Hyatt Gold Passport - Sydney Park Hyatt REVIEW - MASTER THREAD - Pre-Renovation 2011

A very nice Hyatt. View of the Harbour, Bridge,and Opera House available. No RC. Be ready for some pricy meals, but good. Comfortable, well appointed rooms. Many rooms with balconies. Very attentative service!!!...did miss RC.

A superb hotel in my opinion (The Park Hyatt)

I think they just changed mangement to the Ritz Carlton group or somebody like that.

Certainly can't beat the location.

Walked by the Park Hyatt SYD last night. Still a Hyatt. The Hyatt Kingsgate (on top of Kings Cross) is now a Millennium. The area is still sort of grotty, but getting better.

Park Hyatt by the Rocks is still very much managed and run by Hyatt.

The old Hyatt Regency was owned by the Millenium Group but managed by Hyatt at one time. Since then Millenium hotels have taken over controlling management and is no longer a Hyatt.

IMHO - all the Hyatt properties in Australia are extremely well run and managed.

Although the Sydney Park Hyatt is indeed still a Hyatt, a group affiliated with Rosewood just purchased a controlling stake, and it appears Hyatt will lose its management contract in the near future.

Im thinking of staying at this hotel for a short stop DownUnder. Any experiences? Ive recently been comped to Diamond and will try to use the suite upgrade voucher.

Ive been trying to book online (the stay would be for the last week of November) and they appear to be full...?? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/confused.gif


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Gaucho100K

relatively small hotel and very popular. Always listed as THE hotel for Sydney

Great hotel, nice location.

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Have passport, will travel...
LAX, LHR, et.al.

its certainly the best location in sydney and the rooms have just been done up.There are very few suites and most are not separate rooms. you can use the ua 50%off vouchers and get great rates or use points for the full suite thing.you've got more chance of getting a suite that way.
they charge full rate to u/g you which is around $500aus.maybe call them and talk to reservations to make sure u get what u want.

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I've had some very average experiences here. Almost never get your Diamond amenity and if you pay a cheap rate you will get a horrid room on the ground floor facing inwards, ie no view!

Also a number of the rooms give a view of the bridge which is a disappointment if you wanted to see the Opera House.

I don't stay there any more after my experiences but have moved to the Sheraton on the Park, where they give me a nice park view suite, use of the lounge and a wonderful amenity (Starwood Platinum member).

[This message has been edited by Markie (edited 10-16-2000).]

We stayed there this year (first stay at the property, second visit to it). It is really top of the line! It is always rated very highly.

I do not know what happened to Markie, but there is no Hyatt amenity for platinum and never has been in the fifteen years I have been party of their program. If you stay at the same Hyatt frequently, they may give you something but that is a property decision and not part of the Hyatt program. If you want a particular view you have to ask and often pay for it.

Service at this property is excellent. The food is quite nice, but bring lots of money. Our room was a corner room with view of the bridge and park on the water. We were on the second floor. Views are great, but in a difference sense. The hotel is not a highrise, so do not expect that type of view. The rooms are not lavish in size, but are appointed quite well. As a small hotel, the prices from room to room are quite different. Comped upgrades are harder to come by in a small property. It is one of the best thought, if you want quality amenities, service and food.

I would suspect that you will not get a suite upgrade. There are few of these and the upgrade certificates are not revenue, so the hotel gets nothing for them.

No matter where you stay be prepared for a great visit...it is a wonderful place filled, mostly, with very friendly people and great things to do and visit.

Great hotel.

Must be one of the best in Sydney. Most rooms are good but getting recognition for Diamond level is a chore.

They seem to be in their own little world.

Sorry - I'm Diamond - got confused with Sheraton!

Glad you've all had good experiences, mine have just been different - after four bad stays I just moved hotel.

I had a great experience back in Dec-98 at this hotel. Stayed on 2nd. floor on the bay side with great view of Opera House. Straight out from my room was the mooring pier for the sailing ship (replica I think) that discovered Australia. Maybe I was just lucky to get such a great view.

Room was not huge, but I would call it large. The bathroom was huge with superior appointments (really like the Aussie showerhead!). Very pricy at approx. 375AUS. Really liked it that every light in the room had a dimmer control on it. Could adjust the lights anyway I wanted. The while experience was great and I would go back, but only on my employers money.

We're staying in a few months for 10 nights on an award stay as diamond at the Park Hyatt Sydney, according to our confirmation in a King "city/harbor view".

Any recent experiences on what to expect as diamond? What is the breakfast like? How are they about giving UG's to opera view rooms? Has the service improved over some of the bad vibe experiences posted in the past on FT?

Insights on the hotel and on diamond treatment on an award stay are appreciated. We do certainly feel like 150K points for 10 nights here is a deal. The lowest rate for our dates was A$720 per night.

Stayed last couple times in SYD at the Westin, which is really super, saw the Hyatt's roof pools from the bridge climb and thought the Rocks/Hyatt would be cool, so we're giving this a try (also just swithing generally all our stays away from SPG and to Hyatt whereever possible). Insights much appreciated. Thanks!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by thesilb:
saw the Hyatt's roof pools </font>

Did they add a new pool and/or enlarged the old one?!

I stayed at the PH Sydney back in '97 and thought the property was overrated and the service marginal. Their pool was miniscule and the pool area felt claustrophobic. I'd be interested to know if they've upgraded the pool and pool area since.

The PH Sydney is my favorite hotel in Sydney. The view of the harbour is truely amazing and if you love Sydney you will love the Hyatt. I can't comment on Diamond upgrades as I'm only Platinum member. However, you'll get free breakfast in the morning (continental from a buffet) which offers salmon and cold cuts, cheese and croissants and a selection of fruit. If you want you can upgrade to a full hot brekki and order from the a-la-carte menue whatever you feel like. It's only A$8 or so and you can order whatever you like including eggs benedict and other hot dishes. The best thing about the brekki is the view I guess and on a nice day (of which we usually have quite a few) they open up the large windows and you almost sit right on the water with a view of the Opera House. It doesn't get much better than that.

I would think they would upgrade you to an Opera view room is not one of their Opera view studio suites as a diamond, but as I said I don't know for sure.

We like the pool area on top of the hotel. It's not large but usually there is noone else there and most people don't stay long. The pool is warm even in winter and the spa has a nice view although you can't see the Opera House.

Enjoy your stay...

I have stayed at the PH twice in the past 3 years on awards. There is no RC so as a diamond you will get the breakfast buffet -- if you go with a hot entree it's only a couple of bucks more. A decent not great buffet. The first time I stayed I got a nice room, but one that you could not see the opera house unless you went out on the balcony (but I did meet Keanu Reeves in the elevator -- VERY friendly). Last summer I got a room that I could see the opera house without getting out of bed. With those automatic drapes and sheers it is a heck of way to greet the morning. Both times the room was very well designed/equiped. I was not terribly inpressed with the restuarant, certainly OK, but not up to the glowing reviews. All in all I certainly would stay there again! Enjoy.

Just did my 50th night at Park Hyatt Sydney.
Got an opera house view(which is much smaller than the ones closer to the opera house but with city-opera views)
The usual bottle of Moores Creek red and the buffet breaky.
The food at the restaurant was very very good.
I can see why it is such a hit.

There seems to be a bit of last minute availability for the Australia Day weekend. I just got a sat nite 24th jan!!
Ive been checking daily for months now!
the sunday was available too.

will be in sydney for 6 night, march 2004.
we will stay in park hyatt for the first 3 nights with ffn. could not book additonal 3 weekend nights. any suggestions on the side trips and restaurant? 1st time visiting sydney. thank you

when we were there last august, we spent one night at the Coogie Beach. It is not as famous as Bondi Beach, but much nicer. sort of like a small resort town.

you can do an easy hike along the trail on the coast line between Coogie Beach and Bondi Beach, takes about 60-45 minutes one way i believe. or you can take the bus and only walk up a small section of the trail.

just outside Park Hyatt there is a complex with several restaurants - european, italian, chinese, grill room, ...

do you plan to spend all 6 days in Sydney or you plan to visit melbourne or gold coast ? Qantas australia frequently have red e-deals to compete against Virgin Blue. One-way fare between Sydney and Melbourne can be as low as AUD80. so as BNE/SYD. you may want to consider that.

Just had the most amazing experience.
Checked in for a FFN to Syd PH and heard the majic words
WE HAVE UPGRADED YOU TO A DIPLOMAT SUITE!

WOW what a suite.
marble foyer large lounge
Great bedroom
Amazing hollywood spa bathroom.
Bulgari bath products(large size)
4 balconies overlooking the city and opera house.
Didnt want to leave to go to dinner.
I have stayed there over 15 times and never had a suite.

Thanks PH Sydeny

[This message has been edited by tinkybelle (edited Jan 24, 2004).]

My favorite restaurant in Sydney is "Sailor's Thai". This is the best Thai food I have ever had and it is right around the corner from the Park Hyatt. The restaurant of the moment is "Icebergs" on Bondi Beach. Too much of a scene if you ask me but the food is good. I also like "Longrain" which is a trendier version of "Sailor's Thai". I would skip "Tetsuya" which is suposedly Sydney's best and most expensive restaurant.

Take a walk down to Wildfire in the international passenger terminal (5 min walk from the Hyatt), they also have Wildfire Orient or something which is supposed to be excellent chinese.

Doyles Seafood is also in the international passenger terminal.

I'll stay at Park Hyatt Sydney by FFN.
I want to use Platinum Extras cert.
What is Complimentary amenity for using cert at this hotel ??

Last time we used our cert for the amenity as PLATs it was a deluxe fruit platter. Nothing to write home about and last weekend we chose to keep our cert for another time.

I'll be arriving at the PH Sydney next week with my wife-to-be on our honeymoon. This will be our first time at this hotel and in Australia. Can anyone recommend any rooms that we might be able to request at check-in? What do you think are my chances for a nice suite upgrade on a 4-night stay? I've got Diamond status if that might help. Also, a bit off topic, but anyone have any quick recommendations for eating or attractions in Sydney for a couple first-time visitors??

Cheers!

I think you would be extremely lucky to get a suite. I have stayed there over 15 times as Diamond and only now am I getting suites.
I think they do look at return guests as the last two stays I received.
the fabulous 1 bedroom with lounge and 4 balconies. :D
and the last a parlour suite on the bend opposite the opera house. ^

I'll be arriving at the PH Sydney next week with my wife-to-be on our honeymoon. This will be our first time at this hotel and in Australia. Can anyone recommend any rooms that we might be able to request at check-in? What do you think are my chances for a nice suite upgrade on a 4-night stay? I've got Diamond status if that might help. Also, a bit off topic, but anyone have any quick recommendations for eating or attractions in Sydney for a couple first-time visitors??

Cheers!

TravelScholar,

I am also staying at Park Hyatt Sydney next weekend Aug 13-15 but when I tried to get an extra room for a friend, I was told that the hotel was sold out so chance of upgrading to a suite may be low. Do you have an suite upgrade certificate and are you on paid nights? When would you be in Sydney?

TravelScholar,

I am also staying at Park Hyatt Sydney next weekend Aug 13-15 but when I tried to get an extra room for a friend, I was told that the hotel was sold out so chance of upgrading to a suite may be low. Do you have an suite upgrade certificate and are you on paid nights? When would you be in Sydney?

I'm arriving the 11th and departing the 15th. I'm on a combination of points and FFN. I do have a suite upgrade certificate, but I think it's expired. :(

So, what would be the best room(s) to request at PH Sydney?

Keep in mind that they are currently undergoing renovations. So, you could at least try to request a newly renovated room. More information on that can be found in in this thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=339358)

So, what would be the best room(s) to request at PH Sydney?


214-216 might do the trick(from $A675)

214 and 215 are the studio suites and I think 216 is the diplomat suite(the most amazing bathroom!)and 4 balconies.

I do hope I get an invite if you score that one.

214-216 might do the trick(from $A675)
214 and 215 are the studio suites and I think 216 is the diplomat suite(the most amazing bathroom!)and 4 balconies. I do hope I get an invite if you score that one.

Hardly likely, given it's a FFN stay. (hyatt.com was showing "prevailing rate" of $A720/night--that must be some overhaul they are doing.)

I'm arriving the 11th and departing the 15th. I'm on a combination of points and FFN. I do have a suite upgrade certificate, but I think it's expired. :(

TravelScholar,
The suite upgrade certs are not usable on award nights only on certain paid nights. When I used my last one, I could not use the hyatt.com rate, needed a higher rate. Otherwise I might have been able to contribute a cert for a good cause. Another issue would have been passing the cert since I am not arriving till Aug 13.

I think your best bet is to call / e-mail the GM of PH Sydney and mention that you are Diamond and there for your honeymoon and maybe they would give you a complementary upgrade.

Cheers, Mary

Well, don't stay in room 102, the room I'm currently in, at least until the renovation is done. They're drilling and hammering next door and the "kindness" of the hotel in letting me into this room early has been mitigated by my consequent inability to get to sleep due to noise. The desk says that they can't make an exception and move the construction somewhere else for today.

Didn't know this hotel was under construction? Neither did I (since I didn't see this thread until too late); certainly no one at Hyatt Diamond res told me at the time I made my reservation.

I am in a newly renovated room, which mainly means a new carpet and a flat panel TV, but the cabinet I am sitting next to was clearly not replaced since it is well worn. The desk chair is broken -- they promise to fix it, gee, thanks. The shampoo and other amenities are identical to the standard amenities found in any U.S. HR, even Rickey's. Nothing upgraded here!

The ...'t manager on duty says the hotel is full and he can't move me but offered to do whatever he could. That turned out to be nothing, not even a followup call.

Update after checkout: The desk chair was never repaired. Only about 1/3 of all rooms have the stunning Opera House view, for the rest (such as mine) you have to go out on the veranda and look left. A diamond amenity, a bottle of wine, was presented but I never tried it since I assume that even in Australia, decent wines don't come in screw top bottles! Towels were at the Holiday Inn standard but the sheets were OK.

Local calls from the room cost A$1, but the SHORTEST call to even a local cell phone will cost you A$4.50 and range upwards from there if it is of any duration. If you plan to make more than about 30 phone calls, it would probably be cheaper to buy a prepaid cellular phone at the airport.

I'd say this hotel was good value at A$350 a night or on a FFN (as I was); however apparently rack rates are A$550-750; at this price range, you would do far better to spend your money elsewhere.

That sounds like you had a pretty bad stay! I must say that PH Sydney is my favorite hotel in Sydney and the views from your private balcony simply can't be matched. However, our first stay there a few years back also had some problems. Since then all our return visits were very enjoyable and now that we got used to the fact that you simply won't get an early check-in nor a later check-out we always look forward to our next stay (which is coming up this weekend :D ).

I know about the renovations, but I didn't think they were this disturbing to the guests (especially on weekends). I can only hope we will have more luck than you. I think it's quite generous of the hotel to allocate City/Harbour view room to FFN inventory. You could be stuck in the rooms facing the back of the hotel as well which is their cheapest category.

I agree with you about the ameneties. Unfortunately, they are nothing special. I'll have to wait until I see the new rooms myself next weekend before I comment on the steep price increase. I was hoping they place wireless into all room, but was told they didn't do that. :td: Actually the cheapest rate on weekends has now climbed to almost AUD$700 for a City view room which is extremely expensive for Sydney IMO. But then again, they are always at full capacity, so they can probably get away with charging this much. I learned my lesson regarding phone calls at PH San Franciso a few years ago. A local call (I thought it was local) cost me US$12 for a few minutes! Now that is expensive. I wouldn't have complained if it was to a mobile number but for a normal landline call in the area? I don't think PH Sydney is more expensive than other hotels in Sydney when it comes to phone calls.

I'll report back after the weekend of my experience...

Well, don't stay in room 102, the room I'm currently in, at least until the renovation is done. They're drilling and hammering next door and the "kindness" of the hotel in letting me into this room early has been mitigated by my consequent inability to get to sleep due to noise. The desk says that they can't make an exception and move the construction somewhere else for today.

Didn't know this hotel was under construction? Neither did I (since I didn't see this thread until too late); certainly no one at Hyatt Diamond res told me at the time I made my reservation.

I am in a newly renovated room, which mainly means a new carpet and a flat panel TV, but the cabinet I am sitting next to was clearly not replaced since it is well worn. The desk chair is broken -- they promise to fix it, gee, thanks. The shampoo and other amenities are identical to the standard amenities found in any U.S. HR, even Rickey's. Nothing upgraded here!

The ...'t manager on duty says the hotel is full and he can't move me but offered to do whatever he could. That turned out to be nothing, not even a followup call.

Update after checkout: The desk chair was never repaired. Only about 1/3 of all rooms have the stunning Opera House view, for the rest (such as mine) you have to go out on the veranda and look left. A diamond amenity, a bottle of wine, was presented but I never tried it since I assume that even in Australia, decent wines don't come in screw top bottles! Towels were at the Holiday Inn standard but the sheets were OK.

Local calls from the room cost A$1, but the SHORTEST call to even a local cell phone will cost you A$4.50 and range upwards from there if it is of any duration. If you plan to make more than about 30 phone calls, it would probably be cheaper to buy a prepaid cellular phone at the airport.

I'd say this hotel was good value at A$350 a night or on a FFN (as I was); however apparently rack rates are A$550-750; at this price range, you would do far better to spend your money elsewhere.


Richard,

I've had some great wines in screw top bottles. As a matter of fact, that is the best way to seal wine.

An Aussie friend of mine told me recently that 60% of Australian/New Zealand wines are now screw top. We recently had a couple of lovely NZ whites in Las Vegas. Both were screw tops!

Enjoy :)

Ray,

I bet 60% of U.S. wine production is in screw tops also, and that probably includes some good wines too. But it still just looks cheap, especially if you include a corkscrew along with the amenity!

I'm sorry, everything about this hotel except the views (when going outside and crooking my head, that is) looks cheap to me. Based on my experience at three Hyatts in Oz, I'd say that the Hyatts there are in a totally different (worse) category than the ones in Asia.

Another question regarding room type. I have booked my parents into a OV king room at a senior rate of 690 AUD next January. Now the rate has gone down to 541 AUD, while the OV studio senior rate stands at 761 AUD. Is it worth to pay the extra for the studio ? Standard rooms seem to have a sufficient size (and they will be out of the hotel most of the day for sightseeing). On the other hand it will be a once-in-a-lifetime trip and may be worth for the overall experience :confused:

I am in a newly renovated room, which mainly means a new carpet and a flat panel TV, but the cabinet I am sitting next to was clearly not replaced since it is well worn. The desk chair is broken -- they promise to fix it, gee, thanks. The shampoo and other amenities are identical to the standard amenities found in any U.S. HR, even Rickey's. Nothing upgraded here!

The ...'t manager on duty says the hotel is full and he can't move me but offered to do whatever he could. That turned out to be nothing, not even a followup call.

Update after checkout: The desk chair was never repaired. Only about 1/3 of all rooms have the stunning Opera House view, for the rest (such as mine) you have to go out on the veranda and look left. A diamond amenity, a bottle of wine, was presented but I never tried it since I assume that even in Australia, decent wines don't come in screw top bottles! Towels were at the Holiday Inn standard but the sheets were OK.

I'd say this hotel was good value at A$350 a night or on a FFN (as I was); however apparently rack rates are A$550-750; at this price range, you would do far better to spend your money elsewhere.

Richard,
I think I was in a renovated room and they were renovating the room next door but did not see anyone working on it, maybe the fact that they were having a wedding / reception in house and the room is opposite the door to the rooftop reception had something to do with it.

Having been in PH Vendome and recently in PH Melbourne, the renovated room at PH Sydney seemed to have only partially replaced the furniture with some wear and tear. Maybe they are doing that last? Towel was a little worn too.

As to screw top wine, there are some very good Australian and NZ wine with screw tops, and believe me, I was surprised when I first seen them but have gradually lost the fast reaction but wait to judge the wine on taste but believe me, you are good to get the amenity since I did not get any amenities at PH Sydney, just the breakfast included with the award stay.

Another question regarding room type. I have booked my parents into a OV king room at a senior rate of 690 AUD next January. Now the rate has gone down to 541 AUD, while the OV studio senior rate stands at 761 AUD. Is it worth to pay the extra for the studio ? Standard rooms seem to have a sufficient size (and they will be out of the hotel most of the day for sightseeing). On the other hand it will be a once-in-a-lifetime trip and may be worth for the overall experience :confused:

I think the $541 is a much better deal as most of the normal ro0ms seem the same except a little smaller.

And if you are nice to the checkin people the good rooms seem to appear
-as per any other hotel!!!
I would spend the extra on a nice dinner.!!!!!!

$690 is outrageous by any standards!

hey just do a few hotel runs and give them a couple of free nights!!!

Thanks, tinkybelle, for your advice!

I updated the booking to correct the rate of the OV room already (cool, you don't have to cancel and rebook at hyatt.com) to choose a decent dinner option instead :D . I really wonder what made them to lower the senior rate two months after the initial booking. Well, it's really worth to check the rates from time to time after making a booking... Too bad that PH SYD doesn't take part in wotif.com :o

Thanks, tinkybelle, for your advice!

Too bad that PH SYD doesn't take part in wotif.com :o

And even if they did the rate on wotif.com would be the same or even slightly higher than the hyatt.com rate. That's my experience at least with the Australian Hyatts.

Using FFN/Points for 9 nights at PH Sydney during Thanksgiving with wife and 2 young boys. Searching all these threads, I am guessing op-up to suite/studio is out of the question, bkfst coupons are given and we will be lucky if we get a OV room when we check in at 9 o'clock in the morning.... :( :) :)

Any other new updates/experiences at this location for Diamond status that you would like to share?

Thanks!

We got no upgrade there (even when trying with a suite upgrade voucher). Only after complaining about loud construction noice in the room below us, they upgraded us to a small suite (without taking the voucher then).

Finished our stay a week ago or so, ended up being 8 nights then came back a few weeks later for 1 night. Did get free breakfast, but on neither stay did we get any sort of upgrade despite them knowing it was our honeymoon. In fact, we got one of the smallest, worst rooms possible in the harbor/city category. In this category, you want to be down past the lobby towards the end of the hotel farthest away from the restaurant. Like XX08, XX09 - these are the best and largest harbor/city view rooms. If you end up directly over the lobby, you are int he smallest, worst view rooms.

My end view of this hotel: good location, well kept, nice renovations...but absolutely do not care whatsoever about Diamonds. Not at all. I understand if we can't have an upgrade - but when two Diamonds are traveling for a honeymoon and you can't even block and hold a NICE room in the category they are reserved in - this is pretty poor. Also I would say the front desk staff and management are very arrogant, although everyone else was a pleasure, especially the very kind, very helpful concierges and bell staff.

Our trip was really great and the fact that we got a crummy room here was no big deal - well made up for by PH Melbourne, which is absolutely an amazing, amazing, amazing property where Diamonds are treated especially well.

I find the service in the restaurant for breakfast trully pathetic... I was taken to a table which had not been cleaned, had to fetch my own cuttlery, napkin, no sugar on the table, no butter... Had to help myself to the OJ, I got up to go to the buffet and when I returned, nothing had been brought to my table, neither had it been cleaned, but the check was already there!!! Just outrageous :mad:
I complained to the front desk... but I don't think anybody really cared. One of the most overrated PH I have stayed at, next time I'll return to the excellent Westin!

I find the service in the restaurant for breakfast trully pathetic... I was taken to a table which had not been cleaned, had to fetch my own cuttlery, napkin, no sugar on the table, no butter... Had to help myself to the OJ, I got up to go to the buffet and when I returned, nothing had been brought to my table, neither had it been cleaned, but the check was already there!!! Just outrageous :mad:
I complained to the front desk... but I don't think anybody really cared. One of the most overrated PH I have stayed at, next time I'll return to the excellent Westin!

no surprise. looks like things havent changed a bit since my stay there.

Yes this hotel is the most overrated hotel in Sydney. If not for the view, the hotel couldn't afford to charge the way it does for bad and snotty service.

On my honeymoon this past August, we had an absolutely fabulous stay at the PH Sydney. All of the staff were wonderful--door, front desk, restaurant, spa, concierge--couldn't have been better. Very personal and friendly.

We moved to the Westin for 3 nights after 4 nights at the PH and wished we could go back!! The Westin was OK, but not nearly the same level of service from the staff at the PH. At the Westin, the staff couldn't be bothered, at the PH, the staff were always at our disposal and did a fantastic job with every request.

Of course, I'm Diamond with Hyatt and only Gold with SPG, so it may not be a fair comparison. Still, I guess it all goes to show that your mileage really may vary.

I had a very good stay Aug 04 but it was an award stay on 15K and 24K.

There were some minor construction and the only other incident was that they charged $6 for international papers (which they did not disclose) and the poor thing about it is that both days came on my last day there. Charging $6 for old news was a little out of line.

I have noticed that rates went up significantly and it is 2x+ other hotels in Sydney. It was very nice but not sure if it would be worth $600AUD...

Likewise had bad service and an overall mediocre experience staying there a while back on an FFN as a diamond. Not inclined to return.

Hi:
I ate at the Park Hyatt three years ago and had some of the worst service imaginable. When I emailed their international customer care department about the unpleasant experience (it was impossible to get someone to refill my water and wine glasses and finally to get the check), the guest services rep stated they would forward my complaints to the hotel for appropriate action. Sounds like nothing has changed, if anything it's gotten worse! :td:

Hi:
I ate at the Park Hyatt three years ago and had some of the worst service imaginable. When I emailed their international customer care department about the unpleasant experience (it was impossible to get someone to refill my water and wine glasses and finally to get the check), the guest services rep stated they would forward my complaints to the hotel for appropriate action. Sounds like nothing has changed, if anything it's gotten worse! :td:

My experience is a few years old now too.
But it haunts me perhaps because I really wanted to see them shine.
The service in the dining room has been evidently struggling for years after reading reports here.
We had a $600 dinner with unacceptable performance also. It is sad because the setting is dream like and magical. The food was only fair and portions downright stingy in some cases.Different portion sizes on the same dishes ordered arrived at our tables.
In the morning it was a struggle to get anyones attention or concern either to be seated,get a menu or explain how Diamonds get their breakfast benefit.We had a good time in spite of the let downs.
I never said anything at the time.
But it is high time somebody gets control over the establishment.
Perhaps the restaurant is outsourced by an outside group?

It sadly is not worth taking chances here other then perhaps drinks and the view. The host was dreadful too. We liked our server but her team around her damaged the experience.

On another unrelated topic.
The hotel itself demanded a higher daily rate to upgrade me at the time which I agreed too. No issue.
But then also decided to remove a large number of points from my account as well :(
Without asking.
It took time to clear the matter up but you can be sure it was not due to any help from the property.They damaged my relationship as a result.
I might consider returning though in the future if I hear more positive reports.

Let me say that I remain a huge Park Hyatt fan.
It is my hotel brand of choice normally.
And it is always my first choice in any city I travel too.The whole scenario was strange and a bit sad.
I have never been back and probably would not except if someone I was traveling with had a wish to overlook the Opera House and stay overnight.

I preferred the Park Hyatt Sydney years ago more when it had a whole different team brilliantly looking after guests.
It was a slightly different culture at the time.
The words I would use would be highly sincere and genuine.
Like all travel experiences most do vary. I prefer other properties and locations in Sydney at present.
The PH Sydney certainly is a very nice and impressive world class hotel and setting. Minus the discussed service defects we experienced during our stay.
For those that have never done it I will say at least stay once if nothing else just for the experience of it. Go out to eat though :)

I far preferred the PH Melbourne since the RC staff were very nice and the lounge was cozy ^

PH Vendome ^ for its stylishness and good service.

Couldn't agree more Snoopyo, the Melbourne PH is far better. PH are my first choice as well most of the time but in Sydney it will never be again. As far as the unique experience I do not fully agree . First of all the Rocks area is in my opinion far too touristy in the bad sense of the word, noisy...try to keep the windows open... not very intimate since every one can see you when seating on your balcony, and the view? ... well provided you have a room with one, and not to have to bend over so much as to almost fall on the other side!
Again the Westin is to me the better choice, the Four Seasons and the Shangri-La both have fantastic views over the harbour bridge and the Opera, even the Intercontinental is better in many respects...

The one big plus the PH has are the balconies. No other hotel in Sydney offers this and we quite enjoy that. However, I must agree on the mediocre food quality in the harbourkitchen$bar. It happend more than once that I pointed out rotten fruit and mouldy strawberries at the breakfast buffet and staff simply smiled and took the one rotten fruit off the plate leaving the remaining food behind. I certainly wouldn't have breakfast there if it wasn't for free, but we certainly value our health and that came as quite a shock. That said, the portions are indeed tiny and the price you pay for lunch or dinner is 70% for the view and 30% for the food quality...very sad I must agree. This being one of the most expensive Sydney restaurants in such a beautiful location...it's a real shame. I'm still a member of their dining club, but I doubt that I will renew it this year. They have to improve significantly to win me back.

The newly renovated rooms are not everyone's taste either...we preferrred them the way they were before. Certainly $600 are far too much to pay for a room there, but unless they notice occupancy rates to drop below 90% I'm sure nothing will change...

Off all the meals there, the breakfast is the best value and it is nice that it is free. The bar menu in the evening is fairly mediocre when I had a couple of things after a latish flight.

If I am not staying there and want to catch up on the view, I guess I would probably perfer to go there for a drink or two before dinner then have dinner there. Far better food elsewhere. Most of the restaurants around the Rock to Circular Quay stretch by the water has pricy but mediocre food since what you pay for is the view.

I was in Australia recently, taking in Sydney and Melbourne along the way. Stayed at the PH in Melbourne again - it's one of my favourite hotels worldwide and I got a great welcome again this time - but have not stayed at PH Sydney. However, what I would say is that I have not yet had a satisfactory experience at any Sydney hotel in regard to service. This time I stayed at the Harbourside Marriott, supposedly a 5* but anything but in service levels. I've had similarly poor experiences at the Hilton and Intercontinental in Sydney on previous visits, which leads me to suspect that the problem is one to do with attitudes toward service in Sydney generally, rather than a hotel-specific problem. What do you think?

I was in Australia recently, taking in Sydney and Melbourne along the way. Stayed at the PH in Melbourne again - it's one of my favourite hotels worldwide and I got a great welcome again this time - but have not stayed at PH Sydney. However, what I would say is that I have not yet had a satisfactory experience at any Sydney hotel in regard to service. This time I stayed at the Harbourside Marriott, supposedly a 5* but anything but in service levels. I've had similarly poor experiences at the Hilton and Intercontinental in Sydney on previous visits, which leads me to suspect that the problem is one to do with attitudes toward service in Sydney generally, rather than a hotel-specific problem. What do you think?

My last stay at the Park Hyatt in Melbourne was spectacular.
The Diamond upgrade the food and beverage and the Regency Club all superb. Ordered in room dining every day. I look forward to my next stay next month and see if the magic continues. Sydney like any city is hit or miss.But I find the Australians to be amongst the most loving kind friendly people in the world.
With a little smile and a polite reminder I find most requests get taken care of.

I far preferred the PH Melbourne since the RC staff were very nice and the lounge was cozy

Totally agree. Recent honeymoon stay. Totally crummy staff attitude at most times. This property is way overrrated, nothing special. If not for the view, they would be out of business. It is a shame that management doesn't foster a culture in which guests are treated better. And, as stacks up against PH Melbourne - just miles of difference. The latter is a hotel which really cares, and really delivers.

Totally agree. Recent honeymoon stay. Totally crummy staff attitude at most times. This property is way overrrated, nothing special. If not for the view, they would be out of business. It is a shame that management doesn't foster a culture in which guests are treated better. And, as stacks up against PH Melbourne - just miles of difference. The latter is a hotel which really cares, and really delivers.
lol I would translate that as " supply and demand view"
Sorry to hear about your stay at PH Sydney.That is one time in your life that good spirits and service really do matter. I remember asking the concierge at PH Sydney for a local newspaper.He told me to go get it outside myself.
Not the end of the world certainly.
But perhaps I expect more from the PH culture which is usually an extremely can do it's a pleasure world.

So the trend I am seeing is fly into MEL on March 2nd for the Formula One Grand Prix, day-trip to Sydney on the 3rd to see all the sights, then head back to MEL for the night at the Park Hyatt and spend the race weekend in Albert Park, thereby skipping having to stay in Sydney at all. :)
I wouldn't miss staying over in Sydney for at least 3 nights.It is a fantastic vibrant city.
With excellent service in a fine number of properties.
I might consider other choices in lodging that have better locations and more fairly priced lodging for luxury accomodations.
In other words the product and the service match the value. At present you are paying for a great opera house view.
And for many that is enough along with the balcony regardless if the service makes the mark or doesn't.My guests were so dazzled by the view of the Opera House they didn't notice half of what I witnessed during my stay.
But for my guests they had died and gone to heaven just being there.

I think many of us (self included) are pretty spoiled/pampered these days after hundreds of night across the globe.Good service can not be people doing you a favor to smile. Sincerity is a nice thing to see.
Caring about the guest and looking after their needs is high on my list.
Anyone can sell a room and a view. Since the new renovation I hear PH Sydney is looking very well. It still was a very well kept property even before the renovation.

Don't miss a breakfast of Ricotta Pancakes and honeycomb butter at the legendary "Bill's" in Sydney.Worth the wait at all costs that is required at times.I detest lines and I wait too :) It can not be easily duplicated elsewhere

So the trend I am seeing is fly into MEL on March 2nd for the Formula One Grand Prix, day-trip to Sydney on the 3rd to see all the sights, then head back to MEL for the night at the Park Hyatt and spend the race weekend in Albert Park, thereby skipping having to stay in Sydney at all. :)

Agree with 777 global miles hound. Don't miss Sydney, a terrific town, just because of hotel worries. Look, let's not overblow this. The Park Hyatt Sydney is a fine property with fine facilities. You get a great diamond breakfast. Its a very good value if using points or FFN, this is one heck of an expensive property to pay cash for. The location is terrific.

The "gripe", if any (and not to look a gift horse in the mouth, I am grateful for Hyatt setting up GP/FFN/points scenarios and allowing me to even have part of my honeymoon here, because I wouldn't be paying A$880 a night for 7 nights), is that "HEY - THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST HOTELS! And one of Hyatt's finest!" After getting "WOW" service at places like PH Melbourne, HR Kauai, and so many other fine places, there is a lot of anticipation. And this property, we'll, it really didn't deliver for us. They just don't give a dang about diamonds, they don't seem to give a dang about service, and it can be a let down.

But for a place to walk into, sleep and occasionally eat, just fine. Just fine. Don't skip Sydney b/c of these trip reports.

As a happy conclusion to an unhappy stay at the PH Sydney, and after contacting Hyatt Customer Service in Europe, the agent in charge of GP, the delightful Adeline Bouchard, was appalled at what I told her about the hotel and the breakfast service. She obviously exercised her power with the hotel, and I received an e-mail and a letter apologizing for the bad experience. Furthermore, the 45000 points I had redeemed for the stay have been reinstated to my account ^ ^
I am truly impressed by the excellent service and the very positive feedback I received after what happened and this the reason I share it with every one at Flyertalk... Kudo to Hyatt Customer Service

It is good to hear that your concerns were adressed.
Have always known that when I buy with Hyatt that I do so in full faith.
If there are true issues I know Hyatt will adress them should I ask.
At Hyatt it is simply always buying in trust.
I only turn for help in situations where a hotel is impossible to work with or unwilling to come to a resolution to solve a problem.That is very rare at Hyatt I am happy to say
I try to not sweat much of the small stuff .
It is nice to know Hyatt Customer service is there when you need them. ^
All comments in this post regarding excellent customer service(buying in trust) are no longer fully valid (jan 2009)

I'm staying at the PH Sydney as I write this and I have to say that service overall has been excellent! Service at breakfast Monday, before Superbowl, was just OK, but otherwise, everyone has been fantastic.

My wife and I were walking to the concierge desk yesterday morning before heading out of the hotel when we were greeted by one of the staff and asked if we were going out. I replied yes, but first we had to mail a letter and send a fax. He said, no problem, give them to me and I'll handle it, you have a g'day. When we returned to our room three hours later, everything was done.

The view is beautiful, as always. I'm always a bit concerned about this hotel, reading all the various reports, but this time I'm glad we're here. :)

So the trend I am seeing is fly into MEL on March 2nd for the Formula One Grand Prix, day-trip to Sydney on the 3rd to see all the sights, then head back to MEL for the night at the Park Hyatt and spend the race weekend in Albert Park, thereby skipping having to stay in Sydney at all. :)
hey hope to see you there. ^
I will be holed up at the RC for most of the time. Just love the PH mel!! :D

there is usually no one in the club. :rolleyes:

hey hope to see you there. ^
I will be holed up at the RC for most of the time. Just love the PH mel!! :D

there is usually no one in the club. :rolleyes:
Consider it your private club :)
I'm there soon myself

Sounds like things may be looking up at PH Sydney. I haven't been there in sometime and staff turn over all the time at a large number of hotels
So one never knows exactly what to expect.That is part of the fun too!
Cheers.

hey hope to see you there. ^
I will be holed up at the RC for most of the time. Just love the PH mel!! :D

there is usually no one in the club. :rolleyes:

I agree...the RC at Melb Park Hyatt is very nice...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=3080251&postcount=47

Parents stayed at PH Sydney in January for their once in a lifetime experience and that it was. Full opera view room (above harbourkitchen) with decent service and a cute design in a refurbished, contemporary style that really worked well. Still the top property in town.

Has anybody ever taken advantage of the Butler Service offered at PH Sydney? I have seen or heard that they claim to be the only hotel in Sydney (maybe even all of Australia) to offer personal butler service to every guest. Has anybody ever used it? If so, for what?

I've stayed at the PH Sydney and, yes, we did use the butler service!
He actually initiated the service, asked if we wanted movies from the movie library and then brought them in and insisted that he prepare popcorn and soft drinks for us so that we could enjoy the movies more. Things like that went on for the entire stay. The room was spacious with a wonderful view of the opera house.

Also, we stayed at the Regent in Sydney on a butler floor. There, he unpacked our bags and ran errands within the hotel for us.

It's definitely a lifestyle most people aren't use to, for sure!

However, as I recall, several years ago at the PArk Hyatt Tokyo, the concierge did about the same thing- DVDs, and speical projects/needs for the room and our well being. Very impressed with not only getting 'sold out' Kabuki theatre tickets but also slipping under our door xeroxed copies of the stories that we would be viewing that evening. We were well versed as to the performance and enjoyed much more due to that 'extra touch'.

The room was spacious with a wonderful view of the opera house.


Were you upgraded because of Dia status, or was this a paid view? Will be going there this weekend for the first time and am crossing my fingers for an opera house view...

Would love to hear about your experiences at the PH Sydney once your trip is over subdawg. I am planning a visit to Sydney in June and am contemplating where to stay.

Whilst there's no running commentary about the service at the PH Sydney, there are some photos that I took of my honeymoon stay amongst these photos from our trip:

http://www.travelscholar.com/australia

Those are some fantastic pictures ^ . Thank you for sharing them with us TravelScholar. Those rooms at the PH remind me of the Dusit Thani in Bangkok. It seems they ran out of drywall and decided to use glass instead :p .

Are the lower pictures from a trip you made to a different city in Australia or are they from New Zealand (or was that last photo of Air New Zealand just there to throw us off :D )?

Thanks again...oh...and you both look cute in those pictures ;) :D . Congratulations ^ .

Were you upgraded because of Dia status, or was this a paid view? Will be going there this weekend for the first time and am crossing my fingers for an opera house view...

Unless you booked the cheapest room which is just described as "guestroom king", All of the rooms on the east and north side have spectacular views.

The cheap (well, AUD500) rooms on the west side of the hotel and nothing special at all. They are half the size of the other rooms and offer fantastic views of the road and a concrete wall.
It is very much worth it to spend the extra dollars and get the views, they are priceless.

I have stayed twice, for three nights in 2002 and 2004, both times using points for a "guest room". The first visit I recieved a decent room, but could only see the Opera House if I stood on the balcony (but I did get to meet and visit with Keanu Reeves in the elevator . . . and he started the conversation!). Last year I had a great room and could see the Opera House while lying in bed. Contrary to a few other comments on this hotel, I have really enjoyed it, although my experiences in the restaurant were "unexciting".

...Those rooms at the PH remind me of the Dusit Thani in Bangkok...

I just returned from a stay 3/3-3/8 from the Park SYD, and enjoyed it. The rooms have been completely refurnished, with more modern decor, and the position of the desk is now by the closet against the wall dividing the bathroom/closet area, with a mini-bar that has an opening. The bathrooms are the same marble ones in the photos. The lobby has been refurnished, too, to a more modern decor.

I was given a City/Harbour view room, so no really tangible upgrade here. The opera house can be seen as soon as I stepped on the balcony.

I took full advantage of the Butler Service with requests like shoe shine, unpacking, packing.....Breakfast was good, as I was spending many all-nighters, so having breakfast at 630 and seeing the sun rise from behind the opera house.....is....simply amazing. I agree that the breakfast selection could be better, but still, it was a good one. Service was fine, with very friendly wait staff.

After experiencing the Westin where my friend were staying, I felt that the Austrailian hotels are not known for service, and hence thought that the choice at the PH was a wise one.....especially it cost me 5 FFNs..... :D :D :D

This is a well respected hotel in Sydney, and the staff working in the hotel are very proud of it........

just returned from another fantastic stay at the Sydney park on FFN.

Got another wonderful upgrade to a studio suite. full bridge and harbour/opera house view with 2 balconies.

I have been quite lucky now to have recieved a full diplomat suite and 2 studios on my last 4 visits. :)

I have stayed twice, for three nights in 2002 and 2004, both times using points for a "guest room". The first visit I recieved a decent room, but could only see the Opera House if I stood on the balcony (but I did get to meet and visit with Keanu Reeves in the elevator . . . and he started the conversation!). Last year I had a great room and could see the Opera House while lying in bed. Contrary to a few other comments on this hotel, I have really enjoyed it, although my experiences in the restaurant were "unexciting".

Yes, away for the US and everyone who is a US citizen becomes ones buddy. Last time I was at the PH Syd, I met Tom Cruise in the health club, he had just finished his massage and I was going in for mine!

Keanu Reeves...Tom Cruise... I guess I know where I'll be staying next time I'm in Sydney (which should be this June) ;) :D ...

Keanu Reeves...Tom Cruise... I guess I know where I'll be staying next time I'm in Sydney (which should be this June) ;) :D ...

Just to add, the PH is a highly regarded hotel in SYD. Whenever I mentioned to people (waiters, salespeople, shopkeepers, etc) when they asked me where I am staying, they all are impressed with the PH response. The hotel is not perfect, but I think it's one of the best choices in SYD, especially staying for free! The FS and Shangri-La are quite "normal" in Sydney.....nothing to rave about....

Staying here at the moment on FFN, for 3 nights. Upon a very early check-in(8am) was told I would get a room facing the city.. trying not to be pompous, I politely reminded the receptionist I was of Diamond status, asking for a room facing the Opera house, and that I would glady wait for sometime if one was available.She checked and came up with a straight on veiw which I profusely Thanked her for. I also received a welcome amenity(half bottle of red wine).As for the service I cannot complain(all requests were answered in minutes).The restaurant,I think was not meant to be 5*.It is there more for to take advantage of the view,which is fantastic.Looking at the lunch prices,they are not outrages.Breakfast was OK(no moldy or rotten fruit). Service was uneven,but only for the lack of staff.All and all, not much to complain here.And the view is overwhelming..

There is good news to report since my last stay(which was considerable time ago) at the Park Hyatt Sydney
Being I was one of those that had some stong criticism on this property I wanted to amend/ update some of my past comments.
I had a bad stay and it happens in any brand from time to time.

Have received word over the last number of weeks through my colleagues that since my last stay at the Park Hyatt in Sydney that one of Hyatts finast team members from within Australia with long time Hyatt experience was transfered to the Park Hyatt Sydney. ^ This happened sometime less then 10 months ago from my understanding.
Being this person is running not the hotel but taking care of all Hyatt GP elite members and their room assignments my full faith is 100% restored in this property to once again do the right thing to the best of their ability and recognize GP members above and beyond. :-: :-: :-: :-: :-:

I have seen this individual in action at other Hyatts in Australia and there is no doubt that once again we can buy in trust at present.
I will be back knowing this dedicated individual is in the house without question.
Along with the new renovation it's high time time to forgive move on and bury the hatchet.
I say to all those considering the Park Hyatt in Sydney including those who also experienced some of the rough waters as I did.
Give the hotel another chance now.
It's in much better hands with a seasoned Hyatt professional who cares about Hyatt,the hotel and all guests.
While I can't vouch for the rest of the service or the dining experience at present the elite reconition team could now not be in better hands.

The Park Hyatt Sydney is back on my list of considerations.
Had I known this individual was in house last month I would have spent the week there.
I received word too late.I'm sure there were plenty to take my place ;)

Would love to hear about your experiences at the PH Sydney once your trip is over subdawg. I am planning a visit to Sydney in June and am contemplating where to stay.

Just wanted to report that at the PH Sydney, we received a great opera house view room. We thoroughly enjoyed the view! At the PH Melbourne, we were given a nice suite (w/fireplace)...pretty good, considering the Air Show was going on then. Seems as if post-9/1 they are still upgrading diamonds.

Just wanted to report that at the PH Sydney, we received a great opera house view room. We thoroughly enjoyed the view! At the PH Melbourne, we were given a nice suite (w/fireplace)...pretty good, considering the Air Show was going on then. Seems as if post-9/1 they are still upgrading diamonds.

subdawg,

Did you get access to the club at the PH Melbourne? That was a very nice Regency club.

Well I talked too soon!

On a stay I recently paid $445 per night for 2 nights and got a very small opera view room then on a FFN another room the same. :(

I have a couple of more stays coming up. I do hope to get a suite! :p

We are staying here next month and are pretty excited about it. We used our points for a free night.

So we have this Platinum extras certificate. We arent real familiar with using these. at PH Sydney, should we opt for the complimentary amenity, dining points? or regency club upgrade?

The PH used to be excellent, maybe the 2nd best PH in the world (after Tokyo), but sadly it has really gone downhill in the past year. Of course it still has that great location (at least half the rooms do; a few rooms are rather bleak). But the PH is not competitive with the Westin in Sydney these days.

But the PH is not competitive with the Westin in Sydney these days.

Well, that depends on how well you can sleep at the Westin with the constant high beeping noise coming from their speaker system on the ceiling next to the beds in the Tower rooms. The speaker is not even used for the audio entertainment or TV, it just emitts this constant noise 24/7 and it's really annoying if you try to fall asleep.

But even apart from that the PH Sydney is by far the better hotel and the location across the Opera House can't be beaten!

I wondered what this was doing here :) the Park Hyatt on award -it is fab. ^
I also have never ever heard anything emitted from near the bed at the Westin:confused:
has anyone else had this problem.
I love the westin. the rooms are comfy and the club is fab.
and at under half the price of the PH well you get what you pay for dont you?
if The Sydney PH had a club like the Melb PH-well then that would be a different matter :cool:

[QUOTE=tinkybelle]I wondered what this was doing here :) the Park Hyatt on award -it is fab. ^
I also have never ever heard anything emitted from near the bed at the Westin:confused:
has anyone else had this problem.
QUOTE]

Agreed on the price difference, but if money wouldn't matter I would always prefer the PH...and especially if it's for free :D

I've got the speaker noise problem in all the Tower rooms (I think the deluxe rooms are better because the position of this speaker on the ceiling is further away from the bed). You probably have to stand still and listen to it. You don't just hear it when you walk in, but you will hear it if it's at night and you try to sleep. It's definitely there and when pointed out to staff they could hear it, too. It's just not obvious if you walk around. This small white speaker is apparently only an emergency speaker and does not have any other function than making noise.

Never had the problem in the Heritage Rooms though but since this is an ongoing problem I have simply avoided staying there completely.

Agreed on the price difference, but if money wouldn't matter I would always prefer the PH...and especially if it's for free :D


Nothing is free on this world.

I did stay there earlier this year for about a week using FFN's. Way overrated IMHO but a good way of using FFN's.

I love the BF vouchers that you can use ordering anything from the menu too for something like extra 5AUD per day.

at PH Sydney, should we opt for the complimentary amenity, dining points? or regency club upgrade? Can this cert be used for a regency club upgrade on an award stay?

Can this cert be used for a regency club upgrade on an award stay?


The title says it all.

More generally, ANY UPGRADE CERTIFICATE (Suite or Club) always requires the payment of a minimum rate which is usually quite high. That said, there have been some reports that some hotels have "honored" the certificate - but don't couint on it.

The title says it all.

More generally, ANY UPGRADE CERTIFICATE (Suite or Club) always requires the payment of a minimum rate which is usually quite high. That said, there have been some reports that some hotels have "honored" the certificate - but don't couint on it.


In our experience most Hyatts outside of NA are fairly open to accept those certs on most rates (btw. RC/GC upgrades are valid in NA only now).

PH Sydney doesn't have a RC (few PH do). I have always been treated well here staying on points. My first visit had a decent view, but could only see the opera house when on the balcony; my last stay when I pushed the button to open the drapes in the morning I could see the opera house without getting out of bed. . . cool. BTW I have never been to thrilled with the restaurant -- not bed, just not great.

My first visit had a decent view, but could only see the opera house when on the balcony;

On my first visit I could see the Opera House if I dangled my self on the balcony more than Mr. Jackson dangled his baby. :D

On my second visit the deluxe room was almost double the size and had more civilized view of the Opera House as well.

BTW. Mr Cruise was having a small party during one day when I was staying at the hotel. I wasn't invited through. ;)

though I doubt they would give that to you on your award stay. We rec'd the room with City/Harbor views on both award stays. Because we wanted two beds (we have very different sleeping habits, let me put it this way), we received a huge size room on both stays. I had a chance to glean in some rooms that had a king bed only and those were fairly small when comparing to the twin beds rooms we had, which I believe measured to at least 500sqft.

Avoid the ground floor room, unless it is located to the far end. Make sure the bathroom is properly cleaned - on our 2nd stay we found blonde hairs in the vanity sink and elsewhere - we were badly in need for a refresh and then to catch the ferry, we just scooped those with tissue papers, and not informed the guy who walked us to the room. Hind sight we should tell them on our way out ...

In our opinion, the PH is way overrated, only the location is the truly unbeatable part of this hotel.

I in no way found this hotel overrated. I was on an award stay of five nights plus one paid night, and was given a room directly facing the Opera House. The location of the hotel was unbeatable.

From the moment I checked in until the moment I left, the service was nothing short of oustanding. The atmosphere and ambience of the hotel were perfect. One downside is the gym, which is crappy. Maybe they'll renovate that next.

If I were using this certificate, I'd choose dining credit, since the amenity would likely be a bottle of wine. The better value, I believe, would be a dining credit.

BTW. Mr Cruise was having a small party during one day when I was staying at the hotel. I wasn't invited through. ;)

I had a very nice conversation with Keanu Reeves on the elevator one morning!!

well just an update, we did our one night stay there and its a really nice hotel, in a fantastic locale. a nice treat was going upstairs to watch the sunrise on the bridge.

they did honor the amenities certificate that I had, sent up a bottle of wine and water, which was nice.

I'd stay there again. Thanks again for the replies.

I stayed there last month (mid/Dec) and it did not impress me much. As everyone else says, the location is great, but I was rather disappointed with the customer service quality - especially regarding their Diamond status recognition. I was almost moving to Marriott nearby. I reported to the GM, but the response was nothing special and things did not improve.

On the other hand, HR Auckland NZ where I stayed in a few days later treated me extremely well. The Front Desk Manager called me on my mobile on the day of arrival asking my expected check-in time so that a room could be ready. Upgrade to RC or Residences was confirmed over the phone, snack + water bottles + fruit + GM's signed welcome letter were waiting in my room...

Different folks will expect different things from their hotels based on a multitude of factors.

I just needed a comfortable place to stay at when I was in Sydney and got a great room (huge) with a wonderful view of the Opera House from the balcony (and this was on points and in late October 06). I still remember my room number; 007...

I have no status with Hyatt but I was treated wonderfully (fruits and chocolates in my room on arrival; what more can one ask for). I loved the location because you could just go out of the hotel and walk along the harbor to the Sydney Opera House and see all these people getting about with their normal work day. Plus the area (The Rocks) had so much to offer in terms of restaurants and "hotels" (pubs)...

It was great and I wouldn't hesitate for a second to book my next stay at the Sydney Pary Hyatt.

Wow, I am not impressed. I have been in Sydney all week at the Westin as it's near my office. I had a weekend to kill before heading to Wellington for a few days and so I thought I would hit the PH Sydney for a night or two. The Westin was a great property, I actually like my room more there, although I am sure that someone will point out that the leather chair and stoll here at the PH are some ultra-expensive modern designer version. There are other things, like the quality of some of the millwork in the rooms and halls here at the PH that really isnt up to the level I would expect.

Here's why I am not happy. I checked out of the Westin at around noon today, and upon arriving here at the PH saw a bit of scrambling and shuffling of key cards behind the desk as I checked in. I thought this meant I had gotten a nice upgrade (booked base room for about $560). My eyes must have popped out of my head when I walked into what I think is the worst room in the property. It's on the back side facing the street with really nothing but a view of the steep hill on that side of the property. Plus, it had a smallish (perhaps 4 feet wide at most) window and that's it, so the room was very dark in the middle of the day.

I called the front desk and mentioned that I didn't like the room. They at first told me it was the only room left and there was nothing they could do. After several different attempts to suggest I "really" wanted another room, I told them to send the valet back up as I was going back to the Westin. Then they told me to hold on and they would look some more. Well, they came up with a room that is better (on the city side, but no harborview unless I stick my head out the window) and I can't complain because I should have booked a higher category room if the harbourview is what I wanted. But come on, at $560 per night... and having to fight like that to get out of a dog of a room without a full window?

While nice, this place is nothing like the PH's in Paris or Milan. And I guess it's just my taste but I like the glass/maple/white marble features of the Westin better than the PH. Great location though, and clearly some "royalty" here. A woman checking out had 8 huge LV trunks, and they had a separate panel van to cart them off for her. That doesnt quite compare with the middle eastern family departing from the PH Milan at the same time we were arriving. They had a medium sized lorry pull up and load 40 to 50 full size trunks. According to the valet, the family had only been visiting for a week.

Sorry to hear about your stay Stephem though not at all surprising.
Most folks are so excited to be at the Park Hyatt in Sydney they usually take what’s given to them

Similar experience as you only mine dates back a few years.
I too am a huge fan of all the Starwood properties in Sydney.
World Class
The Westin being number one ^Sheraton on the Park number two

The Park Hyatt is totally overrated yet that will never stop its popularity.
I tell many go there try it get it out of your system and find a real hotel after that.
Starwood in that market is all about recognizing loyalty at all costs
A number of folks who have stayed at the Park Hyatt in Sydney will tell you frequently it’s a big negotiation game there. I too had the same mirrored experience as you. No good rooms available. But I pleaded this is a very special event in my life.

So guess what for three hundred dollars extra a night they had six prime view rooms available at once from thier sell out position :rolleyes: I took the bait for what was my last stay.
These guys are all about the $$$ pay up you will get what you want.
Sydney is not a great Hyatt GP city. Recognition is much better in Melbourne and elsewhere with Hyatt. No games at least with the upgrades,

Your review nailed the property for a number of folks and it hit a chord with me as I long remember my experience and surprise as that was not how things were in previous visits years ago.Its my guess ownership saw an opportunity to increase revenue at the expense of top tier Gold Passport members and ran with the ball.If it is very slow (not typically) I have heard of some who fared reasonably well.

Years ago The Park Hyatt Sydney was a total class act in every way from the exceptional service to the brilliant recognition without asking /Today it’s a very aggressive revenue maximizing game.Upgrades are rarely in their vocabulary.
They are milking the popularity of the property beacuse of its view.
Though some may like the location I do not.For those that don't want to be in the heart of the action its fine.There are some things to do in tha area but mostly touristy stuff.

I will stay with Starwood when in Sydney (the one market where they have my undivided attention for the most part) again next trip and try a few nights at the Inter Continental to see how they do.

The Westin has a great gym instead of the walk in closet at the Park Hyatt.
I hear the Inter Continental has Opera House Views too.Looking forward to an old tried and proven experience and new with typically reliable hotel partners of choice.^

Thanks 777- I feel a bit better now seeing what you have said. I made a mistake and wasted my time moving to this hotel. I should have remained in the Westin. I would not recommend this hotel to anyone.

A couple of more thoughts...

The highlight was breakfast very early this morning before anyone was even moving. I had a straight on view of the Opera House and the dining room to myself. I would say that breakfast is worth the $40 they charge here (for the view), although I was happy to have the charge waived for my Diamond status. I would actually walk over here early on a weekend morning from another hotel for the breakfast (even at full price).

This hotel is not as full as they claim to be. I've been doing several times daily searches while in town on this and one other occasion, because I wanted to either burn some points or an FFN. They never, not even at 5pm the night of, would open an FFN. But I could find two rooms in each category. I didn't check this on Saturday before I checked (that was a mistake), I had by that point just given up and decided to pay to try out the place.

The service here is not impressive. The staff/guest ratio doesnt seem that good (or everyone is hiding) and other than the two valets who jumped into action when I arrived and asked for help departing, I really didnt get any attention from the staff. Maybe because I was assertive in asking for a better room and they decided to ignore me, maybe because they just aren't a friendly staff. Whatever the reason, the staff here are nowhere near as engaging as the Westin and certainly nothing like the PH's throughout the rest of Asia. I had drinks with a friend in the small bar and wound up chatting up the bar tender. He was actually the nicest employee in the place. Otherwise, they all just sat behind the desks working...

I guess I leave the experience thinking this place either just cares about money or those on a special "A-list." This is fine with me, I wont be back again anyway. But it comes in stark contrast with other PH's that have treated me with as much respect as the high rollers even though I am coming in under my (cheap-o) corporate rate into the lowest category room (or FFN's/points).

Thanks 777- I feel a bit better now seeing what you have said. I made a mistake and wasted my time moving to this hotel. I should have remained in the Westin. I would not recommend this hotel to anyone.

The service here is not impressive. The staff/guest ratio doesnt seem that good (or everyone is hiding) and other than the two valets who jumped into action when I arrived and asked for help departing, I really didnt get any attention from the staff. Maybe because I was assertive in asking for a better room and they decided to ignore me, maybe because they just aren't a friendly staff. Whatever the reason, the staff here are nowhere near as engaging as the Westin and certainly nothing like the PH's throughout the rest of Asia. I had drinks with a friend in the small bar and wound up chatting up the bar tender. He was actually the nicest employee in the place. Otherwise, they all just sat behind the desks working...

I guess I leave the experience thinking this place either just cares about money or those on a special "A-list." This is fine with me, I wont be back again anyway. But it comes in stark contrast with other PH's that have treated me with as much respect as the high rollers even though I am coming in under my (cheap-o) corporate rate into the lowest category room (or FFN's/points).
I made the same mistake as you till I figured out the experience isn't worth the hassle, the cost and the move to a more isolated area for the an over rated property
It wasn’t over rated in the late 90s it was that good. In fact spectacular!

Your overall observations and assessments are excellent. YOU are a very experienced
and savvy traveler to see as to what is going on beneath the surface

And it helps to come from a property like the Westin Sydney where for years the management style under the leadership style of Mr.Matti has had a culture to serve proudly and warmly. It’s called sincere caring service and it is the way the former Park Hyatt brand typically was for years globally.

That started eroding as many Hyatt GMs shifted out of many of their hotels like musical chairs and Park Hyatt brand tried to conjure up this International air about it
And instead brought in younger lower paid and more inexperienced team members.
Image has became more important then guest skills and service execution.
A lack of sincerity and interest in the guest was clear throughout my last visit to Park Hyatt Sydney.

My favorite example was the concierge when I asked for a newspaper who said I don’t do those and pointed his finger to a guy outside the hotel……….

Sydney is blessed to have some of the most friendly and warm outgoing individuals in the world living there. It actually takes a lot of effort to find many team members that don’t seem to care in a city like Sydney.

Though I can not comment presently. Only you can and I thank you for that:)
I don’t care to test the waters again not even for a free night.
Why should I? When I stay at Airport Hotels that treat me better.
And in the case of the Park Hyatt Sydney stay one night for the experience of the view with a loved one.

Once you have seen the view you want a property that delivers the goods and builds a lifetime relationship. Sydney has and remains a proud hospitality city of excellence even if the Park Hyatt has fallen out of step and playing a short term dead end shoot yourself in the foot approach.
And with the demise or should I better say shrinking list of Park Hyatts Hyatt needs this property as much as its guests.

It time to clean house and get a new team in house and the hotel can be the ultimate destination property of all Hyatt’s worldwide. Its one game of musical chairs I might finally applaud. And that with positive word of mouth would bring me back again in a heartbeat. Thankfully they don’t need me
There are plenty willing to play the game just to be there

Thanks for the post and update and enjoy the rest of your stay ^

I'm burning 3 FFN's here in January. I'd like some upbeat posts about the property in my Christmas stocking, please. :D

I'm burning 3 FFN's here in January. I'd like some upbeat posts about the property in my Christmas stocking, please. :D

It’s not that bad. And a great use for FFN
It’s a comparison thing based on other area properties especially when you are paying the normal area rates. And that’s where they lose much ground
In some US cities I would still call the property in comparison above average
And in Sydney in years past The Park Hyatt set the Gold Standard in Sydney city wide(the late 90s)

They have had some serious changes from ownership, management and the direction of Hyatt International, corporate and major team overturn.
My only concern here as a Diamond would be the upgrade concern. The staff may be ok (I have heard of a few on public forums that like the service and others that dislike the service which seem to outweigh the thumbs up category group.But the difference here is that many of us are Diamond members and know what is a reasonable expectation.

As you know all to well from your own travels experiences may vary.
As an experienced traveler many of us eagerly await your review and own assessment

If it’s a first stay you may be focused on much else. More likely the view.
Hopefully GP upgrade recognition may match the view quality :)
And that the Park Hyatt Sydney Santa is good to you.
Happy Holidays

Thanks, 777mgh. That helps give me some perspective for the complaints.

everytime I stay at the ph and burn a night I realise how amazing the position is
the rooms are small unless you get an oversize mini suite.
but too open a cold french or perrier and toast the view on the tiny verandah is an experience in itself

as it is a FFN its a good deal

if I was spending $700
no WAY!!!
everytime I head for the pool and see people in groups I wonder-
are they ftalkers burning nights or people actually paying here.
I toast the ftalkers and shake my head at those actually paying such a redicuous amount for a night at this hotel.
but if I ws a visitor to sydney and had the chance to stay here I wouldnt stay anywhere else
but then again people pay 500 euro for the vendome and I think its a very mediocre hotel.
sandiego1k

you have chosen well. I kinow you have stayed in sydney a number of times and may have walked past the PH but you wont regret your stay here.
you will hopefully look at Sydney in a whole different light after this stay

I'm burning 3 FFN's here in January. I'd like some upbeat posts about the property in my Christmas stocking, please. :D

There may be better properties - but none with the location. The rooms are not large, and the service is great by Australian standards - but may be a tad un-responsive by international standards.

I have stayed at the PH Syd at least 15-20 times and I have never been disappointed because I have realistic expectations. Enjoy your complimentary breakfast but avoid other meals as there are plenty of great reasonably priced eateries (incl a great fish place) within walking distance. Also, if you feel like a beer, there are lots of Aussie pubs within a 10 min walk. By the way, most pubs in Oz serve great counter meals.

One final word of advice, read up on "tipping in Australia" befter you depart.

I'm burning 3 FFN's here in January. I'd like some upbeat posts about the property in my Christmas stocking, please. :D

I'm also doing 3 nights (2 rooms) on FFNs here in January - so thank you also for the recent comments.

IMO as well, this is a fine place to burn not only FFNs but even points, as it consistently gets high room prices due to location and, as a result, is fine value for awards.

I've never experienced good service in any Australian hotel, even luxury brands, so keep your service expectations within reason. It might help if you arrive not too late in the day so the hotel still has other rooms to move you to, if need be. You'll probably end up OK in that case.

Curiously, some of the best luxury hotel managers I've ever met are Australian. Pity none of them seem to work in Australian hotels, but they are found all over the REST of Asia!

I've never experienced good service in any Australian hotel, even luxury brands, so keep your service expectations within reason. It might help if you arrive not too late in the day so the hotel still has other rooms to move you to, if need be. You'll probably end up OK in that case.



I find this to be a little bit of an exaggeration. Maybe if you have said "I've never experienced "GREAT" service in any Australian hotels", I might be more inclined to agree.

But also remember that it is not the custom to throw tips around in Australia in the same way that you might in other countries

But also remember that it is not the custom to throw tips around in Australia in the same way that you might in other countries

I do however understand that staff are also paid a bit more in Australia than say in the USA; no $7/hr wages so one would hope a higher salary would also result in better service.

I do however understand that staff are also paid a bit more in Australia than say in the USA; no $7/hr wages so one would hope a higher salary would also result in better service.

One can always HOPE about anything. If your premise was valid, then one could hope that the service in (say) France would be better than ...

It is my premise that the incentive of CASH tips (as opposed to a service charge or high salaries) usually brings better, prompter and more attentive service

I find this to be a little bit of an exaggeration. Maybe if you have said "I've never experienced "GREAT" service in any Australian hotels", I might be more inclined to agree.

But also remember that it is not the custom to throw tips around in Australia in the same way that you might in other countries

OK, let me modify that -- I did experience pretty good room cleaning service at Hell's Gate Roadhouse, given that there were significant factors making it challenging: only 4 units, 80 km from the nearest source of supplies (the airstrip at Doomadgee -- which is unreachable during the wet season), and that electrical service was generator provided from about 7am to 9pm!

This discussion motivated me to ask the more general question about whether any Australian hotel provided GREAT service, and I started a thread to that effect on the luxury hotel forum. So far, only one reply.

I've never experienced good service in any Australian hotel, even luxury brands, so keep your service expectations within reason....

Richard, I agree with this comment wholeheartedly. I thought and had been just chucking it up to my own experiences or just unlucky, but now I have another similar opinion.

As someone who grew up in Asia and accustomed to the most attentive service around the world, I'd say in many regards Australian hotel service is not even up to par with American hotel service. There are exception to this rule of course.

While the service at PH was polite, unintrusive, and adequate, it was not the PH Tokyo. It will never be the PH Tokyo. The Westin was just a sorry state of affairs - doormen didn't even open the door (of car or the hotel) for me or greet me.

Anyway, some may disagree, but the Australian hotels are down below with the British hotels (less exceptions) in terms of of service.

Richard, I agree with this comment wholeheartedly. I thought and had been just chucking it up to my own experiences or just unlucky, but now I have another similar opinion.

As someone who grew up in Asia and accustomed to the most attentive service around the world, I'd say in many regards Australian hotel service is not even up to par with American hotel service. There are exception to this rule of course.

While the service at PH was polite, unintrusive, and adequate, it was not the PH Tokyo. It will never be the PH Tokyo. The Westin was just a sorry state of affairs - doormen didn't even open the door (of car or the hotel) for me or greet me.

Anyway, some may disagree, but the Australian hotels are down below with the British hotels (less exceptions) in terms of of service.
I don't think I know what the definition is of good service sometimes when I read Flyertalk or other public forums.
My own perception of a great stay from my thousands of nights would be

• High quality accommodations
• A reasonably free defect experience (everything works)
• Sincere Team members that take a genuine interest in you
• Attentive service with good follow-up
• The ability to solve problems
• Bright personable concierge with good instincts who refer you correctly and make your stay more productive
• Recognition in line with ones elite status and experiences worldwide within that brand
• Guest friendly complimentary services like computers 800 numbers ,
executive lounge paid or complimentary due to elite status
• Good ambience
• Odor Free experience of lobby stinky perfume scents and other putrid sprays which applies to guest rooms too
• Quiet civilized experience even if the public areas are lively

In the case of the Park Hyatt Sydney I felt years ago they were awe inspiring
I can never forget what it once was and perhaps why I sound so harsh on the property.But in the good old days the hospitality and welcome rivaled the view!
On my last and probably final visit stiff, phony and not interested in much of anything but your wallet.
There were some very minor exceptions.......

With regards to Australia and the hospitality service industry never have I met more beautiful proud to serve folks anywhere in the world.On average all these years.
That includes most brands experienced over the years within Australia
I look up to most of these incredible woman and men who with heartfelt sincerity gave me stay after stay of a lifetime.
I came as a guest and left friends more like family or personal friends looking out after you.
Not only Australians but folks from all over the world that come to work in hotels within Australia.Even break a few rules by offering to tour me around in their cars after work.
So I personally think highly of Australian service in hotels.
It starts with the local culture.And Australians rule IMO

Only the Park Hyatt Sydney left me with the feeling they were doing me a favor to have me as a guest but they may have just been over the past few years.And for all I know it could be excellent again here.I only have my limited experiences there and that of others I read about.
I am thrilled to have had a number of experiences there but have no desire to return as enticing as the views are.
For that I can see from other hotels, restaurants or bars in the area and return to a hotel that I personally feel great about staying in where I spend my money.

Tinkybell said it best when you stand on one of their balconies with some bubbly and look out. That is the experience there.We can say what you want about the hotel and its negatives but it is a very cool experience.
I am glad to move on where I get great value and a location that better suits my needs.

As Bill Clinton once said it depends what the definition of that word is :D
In this case it is the word service which he did not elaborate on
Means varied things to different people and their perceptions of such.
At the end of the day it is highly subjective.

If you take all the folks at the Park Hyatt Sydney and hide them away many guests would still want to be there and view the Opera House even without a staff
And that is what makes for a captive audience willing to beeline it to their door.
More power to them to expolit that position just glad its out of my system.
Been there done that

I don't think I know what the definition is of good service sometimes when I read Flyertalk or other public forums.

Service in the sense that it is almost the staff's natural ability to make the guest feel welcomed and at home. It should be just that, that the staff's ONLY CONCERN would be the well-being (all aspects) of the guests. I grew up accustomed to servants and butlers, so that mentality I clearly understand and would expect from everyone in a service industry.

I will give you an example a severe service lapse in AU that would not even happen in the US:

I was having lunch with a friend at the Westin (friend was in house guest at the hotel), signed the lunch to the room. About an hour later, friend realized he left his bag under the table, and went downstairs to restaurant. Server said he had found it and turned it to the Concierge. The bag had been with the Concierge all this time (had his ID and luggage tag on it), but nobody bothered to call him at his room to inform him of the lost bag, or even deliver it upstairs. :td:

The contrary to this was at the Conrad in Hong Kong two weeks ago. I had left an envelope of US Pesos in the safe and I had forgotten to retrieve it (got everything except the envelope, since it was at the bottom). It had a few Benjamins -- but as I was taking the car to CLK, my cell phone rang, from my office in the US. Not only did the office get a phone call from the hotel, also an email saying that I had forgotten a personal item in the hotel room, and asked for instructions for its return. Since I am returning to the hotel within two week I had simply called the hotel back to hold the envelope for my retrieval on my return visit. This is service.

The other time I was switching between GH Tokyo and PH Tokyo during my visit in Tokyo, I had just checked out of the GH and arrived at the PH -- and discovered I had left everything, passport, tickets, and cash, in the safe [remember the hidden safe at GH.....and also at GH SIN] -- the PH check in person was notified, immediately called GH, and got someone to retrieve it from the room at GH, and sent a Concierge over to the PH. The Concierge wouldn't and didn't open anything until he was in front of me at my suite at the PH. The person had kindly asked me to open my wallet to take out an ID to show him that these articles belong to me -- showing that he was highly respectful of my privacy too. This is service.

There are many more examples, from subtle ones of maids failing to greet me when passing by in the hallways (ALWAYS MY PEEVE), to doormen failing to open the door or maids failing to make up a room properly. I would say the lost item example is really disappointing, as even in US hotels I have things returned in a more efficient manner.

The last time I checked into the PH Tokyo, there was a small partially-used spray bottle of Afrin on the table in the room, with a little printed note attached saying they had found it after I checked out the previous time.

Could that EVER happen at the PH Sydney or Melbourne, even for a frequent customer?

And before someone points it out, I did NOT expect to be notified earlier for an item that both they and me knew was worth about $2.

By the way, that is VERY small magic compared to some of the things good Tokyo hotels -- not just the PH -- have done for me on their own over the years.

I will give you an example a severe service lapse in AU that would not even happen in the US:


Wow don't travel with me ;)
I will give you twenty examples of worse then that happening in the US:o
You might want to avoid the Westin Peachtree in Atlanta :eek:
Who found my property only after I proved they were mistaken in not finding it/ and telling them where to look.Housekeeping never turned it in and then security proceeded to lose it once I arrived at the hotel with the items never to be seen or found again :( Hope they are enjoying my gifts

You may want to read the Wall Steet Journal article who showed after their tests how poorly hotels did when the reporters purposely left stuff behind
Dismal dismal statistics.
Just consider yourself very lucky you had your items returned ^

How much does the hotel charge for internet?

Does the hotel have a computer free for guest use?

How much does the hotel charge for internet?

Does the hotel have a computer free for guest use?

They have some high fees for a business ctr computer use. Fees are similarly high by US standards for the in-room broadband.

We had a good stay at PH Sydney last night before heading back to the US. People were nice and we got good suggestions for the night out in Sydney. However, the front desk was nothing exceptional. In fact, they were adamant we could not have a later checkout than 12.30pm, which messed up our plans. One hour's extra time would have made a difference for us, since we wanted to take a ferry to Manly before going to the airport. While checking out instead of the usual small talk about how things were and where we were heading next, we had to argue to have a 1 AUD telephone charge removed, because we got charged for a phone call that had no answer. Maybe the desk clerk was not street smart enough. They had a "cashier" plate on her desk. Reminded of a bean counter. Either you are gracious or you decide to argue about one dollar charge. The location is superb though, the bed comfortable, room design good, shower pressure fine. Just be careful not to slip on that marble floor after you shower.

How much does the hotel charge for internet?

Does the hotel have a computer free for guest use?
This is the kind of hotel where it is expected that everybody has deep unlimited pockets.
The hotel has excessive fees for most everything which is just another part of the reason when I am paying for a hotel in Sydney I like to use the Sheraton on the Park or other. Its guest friendly points or revenue
The Sheraton has an outstanding exec lounge and a free computer to use for Plats
That said considering you are redeeming and staying at the Park I would hunt out an internet cafe.
Thankfully Sydney has a number of low cost adequate such places.
There is one right around the corner from the Marriott on Hyde Park
The internet joint I refer too is on Oxford Street if you don’t end up finding one or are near that area when touring
I am almost certain there must be a similar place closer to your hotel

Off topic though something I am famous for ;)
Don’t miss Ricotta Pancakes with honeycomb butter at “Bills”
That said I am not normally a fan of pancakes.
I like waffles typically however they turned me around

IF you care to eat breakfast outside the hotel at least once this is the place to do so,
I rarely do but this however this is one place I have to at least once during a trip It is a life changing experience!No diet constraints when I go either.
Its full splurge time :)

There is no comparison to anything I have tried on planet earth.
The original Bills (A Sydney institution) has both communal dining
(don't be shy its fun and you get to meet locals) and by the private table.
Be prepared to wait especially on weekends.Weekdays are better.
But at least try it once!

There is another killer place for cakes, cookies and breads if you are interested……
It’s a ten on the yum factor.
A Happy New Year to you!Ring in a good one

Hi. Been reading your comments about this hotel with interest. Using some points to fly to Sydney and booked this hotel for a romantic getaway with the wife. As a D-GP member, it sounds like upgrades are hard to come by and that the hotel is a complete rip-off......since I am paying for the hotel, do you think that I would be better off staying 1 night at this hotel and then moving to a Hilton property, where I have Diamond status as well? I have to say that I am thinking about cancelling this reservation totally after the comments, but I am interested to see if it is really that bad (and a rip-off). However, it may be worth just one night. Thanks.

depends on how much you are paying per night !!

there is absolutely no comparasin between the Hyatt and the hilton/. the hilton has tiny rooms and you cannot open the windows(a big minus for me)
its not in a fun part of town it is the shopping district
there is no view.
I certainly wouldnt move hotels thats a big drama as most hotel wont let u in before 2-3 especially at the moment they are all full every day
hilton will definitely only give u an exec room and the food isnt that fab the breakky at the hyatt leaves the exec club buffet for dead.

sandiego1k there is no free internet and I think access is like $30 a day
I think you can also buy an internet card for like 1 -2 hrs

same with most hotels in sydney.
SOTP and hilton are the only ones Ive found with free access in the lounge
though I was at the westin the other night and they seem to have free internet in the lounge.
I stayed at the 4 pts then the westin then the sheraton in the last few days and went to the hyatt for lunch on NY day.
it still is a very impressive hotel;

I'll put it to you this way.....the Hyatt is twice as much as the Hilton......but the Hyatt seems impressive........thanks for the info.......

I'll put it to you this way.....the Hyatt is twice as much as the Hilton......but the Hyatt seems impressive........thanks for the info.......

If you and your wife stay at the Park Hyatt, then you will have a truely memorable SYDNEY experience. The view and the location are unequaled in Sydney. Tinky has given you an accuate picture of the Hilton and if you do not stay at the PHS, then I would sugget that you pick any one of the other great hotel in Sydney, Two of my favourites are the Intercontinental and the Westin.

Enjoy you trip

...There is another killer place for cakes, cookies and breads if you are interested……
It’s a ten on the yum factor...

Please do share the info for the carb addicts among us. :D

Please do share the info for the carb addicts among us. :D
I searched this morning for the name and found it!

For a great bakery snack of coffee and cake
Though take away/out only as there are no tables there
By far one of the best bakeries in Sydney hands down.If not anywhere
Infinity Sourdough Bakery next to a fire house on Victoria
225 Victoria Street
Darlinghurst NSW (next to a fire house on Victoria)
Phone : 02 9380 4320
Opening times : Daily: 6am-8pm

The Financier almond cake has no peers and their almond croissant a textbook case of what it should taste like. Though all varieties are of that quality.

These varied baked products while subject to personal taste have one thing in common
Exceptional ingredients pure butter and just sweet enough so you taste the product and not all sugar.
I always visit at least once or twice during a stay
Wish we had something similar in the US.
I would say the Infinity Sourdough Bakery is more in keeping with French and other world class European bakeries with one exception.
The baked items are created for great taste and texture instead of visual perfection.
In Europe frequently many of the bakeries turn out products that look like fine jewels as often the case in upscale French bakeries.
However all too often the taste and texture are not there and you pay a lot for style over substance.

Have made it a habit though to always bring some of their excellent bread on board for the trip home even in business or first class.
It helps to know no matter how good or bad the food is you have a world class dessert and baked bread to look forward too for the long journey home
And in a way you get to still feel as if you are still dining in Sydney all the way home.The best deal of all is when there are leftovers to pop them in the freezer for a rainy day and have a taste of Sydney weeks after the return home.

The bakery is in walking distance from Bills.
I walk to both from Hyde Park though usually cab it back to the hotel with all the boxes in hand :)
It is funny how many Australians I have turned onto the place that love it and never knew it existed.
Simply brilliant making their city proud ^

Hi. Been reading your comments about this hotel with interest. Using some points to fly to Sydney and booked this hotel for a romantic getaway with the wife. As a D-GP member, it sounds like upgrades are hard to come by and that the hotel is a complete rip-off......since I am paying for the hotel, do you think that I would be better off staying 1 night at this hotel and then moving to a Hilton property, where I have Diamond status as well? I have to say that I am thinking about cancelling this reservation totally after the comments, but I am interested to see if it is really that bad (and a rip-off). However, it may be worth just one night. Thanks.

I don't see this hotel as a rip off though it may be perceived as such by some.
It is an overpriced luxury property with a very memorable view.
And the real issue here appears to lie with Gold Passport recognition something that has been substantiated by many. This effects satisfaction of a select group of elite customers. And IMO a very important group
The average person may oooh and ahhh at the view and be thrilled to stay there.I personally don't need to see the view stay after stay especially having stayed there.It is out of my system.The experience of service,the room itself and overall value become a bigger priority.

Though some like the location I find it highly undesirable for my interests
Being you are using revenue I would stay one or two nights for the experience and by all means stay elsewhere. Now if you are on a romantic date or a honemoon that might be a different story.

I find for productivity, touring and dining everything seems to be inconvenient in staying there. However it may be just what you are looking for. Because everyone’s needs/desires are different

I still like the Hilton location (though I have not stayed there) better as it is closer to Hyde Park the Westin and the Sheraton. Can’t vouch for the rooms but size isn’t everything anyway in my book. Use of internal space and function is.

Thanks for all of your input....have decided to stay there, as it is the first non-business trip I have taken in many years....only 3 nights there, and since I will not have a laptop, briefcase, etc...the business services should not matter that much.

Thanks as well for the bakery info. My wife has already worked out a trip there for an afternoon tea...:)

Thanks for all of your input....have decided to stay there, as it is the first non-business trip I have taken in many years....only 3 nights there, and since I will not have a laptop, briefcase, etc...the business services should not matter that much.

Thanks as well for the bakery info. My wife has already worked out a trip there for an afternoon tea...:)
And now back off topic on the Park Hyatt Sydney :)
Keep in mind no tables at the bakery just a take out area so be prepared to sit elsewhere and enjoy.When I stayed at the PH Sydney we got two large cakes and invited a group of friends up for coffee tea and dessert.
And it was fun to the overlook the Opera House at the same time off the balcony.
And wake up to the leftovers ;)
Have a great trip!

I am at the hotel now, and am well pleased.

On arrival, I was greeted by the doorman as I stepped out of my cab. He offered help with my suitcase, but it was such a small one, I declined. He asked my name and radioed it to the front desk. He walked me inside and made sure that I had a person available to help me check in.

I was quickly checked in, and asked what time I wanted to check out. I wasn't sure of my flight time, so I was proactively given 4pm, just in case I needed it.

The person who checked me in walked me to my room and showed me around it. It had a harbor/city view (no opera house, except when standing on the tiny balcony).

Once he left, I looked at the floorplan, and realized that room sizes differ dramatically. The hotel is in a serpentine shape, thus a wide range of room sizes and views. I was in the smallest room. I went back to the front desk to ask if I could be moved on the following day, thinking they were sold out as it was Saturday and quite busy. After a couple minutes of checking, I was immediately offered a bigger room and I could immediately move.

Once I settle into a hotel, I'm pretty low maintenance. Still, what little service I require has been offered efficiently and warmly.

Wired internet costs $30/day. There is wireless in the lobby.

It's a special treat to sit at breakfast with the glass walls up, and have a dead on view of the opera house. The water literally comes up under the hotel, which has pilings down into the ground. It feels like a resort hotel with this location, rather than a city hotel.

I'd like to echo BeyFlyer's remarks in this thread:

I loved the location because you could just go out of the hotel and walk along the harbor to the Sydney Opera House and see all these people getting about with their normal work day. Plus the area (The Rocks) had so much to offer in terms of restaurants and "hotels" (pubs)...

It was great and I wouldn't hesitate for a second to book my next stay at the Sydney Pary Hyatt.

I am glad to hear you are having a wonderful time at the PH.

Curious.. is there any sort of trick to book a room for New Year's Eve? I'm looking to book a hotel room with a balcony (and a vew of the bridge) for NYE 2008... seemed like this would be a good property to try, but I believe it's still a bit too early to try to book is it not? (I seem to recall a 330 day rule.)

- T

you need to book 2 nights at 1400 oz per night and they will be gone very shortly
there is no other way to get a room.
you are not guaranteed a view of the bridge that is a city view.
this is a non refundable rate.

you need to book 2 nights at 1400 oz per night and they will be gone very shortly
there is no other way to get a room.
you are not guaranteed a view of the bridge that is a city view.
this is a non refundable rate.

I don't understand the view guarantee... are you guaranteed a bridge view and not a city view, or a city view that may not be of the bridge, or neither? :)

I dont see any words bridge anywhere in the booking at all
there is no guarantee for any particular room that I can see for NYE:confused:

Room Type: Tuesday Wednesday
Park Twin
Room Details 1400.00 1400.00
Total Price Per Room: 2800.00 AUD 1 BOOK

Park King
Room Details 1400.00 1400.00
Total Price Per Room: 2800.00 AUD 1 BOOK

Typically, PH room types are standardized now and the Park twin/king is the lowest level room -- which means anyone paying those breathtaking room rates will almost certainly NOT have the opera house view.

Typically, PH room types are standardized now and the Park twin/king is the lowest level room -- which means anyone paying those breathtaking room rates will almost certainly NOT have the opera house view.

Good to know... I'll steer clear. That much money just for the privilege of being close to the fireworks show, but no view of the show - is a total waste of money.

Stayed at the PH Sydney last weekend - and was very disappointed with my experience there...

a) I had a confirmed suite upgrade for 6.000 points. At check-in I was told that I was booked into a standard room and there was no suite available. Even handing over my e-mail-confirmation with the confirmation number didn´t help. Took them 90 minutes to get back to me and come up with the following story: Deluxe Standard Rooms used to be called suites and I must have misunderstood something. "Of course" I was upgraded to a Deluxe Standard Room. After seeing the GM, I got my Premium Suite (although only on the ground floor) and my 6.000 points back. Don´t ever lie to customers and especially to Diamonds who are supposed to know what´s going on :td::td::td:

b) I was offered a range of Diamond amenities and picked the fruit platter. Platter was not looked after on day 2 and was finally charged to my room??? :td:

c) Got an invitation letter for complimentary breakfasts - guess what, even the breakfasts were charged to my room... Quality of the breakfast was disappointing and so was the service. :td:

d) Premier Suite does not offer any opera view - the Opera King Deluxe is offering full frontal views, has the same size and is 450 AUD cheaper... :td:

e) Many staff there has an attitude, especially in the lobby. Bellboys were all very friendly though.

Stayed at the PH Melbourne (great service, great property) thereafter and met other guests who stayed at the PH Sydney. Same experience there, also complained to the GM for a number of service let-downs.

PH Paris, Melbourne, Zurich and Tokyo were all able to make my stays memorable - the PH Sydney is far away from being a Park Hyatt property. Cannot recommend to stay there for the moment.

Doesn't sound very promising.
I have 5 FFN at the end of the month.
All this make me feel like should have used them somewhere else.
Stayed at the PH Hyatt twice before on points/FFN a few years ago and had a Opera King,was good enough for me.
That was 2 years ago,sounds like things have changed.

The Park Hyatt Sydney did the Hyatt name proud. My stay was simply flawless. Asked for and received an Opera House view room (using FFN). Amenity was automatically delivered to my room. I was invited for breakfast and no charge ever appeared on my bill. Do upgrade to the breakfast with hot entree option for $5AUD as the entrees are very nice. View from breakfast was amazing (again asked for and received a front row seat). I would actually pay the $40/$45 for breakfast here, it was that good.

Turndown service was provided in the evening. We were mezmorized by the view from our 3rd flor balcony - it was straight onto the Opera House. Very cool to see all the boat traffic in the harbour. We were told that one of the large yachts parked near the hotel belonged to Sting. While the pool and hot tub are small they are on the rooftop and offer great views. Waving at the Bridgeclimbers spoils their speach which says that unsuspecting hotel guests dont realize that hundreds of people are peering over them! They are quite far away so no issues there. The gym is compact and lacks an elliptical but I went for a run in the Botanical gardens past the opera house, which beats any gym!

I did have an issue with losing an item down the elevator shaft (not uncommon so be careful when entering/exiting). They have located it and are sending it to me. Concierge service is outstanding - they know some really obscure stuff and don't even have to look it up.

My experience at the Park in Melbourne was very disappointing - the staff there are CLUELESS and have no idea what service is (on many fronts). They also have no idea about what Diamond status is. The lounge was however amazing!

My experience at the Park in Melbourne was very disappointing - the staff there are CLUELESS and have no idea what service is (on many fronts). They also have no idea about what Diamond status is. The lounge was however amazing!

Funny, my stay at the PH Melbourne was flawless - great staff, they double-upgraded to me to a Spa King on their top floor with a terrific cathedrale view (spending my FFN night), amenity (red wine) was brought to my room, attentive staff at the lounge and for breakfast. Guests from the UK who stayed at the PH Sydney the weekend before were under the same impression... Ms Poynder, GM PH Sydney, received a couple of complaints that weekend, and her attitude was far away from being appropriate. Not to mention that the aircon was not working for 24 hours...

The room itself at MEL was very nice but the location was inferior. If you had the choice of a cathedral view and an Opera House view which one would you pick? :)

The room itself at MEL was very nice but the location was inferior. If you had the choice of a cathedral view and an Opera House view which one would you pick? :)

The Opera House view - but my Premier Suite had no view on the opera not even from the balcony...

To be fair, GM contacted me herself to confirm the refund of my 6.000 points used for the upgrade, asked for more feedback and got back to me with a very nice answer to that. ^

Since there were so many comments that were helpful before my visit to this hotel, I thought it fair to inform all of you about my visit.

The room was nice, the view was amazing (booked and got a king opera room) and it was an overall good experience.

The front desk staff were rude and arrogant.....words cannot describe.......but the bell staff were excellent. The restaurant staff varied from OK to bad. However, the concierge was one of the best I have ever had at ANY hotel. He is an amazing guy, very good at his job, I cannot say enough good about him.

The bartender in 'the Club Bar' was excellent. Cannot say the same about the bar near the restaurant......they seemed more worried about chatting to the wait staff and the cooks rather than looking after their customers.

In terms of value for money, I'm sure that there are many better hotels in SYD. However, this hotel is a 'once in a lifetime' type of experience for the views alone. The concierge and bell staff saved this trip in terms of service. I can undertand many of the complaints appearing on the boards about this hotel, especially given the price, but there are some excellent staff at this hotel....I think that it is a matter of whom you deal with and what you are looking for.

On another related point, the concierge knew the Infinity Sourdough Bakery.....he knew we were short of time as we were meeting relatives in SYD, and he arranged for a nice strawberry and cream cake to be picked up from there and sent to the room.....we only paid for the cake as no other charge appeared on our bill. We just got a note from the concierge with the receipt and confirmation of our reservations for lunch at Jonah's the next day. Outstanding.

Many thanks to all of those who provided input on this property before our trip.

We just returned from our 3 night stay (2 rooms) all on FFNs - very well pleased with the property.

We found all the staff pleasant and helpful. We arrived from AKL just before noon and one of the rooms was ready immediately while the other was ready by the time we returned to the hotel at 4 pm.

Our rooms were 328 and 332 - 328 room was smaller but had a "full" balcony with 2 chairs while 332 was larger but only had the "small" circular balcony without any seating. As indicated above the building is "serpentine" in shape with all the rooms on one side - therefore room numbers are consecutive on that side only. On floor 3, the room numbers were from 301-349 - with the extremely low numbers (say 301-310) and extremely high numbers (345-349) to be avoided since they don't have any views (either the back side of the Harbor Bridge for the low numbers and a side view of a tree with the high numbers). Other than those, the next bunch seem to be larger rooms some are perhaps suites (310-314 and 343-345). The rest are "regular" rooms with a Harbor/City views with the Opera House being seen when looking left out of the balcony. Every third room has the "small" circular balcony without seating (as indicated 328 had a "full" balcony and 332 had a "small" balcony) so count accordingly. I don't know if all rooms line up on the 1st and 2nd floors but assume that they do since the building lines up on the outside. Rooms on the ground floor (002-0016 I believe) have a patio that is a bit larger than the balconies up above but the downside is that they are not private since people on the boardwalk can see into the room if the curtains are drawn open.

The property is in good condition with some worn areas (especially the hallways that look a bit downscale for such an upscale property - perhaps some alternating wood paneling to match the room entrances would help). Within the rooms themselves the bathrooms are startlingly mismatched to the decor (somewhat "traditional") of the rest of the room (much more contemporary). The closet as well as the doors to the closet and the bathroom are quite worn. In room 328, on the second night the TV (flat panel) inexplicably kept turning itself on every 2 hours or so and charged a movie to the room by itself. Problem was solved upon notification the next day and the charge was removed at checkout.

The business center offers 3 computers (and perhaps one network hookup for laptops) for guest use at no charge for up to 30 minutes (not strictly enforced).

Breakfast is quite nice with the "Continental" Buffet being complimentary for Diamonds with an upcharge of $5 AUD for a hot "entree" - I enjoyed the truffled scrambled eggs.

Diamond amenity was relatively weak - 2 nectarines and some cherries. However, Diamond perks were granted without question for both rooms.

As many have said here, celebrities can regularly be seen at the hotel. One morning Cate Blanchett had breakfast with a group of women the next table over. My partner saw Sting coming out of the elevator on the 3rd floor.

Overall, a great property that's definitely unbeatable on FFN or award points. Whether it is really worth the $700 AUD is somewhat debatable unless its for a special stay.

We just returned from our 3 night stay (2 rooms) all on FFNs - very well pleased with the property.
As many have said here, celebrities can regularly be seen at the hotel. One morning Cate Blanchett had breakfast with a group of women the next table over. My partner saw Sting coming out of the elevator on the 3rd floor.

Overall, a great property that's definitely unbeatable on FFN or award points. Whether it is really worth the $700 AUD is somewhat debatable unless its for a special stay.

So which suite were you bounced out of Sting or Cates? :cool:
Good report and glad to hear it is still up to FFN standards :D
This star in his own mind will be at the Starwood properties with the rest of the mere mortals
in the months ahead ;)

On another related point, the concierge knew the Infinity Sourdough Bakery.....he knew we were short of time as we were meeting relatives in SYD, and he arranged for a nice strawberry and cream cake to be picked up from there and sent to the room.....we only paid for the cake as no other charge appeared on our bill. We just got a note from the concierge with the receipt and confirmation of our reservations for lunch at Jonah's the next day. Outstanding.

Many thanks to all of those who provided input on this property before our trip.

Sorry to hear about some of the downsides. I never met arrogant folks ever at the Park Hyatt Sydney. I would describe them as not interested in guests (some of them) cool distant and perhaps a little full of themselves (rare in Sydney)Some not willing to be helpful or get involved
Highly manipulative with GP upgrades. Shy of that my stay was quite similar to yours and it was a considerable time ago
Now to the good stuff
That strawberry and cream cake sounds great did you try it or would you recommend it?
Not that I need any certainly :)

I am just returned from one FFN stay.Upgrade to harbour deluxe(a mini suite with two balconies)
The staff are helpful and friendly.

The room is very nice,but I am not the lucky one.
Sydney weather was cloudy and raining.

The breakfast is good with straight opera view.I was happy got waive for my Diamond status.
Strange thing is PH SYD did not charge extra fee for breakfast and Internet use.:D

Did this sale of the hotel to Japanese investors go through?

http://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20071221/pdf/316nzmn3hv6ykd.pdf

Any changes as a result?

This continues to be my favourite Hyatt in the world!

Arrived mid afternoon and one of the outside desk guys opened the taxi door and greeted us by name! How did he know who we were? Fantastic service and typical of what you get at this property.

Checked in an upgraded to a king room overlooking the harbour and with a small balcony and chairs. Amenity was plate of cheese and crackers and 1/2 bottle of wine. Water was also provided at least twice a day.

Breakfast is superb and free (continental) for Diamonds or you can upgrade for A$5 each. My wife had the ocean trout which she rated as 10/10.

Everyone we met was very friendly and helpful. Unfortunately we couldn't get a late check out as the hotel was very busy with passengers from a large cruise ship in harbour for the weekend.

Only one disappointment - we booked a table for dinner at 9PM. Ordered by 9:10 and were still waiting for food at 10:15 by which time we had finished our wine. I ordered pork which was presented as a roll with sage and pancetta and then cut into two. First piece was nice but second piece was chewy fat and gristle. Wife had whole snapper which was delivered on a plate that was just big enough for the fish. No side plate to fillet the fish and no fish knife. Fish was tasteless although mushrooms that came with it were delicious. This is the first meal we have had here that was let down by such poor attention to detail and poor service. We could only give this meal 7/10.

Excellent!

Came back to the PHS after two years - and had a wonderful experience for three nights (Indulgence Package) at a Opera Deluxe King (344).

Hotel was fully booked, service top-notch, fantastic Concierge (CS) went out of his way to make my stay memorable: Europcar replaced my car during my stay while I was having dinner at Rockpool (where he managed to get a last minute reservation) - Concierge showed up at the restaurant to get my signature on the paperwork for the hand-over!

Exceptional and truly amazing! Park Hyatt experience at its best!

^^^

Wired internet costs $30/day. There is wireless in the lobby.



But remember that is only about 20 REAL dollars - tax included. ;)

I often need to pay that at run-down airport 3 stars, when tax/fees are added, so for this place is a pretty good deal I'd say. :D

Sitting on a balcony looking at the Opera House, and all the non-stop Sydney Harbour action, and checking emails, would be worth $US20 to me anyway, on a vacation stay in the world's prettiest large city. :cool:

Glen
.

We had no problem with any of the staff.

Just checking out of the PHS from a two night stay. I was upgraded to harbor deluxe room with two balconys. Diamond Amenity was red wine and cheese. Also two free bottle waters a day. The staff here is great no problems. The free internet for Diamond Members saved me $29 a day and the Diamond Breakfast is saved me $40. I would stay here again the location is great. Wish I didn't have to check out.

Just checking out of the PHS from a two night stay. I was upgraded to harbor deluxe room with two balconys. Diamond Amenity was red wine and cheese. Also two free bottle waters a day. The staff here is great no problems. The free internet for Diamond Members saved me $29 a day and the Diamond Breakfast is saved me $40. I would stay here again the location is great. Wish I didn't have to check out.

I used my Diamond Suite upgrade and this is what they upgraded me to from a Park King...is this correct???? or do I really get a suite?

I used my Diamond Suite upgrade and this is what they upgraded me to from a Park King...is this correct???? or do I really get a suite?

Nope. That's not correct. The first suite is the Premier Suite. I would ask for a downgrade to the King Opera Deluxe Rooms - full frontal opera view and almost the same size...

If staff is making any trouble, ask for Ms Poynder - she is the GM there.

Stayed here Sept 11-14, point stay, upgraded to the double balcony full on opera view room #246, able to check in at 7:30 AM, no problem, free breakfast included buffet plus any entree, free internet access, full recognition of diamond status. Amazing hotel and staff in my opinion.

What's the best way to get to the hotel? I'll be arriving into SYD on BA15 at 6:15am.

Taxi is pretty inexpensive and quick for that time of the morning. The alternative we use if we don't have too much luggage is train to Circular Quay and then walk the rest of the way

PHS is taking very good care of returning customers: Arrived very early on British Airways in Sydney and got a 7am early check-in. Breakfast was waiting in my room upon arrival. Very attentive staff throughout my stay. Luxury is personal.

The above debate over what constitutes a suite upgrade may have been the early indications of what has been confirmed to me over the last few days by both Hyatt corporate and its Pacific reservations centre: PH Sydney is now refusing suite upgrades either on points or Diamond awards.

"The Park Hyatt Sydney is one of our most boutique properties, and as such had limited suite rooms. For this reason the Hotel does not accept suite upgrades using points or upgrade vouchers." [Res]

"Unfortunately the Park Hyatt Sydney does not participate in the suite upgrade program" [Hyatt Consumer Affairs]

I questioned this abstention from GP rules but no dice. Any ideas or other experiences? What next - all hotels individually deciding whether or not to abide by stated, supposedly guaranteed benefits?

The above debate over what constitutes a suite upgrade may have been the early indications of what has been confirmed to me over the last few days by both Hyatt corporate and its Pacific reservations centre: PH Sydney is now refusing suite upgrades either on points or Diamond awards.

"The Park Hyatt Sydney is one of our most boutique properties, and as such had limited suite rooms. For this reason the Hotel does not accept suite upgrades using points or upgrade vouchers." [Res]

"Unfortunately the Park Hyatt Sydney does not participate in the suite upgrade program" [Hyatt Consumer Affairs]

I questioned this abstention from GP rules but no dice. Any ideas or other experiences? What next - all hotels individually deciding whether or not to abide by stated, supposedly guaranteed benefits?

That would be new to me. The only hotel I am aware of that does not participate is the Hyatt Regency Kyoto - a beautiful boutique hotel. I have gotten Suite Upgrades at the PHS.

Still, the best room/suite one can get is the Opera Deluxe King. It is larger in size than the Premier Suite and while the Suite has no opera view, the Opera Deluxe King has a full frontal one from the bed! The other difference is that the Premier Suite has two rooms (living and master bedroom) while the Opera Deluxe King has an open concept. If I am given the choice, I would always go for the Opera Deluxe King and never for the Premier Suite.

The above debate over what constitutes a suite upgrade may have been the early indications of what has been confirmed to me over the last few days by both Hyatt corporate and its Pacific reservations centre: PH Sydney is now refusing suite upgrades either on points or Diamond awards.

"The Park Hyatt Sydney is one of our most boutique properties, and as such had limited suite rooms. For this reason the Hotel does not accept suite upgrades using points or upgrade vouchers." [Res]

"Unfortunately the Park Hyatt Sydney does not participate in the suite upgrade program" [Hyatt Consumer Affairs]

I questioned this abstention from GP rules but no dice. Any ideas or other experiences? What next - all hotels individually deciding whether or not to abide by stated, supposedly guaranteed benefits?
Well I too am surprised as the conditions of the diamond suite e-upgrades is
if there is a suite that they should give it to you!
at least that is what I was told by a couple of res agents I spoke to
and lets face it! the larger rooms they call suites are not really suites .
to me a suite is a room at least 2 times the size of a normal room and a room divider.
BOOOO to Sydney Park hyatt!

That sets a rather dangerous precedent that other hotels will no doubt soon follow. What's the point of having no black out dates etc. if you can't use another published benefit of the program?

The worst part is that there are no other Hyatt properties in Sydney to choose from.

just tried to use my new free nights at Sydney PH

The property you have selected is not participating in the promotion you have selected, or the certificate you have selected is not valid. or contact Gold Passport Customer Service at either 1-866-557-6671 or your nearest Worldwide Reservation Center .

whats actually going on?

tried a different date for one night and it booked

Maybe the FFN is sold on that date?

Maybe the FFN is sold on that date?
When it is sold out it states sodut
I tried 4 day then 3 then 2 got the same message
then 1
then all the dates one at a time



all available .
so I either have to call or book 4 sep dates:(

Management told me on three occasions the Diamond Suite Upgrade was to the Executive Suite, which is above the Premier Suite, priced at AUD$1,800 a night.

When the booking was placed the Diamond line confirmed the upgrade to an Opera Deluxe. Upon calling the hotel for verification a manager said due to there only being 6 suites in the hotel the benefit was to a maximum of Opera Deluxe. As I was told the incorrect information on three occasions they upgraded us as a one time exception to the Executive Suite.

It is an Opera Deluxe and Opera King put together with a large lounge in place of a bed in the Opera Deluxe side. So considering you weren't going to get the one large open plan room (which is the Premier suite) you're not really missing that much.

The latest from GP this morning:

"Park Hyatt Sydney as of last week have been removed from the Gold Passport Suite Upgrade program, however current reservations will be honored as booked."

I am also very concerned by the precedent set here. My money is on others following suit.

How about we all email Hyatt GP expressing our disappointment and concerns, and mention that if the Diamond benefits are not followed by all properties, we will perform status matches with other programs and defect?

I can confirm that the FFN promotion is available at the Sydney PH. Was able to book a 6 night stay here later this month.

just tried to use my new free nights at Sydney PH

The property you have selected is not participating in the promotion you have selected, or the certificate you have selected is not valid. or contact Gold Passport Customer Service at either 1-866-557-6671 or your nearest Worldwide Reservation Center .

whats actually going on?

tried a different date for one night and it booked

I can confirm that the FFN promotion is available at the Sydney PH. Was able to book a 6 night stay here later this month.

try booking 22-26 jan
then try each night as I stated.

Perhaps that has to do with a restriction on the number of FFN one can use consecutively over the Australia Day long weekend, or a minimum stay requirement?

wouldnt think so

I tried 22 23
22 23 24
22 23 24 25
then tried each individual date and it booked.:confused:

and arent there supposed to be NO restrictions anyway:D
Im more concerned about not being able to use these suite upgrades for diamonds:eek:

Im more concerned about not being able to use these suite upgrades for diamonds:eek:

For over the cash and you can use them :D

For over the cash and you can use them :D

I think someone has stated that even when forking over the cash they are not participating in the diamond suite upgrades.

I think someone has stated that even when forking over the cash they are not participating in the diamond suite upgrades.

No you can - as long as the suite is available. Thats what the representative just told me. It will book into the Opera Deluxe King, which admittedly is not the best, but its not bad...800 sq feet.

That is incorrect: reservations, GP and corporate separately confirm that suite upgrades are no longer available at Park Hyatt Sydney. Suite upgrades booked before the change are being partially honoured with an upgrade to the City/Harbour View Deluxe, which is not a suite. If you have been told a further upgrade may be available at check-in, that is something entirely different and definitely not a confirmed suite upgrade.

No you can - as long as the suite is available. Thats what the representative just told me. It will book into the Opera Deluxe King, which admittedly is not the best, but its not bad...800 sq feet.

That would be new to me. The only hotel I am aware of that does not participate is the Hyatt Regency Kyoto - a beautiful boutique hotel. I have gotten Suite Upgrades at the PHS.

PH Beaver Creek also does not participate in the Confirmed Suite Upgrade program. Nor does Hyatt Highlands Carmel IIRC. I think I'll put a PM into Karen though to try to get clarification or a list of exactly which properties don't participate. I will then add that to the first post of the Confirmed Suite Upgrade Experiences thread.

The latest from GP this morning:

"Park Hyatt Sydney as of last week have been removed from the Gold Passport Suite Upgrade program, however current reservations will be honored as booked."

I am also very concerned by the precedent set here. My money is on others following suit.

I think someone has stated that even when forking over the cash they are not participating in the diamond suite upgrades.

No you can - as long as the suite is available. Thats what the representative just told me. It will book into the Opera Deluxe King, which admittedly is not the best, but its not bad...800 sq feet.

That is incorrect: reservations, GP and corporate separately confirm that suite upgrades are no longer available at Park Hyatt Sydney. As you say, they now book into Opera Deluxe, which is not a suite. If you have been told a further upgrade may be available at check-in, that is something entirely different and definitely not a confirmed suite upgrade.

So what's the final verdict on Confirmed Suite Upgrades at PH Sydney? You are sort of contradicting yourself in the last post Dakota. Either:

1) PH Sydney is no longer part of the Confirmed Suite Upgrade program, in which case they will NOT book you into the Opera Deluxe, rather you book whatever category you decide to book and then you will have to show up at checkin and hope for an upgrade to the best available room.

or

2) PH Sydney IS still part of the Confirmed Suite Upgrade program, but they book you into an Opera Deluxe room with your Confirmed Suite Upgrade, which it seems there is some argument here on FT whether or not this is a proper Suite. IMHO, this 800 Sq. Ft. Opera Deluxe IS a Suite and is fair game for the Confirmed Suite Upgrade. In fact if you look at the room description it says it is a studio suite. And in fact the room is over 50% larger than a standard room.

wouldnt think so

I tried 22 23
22 23 24
22 23 24 25
then tried each individual date and it booked.:confused:


tinky,

I was able to duplicate this just now myself. This is obviously just a website glitch. I even recall reading another FT Hyatt thread that this exact same thing happened at another property (possibly HR Huntington Beach or some other CA or Western-USA Resort property?). They were able to call GP CSR and book it just fine in the end even though the website didn't allow booking. You should probably report this glitch to GP CSR so they can hopefully fix it. I agree it's kind of annoying. :mad:

wouldnt think so

I tried 22 23
22 23 24
22 23 24 25
then tried each individual date and it booked.:confused:

and arent there supposed to be NO restrictions anyway:D
Im more concerned about not being able to use these suite upgrades for diamonds:eek:

Hi tinkybelle, just ring them up, ask for the Diamond rep, see if Warwick is free. I have been able to get FFNs at this hotel over Xmas New Year, albeit I booked last month. It's a small Hyatt and it is a busy holiday period, I could understand there has to be a limit on the # of suite upgrades, can't possibly have too many there, regards bkkrop

You're right, gregorygrady - that occurred to me too after I posted - so here's some clarification.

I made my booking in September, with a Diamond suite upgrade. When I noticed last week that the upgrade had not been processed, I chased it up and got the responses I pasted above. I escalated the matter through reservations, GP and corporate, and all confirmed that PHS is no longer participating in the suite upgrade programme at all. Finally, they said they would honour my upgrade, only because my reservation and request pre-dated PHS's opt-out.

My res. was upgraded to a "City/Harbour View Deluxe", not to a suite and not even a confirmed harbour view. From previous posts, that seems to be the category into which Diamond/ points suite upgrades were booked for some time before PHS opted-out of the programme altogether.

Bottom line: I was told no more suite upgrades at all and existing confirmed upgrades get the City/Harbour View Deluxe. Hope that's now clear; I might revise my posts above for clarity. Because of the inconsistency in GP's handling of this (one should get a proper suite under the old rules), I might try asking again but, believe me, it took considerable effort to wrest from them the concession I did.

So what's the final verdict on Confirmed Suite Upgrades at PH Sydney? You are sort of contradicting yourself in the last post Dakota.

We enjoyed a perfect stay at PHS in September, helped by 2 free nights in the mid-year promotion. This is the only Australian Hyatt I hadn't stayed in (we used to live in Sydney) and it lived up to expectations. Individual (seated) check-in is a delight and all staff were exceptionally friendly and courteous. We were given an Opera King (hotel was very quiet) and a large bowl of fruit and adequate supplies of mineral water. I asked for a table at the front of the restaurant to celebrate lunch for my wife's birthday and the view could not have been better. The food (which has always been good here) was well up to usual standards. The food isn't complex but it's still hard to beat a perfectly prepared tenderloin. On one evening we opted for a light meal in the Harbour Bar and were very pleased with any choice of three Tapas. At $50 with a couple of drinks this has to be a Sydney bargain, and the spectacular view is free. I had high expectations for this stay but all I can say is that it was a perfect score.

Used some free nights here recently.
just FYI
as Diamond received city viewroom .
small room 230.
no diamond amenity at all.
nice hotel nice breakfast.
I do enjoy the free internet.

My wife and I are very much looking forward to our five-night award stay at the PH in February. I've booked the City/Harbour view room. I understand that some of these have good harbour views (though not the best in the hotel) and some don't. Does anyone have any advice on which room numbers and/or section of the hotel to request for the good views and/or anything else to do to try to secure a good view?

Thanks for any help.

My wife and I are very much looking forward to our five-night award stay at the PH in February. I've booked the City/Harbour view room. I understand that some of these have good harbour views (though not the best in the hotel) and some don't. Does anyone have any advice on which room numbers and/or section of the hotel to request for the good views and/or anything else to do to try to secure a good view?

Thanks for any help.

Room number "guide" in this post - http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/9142244-post155.html - within this thread.

Thanks for the link! Though if I understand it properly, even the better city/harbour view room locations really don't have a great harbour view, correct?

Thanks for the link! Though if I understand it properly, even the better city/harbour view room locations really don't have a great harbour view, correct?

Incorrect - the better view rooms are smack on the harbor - with views of the opera house - my rooms were in that category as are most rooms in the property with the exception of the very low and very high room numbers.

Thanks again for the prompt and very useful information! I guess we're defining "great harbor view" differently, with me perhaps too picky (especially since I'll be staying on points and have never been there). I guess I was defining the great room view there as looking directly out toward the Opera House (and for the rooms perched at the part of the hotel that juts furthest out into the harbor, there's the most expansive view), rather than the OH being out toward the left. But I guess you're saying that, with the exception of the very high and low numbered rooms, the view is great because you're perched right over the harbor and at least have the Opera House in sight. Hope I have that right, but again please correct me if I'm wrong.

Incorrect - the better view rooms are smack on the harbor - with views of the opera house - my rooms were in that category as are most rooms in the property with the exception of the very low and very high room numbers.

There is only a footpath, literally, separating you from Sydney Harbour :)

Tell me AGAIN what Hyatt Diamond guests get when it is an award stay??????

My husband doesn't believe me when I tell him that we get breakfast free!!!

Tell me AGAIN what Hyatt Diamond guests get when it is an award stay??????

My husband doesn't believe me when I tell him that we get breakfast free!!!

Yes Breakfast (I'm assuming that it includes the hot entree now with the new rules - was an extra $5 when we were there), some welcome amenity (I think we got fruit), and highly unlikely that you'll get a room without the Harbor view. We were there using FFNs in Jan 08 - 2 rooms for 3 nights.

Breakfast is always free for Diamonds for ANY stay.

Goodnews!

Upgrades forthcoming on sold out weekends! I was pre-blocked to a Deluxe room even though they were sold out of all room categories but standard rooms!

Tell me AGAIN what Hyatt Diamond guests get when it is an award stay??????

My husband doesn't believe me when I tell him that we get breakfast free!!!
Free full hot buffet in the restaurant or you can get continental plus one menu item. Great food with a great view.

Here now on a FFN. Lovely room with amazing opera view, walk-in closet, great diamond amenity shiraz/viognier wine and cheese.

Welcome letter says "As a valued Diamond.....we.... offer you and registered guest daily complimentary full breakfast.....in our waterfront redtaurant, harbourkitchen&bar".:D

Huge continental and hot breakfast buffet AND you can also order one item from the menu as a diamond.

Used 4 FFN in this property earlier this week.

The website showed all 4 nights available individually, but couldn't book it as a 4 nights stay. Called GP reservation and had it booked. At that time, I already had all 4 FFN credits in my account.

After arrived in SYD on UA flight, they let me check-in early. As a Diamond, I was put into an Opera View Room.(X40) Just as I was freshen up, I got a call from front desk manager. Apparently, there were some issues with the reservation. They get a 4 night reservation with only a FFN credit to support it. For the last three nights, I was given 3 choices:

a) Pay for them with my GP points, which I didn't have enough balance for all three nights.

b) Pay Cash

c) Move somewhere else.

Not something you would like to hear about after a long flight from U.S. I do have enough SPG points to stay at SYD Westin, or Hhonors points to stay at SYD Hilton, and rooms were available. I was upset enough and ready to leave and spend the 3 FFN credit somewhere else later. But I started to suspect the hotel may had wanted to get rid of me so they can sale the room to highest bidder. I called the call free number of Hyatt Australia reservation center, they straighten the issue out with the hotel. The rest of my stay was uneventful.

I had planned to have some meals and drink at the hotel, but after this experience, I avoided doing so.

As I check-out, I saw I was billed $A1.25 for the call to GP reservation center. I was going to argue about the charge, but I had a plane to catch.

If you have award reservation with this hotel, I suggest you check your confirmation e-mail carefully.

Used 4 FFN in this property earlier this week......snip.......They get a 4 night reservation with only a FFN credit to support it.

Do you have any other FFNs booked? Is it possible that a hotel where you plan to stay in the future grabbed the FFNs that you earned, leaving none to support the Sydney stay?

This has happened to me. Some properties deduct the award approximately 30 days in advance.

Do you have any other FFNs booked? Is it possible that a hotel where you plan to stay in the future grabbed the FFNs that you earned, leaving none to support the Sydney stay?

Nope. I had no other reservations before or after I made that reservations a few weeks ago. At that point, I had already earned all 4 FFN credit, so it's not like I was waiting for some stays to post.

I am still puzzled by why it happened. What ticked me off mostly was not what was said, but how it was said.

Here now on a FFN. Lovely room with amazing opera view, walk-in closet, great diamond amenity shiraz/viognier wine and cheese. .

This hotel certainly has an attitude problem, I don't mind people being up themselves, but you have to have the backup to warrant it, and the SYD PH doesn't. Firstly they try to fob off a standard city/harbour view onto me, well that's what you ordered? came the smug remark. What part of I want better than this, don't you understand, I felt like saying, but they relented and upped it to a deluxe, all the suites are booked, we are extremely busy they said, unsaid was you are on a FFN, you should be thankful:mad:

The room was nice, now that bed was different to all the others, I loved it, no Diamond acknowledgement at all, breakfast was pleasant and compl and the business centre was not charged. They did have problems with the GP tea in the morning with the newspaper, saying they had never heard of it, regards bkkrop

We are going here this weekend for two nights.
So, even though it is FREE, I can expect to be 'upgraded to the best room'???????
And if I am not????
What do I do?
I love this site....finding out SO much info all the time!

We are going here this weekend for two nights.
So, even though it is FREE, I can expect to be 'upgraded to the best room'???????
And if I am not????
What do I do?
I love this site....finding out SO much info all the time!


As a Diamond you'll love it. We were there weekend before last. Side note, we counted 7 different weddings that were being photographed on the dock/veranda. You'll get a great free breakfast and welcome aminity of a great wine and great cheese. You'll be introduced to "your butler" but we didn't know how to take advantage of that. There are some nice restaurants outside adjacent to the hotel too (we didn't try the hotel for dinner).

Enjoy!:)

I presume "best room" excludes suites, or should I be expecting more upon check in?

This hotel certainly has an attitude problem, I don't mind people being up themselves, but you have to have the backup to warrant it, and the SYD PH doesn't. Firstly they try to fob off a standard city/harbour view onto me, well that's what you ordered? came the smug remark. What part of I want better than this, don't you understand, I felt like saying, but they relented and upped it to a deluxe, all the suites are booked, we are extremely busy they said, unsaid was you are on a FFN, you should be thankful:mad:

The room was nice, now that bed was different to all the others, I loved it, no Diamond acknowledgement at all, breakfast was pleasant and compl and the business centre was not charged. They did have problems with the GP tea in the morning with the newspaper, saying they had never heard of it, regards bkkrop

I have always found this hotel to have some attitude problems in years past
It always struck me as odd because Sydney as does Australia in general has some of the most fantastic friendly folks in and out of hospitality
When I first visited this property in the 90s the service was warm, hospitable and heartfelt/genuine.Perhaps the property was trying to go with the Ritz Carlton formality and where you pay for anything and everything?

I am planning to visit the hotel again for the first time in years and see how it does.Thankfully I am traveling alone and I dont really care where they put me
as long as its quiet clean and the breakfast is decent.
Expect the worst and perhaps they may exceed expectations :D
One previous stay they told me all they had was cityview rooms but if you crane your neck you could see the Opera House.I never did crane my neck I simply paid the extortion fee they demanded and magically received a premium view room
Fingers crossed next time around with no hard upsell

I presume "best room" excludes suites, or should I be expecting more upon check in?
Correct, "best room" excludes suites.

I am surprised this hotel would treat customers in such a way. It was recently sold by the packard family to a japanese consortium.

What exact is a city view room as all the rooms face towards the opera house/circular quay area? Im not sure if the hotel has any rooms that face the other side. Toiletries were blauise mortin and the tv is B & O.

What exact is a city view room as all the rooms face towards the opera house/circular quay area? Im not sure if the hotel has any rooms that face the other side. Toiletries were blauise mortin and the tv is B & O.

Some of the rooms with extremely low and extremely high room numbers do not face towards the Opera House. - perhaps 5-10 rooms on each floor.

Correct, "best room" excludes suites.

... Which is as far as the hotel books - or used to book - Diamond suite upgrades into as well. I am seriously considering changing my paid/ (non-) "suite" upgrade over to FFNs.

Which category is the "best room" at PHS? Is it whatever is directly beneath the Premier Suite?

... Which is as far as the hotel books - or used to book - Diamond suite upgrades into as well. I am seriously considering changing my paid/ (non-) "suite" upgrade over to FFNs.

Which category is the "best room" at PHS? Is it whatever is directly beneath the Premier Suite?

Yes, it is: Opera King Deluxe is the best room. As discussed before, same size as the Premier Suite but no separate bedroom. Very nice open layout (Junior Suite) and terrific views on the Opera House. You can use your FFN and offer to pay the difference for a confirmed upgrade. Unless you have stayed there a couple of times before, they won't upgrade you to this room category.

I thought if you were a Diamond member you got the 'best room available'.
Even if it IS free!
Is this true?
I don't want to look even more grabby than I already am.

We booked a FFN room and couldn't have imagined a better room. Opera view, but I think almost all the rooms have a great view.:cool:

I thought if you were a Diamond member you got the 'best room available'.
Even if it IS free!
Is this true?
I don't want to look even more grabby than I already am.

Most properties have King, Deluxe, Club King and Club King Deluxe levels. As Platinum you should get the best room in your level, as Diamond you should get Club King Deluxe if available. Most properties are very, very hesitant to apply this rule for Diamond members...

Decided today to treat a family member and burn FFN for the same day. First Australian GP rep said the award was unavailable, second rep 5 mins later said it was available! Ended up booking 2 nights.

Rang the property direct to check what rooms Diamonds should get upgraded to, knowing full well the answer should be Opera Deluxe, and was told "Diamonds get a one category upgrade." I questioned this and reservation agent didn't budge. I then called the US Diamond line where the rep said he would sort it with the property, and put notes in my reservation.

Arrived at the hotel, was given private check-in, upgraded to a City/Harbour view deluxe which had views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The duty manager made a special mention of how "they accommodated my special request." I kept quiet but thought to myself I'm not accustomed the showing gratitude for benefits that I am rightly entitled to, which a property has a history of denying its elite members.

No Diamond amenity delivered. Duty manager offered a bottle of champagne due to the birthday, which took 4 hours, and 3 calls to him personally to get delivered.

The PH Sydney is a stunning boutique hotel, in an exquisite location, however the staff's attitude leaves a lot to be desired. As Eddy says in Ab Fab "Drop the attitude, you only work in a shop."

Yesterday we considered booking for NYE at $1000+/night, with a 5 night minimum and the very same duty manager couldn't discuss rates or availability as "only one staff member is handling those requests." One would think during the GFC, with occupancy still available that the hotel would be interested in the revenue, and be able to provide that information given how simple a request it is.

Such a polar opposite experience to other PHs around the world.

... The Duty Manager who is also the hotel's Gold Passport coordinator mad

What???

Speaking of upgrades and for those who think some other programs offer better options, Westin Sydney emailed me recently to confirm my non-upgrade one week in advance (see a thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/starwood-preferred-guest/1030881-westin-sydney-tries-upsell-plat-guest-one-week-before-arrival.html) in SPG forum) but "kindly" told that if i was willing to pay $$$ they could find an upgraded room. :rolleyes: I am a top tier there as well. The differences in treatment as a top tier at SPG and Hyatt this year were like night and day. Sadly Hyatt is not available this time.
I did however switch all nights from Westin MEL to PH MEL after originally reserving a split stay.

Sorry, it missed some text. I agree Hyatt is above and beyond SPG, it's just that some properties try to deny Diamonds their benefits. PH Sydney no longer accepts suite upgrade certificates as well. I've heard that the Westin Sydney is difficult to get plat upgrades at. Frankly I'd change to the Sheraton on the Park. A MUCH nicer hotel who look after plats.

I should add that the staff at harbourkitchen&bar are very good. After one breakfast they not only remembered our room number, but our exact coffee and juice orders, dietary requirements and ordered the side dishes automatically.

Is it still possible to get a FFN here on a Saturday night or are they all booked out? How about other (weekend) days?

I don't have one available at the moment and cannot check myself. Thanks.

I just checked in the Park Hyatt Sydney.
Initially, they assigned me the Opera King and I requested best available room.
I also got a suite upgrade certificate, however the Gold Passport Coordinator in the hotel took my certificate and then assigned Harbour Deluxe King to me in the end.
It is quite unusual, because I thought they should have given the Opera Deluxe and return the certificate.

It would appear that the hotel has an unwritten rule of upgrading guests to the Harbour Deluxe King, and not the Opera Deluxe. Personally I would demand the upgrade certificate back. According to Hyatt PHS now only upgrades certificates (previously e-certificates until they chose to no longer honour them) into Opera Deluxe King. You should have received the upgrade regardless, however I found without the intervention of the Diamond Line the PHS, and their duty manager/Gold Passport coordinator Shawn do everything within their power to deny you a benefit that you are entitled to.

I am planning to have 7-8 FFNs here in February. I would like to get at least City Harbour Deluxe (http://sydney.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/rooms/room-description.jsp?chooseLocale=&start=6)
or Opera Deluxe
(http://sydney.park.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/rooms/room-description.jsp?chooseLocale=&start=7)
Reading the posts here, I haven't fully understood, what would be the best strategy for me to get it. Should I contact property in advance or ask Hyatt Diamond Line to put a note in my reservation or...?

I wouldn't expect to get either the City Harbor Deluxe of the Opera Deluxe King - these seem to require a suite upgrade which is not applicable with award redemptions (including FFNs) - I would expect an Opera King (regular King room with Opera House views) as a Diamond however.

Jumping in late .... it's been too long since I've last had a chance to get back on FT.

We stayed at the PHS using points for 4 nights in August - before the rules change. As a Diamond, we were given Opera Deluxe King, with wine, fruits, cheese, and crackers already waiting in our room. Our second day, we were given a free 30 minute massage at the Spa. We also received some sort of snack each night we were there. All the staff was great the entire time. We have stayed there once before, but that was 13 years ago.

Sorry to hear others aren't getting the same treatment.

I wouldn't expect to get either the City Harbor Deluxe of the Opera Deluxe King - these seem to require a suite upgrade which is not applicable with award redemptions (including FFNs) - I would expect an Opera King (regular King room with Opera House views) as a Diamond however.

Diamonds are entitled to the "Best available room." Diamond line challenged the hotel on my behalf and said I was entitled to the best available room, not a single room upgrade. There were no Opera Deluxe available, so the hotel gave me a Harbour View Deluxe which had Harbour Bridge AND Opera House views.

My advice, check the inventory online prior to arrival. Call the Diamond Line and ask them to ensure that you get your upgrade to at least a Deluxe Room, however be prepared for the property to deny you the Opera Deluxe.

Personally, I'm considering writing to the GM to inform him that among Hyatt's top tier members, the PHS is fast gaining a reputation for denying us our benefits.

Is there any chance of booking this hotel for New Year's eve as an award night? The entire week shows up blank online except for NYE which shows sold out. I called the Diamond line and they said that it looks like the hotel has not loaded their inventory for that week. I saw an earlier post that said something about a 5 night minimum that week.

So is it possible that some rooms may open up for awards on NYE in the next few weeks or is that just a pipe dream?

Personally, I'm considering writing to the GM to inform him that among Hyatt's top tier members, the PHS is fast gaining a reputation for denying us our benefits.

That was not the case in my recent experience there. I had a wonderful stay.

Is there any chance of booking this hotel for New Year's eve as an award night? The entire week shows up blank online except for NYE which shows sold out. I called the Diamond line and they said that it looks like the hotel has not loaded their inventory for that week. I saw an earlier post that said something about a 5 night minimum that week.

So is it possible that some rooms may open up for awards on NYE in the next few weeks or is that just a pipe dream?

NYE has a 5 night minimum stay. All NYE reservations have to be made through the property directly. I know they won't load rates for that period until late Jan, however any non award night will be at the rack rate, i.e.$1000 AUD. Expect them to tell u that the awar nights will be in a Park King which the hotel rarely sells as they overlook Hickson Rd and have no Harbour views.

i am currently at the park hyatt and it is true that what mOhamed has posted is true.

i am currently at the park hyatt and it is true that what mOhamed has posted is true.

Thanks! But, which part? :)

I hope my upcoming couple of nights go better than what some people have experienced. Conflict is not the best way to start what should be a relaxing stay.

But remember that is only about 20 REAL dollars - tax included. ;)

.

It's about $27.30 REAL dollars these days.

As Eddy says in Ab Fab "Drop the attitude, you only work in a shop."


I believe the correct quote is "Drop the attitude, you only work in a shop, sweetie." :D

Checked-out last week from a two night award stay. Booked into City/Harbour King and that's what we got - no upgrade. However, to be fair, the hotel genuinely appeared sold-out and our room was fine, with a great harbour view and side view of the Opera House.

Great stay, wonderful location and very attentive service. Actually, check-in was a little too attentive for my taste: an assistant GM walked us to and checked us in in-room, took about 15 mins and was a little too obsequious. I swear there were celestial harmonies and harps playing in the background and palm fronds fanning my brow...

Diamond bennies were a bottle of red wine and fruit in the room, free breakfast in the Harbour Kitchen, at which we were told we could order whatever we wanted from the menu FOC. In fact, I was invited - and declined - to order multiple items just to taste each. Late check-out request refused (an absolute first for me) due to being sold-out, but we were offered use of a pre-/post-check hospitality room, essentially a half-room with shower & WC, for changing.

All-in-all, a great stay, helped by not expecting a lavish upgrade. I'm also really glad I didn't, as originally intended, pay and use a suite upgrade to City/Harbour Deluxe. We saved over AUD 1,400 using FFNs.

I do find it slightly uncomfortable when you are the only one in the room for in-room check-in, though my check in took 2 mins, possibly because I used the same credit card as on file.

The in room check in is a actually a VIP benefit invoked for VIPs from level 7-1 (I believe 7 is Diamond members and 1 being celebrities like movie/pop stars). When I used to work there it was interesting to hear the debate of where a Countess fit in the scale. If you ever get a glimpse of housekeeping's guest register you will see a list of VIPs including all Diamonds. In fact, all staff are briefed on each VIP in their daily briefings at the beginning of their shift, so all staff from the valet to the harbourkitchen&bar should know who you are, and provide superior service.

I believe that PHS and the GH Melbourne VIP Diamond members as I have always had in room check in, and been met by the duty manager at these properties. Interestingly this doesn't occur at the PH Melbourne, maybe because they have real dignitaries and diplomats staying.

Shame you didn't get an upgrade, but all of the rooms at the hotel bar the Park Kings are rather stunning.

Thanks! But, which part? :)

The part on how difficult upgrades are.

Generally, they prepare the check-in form the day before. So its like even if i made changes to my reservation the night before, they don't know. i wouldn't be surprised if on my last night, i find a bill for XXXX amount as a room charge.

They appear reluctant generally to change room allocations and hence NO UPGRADES AT ALL.

During my arrival night, it was pretty obvious that while the lobby had some activity, occupancy was definately less than 1/2 full.

All room categories appear to be sellable.

The bath amenities definitely looked cheap, VIVE. I believe its the name of the 3 star property near liverpool street.

And then the room fixtures. They have really started to look aged.

That's why I called the Diamond Line to address their attempt to tell me I'm only entitled to a one category upgrade. I think the duty manager Shaun who is also the Gold Passport coordinator is enforcing this new treatment of Diamonds.

I guess in SPG the Platinum Concierge is called in to action Suite Upgrades at check-in when the property tries to deny them, but they are available for sale. It looks like Hyatt's program, for some properties, is heading down the same path.

I recently corresponded with the hotel and received this message:

"As a valued Diamond Gold Passport Member you are entitled to an upgrade to the best available room (excluding suites) at the time of arrival."

So it looks like they DO understand the rules for Diamond members.


That's why I called the Diamond Line to address their attempt to tell me I'm only entitled to a one category upgrade. I think the duty manager Shaun who is also the Gold Passport coordinator is enforcing this new treatment of Diamonds.

I guess in SPG the Platinum Concierge is called in to action Suite Upgrades at check-in when the property tries to deny them, but they are available for sale. It looks like Hyatt's program, for some properties, is heading down the same path.

I was not alone: my wife was behind him, grinning and pulling faces at me for being such an eminence grise! :D

I do find it slightly uncomfortable when you are the only one in the room for in-room check-in...

The problem is, the hotel considers its City/Harbour Deluxe-&-up rooms to be suites for such purposes - see posts above, including mine. That would imply that room upgrades would usually be to Opera King level at best.

I recently corresponded with the hotel and received this message:

"As a valued Diamond Gold Passport Member you are entitled to an upgrade to the best available room (excluding suites) at the time of arrival."

So it looks like they DO understand the rules for Diamond members.

I recently corresponded with the hotel and received this message:

"As a valued Diamond Gold Passport Member you are entitled to an upgrade to the best available room (excluding suites) at the time of arrival."

So it looks like they DO understand the rules for Diamond members.

I was told both by in house reservations and the duty manager that it was a one category upgrade. I hope that the person who checks you in does give you the best room. I'm simply stating my experience, which appears to be in line with others. There does appear to be an attempt by the property to deny certain benefits unless one argues for them. They stopped accepting Diamond Suite Upgrade certificates, for example, and GP confirmed their withdrawal from the program.

Hmm... I shall see how we'll be treated on our upcoming trip. I am not going to set myself up for disappointment, but I really really do want a room with Opera/Harbour view. :-(