Swissotel Sydney review: Exceptional location and helpful staff

THE PLACE

Swissotel, Sydney

THE LOCATION

Squarely in the CBD, Market Street's shopping area is buzzing at 4pm. While Louis Vuitton, is not on the (credit) cards, there are plenty more affordable mainstays in the stunning Queen Victoria Building and Westfield. The Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour are in walking distance.

THE SPACE

For first-timers, the lift from the economical entrance and a most welcoming valet to the vast eighth floor is akin to a big reveal, such is the size of the lobby, lounge bar and restaurant, all nicely delineated. Eight half-moon shaped booths that comfortably seat four are ideal for an early morning latte or a quiet pre-show drink before heading across the road to the State Theatre. The outdoor pool is heated, there's a small but well-kitted out gym and the day spa, naturally, uses products from Switzerland where the hotel group originated.

THE ROOM

I'm in one of the just-finished 14 signature skyline rooms and suites – new spaces occupying the hotel's top four floors. They were designed by CHADAwhose projects include Saffire​ in Tasmania and Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa. My balcony room on the 23rd floor has stylish sheen and substance. The curved black leather and chrome chaise, inspired by a Mies van der Rohe classic is comfortable and the lacquered cocktail cabinet lined in orange is at waist height and holds a coffee machine and mini bar with transparent door. All that shine is softened by charcoal carpet, fabric bedhead and 300 thread count sheets on a king bed. Outside, the balcony, which overlooks the QVB, is the perfect spot to sit among the city lights when insomnia takes hold. The walk-in wardrobe has decent lighting to see what's in the bottom of the suitcase and in the bathroom there's a rain-water shower. The 40-inch LED television playing upbeat jazz welcomes me to my room. The two skyline suites on the 25th floor have a twin basin en suite, a bath and a separate lounge and dining area.

THE FOOD