Shangri-La Sydney

Sydney has its share of world-class hotels, at the top end of the business/luxury market — but there aren’t many that are more high-profile than the Shangri-La. Not only figuratively, given the location in the Rocks, a stone’s throw from the opera house and Circular Quay, but literally as well — take the elevator on up to the 36th-floor bar and restaurant and you’re just about at eye level with the topmost point of the Harbour Bridge.

With the Asian Shangri-La brand behind it you can rest assured that service is a priority, along with smart contemporary Eastern-inspired interiors. Triple-glazed windows keep out the city noise (as does the sheer altitude) and the comforts are quite up to snuff — including generously sized work desks and spacious marble baths, with separate tubs and showers. The main strength, however is the view, which on the hotel’s front side takes in the entirety of Sydney harbour.

There’s an indoor pool as well as a fully equipped spa, complete with fitness center and personal trainers. The top-floor bar and restaurant may get all the press but there’s also a fairly authentic Australian-style pub down at street level — nothing says summer in Sydney quite like a pint of ale in the sunshine on the outdoor terrace.