Tag Archives: Shangri-La

Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney

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Shangri-La Sydney

Climbing the Harbour Bridge is the number 1 thing to do when in Sydney, but it’s expensive and always busy. I recommend spending the money on a room at the Shangri-La Hotel instead, where the views are equally impressive. Located at the top of a hill in ‘The Rocks’ historic area, this luxurious accommodation is the ideal location for exploring the city centre. With cultural activities and attractions nearby, such as the Contemporary Art Museum and beautiful Botanic Gardens, there is plenty to keep you occupied in the daytime. When night falls you can visit the iconic Opera bar for sundowners or just head up to 36th floor of the hotel to Blu Bar where many argue you will get the best views of the city at night.

Slightly removed from the busy hubbub of the city centre, the Shangri-La Sydney is a quiet and civilised hotel, popular with both business and leisure guests. In keeping with the company’s Asian branding the décor is subtle and sophisticated, which encourages you to relax. There are a range of rooms to choose from, though I recommend paying a little extra to stay in one of the Horizon Club bedrooms on the 30th floor, where the iconic city views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge will really wow. As a premium guest you will be invited to enjoy privileges in the newly refurbished club lounge. We enjoyed the breakfast buffet here each morning, and an afternoon tea banquet in the afternoon, prepared by the hotel’s talented pastry chef, Anna Polyviou.

Our bedroom was elegantly decorated in shades of silver with accents of bright blue. A huge indulgent bed was topped with lavish linen and plump pillows. For a city hotel the ample floor space was an unexpected bonus. Those who require it could take advantage of the smart work desk, which was provided with plenty of natural daylight from the floor to ceiling windows. The en-suite grand marble bathroom had a separate bath and shower and complimentary L’Occitane toiletries.

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The Chi Spa is a destination in itself, and many just visit the hotel for a day to experience one of the signature treatments. Hidden away on the second floor this boutique beauty haven feels exclusive and peaceful. The spa uses the celebrated organic Australian brand, Sodashi, whose therapeutic-grade products are known to rejuvenate and replenish the skin with the finest natural ingredients. I experienced an Aroma Journey Massage, a calming massage that used gentle smooth movements to relieve emotional and physical tension from my body. My therapist Kristina used the Sodashi Fitness Recovery Body Oil to sooth and moisturise my skin. After my treatment I enjoyed a refreshing swim in the pool and sunbathed on the terrace.

I had a blissful stay at Shangri-La Sydney. With so much to see and do in Australia’s favourite city it was a real comfort to be staying in a hotel that offers easy luxury and takes the stress out of travelling.

More information and book a room at Shangri-La Sydney here.

Shangri-La Vancouver

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Every time I walk into a Shangri-La hotel, a sense of calm washes over me, body and mind. The Vancouver establishment is no different, although it is located in the centre of the bustling city, inside there is a quiet and serene atmosphere. It is business-like but always with time for luxury.

We were extremely comfortable in a deluxe one bedroom suite, which felt like a mini apartment. Every detail and amenity is here to ensure you have a seamless stay. The living room area was kitted out with a writing desk and plush sofa, and a bottle of red wine and a platter of lovely cheeses was laid out for our enjoyment.

The suite was decorated in creams and muted greys with accents of red from the oriental artwork on the walls. The kingsize bed looked very inviting, topped with numerous bouncy pillows. For ease and comfort the blinds and curtains are controlled by digital panels next to the bed… perfect for jetlagged customers who want to watch the sun rise over the city.

Next door the en-suite white marble clad bathroom definitely had the wow factor, with a regal bath, glass encased shower, cosy bathrobes and L’Occitane toiletries. I enjoyed several bubble baths during my one night stay!

The Asian influence is evident throughout the building and all its facilities, but there are also touches of international charm, which I noticed particularly in the upmarket eatery, Market run by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges. We ate here for dinner and breakfast the next morning, and on both occasions the food was wholesome and tasty.

In the evening Market has a glamorous feel, the lights are dimmed and everywhere I looked elegant couples or trendy friends were chatting and laughing. We trusted our waiter with the cocktail choices, all of which are made with house-made syrups and fresh ingredients. I would recommend the Ginger Margarita, a spicy, sweet drink with a salty kick. Our dinner was a feast of Mediterranean style dishes. I soon regretted us only ordering one portion of corn ravioli with cherry tomatoes, shallots and basil, as it was a delicate and delicious bowl of pasta, a must for vegetarian diners. For main course we tried a simply cooked beef tenderloin with bearnaise sauce and Parmesan crusted chicken with white asparagus. I found the chicken bland and unexciting, there was too much on the plate and it needed seasoning, but the steak was a faultless piece of meat, tender and rich and cooked to perfection with a crispy caramelised edge.

For breakfast the choices are much more obviously Canadian. The French toast with spiced apple, bacon and maple syrup is unmissable and the omelette was delicious too. Every morning the team offer a complimentary smoothie and we were pleased to taste the pretty purple blueberry special.

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My favourite part of this city sanctuary hotel was the sophisticated Chi spa. I spent a wonderful ninety minutes here totally immersed in a signature Shangri-La treatment. The Chi Aroma Vitality began with a tea ritual, whilst my tired feet were cleansed and massaged. Then I was left to warm my muscles for ten minutes in a private steam room before I lay on the silky soft bed for a full body massage.

Whilst staying at the Shangri-La Vancouver, I was blissfully unaware of the city life outside. Suddenly searching for exciting shops and cafes didn’t seem so important, as I felt so content at the hotel. As a guest in an unfamiliar foreign city, I don’t think you could hope for anything more.

More information and book a stay at Shangri-La Vancouver here.