Fraser Suites Sydney
As can be expected from British architects Foster + Partners (designers of London’s 30 St. Mary Axe, aka “The Gherkin”), there’s an emphasis on glass exteriors at Fraser Suites Sydney. Guests reap the rewards with beautiful views of the Harbour City. And that, combined with well-appointed interiors, considered facilities and a premier location, make these serviced apartments an exemplary option for business travellers. By Rebecca Villis.
Rooms
With just seven suites per floor, each one offers a luxurious amount of space. All include floor-to-ceiling windows that open (the north-facing suites offer some of the city’s best views of the historic Queen Victoria Building), as well as complementary wi-fi, ironing facilities, a large desk and L’Occitane amenities. Suites also include a washing machine and dryer, plus a full galley kitchen. The top two floors are taken up by two loft-style penthouses with exceptional panoramic views.
Location
In the heart of the city, Fraser Suites Sydney is a short stroll from Darling Harbour, Hyde Park and Pitt Street Mall, and a longer walk to the new Barangaroo and Kensington Street precincts. Eateries of all descriptions surround the building, plus the best shopping Sydney has to offer. The nearby Queen Victoria Building and Strand Arcade mix beautiful early-1900s architecture with boutique designer shopping.
Food
On-site dining options are a delicious breakfast buffet (open seven days) and room-service meals, including burgers, steaks and pastas. Each suite has a kitchen but the property is in a prime dining location so you’ll want to explore the many food options out there. The apartments sit above a number of Asian restaurants but if you have a bit of extra time, head to the Kensington Street precinct. Handpicked Wines has a cellar door there so drop in for a tasting then grab a bottle to take to Spice Alley, where eateries offer Asian hawker-style food. Don’t miss Bang Luck’s pulled duck pancakes.
Facilities
The hotel has done a superb job of creating a luxe home away from home. The business centre is a great example. Meeting rooms, which can be configured into a function space, are excellent: they come complete with AV capabilities and an impressive menu for events created by dedicated chef Kris Wilkinson. The 200-square-metre gym space, fully equipped with machines and free weights, is also outstanding. Plus, it’s open 24 hours and has a sauna, spa and 20-metre glass-walled swimming pool that overlooks the arcade below.
Fab factor
For those who like a cold one after a long day of meetings, shopping or sightseeing, each minibar is stocked with a beer from Sydney’s oldest continuously running pub (and now brewery), The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel. What better way to experience a quintessential part of the city than with your shoes off, feet up and a local beverage in hand?
Location: 488 Kent Street, Sydney; (02) 8823 8888
Style: Serviced apartments
Perfect for: Business and leisure travellers
Number of rooms: 199 studios and suites plus two penthouse apartments
