Where to stay

The Capella Sydney, housed in a heritage-listed sandstone building, offers smart rooms in the heart of the CBD, while its main restaurant Brasserie 1930 is a drawcard for locals and visitors alike. Also in a landmark building, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney on Martin Place – a scenic pedestrian zone – is moments from the main shopping districts of Pitt Street Mall and Westfield Shopping Centre.

Meanwhile, it’s all about quiet luxury at the low-rise Park Hyatt Sydney, which curves around the harbourfront in the cobblestoned Rocks precinct. Rooms feel more like private residences, each with a balcony overlooking the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

For a hotel in Sydney CBD that’s more eclectic, try Kimpton Margot Sydney. It’s located in one of the city’s original art deco buildings in the core of the CBD. Or stay at Crown Sydney in the recently revitalised Barangaroo precinct overlooking Darling Harbour – and be sure to book a table at Oncore by Clare Smyth. The restaurant is the sole international outpost of the acclaimed chef, who holds three Michelin stars in her native Britain.

What to say

Ask a Sydneysider about the city’s best swimming spots. From surfing sites and harbourside beaches, everyone has a favourite.

What to know

Australian business culture tends to be relaxed: hierarchies are not strictly maintained and ideas are freely expressed – albeit with humility. Beyond rules of etiquette, it’s worth bearing in mind Sydney’s strict public smoking laws. Smoking is prohibited at public transport stops, near entrances to public buildings and around outdoor dining areas.