Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney, Australia - Hotel Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"How did it strike you on arrival? For a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city, book into the Shangri-La. Perched above historic quarter The Rocks beside Circular Quay and the Central Business District, this high-end high-rise has lofty rooms and upscale drinking and dining to make the most of its dazzling views of Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Nice. What’s the crowd like? This luxury Asian hospitality player attracts a smart global audience. Dress to impress. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. All 564 elegant rooms and suites are spacious with harbor views, combining generous windows and contemporary furniture with iHome docks. Soothing neutral palettes team golds, browns, creams and greys with subtle patterns drawn from nature. Deluxe Darling Harbour Rooms start at 40 to 50 square metres, but Deluxe Opera House City View Rooms, one tier up, are the most popular, with partial views of the Sydney icon. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us? Plush duvets, signature bed linen and pillow menus turn guests into Sleeping Beauties. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? Mini bars and coffee- and tea-making kit will make you feel at home (if your home is a five-star!). Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down. Marble bathrooms sport a separate shower and bath, with fluffy towels, bathrobes and Shangri-La products. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word? Guest rooms and all public areas offer complimentary Wi-Fi. Room service: Worth it? Peckish? Order from the 24-hour in-room dining menu. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? Executive pastry chef Anna Polyviou, with her trademark mohawk, is the superstar behind the hotel’s dazzling sweet treats. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. Savour contemporary Australian cuisine at Altitude restaurant, on level 36, where floor-to-ceiling windows flaunt vertiginous harbour views. Casual all-day diner Café Mix on Level 1 offers buffets and appeals to sweet tooths with its dessert station and chocolate fountain. The ground-floor Lobby Lounge hosts traditional and chocolate high teas, as well as tapas and cocktails, with lounge music. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay? Iconic, New York-influenced Blu Bar on 36, high up on the 36th floor, is your go-to for cocktails, wine or bubbles with magical views over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Bottom line: worth it, and why? Seeking a seductive sanctuary? CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La offers Asian pampering treatments and Australian healing techniques drawing on indigenous botanical ingredients. Relax with a massage, body therapy or facial, then hit the Health Club’s indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sundeck." - Sophie Davies