Ovolo Woolloomooloo

It's impossible to resist Ovolo Woolloomooloo's location, an old finger wharf extending out over the water, still surrounded by docked vessels and affording prime views of the marina, the city, and the landmarks on the Harbour.

As is typical in industrial retrofits, some of the wharf’s structure and machinery is left exposed for effect, and rooms are loft-style, many split-level, with vast and sumptuous king beds perched above living areas. The décor is maximalist, in this case avoiding the clichéd sunny Down Under palette in favor of chocolate faux-suede — an odd choice, and a memorable one. Colonial windows, Edison bulbs, and articulated lamps collectively signify a thoroughly contemporary design perspective, though it's probably the in-room Apple TV unit, Smart TV, and iPad that prove once and for all that we've moved on from the Aughts. Or, you know, the incredible variety of complimentaries: speedy wi-fi, stocked minibar — hell, there's even a 24-hour indoor pool and gym on site.

As with all Ovolo hotels, Lo Lounge offers an all-day and all-night retreat for every social need: coffee, a quick snack, shareable bites, and the hard stuff all flow freely. Then there's the wharf at large, which houses a luxury apartment and entertainment complex as well as the hotel; you don’t have to set foot on dry land if you don’t want to, and certainly not to mingle, as the locals visit just for the bar. Then again, come morning, you’re so close to the shopping districts and the city’s landmarks that it would be a shame to miss them — take a walk to the Opera House and find not just an arresting Modernist structure but, inside, one of Sydney’s top restaurants as well.

Travel advisory: Passport and visa requirements differ from country to country. Please check with your local authority before booking.