Marriott Sydney
While on a trip to Australia to see some unvisited locations and honestly because it was a ridiculously cheap first-class round trip flight, I needed a few spots to stay in Sydney. Having kinda gone through the Hiltons there, I was looking at a Marriott property to stay. After looking around and evaluating options, I set on the Marriott Circular Quay in Sydney.Arrival
I was flying back from Norfolk Island that weekend, and arrived at Sydney International Airport. The regional train leaves the airport between the terminals (domestic and international) and one of the stops is Circular Quay, which connects to the ferries and a bunch of other trains. The stop is about 2 blocks from the hotel with elevators to handle the mass of bags I was carrying for this month long trip.Then I walked across Macquarie Place to Pitt Street and up to the hotel. Easy peezy.
As I got there the doorman rushed up to help me with my bags, which I personally find a bit silly as I just went across the entire city with them by myself so yeah... the last 100 feet now I want someone to help? Ah well, I guess they are just doing their jobs.
The Suite
I was able to grab an upgrade to a "junior" suite. Not my first experience when a junior is categorically a full suite in Australia. By the rules, a bedroom with a door separating it from another full room is a full-on suite. Maybe it's just that "Aussie big" thing, where regular size is labeled junior?
Virtual room tour, use your mouse or fingers to move around and see other rooms.
Facilities
Definitely a full-service hotel. It has all the things you would expect, and it's upscale for a Marriott proper. The old Customs House building has been repurposed well, and they make great use of the space.The Executive Lounge
World class top of the heap for a Marriott lounge. On par with a JW's offering at a good one in Asia. I was exceptionally impressed and enjoyed my time in here quite a bit. I looked forward to finishing work, napping, and then running down for breakfast.Dining
Very good dining options with many types of food. High end dining? No, but it's good. If you want fancy, you can find it all around this area of the city.
Best room on the floor, by far
I seriously love a butler's pantry with the drink glasses in it
More strength equipment than I have seen in a long time
It was winter here and this is as warm as a bath
Must be some Scandinavians down here for this
The concierge who can actually handle anything you need
The entry
Entry to the secret world of the Executive Lounge
This may seem like a lot of seating, but during dinner, it's not enough
The breakfast offering is quite substantial
Massive western food offering
Juices I have never heard of, and so many
Evening 'appetizers', which is enough to satiate you
Soups, entrees, it's here
There was almost enough bleu cheese for me
The drinks
And more, including hard stuff if you want
Sandwiches by day
Kickass bar by night, I think the name is obvious
Custom House, the bar with pub food
Outdoor seating which is a popular lunch spot for the office crowd
And excellent buffalo wings!
Overlooking Silvesters from the 2nd floor
This area also got full during breakfast time
The massive buffet
But besides the Asian offerings, was the same as the lounge
Yes, I did get a custom omelet
WHO eats Vegemite for breakfast? Omg
This was super filling in one go
Summary
Super solid, and higher end than I expected. I was very pleased with the Australian take on a Marriott.Will I stay here again? Of course, but after I try out the others in the city. I do think though this now is my go-to in Sydney.
Just get a room with the lounge, the evening drinks time would be worth it for most. Personalized service is also a bonus.
It's the most complete Marriott I've stayed at.