Sydney Harbour Hotel

The staff are friendly, and it’s handy for shops, pubs and the cruise terminal. But the hotel feels worn out and needs a lot of updating. The bath looked like it needed a thorough clean or replacing, and the step into the shower felt unsafe. The shower curtain didn’t help. Our room was tired and could use paint and some colour, and we found cockroaches in the bathroom. I believe renovations may be happening later this year, so hopefully the place becomes more inviting. The foyer doesn’t feel very welcoming.

After a 20-hour trip, waiting until after 3 to get into our room was a real letdown, especially since we’d been told it would be ready at 2. An hour might not sound long, but it feels different after sleeping in an airplane seat for a day. The staff were polite and helpful, and the room was clean, though the hotel itself is a little dated. This was my first stay, before a cruise that left right across the street. The location is excellent, just steps from The Rocks, food and the train.

I’ve just arrived for a four-night stay, and I’m very unhappy. The first room smelled foul and wasn’t clean, especially the carpet. We’d been told we’d get a walk-in shower, but that room didn’t have one. I complained at reception, and the only other room available also lacked a walk-in shower. At least it had a better view. The man at reception was very pleasant, but couldn’t provide what we’d actually paid for. It was very expensive, and if I could get a refund, I’d find a much nicer hotel as soon as possible.

We stayed here over the summer and had a wonderful time. The hotel is close to downtown Sydney, in the well-known “The Rocks” neighborhood, with lots of great places to eat. There’s a rooftop pool with lovely skyline views, especially at night. It was a great stay, and I highly recommend it!