"How did it strike you on arrival? Curving around the harborfront in The Rocks, Park Hyatt Sydney has an unbeatable location, directly across the water from Sydney Opera House and beside Sydney Harbour Bridge. The sleek, neutral-hued contemporary architecture camouflages well against its stone Circular Quay surrounds, and is refreshingly low-rise for a luxury hotel. Nice. What’s the crowd like? A tasteful international tribe hangs out at this high-end haven, which attracts a cultured, jet set clientele. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. The 155 spacious guest rooms and suites feel like chic residential apartments, with most featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto private balconies. Choose between jaw-dropping views overlooking the Opera House, Harbour Bridge or harbor. A cream, beige and chocolate palette and subtly chic custom furniture let the panoramas take centre stage, while Australian art creates a sophisticated sense of place. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us? Generous King beds ensure a dreamy night’s sleep. The top-tier, 350-square-metre Sydney Suite has two bedrooms. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? Kick back like George Clooney with your in-room Nespresso coffee maker, minibar, Bose music system and morning newspaper. The 24-hour personal butler service means the living is easy. Select top-tier suites offer separate sitting areas, kitchens and generous dining tables, as well as multiple balconies. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down. All bedrooms sport marble bathrooms for lavish bathing rituals, with plush robes. Rain showers, deep soaking tubs and heated Japanese Toto toilets add indulgence. Le Labo products from New York have a cult following. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word? Complimentary Wi-Fi is yours to command throughout the hotel. Room service: Worth it? The 24-hour room service includes Australian-inspired dishes. For a romantic night in that private terrace looks mighty tempting… Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? Let the savvy concierge take the strain. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. Head to The Living Room and The Bar for relaxed grazing, afternoon tea or cocktails. The Dining Room serves modern European cuisine drawing on seasonal Australian produce, with sommelier-selected local and international wines and harbour views galore. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay? Life is sweet at the heavenly rooftop pool and terrace. The sanctuary includes aromatherapy steam rooms and a gym, with massages, facials and body treatments harnessing Australian native ingredients. Bottom line: worth it, and why? Location meets luxury at Park Hyatt Sydney." - Sophie Davies
