Hotel Check: Shangri-La

Originally published on www.businesstraveller.asia 30/06/2009 - Filed under: Tried & Tested » Hotels » Tried & Tested » Tried & Tested » Hotels » Australia »

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Hotel Check: Shangri-La (SYDNEY)

WHAT’S IT LIKE?
Typically chic in the Shangri-La style, the Sydney property has a slightly less formal feel than many of its Asian sister hotels but delivers strongly on levels of sophistication and service.

WHERE IS IT?
Located in the historic Rocks area, offering breathtaking views over Sydney Harbour, its bridge and Australia’s icon, the Sydney Opera House. The Rocks boasts traditional pubs and more recent stylish contemporary restaurants. Darling Harbour, Circular Quay and central Sydney are easily accessible.

HOW MANY ROOMS?
There are 563 rooms and suites, 95 percent of which have harbour views, a huge selling point. Deluxe Rooms start at 40sqm through the 83sqm Horizon Club Executive Suite to the 242sqm Royal Suite.

ROOM FACILITIES:
Windows are large, triple-glazed and soundproof. Rooms have coffee/tea-making facilities and well-stocked minibars, as well as marble bathrooms with bath and shower. Best of all for the business traveller is the large working desk and complimentary broadband. Horizon Club Rooms provide complimentary breakfast, VIP check in and check out, evening drinks and canapés and complimentary broadband, to say nothing of the stunning views of Sydney Harbour.

RESTAURANTS:
The Altitude Restaurant sensibly has floor-to-ceiling windows to allow diners to enjoy the outstanding harbour views. The theme is contemporary Australian and a 16-person dining room is available for more private gatherings.

Cafe Mix offers breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with a selection of Indian, Japanese, Australian and Chinese cuisines and dessert buffet. An à-la-carte menu is also available.

BARS:
The Blu Horizon Bar and cocktail lounge is located high above the city with panoramic views of Darling Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. The lobby lounge offers guests a relaxed atmosphere, where refreshments are available throughout the day. In the evening, guests can enjoy their favourite cocktail serenaded by live music.

BUSINESS FACILITIES:
There is a well-equipped business centre and 18 meeting rooms with wireless and broadband access and satellite linking facilities for video-conferencing. There is also an onsite event company for business events.

LEISURE FACILITIES:
The deluxe Alysium Spa and Health Club offers a range of invigorating and soothing treatments, while The Spa includes a Roman-style pool, a hairdressing salon and a fitness centre.

PRICE:
If you book through Shangri-La’s site, you can get a Deluxe Darling Harbour View Room for US$222 per night in August.

VERDICT:
Unquestionably one of Sydney’s top hotels, friendly but professional service, world-class facilities and a view to die for.

CONTACT:
176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW 2000, tel 61 2 9250 6000, www.shangri-la.com/sydney

Kenny Coyle