Who's Going
Historic Location, Hip Clientele, Oversize Rooms
Reason to Stay
Boutique Hotel, Harbor Views, Designer Hotel
Hotel Type
Boutique Hotel
It's one of the most iconic hotels in Sydney; this former-W Hotel now known as Ovolo Wooloomooloo was one of the first W's outside the US. But after a few years and rumored disagreement between the owners and the W management, the hotel traded in its ever-hip W flag for one by India's Taj Resorts and is now operated by one of Hong Kong's tredniest hoteliers. Debuting under the all-new concept, the hotel is housed in a turn-of-the-century wharf in Sydney's Woolloomooloo, a short drive from downtown and trendy Pott's Point. While conveniently accessible by cab, the area is not the most accessible by foot.
Hovering above the harbor, Blue Sydney is located inside the infamous Woolloomooloo Pier with its selection of boutique media businesses as well as several trendy restaurants that line the structure's northern exterior. The hotel interiors have been invigorated with a hip mid-century twist with the clink of martini glasses by afternoon and lounging by night. The in-house restaurant is home to an eclectic fusion menu offered for lunch and dinner mostly frequented by curious tourists and hotel guests. The in-house spa is located at the rear of the lobby, with its super-small wading pool and nearby fitness room with handful of cardio machines.
The Room
We were astonished to grab a room for the price that we did, especially a two-level loft-style suite with views of the harbor. A hard-to-navigate elevator carries guests to an atrium level, where we made our way down a dark corridor with the gentle beats that sounded a lot like the former W-Hotel soundtrack. A narrow corridor opens into the two-level room, with industrial carpeting the showed the wear of numerous spills and good times. The first floor contains the main living area with three-seater sofa and writing desk arranged with heavily frayed hotel literature and dated city magazines. Large windows overlook the pedestrian-friendly pier area with tippy-toe views of the harbor and even better views of speedy cars exiting the nearby freeway tunnel. A second floor loft-space with queen-size bed and full bathroom overlooks the main living area, connected by a small staircase.
Preferred Room
Cityvoo Loft
Special Features
Boutique Hotel, Waterfront Hotel, Historic Location
Amenities
Restaurant, Waterfront Location, Lounge, Bar, Spa, Fitness Room
