Pinned between the superior Four Seasons and the Shangri-la, this expensive and impressive all-suite operation offers pared-down amenities but also spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens, washers, dryers and colorful contemporary decor. The 38-story high-rise of solid brick boasts some unbelievably gorgeous views and offers what its neighbors can't—the chance to enjoy those awesome harbor vistas from furnished balconies.
Glass doors part at the understated entrance as guests enter the compact but stylish lobby with its small lounge and patches of greenery. A modest
mezzanine-level dining room serves breakfast and weekday lunches; otherwise, hungry guests depend on the 24-hour room service. The equally meek cocktail lounge sees few nonguests.
Opulently fashioned in the style of a Roman bath, the breathtaking 23rd-floor pool displays ultramarine-colored pillars, twin sundecks, and floor-to-ceiling windows with wonderful harbor vistas. A spa, sauna and small gym round out the recreation roster. A duty-free store and a beauty salon are at street level.
Two function rooms with support equipment seat up to 100 people theater-style, and two business centers serve administrative needs. Valet parking is on hand, and airport shuttles stop here. Pets are not permitted.
The fairly proportioned suites start on the eighth floor and afford good views from windows that open. All provide light-wood furniture and colorfully upholstered seating done in gelato hues. The rush-colored carpeting looks and feels good underfoot. Standard are double sofa beds, kitchens with microwave ovens, coffeemakers, and washers and dryers, three phones, data ports, two TVs with VCRs, CD players and minibars. Common throughout are irons, ironing boards, one or two bedrooms with king, queen or oversized twin beds, and ample closets with full-length mirrors. Fine marble baths with hair dryers, robes, granite vanities, generous tubs and stall showers make for pampering stays.
This is a viable alternative to the Sydney Harbour Marriott, with similar standards, but self-sufficient types do best here.
