Review of Shangri-La Hotel, by Greg Clarke

The Sangri-La in Sydney is one of the very best luxury hotels in the city. The elevated views over the harbour and its icons, particularly from rooms facing north are, simply, spectacular. It's a top choice for visiting dignitaries; following their wedding, Tasmanian Mary Donaldson and Prince Frederik of Denmark spent time here on their honeymoon.

There is an award-winning cocktail bar called Blu Horizon, on level 36. The views are so superb you may not want to go anywhere else - consider a visit even if you don't stay. Beside the bar, Altitude restaurant serves modern Australian cuisine.

With a staff of around 800 there is, not surprisingly, no shortage of amenities: extensive gym, indoor pool, as well as a sauna and steam room. There is also a business centre with secretarial services and meeting rooms. Wifi is available in the lobby.

There are 563 rooms over 36 floors at the Shangri-La. Standard rooms are generously sized (40m²), with contemporary furnishings in the standards and the suites, along with subtle Asian influences. And while there are goose-down pillows on the beds you're not going to come here for any of the décor, as fresh and comfortable as it is. The extraordinary views are the thing.