"How did it strike you on arrival? For Art Deco allure you can’t beat Primus Hotel Sydney, launched in 2015 in the heart of the CBD (Central Business District). Architects Woods Bagot transformed the iconic 1939 former Sydney Water Board headquarters into a luxe urban retreat. The dramatic, elegant lobby sets the scene, with soaring red columns dwarfing the convivial clusters of pink lounge chairs below, and geometric rugs and wallpaper channelling the period. Nice. What’s the crowd like? Chinese ownership means opulent five-star Primus Hotel draws a loyal stream of Asian guests, as well as international and local business and leisure travelers. It’s well placed for shopping up a storm, within easy reach of heritage Queen Victoria Building, Strand Arcade, The Galeries, and Pitt Street Mall. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. Lavish interiors in the 172 spacious rooms and suites blend contemporary design with subtle Art Deco details, reflected in lighting, cushions, rugs and art, with a desk and chaise longue. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us? King beds are generous and comfy. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? A mini-bar, tea and Nespresso machines, daily newspaper and evening turn-down service add feelgood factor in rooms. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down. Contemporary bathrooms feature walk-in showers, bathrobes and organic Appelles products from Sydney. Executive Rooms upwards have a large soaking bath, with double vanities, powder rooms and freestanding baths in select upper-tier suites. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word? Surf free Wi-Fi in rooms, with iPod docks and large TVs, including cable and satellite channels and movies. Room service: Worth it? 24-hour room service. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? The Wilmot’s talented executive chef is Daniel Menzies (formerly of Sydney’s Bistro Moncur). Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. A seductive, softly lit space beside the lobby, The Wilmot restaurant serves modern, regionally-sourced paddock-to-plate cuisine for lunch or dinner with an open kitchen, craft beer and wine. The marble-clad Lobby Bar is your go-to for pre- or post-dinner drinks or chic High Teas, paired with a cocktail or Champagne. There’s even The G’ N’ Tea, or Gentlemen’s High Tea. At rooftop restaurant and poolside bar Level Seven (open to the public) savour share plates, after-work drinks, mocktails and cocktails, including the Rosé Spritz. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay? Exclusive to hotel guests, the rooftop pool is a fun, New York-style space, flanked by lounge seats and stripy parasols. There’s also a gym. Bottom line: worth it, and why? Take a free, hour-long historic tour of the hotel on Fridays at 4.30 p.m." - Sophie Davies
