As someone in his 50s I emplore you stay away from all Starwood properties in Australia. Only stodgy geriatrics stay with Starwood, not hip and vital people like yourself. Our oxygen bottles and walkers litter the lobbies and hallways, and we do move slowly. Even the W has been known to check some of us in, though we've been instructed to dress all in black as a way of camoflauging our age.

Since you take this attitude, also be sure to stay clear of the Hyatt in Canberra. It is inhabited by diplomats and legislators, most of whom have passed mid-life and barely making it through their stays alive.

I think you should take a different attitude to your trip and choice of hotels. You then might find properties that meet your real needs -- location, location, location -- better. The Melbourne Westin is more central and thus a better choice -- unless you only want to gamble -- than the Sheraton. You can hop a tram and head out to St.Kilda's from almost the side door, or you can walk across the Yarra to the cultural quarter. Or the other direction to get to various other sites to visit.

In Sydney, either the Sheraton or Westin are very central and make walking to most places of interest easy, even The Rocks and even to catch a ferry out to Bondi or other beach spots -- Doyles on the Beach is still a classic eating spot, but you must show ID for 40 or older to get the best tables. The W is out of the way, but you'll discover an interesting neighbourhood and be a short walk into the city centre, or up to Kings Cross.

I've warned you about Canberra. I don't know why anyone under 50 would even want to visit the city, but if you insist. The Hyatt is the best in town, a modern rendition of a classic British colonial period hostelry. One of the nicest properties in the country, in the region. But you are not likely to appreciate the character and charm of this property, so check out the Travelodge instead.

I'm not sure you'll find Australia very interestng as it is populated by people over 40 and does not have the tradition of putting them onto ice flows and sending the off to the next world....