SYD airport is about the closest to the CBD than any city of 5 million on earth. About 10-15 minutes cab ride and a LOTTTTTT closer than SEATAC is to CBD.

There is a train from Airport to city, and also airport CBD shared transfer buses. However a cab runs even less than Shareholder notes and for 2 persons is by far the smartest option. About $US15 most times.

"Botany Bay" is ummm actually where airport is located - the third runway was in fact built on reclaimed land into Botany Bay. So cabs from airport take you AWAY from Botany Bay.

SYD Hilton was closed November 2002 for total rebuild basically. Oz Hilton newsletter in today's mail says it will have grand re-opening "Mid 2004" so late May might be OK.

There are properties in all 4 main Sheraton Brands in CBD. Four Points, W, Westin and Sheraton On The Park.

Many FT'ers have been here and stayed in several if not all 4 in their visit, and the Westin gets highest marks each time has been my feedback - especially for Plats that get upgraded to Suites there. Excellent central location as you'd except as it is built using fascia and site of the historic Sydney GPO.

Sheraton On The Park is very nice, "W" far too hip and out of the way to me, but by far the best value IMO is Four Points. Located right on Darling Harbour, and next to Chinatown and entertainment/movie strip. Until end November stays are $US30 plus 1600 Starpoints which is a steal. Get a room with a balcony over Darling Harbour and it is a magic deal for that price.