PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney

The location makes this my go-to hotel, with shops, Chinatown, and Darling Harbour all within walking distance. Everyone is accommodating when you ask for help, and the service is consistently exceptional. Ned at the front reception deserves a special mention: personable and quick to sort things out every time. The valet parking staff and the people working behind the scenes are friendly too. That customer service makes the place feel welcoming.

We only had one night here, unfortunately, but it was a fantastic stay. Josh at the front desk was especially friendly and helpful. We were upgraded to a huge room with a nice view, and the bed was comfortable. The ice-cold bottle of white wine as a welcome gift was very much appreciated. Thanks for a great stay.

I’ve stayed a few nights and have been waking up rested and relaxed, thanks in part to the very comfortable beds. The room was clean and just right, and the welcome from the staff was warm. Even our arrival started kindly: the valet made sure the taxi driver from the airport didn’t overcharge us. James also went out of his way to help us tourists figure out how to get beyond the city, making sure we got there quickly and cheaply. It felt like home, while they treated me like a Queen and made me feel special. I won’t stay anywhere else in Sydney. Thank you, ParkRoyal. The restaurant Abode is worth trying too, with lovely staff and a dessert to die for!

Breakfast was a generous buffet with hot and cold choices, and I got a fresh omelette from a superb chef one morning. The next day, though, the other chef struggled with omelettes and fried eggs, and my over-easy egg came out overdone. We stayed a few nights before our cruise. Our travel agent arranged the booking, and because we’d arrive in Sydney at 6am, we added a night so we could get into the room early. The split booking and different booking name caused a mix-up, but that wasn’t the hotel’s fault. After a short wait, they sorted it and gave us a key. The room was spacious and clean, though the furnishings and surrounding buildings made it feel dark. We could hear a nearby family quite a bit, with kids apparently trampolining on the floor late at night. That wasn’t the hotel’s fault, but better soundproofing would help. Darling Harbour is a few minutes away on foot, and the main sights are walkable if you’re fit and healthy. The Opera House is about a 35-minute walk, so you may need Ubers. I didn’t notice tram stops nearby, though I’m sure there’s public transport around.