Travel & Tourism

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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.

Updated June 2025 - Things to do, places to stay in Forster NSW

For years, French wine has carried a reputation that’s both revered and let’s be honest, a   little intimidating. Grand Cru? Appellation d’Origine Protégée? A wine that’s “flinty”? It can   all feel like a secret language.   But beyond the codes and classifications lies a truth worth rediscovering: French wine is less   about labels and more about land. And today, a new generation of producers is making that   land speak louder with clarity, purpose, and a surprising accessib

Evans Lookout If you're looking for a challenging 3.5-hour hike, The Grand Canyon walk at Blackheath should be on your to-do list. It is possible to do this as a day trip from Sydney , or even better, as part of a fun experience staying at Blackheath. We began our trek from the initial entry point instead of Evans Lookout, which required a 1.6 km walk back to retrieve the car after finishing the hike. Otherwise parking is available at Evans Lookout as are toilets. Descending

Unique Things to Do in Cairns Searching for unique things to do in Cairns? During a recent visit back to Cairns, I uncovered breathtaking...

In a world that often tells us to wait for the right moment, the right crew, or the right stage of life, a growing number of Australians...

Updated July 2025 Bank Hotel Dungog Have you even heard of Dungog? I had, but it has taken me a long time to actually visit the town, and...

Sydney is a vibrant city, but sometimes, a day away can rejuvenate the soul. Whether you're a local seeking a quick getaway or a visitor...

If you're looking for a nature-filled adventure off the beaten track , K’gari (Fraser Island) and Rainbow Beach make the perfect duo. I...

Sean and I recently had the pleasure of staying at The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa, and I'm thrilled to share my experience with...

Luxury and Lagoon Views: Our Stay at Conrad Bora Bora Nui Bora Bora has long been a destination that inspires wanderlust — with its...

Tomo Safari Lodge: Where the Wild Comes to You If you've ever dreamed of seeing lions from the comfort of a luxury lodge pool, Tomo...

The Mid North Coast and the broader New South Wales (NSW) coasts are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, making them a prime destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This region boasts an impressive array of beaches, each offering unique characteristics and experiences that cater to various interests. From pristine stretches of golden sand to vibrant marine life, the beaches here are truly some of the most spectacular in

If you are visiting Sydney, or even a local, there is so much going on in the Chinatown Sydney.

If you're planning a road trip from Sydney heading north, why not take the scenic route and visit some of the region's best farms and artisanal producers? From fresh tomatoes to locally brewed beverages, there's no shortage of farm-to-table experiences in New South Wales. Whether you're a foodie or someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, these five regional farms and businesses will make your journey unforgettable. Discover Regional Farms and Artisan Producers 1. Ricard