The view from Metro Apartments Darling Harbour. Photo / Supplied
The view from Metro Apartments Darling Harbour. Photo / Supplied
Andrew Louis is impressed with the central location and views at the Metro Apartments Darling Harbour, in Sydney.
Location: It's in the heart of the city, within two minute's stroll of Sydney Aquarium and Darling Harbour. 12 minutes by train to Circular Quay.
Check-in experience: There are steep steps leadingup to the entrance which may give you trouble if you have heavy luggage. I arrived early (10am) transferring from another hotel. The room wasn't ready but Daniel, the manager, kindly stored my luggage until it was, an hour later.
The room: The first thing you see upon opening the front door is the huge, two-storey, floor-to-ceiling windows that lead out to the balcony. When you pull back the blinds, a great view overlooking Darling Harbour and the National Maritime Museum is revealed.
There are more steps up to the bedroom and bathroom on the mezzanine, which share the same great view. It's tidy but the decor is showing signs of wear and tear.
The bed: There's a comfortable queen bed, plus a double sofa bed in the living area.
Bedroom at the Metro Apartments Darling Harbour. Photo / Supplied
The bathroom: The shower had good hot water pressure but the shower head must have been taken from a water blaster. I couldn't find the switch for the extractor which meant the large bathroom mirror was rendered useless in seconds.
Wi-fi: Fast, strong signal and free. More than adequate to stream movies to your device without buffering.
Facilities: Laundry in the bathroom and full kitchen included. You can buy laundry powder at reception.
What's in the neighbourhood: Close to the CBD, everything is within easy walking distance.
Perfect for: Younger self-sufficient travellers/couples not afraid of heights. The stairs leading up to the mezzanine floor could make you wobbly at the knees.
The price: From A$229 per night. Pricey for what it is. If you don't plan on doing laundry or cooking, the Metro Aspire Hotel 10 minutes further away is more affordable and more upmarket.
