://www.accortrade.info/6411

Image source: Foraggio Fotographic @ Flickr

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

We’re all starting to think green while we’re at home. But shouldn’t we do the same while we’re on holidays? One of Sydney’s newest hotels, the Diamant, makes it easy!

The Diamant, located in the bustling Kings Cross district, provides all the mod cons you’d expect but they’ve done it with the environment in mind. So while they’re thinking about the planet, all that’s left for you to do is have fun!

The Diamant is run on a renewable energy source, so you needn’t feel guilty about watching that big plasma TV. All shower heads are fitted with water-saving devices which the staff insist don’t affect the water pressure. I’ve never met a water-saver I liked, but I’ll take their word for it! The walls are painted with eco-friendly water-based paints, and most furniture is made from natural products.

Guests are also encouraged to do their bit by choosing to have their towels or linen changed less frequently, and turning off lights and taps when they’re not in use. All such simple things but they make a big difference!

All rooms at the Diamant enjoy spectacular views of the city surrounds and superior facilities. The location is ideal for young travellers, with the Cross’ many nightclubs and eateries just a short walk away. If you feel like staying in you can grab a bite at Penny’s Lane, the hotel’s own restaurant. Chef Robert Crighton serves up the freshest produce in a modern bistro setting.

With special rates to celebrate spring, there’s no better time to visit this exciting new hotel.

Location: Diamant
Address: 14 Kings Cross Road, Potts Point
Public transport: The hotel is a short walk from Kings Cross train station
Parking: On site parking available from $35 for 24 hours
Cost: Rooms from $188
Website: http://www.diamant.com.au

Image source: The Diamant press page

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

Travellers looking for luxury are in for a real treat when Pullman at Sydney Olympic Park opens its doors next Monday. The beautiful hotel will be the park’s first new five-star accommodation venue since the 2000 Olympics. It sounds like it’s well overdue!The Pullman has a stunning interior designed by the acclaimed architect Joseph Pang, a chic wine bar and restaurant, a Club Lounge, fully-equipped gymnasium, and executive floors for the high rollers.

To promote the launch visitors can enjoy a special nightly rate of $235 per room including breakfast for two.

Isn’t it lucky that the Pullman’s opening up just in time for the NRL finals series? The rooms will make a wonderful place to celebrate your team’s wins, and a great place to return to if they lose!

Aside from the footy there’s always plenty to see at the park, with regular concerts at Acer Arena, markets every weekend, trapeze lessons, and scenic jogging and walking trails.

Location: Pullman at Sydney Olympic Park
Address: Olympic Boulevarde, Sydney Olympic Park
Public transport: The hotel is a short walk from Sydney Olympic Park train station
Parking: Valet parking is available on site
Cost: $265 per night opening special
Website: http://www.accortrade.info/6411

Image source: Torli Roberts @ Flickr

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

For luxurious Sydney digs without the snooty attitude, then look no further than Blue. This beautiful boutique hotel was a Conde Nast Traveler “Hot List” award winner in 2001, and it’s only gotten better since then.

The rooms retain the authentic charm of the historic wharf building while providing all the mod cons. You’ll love the lush suedette furnishings and the stunning views. Rooms look out at the Woolloomooloo Bay Village and the Sydney Harbour foreshore.

Choose from one of the luxury, deluxe, or superior rooms, or for real decadence book a split-level loft.

The hotel’s friendly staff are available 24/7 to ensure your every need is met.

Blue is located in the heart of Woolloomooloo Bay’s exclusive marina, entertainment, and apartment complex. The wharf has some of the best restaurants in Sydney, so you’re really spoiled for choice!

The city centre, Sydney Opera House, and Royal Botanical Gardens are all just a short walk away.

Location: Blue Sydney
Address: 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo
Public transport: Catch the #311 bus from Central train station
Parking: Secure valet parking is available for hotel guests for $40 a night
Cost: Rooms from $300 a night
Website: http://www.tajhotels.com/sydney/

Image source: Phatfreemiguel @ Flickr

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

Now the Metro Hotel Sydney Central has had a makeover it’s an even better destination for Sydney tourists.

To be fair, not all the rooms have been renovated yet so if you’re greeted by some dated décor you know why. However the big screen flat TV equipped with Foxtel in every room should sweeten the deal whether you get a revamped room or not.

East meets west at the hotel’s spacious restaurant and bar. It’s a great spot for a quick bite or a sit down meal. You can also relax by the rooftop swimming pool and spa.

The location couldn’t be better for travellers. It’s situated in the heart of Haymarket opposite the Capitol Theatre, so it’s a top choice if you’re catching a show or if you’re looking to explore the city centre. Trains, buses, the Light Rail and Monorail are all just a minute’s walk from the front door.

Location: Metro Hotel Sydney Central
Address: 431-439 Pitt Street, Sydney
Public transport: Catch a train, bus, Monorail, or Lightrail to Haymarket
Parking: Overnight parking is available for $30
Cost: Rooms from $99
Website: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/sydneyhotels/central

Image source: Jan Tautenhahn @ Stock.xchng

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

When spending two days at the Good Food and Wine Show, you don’t want to think about getting yourself home. It’s imperative that you find somewhere within shambling distance, so that when you’ve over-indulged in the wine tasting it doesn’t really matter. For us, that place was the Oaks Goldsborough Apartments, situated just behind the convention centre.

The location was ideal, although a little confusing until you get the hang of it. I knew we had to park in the Harbourside car park, but once we’d left our car we were a little lost. Consequently we walked around the block before we stumbled on our new digs. If only we’d known a convenient walkway connects the car park’s top level with the hotel, things would have been a lot easier.

They were in our good graces from the start as our room was ready early in the morning, allowing us to check in well before the 2 pm norm. The studio apartment we chose wasn’t luxurious, but it certainly had a rustic charm. I loved the wooden floorboards and the exposed beams above. It was also nice to spread out with the separate lounge, bathroom, and bedroom.

We were only staying for a night so we didn’t take advantage of the room’s facilities, but with a fully equipped laundry and kitchen this would be ideal for travelers having an extended stay in the city.

We did make use of the television, although it took us some time to work out how to operate the DVD player. Some instructions might have been nice! When did figure it out it was lovely to relax with a movie on the couch.

The bed wasn’t so relaxing. It was hard, and smaller than the king size which I’d booked. I could have quibbled, but once we were settled I didn’t really want to move. After a full day’s food and wine tasting I was exhausted and fell right asleep, but I was a little sore from the firm mattress in the morning.

I was a lot more impressed with the shower and its strong burst of water. There’s nothing I like better than a good shower to start by day, and it delivered.

It may not have been the most luxurious place to bunk down, but with a location and charm like this it didn’t really matter.

Location: Oaks Goldsborough Apartment
Address: 243 Pyrmont Street, Darling Harbour
Public transport: Take the monorail or light rail to Convention station
Parking: Parking is available at Harbourside Car Park at a discounted rate of $16 a day
Cost: Rooms from $123
Website: http://www.theoaksgroup.com.au/Property.aspx?sid=1

Image source: Oaks media library

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

North Sydney isn’t an obvious choice for Sydney tourists, but perhaps it should be. This bustling city is a stone’s throw from the CBD, but you can usually snare accommodation at a fraction of the price. This hidden appeal drove my husband and I to spend a night at the Rydges’ North Sydney last weekend.

With our trusty Navman, the drive to the hotel was a breeze. I was so thankful that I didn’t have to brave the bridge, and the off street parking meant we had one less thing to worry about.

However, I must admit I was a little disappointed when I stepped inside. The hotel bills itself as a four-star destination, yet I’ve stayed in a lot better with the same rating. It wasn’t bad, but it was basic. If you’re looking for a luxury getaway, you might want to steer clear, but if you’re simply after a clean comfortable place to stay you can’t ask for more.

The flat screen TV with pay TV did pamper us a little, but nothing else felt very indulgent. The shower was weak and the towels were a little small. The bed’s crisp cotton sheets seemed crazy considering how chilly it’s been lately, particularly since there was no electric blanket.

Having said that the bed was definitely comfortable, and the lush pillows heavenly. I still didn’t manage any sleep, but I think that was more about my husband’s snoring than any deficiencies on the hotel’s part.

We took advantage of the full buffet breakfast downstairs the following morning. At $25 a head, it wasn’t cheap, and initially I was disappointed by the milky eggs, cold bacon, and limp hash browns. But I’ll let you in on a little secret. Just wait a little while. If you can fill your plate just as the supplies are topped up, you’ll enjoy your breaky a whole lot more. I know I did the second time around.

The Rydges North Sydney wasn’t the best place I’ve stayed, but it certainly wasn’t the worst. If you can manage to nab one of the great deals on sites like Wotif and Last Minute, you’ll find the experience a lot easier to swallow.

Location: Rydges North Sydney
Address: 54 McLaren Street, North Sydney
Public transport: The hotel is a 10-minute walk from North Sydney train station
Parking: Parking is available for $15 a night
Cost: Rooms from $139 a night
Website: http://www.rydges.com/northsydney

Image source: Vanessa Pike-Russell @ Flickr

Post from: The Sydney Traveler

The Hilton’s newest package is the most expensive, and most luxurious, ever offered by an Australian hotel. So what does your money get you? Well, plenty.

Among the fun inclusions are the keys to a sexy Bentley Continental GTC and a dazzling 12.16 carat diamond from Bunda. The Hilton will also host a lavish cocktail and degustation for you and 100 of your nearest and dearest. And they’ll also get one night’s complimentary stay in the hotel.

Of course, their room won’t be as gorgeous as yours. You and a very special friend will stay in the hotel’s master suite, where your every whim and desire will be answered by a personal host.

Add to that unlimited spa treatments, Dom Perignon champagne, and a tailor service from suit specialist Henry Bucks and you’ve got one amazing Sydney stay.

Location: Hilton Hotel
Address: 488 George Street, Sydney
Public transport: Catch a train to Town Hall station. The Hilton is 100 m away
Parking: 500 parking spaces are located underneath the hotel. Enter via Pitt Street. Valet parking is available from the hotel driveway/entrance, access from Pitt Street at a cost of $40 per night
Cost: $1, 000, 000
Website: http://www.hiltonsydney.com.au/

Image source: Kiel Latham @ Stock.xchng

Post from: The Sydney Traveler