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Travel & Tourism
Travel reviews around the world and information for tourists visiting Sydney.


Capella Sydney – A New Benchmark for Luxury in the Heart of the City
Capella Sydney Housed within Sydney’s former Department of Education building, Capella Sydney is both a heritage restoration and contemporary luxury. Designed by acclaimed architect George McRae in the early 1900s, the landmark sandstone building has been meticulously reimagined, reopening in March 2023 as one of Australia’s most celebrated luxury hotels. Capella Sydney Location Located in the city’s historic Sandstone Precinct, Capella Sydney places guests within walking dis

Deb Carr
2 min read


Lunar New Year in Bangkok: Why February 2026 Is the Perfect Time to Visit
Bangkok is a city I know well . I was hosted in Thailand several years ago while travelling for Sydney Chic, and it left a lasting impression — from the warmth of the people to the energy of the streets and the city’s extraordinary food culture. Seeing Bangkok continue to evolve, while still honouring its deep cultural traditions, is exactly why events like Lunar New Year feel so special here. As Asia-Pacific travel continues its strong rebound, Bangkok is once again stepping

Deb Carr
3 min read


NSW Lighthouses - Here are the Most Romantic To Explore
Whether you are planning the ultimate proposal, are a long-time lighthouse lover, or are simply seeking a romantic harbour view, NSW’s lighthouses offer some of the most atmospheric coastal settings in the country. From historic beacons perched above Sydney Harbour to windswept headlands along the state’s coastline, these iconic landmarks combine maritime heritage with breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the most romantic lighthouses to explore across New South Wales. 5 Aw

Deb Carr
2 min read


Why Visit Australia? Top Reasons People Travel to Australia
With its natural beauty, laid-back culture and energised cities, it’s understandable that Australia is one of the world’s most popular countries to visit. Millions of tourists descend on its shores every year to experience its sun-drenched coastline, red-hued deserts and majestic rainforests, not to mention the largest coral reef in the world. Read on to discover six reasons why Australia is such a popular travel destination and why it should be on your vacation wish list. Au

Deb Carr
4 min read


Paradox Sydney Hotel Review | A Heritage Stay in the Heart of the CBD
Paradox Sydney is a hotel many Sydneysiders will already know well. Formerly the Radisson Blu, it’s a property I’ve both stayed at and dined in numerous times over the years, long before its recent rebrand. What hasn’t changed is its sense of quiet grandeur — the kind you feel the moment you step inside. Housed within a beautifully restored 19th-century sandstone building, the hotel sits in O’Connell Street, perfectly positioned between Sydney’s CBD and Circular Quay. It’s an

Deb Carr
2 min read


Best Sydney Travel Tours & Experiences To Explore
Sydney — it's like a non-stop party with a seemingly endless list of great stuff to do. From its stunning harbour to the fantastic coastal national parks — Sydney's got it all. Whether you're a visitor from out of town, someone enjoying the dating scene, or even a local looking for new adventures, we've got everything you need right here for you to discover the best Sydney Travel tours. Must-See Attractions and Sydney Travel Tours Get ready to dive into the awesomeness of Syd

Deb Carr
4 min read


A Guide To Backpacking in Sydney on The East Coast Australia
Looking to backpack to Sydney on the East Coast of Australia? Check out our guide on Sydney.

Deb Carr
6 min read


Exploring Sydney: Australia's Most Iconic City
Canberra may hold the title of the official capital of Australia, and Melbourne may claim the cultural capital label, but Sydney is by far the country's most iconic state. As the home of the Sydney Opera House and a handful of other quintessential Australian attractions, the city of Sydney has long been on lists for must-see locations around the world. With that in mind, we thought we’d show you what all of the fuss is about and take you on a tour of some of Sydney’s must-se

Deb Carr
5 min read


How to Maintain High Productivity When Travelling For Work
A travel industry insider shares his own nine tactics for keeping productivity high while travelling for work – from planning and prioritisation skills to discipline and innovative technologies.

Sydney Chic
4 min read


Travel Guide: The Unusual Natural Wonders of China
China is a diverse country filled with many spectacular Unesco World Heritage Sites, allowing visitors to see unique natural wonders all year round. From desert landscapes to snow-capped mountains, you won’t be short of Mother Nature’s most beautiful creations.

Sydney Chic
5 min read


Royal Cricketers Arms, Prospect: A Historic Western Sydney Pub Worth the Drive
Tucked away in Prospect, this historic Western Sydney pub has been welcoming locals since 1880, and yet it still feels like one of Sydney’s best-kept secrets. With its country-style warmth, generous hospitality and genuinely good food, it’s the kind of place that reminds you why classic Australian pubs never go out of style.

Deb Carr
2 min read


Oasis Hotels & Resorts Cancun: Current Special Offers on All-Inclusive Stays in Mexico
New Year's Offer - Up to 47% off | Oasis Hotels Hotel Strip Cancun If Mexico has been on your travel wish list, now is a great time to look at the latest special offers from Oasis Hotels & Resorts . Oasis is known for its all-inclusive beachfront resorts in Cancun and surrounding areas, offering excellent value for travellers looking for sun, culture and stress-free holidays — with meals, drinks and entertainment included. Current Cancun Oasis Hotels & Resorts Special Offers

Deb Carr
2 min read


Sydney’s Best Rooftop Bars & Terraces for Al Fresco Dining
There’s something about Sydney dining that just belongs outdoors. From leafy terraces perched above city streets to harbourfront rooftops designed for golden hour drinks, the city does al fresco better than almost anywhere else. Whether it’s cocktails at sunset, long lunches with friends, or relaxed rooftop dining with a view, these are some of Sydney’s best rooftops bars and terraces worth booking (or discovering) right now. Here's Our List of Sydney’s Best Rooftop Bars &

Deb Carr
5 min read


25hours Hotel The Olympia: A New Cultural Landmark on Oxford Street
Image Credit: Justin Nicholas Location 25hours Hotel The Olympia Set within the heritage-listed former Olympia Theatre, 25hours Hotel The Olympia is Sydney’s newest boutique hotel — and the first Australian property for the globally recognised 25hours brand. Opening in October 2025, the hotel sits at the meeting point of Paddington, Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Kings Cross and Moore Park, placing it firmly in the heart of Sydney’s creative and cultural corridor. Rather than f

Deb Carr
2 min read


Watsons Bay Hotel Unveils $3 Million Transformation of Its Iconic Harbour front Decks
Club Amalfi One of Sydney’s most iconic waterfront venues has entered a new chapter, with Watsons Bay Hotel revealing a $3 million transformation of its Top and Mid Decks. The extensive refurbishment marks one of the most significant upgrades in the hotel’s 190-year history, reimagining how these elevated spaces are used while preserving what has always made them special: uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour. Bottomless Brunch A thoughtful redesign that celebrates the h

Deb Carr
3 min read


Applejack Brings New Energy to Sydney Opera House Dining with Opera Bar and House Canteen Now Open
Opera Bar Sydney Two of Sydney’s most recognisable harbourside dining spots have entered a new era, with Applejack officially taking over Opera Bar and launching House Canteen , both located beneath the sails of the Sydney Opera House . The change marks the beginning of a 10-year stewardship for Applejack at one of the world’s most iconic cultural landmarks, bringing a refreshed approach to food, music and the overall visitor experience at these harbourside venues. Spring R

Deb Carr
3 min read


Considering a Sea Change: Do it! I Have No Regrets.
I first began writing this post at the very end of 2018, and it took me weeks to find the courage to finish it. At the time, I worried about what readers might think. How could someone run a blog called Sydney Chic and then leave Sydney?

Deb Carr
7 min read


A Guide to the Manning Valley and Forster NSW
Updated January 2026 Morning Mist Nabiac The Manning Valley and Forster region is one of the most naturally beautiful areas on the NSW Mid North Coast, offering a mix of pristine beaches, river towns, national parks, and relaxed coastal living. From the coastline around Forster and Pacific Palms to the inland charm of towns along the Manning River, this region is ideal for slow travel, weekend getaways, and longer coastal escapes. This guide brings together key places to exp

Deb Carr
6 min read


Things to Do in Cabramatta: A Food and Cultural Experience in Sydney
Updated January 2026 If you’re looking for things to do in Sydney and love food, culture and exploring different neighbourhoods, a visit to Cabramatta is well worth it. I’ve lived in Sydney since 1979, yet this was my first time visiting Cabramatta — a place once known for all the wrong reasons, but now a thriving, vibrant hub of Asian culture, markets and incredible food. What Makes Cabramatta Worth Visiting So today, being a Saturday, I decided I'd go and visit Cabramatta

Deb Carr
3 min read


Grace Hotel Sydney Review: A Heritage Stay in the CBD
This article was originally published in 2016 and has been updated in 2026 to reflect current information about the Grace Hotel Sydney. The Grace Hotel Sydney, a heritage-listed Art Deco landmark in the CBD. The first thing you will notice about the Grace Hotel is elegance! How could it not be with the name Grace? Incidentally my youngest daughter's name is Grace. I'm staying here for a night to share with Sydney Chic readers some of the features of this beautiful hotel.

Deb Carr
3 min read


Forster NSW Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Beaches & Where to Stay
Updated June 2025 - Things to do, places to stay in Forster NSW

Deb Carr
7 min read
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