InterContinental Sydney Double Bay by IHG

The pool was the main reason we booked for a hot birthday weekend, but it was closed. Then we were told to leave at 4 p.m. because of a private event, which nobody had told us about. I'd never have paid $800 a night if I'd known. My best friend had flown out from California for two kid-free nights, so this was meant to be a special weekend. The location in the heart of Double Bay really is hard to beat, surrounded by great shops, restaurants, and bars. The hotel itself, though, felt extremely dated and wasn't clean enough. We had to ask several times for the room to be cleaned, tables were still not wiped properly, a used bar of soap was left in the bathroom, and there was hair on the shower walls. The hotel gave us some IHG points and took part of our bar tab off as compensation, but the stay still fell well short of what we expected. It seems to rely on its location without doing enough to provide a quality experience. I really wanted to love the place, but I won't stay here again. Sydney has much better hotel options.

The rooftop pool bar experience was poor. We arrived at 7 p.m., an hour before closing, and were turned away from bar service in a brusque, offhand way. Staff must find it hard to stay motivated when their jobs may disappear before long. The hotel has apparently been approved for demolition and replacement with a new build. That may explain why basic maintenance seems to be ignored, and I wouldn't have booked if I had known. The rooms are well appointed but tired, and the property feels past its prime. For the quality, it's far too expensive for an IHG Intercontinental.

We had a twin room with two queen beds, which worked really well for our family staycation. Reception welcomed us warmly and patiently explained everything. They even offered me another welcome drink when I returned to the desk, although we aren't top-tier members. Breakfast was consistently amazing, with quick, excellent service. I loved that we could have sparkling wine in the morning. It really put me in a holiday mood. Best five-star hotel experience I've had in Australia.

The projections of the world's smallest chef preparing the meal right on the table made Le Petit Chef at the InterContinental Double Bay unlike anything we've tried. Dinner became a fun, magical show and made for a romantic evening with my partner. The food was delicious, and every course was beautifully presented. Staff were friendly, professional, attentive without hovering, and went out of their way to make the night special. This was much more than a meal, and we left delighted with memories we'll keep. A great choice for a date or celebration. Five stars without hesitation.