Room with a View ~ Getaway in Darling Harbour

Photo Credit: TripAdvisor.com of view from Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour balcony

There is nothing better than the comfort of luxury accommodation when you’re away from home.

This is exactly what you will find at Metro Apartments Darling Harbour, in the heart of Sydney.

Situated directly across from Darling Harbour, Metro Apartments is a popular choice for regional visitors to Sydney eager to find a home away from home’ in close proximity to all major attractions.

This month Metro Apartments is offering an added incentive for people who book before August 30 who will get a complimentary upgrade to an executive apartment if available.

Head west from your apartment and you’ll find yourself at King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay, popular precincts on the shores of Darling Harbour.

Enjoy a cocktail in one of the many boutique bars, a meal in one of the harbourside restaurants, or a 3D movie at IMAX.

Play tourist at Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World or Australian Maritime Museum, or stroll across the footbridge to try your luck at The Star casino.

If you are looking for world class shopping, walk east from your apartment and into Sydney’s retail heart, with the Queen Victoria Building, Westfield Sydney and flagship David Jones and Myer stores.

For unique Asian food and culture, head south to Sydney’s Little Japan, Little Korea and ThaiTown.

For sightseeing, head north beside the sandstone walls of the Hungry Mile and Barangaroo, recently marked for redevelopment.

Located in two separate buildings in Sussex and King Streets, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour offers a selection of 32 recently renovated one bedroom apartments.

While the Sussex Street building offers larger, contemporary styled apartments with views over Darling Harbour, the King Street building has a more exclusive, intimate appeal.

With only nine apartments and a rooftop pool for the exclusive use of guests, King Street is perfect for those seeking a quiet getaway and the feel of being in a world class city with all the comforts of home.

All apartments are priced to be affordable for mid-week and weekend getaways.

Each apartment is appointed with a fully equipped kitchen, washing machine, dryer and ironing facilities, air conditioning and heating.

Parking is provided at a discounted rate at the nearby Kings Parking on Sussex Street.

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour has a range of special packages on offer.

Book Metro Apartments Darling Harbour and other Metro Hotels properties by calling the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321. Alternatively bookings can be made online at www.metrohotels.com.au

Top 5 Lesser Known Attractions Near Darling Harbour

If you're staying in Darling Harbour and have visited all the major tourist attractions, here are the top 5 lesser known quirky, fascinating landmarks nearby.

1. Chinese Garden of Friendship
The Chinese Garden of Friendship was designed by Sydney's Chinese sister city, Guangzhou in China. Chinatown, Sydney complements the area's already rich Chinese heritage and culture. The gardens were officially opened in 1988 as part of Sydney's bicentennial celebrations and they were named the Garden of Friendship symbolizing the bond established between China and Australia.

Location: Southern end of Darling Harbour, near Sydney Entertainment Centre and China Town.
☎ +61 2 9240 8888 Email: chinesegarden@shfa.nsw.gov.au
Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/sydney-Things_To_Do-Chinese_Garden.htm
Open: 9:30am – 5pm. Modelled on the typical private gardens of the Ming Dynasty, the
garden offers an insight into Chinese heritage and culture. Adults $6 children $3.


2. The Pyrmont Bridge
Pyrmont Bridge in Darling Harbour is one of the world's oldest surviving electrically operated swingspan bridges. The current swingspan bridge opened in 1902 and replaced the first Pyrmont Bridge which began operating in 1857. The swingspan allows access for vessels that are too tall to travel under the bridge. In 1902, Darling Harbour was Sydney's industrial heart and served as the gateway to a bustling hub of warehouses, railway yards and international shipping.

☎ +61 2 9299-7541
Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/sydney-Education-Heritage_and_History-Pyrmont_Bridge.htm
Opens weekends and public holidays at 10:30am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm (weather
permitting). The Pyrmont Bridge is an old swing bridge that historically was a main
thoroughfare into Sydney. Now it only carries pedestrians across the harbour and the
monorail. See the centre span swing and a tall ship leave the bay. Tours of the control cab by
appointment.


3. Darling Harbour (Harbourside) Fireworks
Darling Harbour will light up almost every Saturday from now until Christmas. The harbourside is lined with a large number of restaurants, cafés and bars that offer almost any food or drink you name. So you can feast on your favourite food while you watch the night sky go red and blue and golden and green as the fireworks begin to shoot up high in the sky. The beautiful fireworks that form attractive patterns of light come with cheerful music having a rhythm that syncs with the fire shots.

Website: http://www.darlingharbour.com/sydney-Things_To_Do-Harbourside_fireworks.htm
Enjoy the fireworks from Cockle Bay, on from 9pm every Saturday on Cockle Bay Harbour.
They last for only 15 minutes but are fun to watch especially if you have a family. A good trick
is to get a balcony seat around some of the restaurants and you can see the fireworks whilst
having dinner or drinks.


4. Harbour Cruises
On any day, the harbour is a vibrant blue and dotted with hundreds of sailing boats, cruise boats and ferries.
The only way to fully enjoy the harbour and visit its many sights is to take a cruise. Cruises are many and varied and include, cocktail cruises, lunch time cruises, dinner cruises, night cruises, sightseeing cruises and specialised cruises for Christmas, New Year's Eve, Mother's Day among others.

Depart from the King St Wharf on the eastern side of Darling Harbour, or from Circular Quay
in the City There all types to choose from:
Website: http://www.boatcruises.com/
• All Occasion Cruises (AO Cruises) operates private bookings on Sydney Harbour, dinner
with food and beverage packages to suite all budgets.
• Magistic Cruises has Sydney Harbour dinner cruise,wine cruises, lunch cruise and
sightseeing cruises.
• Sydney Show Boats Cruise has dinner with live cabaret show performances and comic
magician.
• Captain Cook Cruises. The Sydney Harbour Explorer Cruise allows hopping on and off at a
number of attractions, or a 1 1/2 hour cruise of the harbour. Coffee cruise departs at
10am and 3pm Website: http://www.captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/
• Matilda Cruises, (Wharf is next to the aquarium entrance). Departs 12:15pm daily.
Seafood lunch cruise. Website: http://www.matilda.com.au/


5. Events Tumbalong Park
Tumbalong Park, controlled by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, consists of 5 hectares of public open space located within the Darling Harbour Precinct. The park contains an extensive network of ornate water features, native and exotic shrub beds and a central grassed amphitheatre which hosts a wide variety of community events throughout the year.

Photo Credit: Jim Eliason

Website: http://www.eventfinder.com.au/venue/tumbalong-park-sydney
At first look, appears a bit like an oval, but is actually a large open space with a stage for
outdoor performances. Something going on here most weekends, and a good place to lay out
a picnic blanket free.



Need affordable accommodation close to Darling Harbour?

Look no further than Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour!
Right at the heart of Darling Harbour, close to the list of attractions above, within walking distance to public transport and taxis, close to shops, restaurants and cafes, plus the rooms have spectacular views of Sydney Harbour!

Website: Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Start Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour are offering this Start of Financial Year Special for $220.00* per night (minimum 3 night stay) including:

• Guaranteed free upgrade to Executive 
• 3 Night Minimum stay is required
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/314

Schools Spectacular 2013 @ Sydney Entertainment Centre

This year is the 30th Anniversary of the Schools Spectacular. Since 1983 this event has grown to become more than just a showcase highlighting the talents of the students of New South Wales public schools. It is an iconic cultural event incorporating students from diverse backgrounds and communities from the length and breadth of the state.

The Schools Spectacular is an Australian variety show featuring more than 3,600 students from over 400 NSW public schools and is an established and well recognised event on the Sydney live entertainment calendar.

The Schools Spectacular is a world-class arena production and one of the largest annual events of its caliber anywhere in Australia – and arguably the world. From its ability to produce national and international stars, to its role in promoting inclusiveness and reconciliation, the Schools Spectacular has no peer.



It showcases a cast of 2,000 dancers, a combined choir of 1,300 and an 80-piece full symphony orchestra.

The Schools Spectacular delivers outstanding, cutting-edge youth dance and musical performances, featuring state-of-the-art sound, lighting and staging. It is televised nationally in prime-time and also incorporates the World’s Biggest Classroom exhibition program showcasing a broader range of student talent and skill.

The Schools Spectacular is a remarkable New South Wales success story and is proudly presented by the NSW Department of Education and Communities.

When: 

• Friday 29 November - 12:00pm (preview) and 7:30pm
• Saturday 30 November - 2:00pm and 7:30pm

Where: Sydney Entertainment Centre - 35 Harbour Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000
How To Get There: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/show/transport
Tickets: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/tickets
Schools Spectacular Website: http://www.schoolsspectacular.com.au/

Staying in Sydney for the 2013 Schools Spectacular?  

Need accommodation near Sydney Entertainment Centre?

Look no further than Metro Hotel Sydney Central - a 3 min drive or 6 min walk to Sydney Entertainment Centre whilst being close to other iconic Sydney attractions. Great for families with kids of all ages. 

Website: Metro Hotel Sydney Central

We are currently running these family package specials to save you money!

Capitol Theater Family Accommodation Package

For $205.00 you get:

• One nights accommodation in a Deluxe 2x Double Bedded Room  
• Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
• Chocolates on arrival

• Book special here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/246
• Or call: 02 9281 6999

Spoil Your Child Special Package

For $215.00 you get:

• One nights accommodation in a Superior 2 Double bedded room for up to two adults and two children (children aged below 12 years)
• Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for up to 2 adults and 2 children  
• Goodies Bag on arrival for each child
• Daily 24hrs internet

• Book special here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/315
• Or call: 02 9281 6999

Sydney Pizza Festival 2013 ~ Buon Appetito!

A Little History of The Pizza

In 1889, as the Queen of Italy, Margherita di Savoia, was visiting the city of Naples, one great culinary curiosity filled her mind.  She had heard that everyone in the city, both rich and poor, were addicted to a round, flat bread called Pizza. When she expressed her desire to try this, the royal court ensured that one of the best chefs in Naples, Raffaele Esposito, took care of the preparation of a special pizza for the Queen. The result was the Margherita, a pizza evoking the colours of the Italian flag: green (basil leaves), white (mozzarella) and red (tomato sauce).

From Campania, the phenomenon of pizza-making and appreciation for this southern speciality spread all over Italy. The humble Pizza welcomed new ingredients, new recipes and adapted itself to the taste of Italians from region to region.

Thanks to the massive Italian migration in Australia during the 20th century and consequently, the opening of many pizzerie, pizza did not take long to conquer the taste buds of the Australians.

The 13 pizzerie included in this festival, both in Melbourne and Sydney, have been selected due to their commitment to authenticity and extremely high quality, while following the authentic way of making pizza. Their ingredients are scrupulously sourced from Italian and local producers while their contribution to the understanding of authentic Italian Pizza amongst the wider public is constant and driven by passion.

So many variables influence the process of pizza making: between the oven, the flour, the water, the external temperature and, of course, the Pizzaiolo, who will add his mastery to it.

While the pizzas are different from one pizzeria to another, a following of devoted pizza lovers has been established and it is truly unique. It is now your turn to discover which pizza is your favourite!

Buon appetito!
Matteo Rubbettino
Pizza Festival Director

Sydney Pizza Festival events throughout July: http://pizzafestival.com.au/sydney/events/event/

---

Staying in Sydney for the 2013 Pizza Festival? 

Need accommodation in Sydney CBD?

Metro Hotels offer comfortable and affordable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close to major public transport hubs so you can visit the event locations. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (close to Wynyard station)
• Metro Hotel Sydney Central (close to Central station)
• Metro Hotel on Pitt (close to Town Hall station)
• Aspire Hotel Sydney Ultimo (close to Central station)

Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Our city also offers a free bus service (it's a completely green bus) that loops around the main streets of Sydney. Many major Sydney attractions can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.

For discount specials on our hotels and apartments, visit this page: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special

State of Origin 2013 - Game 3 @ ANZ Stadium NSW

ANZ Stadium will host the biggest rivalry in Australian sport when NSW take on QLD in match three.

Game 3 will see the series return again to ANZ Stadium on Wednesday July 17.

State of Origin Series is the greatest rivalry in Australian sport and with New South Wales desperate to end a seven year losing streak, it is sure to be another gripping contest.

Critics have labelled the all-conquering Maroons as one of the finest Rugby League teams ever assembled and they'll be looking to make it eight straight against a NSW Blues outfit with newfound resolve after a heart-stopping finish to last year's series. The series takes on extra importance, as the Blues under new coach Laurie Daley look to end the Maroons record breaking seven consecutive series winning streak.

Secure your tickets now for what promises to be a memorable night in the Australian sporting calendar for 2013!

Gates Open: 5.30pm
NSW Cup Reps v QLD Residents 1st Half: 5.45pm
State of Origin Kick Off: 8.00pm

• Buy tickets: Ticketek
• Official NRL Website: http://www.nrl.com/
• ANZ Stadium NSW: http://www.anzstadium.com.au/Home.aspx
• ANZ Stadium Location: Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127, Australia
• How to get there: Trains from Central to Olympic Park station http://131500.com.au/

Need hotel accommodation in Sydney for the State of Origin Game 3 match?
Try the affordable and comfortable rooms at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - only a 30min train from Central station to ANZ Stadium at Olympic Park station.

Sydney City Hotel Accommodation: Metro Hotel Sydney Central  (30min train to ANZ stadium)
Metro Hotel Location: 431 - 439 Pitt Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia

Hotel Discounts: 

• http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/242
• http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307
• http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/246 (great for families)

Hotel Features:

• Licensed restaurant and bar (Open for breakfast and private functions only)
• Rooftop swimming pool (unheated)  
• Laundry/dry-cleaning services
• Complimentary newspapers at reception
• Smart bar
• Foxtel in all rooms
• Wireless Internet available in all guest rooms, public areas, and function room

To Book Online: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/sydney-hotels/metro-hotel-sydney-central-1
Phone: +61 2 9281 6999

Email: Res@metrosydneycentral.com

Latest Reviews from TripAdvisor.com on Metro Hotel Sydney Central

“Upgrade on an upgrade!”

Reviewed 4 July 2013 

We got a late special on wotif for an upgrade to a deluxe room on a Saturday nigh for $140. When we arrived we were upgraded to a master suite on the top floor! The hotel was great for doing things down the Central end of town, eg the outlets at Haymarket, book store at Central and a short walk to the QVB. It was very well furnished and was very quiet, especially considering its so close to the train line. Will definitely stay here again, it would be a perfect place to stay if you were seeing a show at the Capital!

• Stayed June 2013, travelled as a couple
  • Value
  • Location
  • Sleep Quality
  • Rooms
  • Cleanliness
  • Service

Source: http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g255060-d257308-r166248934-Metro_Hotel_Sydney_Central-Sydney_New_South_Wales.html

---

“Pleasantly surprised”

Reviewed 6 July 2013  via mobile

Just stayed here for the lions tour i was surprised we got the room at such a competitive rate given how busy the hotel and city were.Great overall value, service from the front desk was excellent. Location is good really central, the room was adequate.

Source: http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g255060-d257308-Reviews-Metro_Hotel_Sydney_Central-Sydney_New_South_Wales.html#REVIEWS

4 Reasons To Visit Darling Harbour This School Holiday!

It's the school holidays, the kids are itching to get out and about, but you're out of ideas and the Easter show is months away. If you're wondering where to take the kids, try Darling Harbour - there's always something to see, do or eat. Whether you're a big kid or young at heart, see below for fun activities to do this holiday - all conveniently combined in the one location!

Wildlife Sydney Zoo
If you love animals but don't want to drive out of Sydney, try the new establishment at Darling Harbour - the Wildlife Sydney Zoo. They've got cute and cuddly kangaroos, koalas, possums and quolls to creepy crawlies like scary giant cockroaches, gross insects, to bull ants, venomous snakes and more. Explore these animals and cool reptiles with the family for a fun day out.

Cost: from $14.00
When: Open Daily from 9am - 6pm (last entry STRICTLY 5pm)
Where: 1-5 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour, Sydney 2000 Australia
Tickets: http://www.wildlifesydney.com.au/tickets/#single-visit
________________________________________

Sydney Sealife Aquarium aka Sydney Aquarium 
Where did the myth of mermaids come from? Want to see a shark up close without getting wet? If you do (or at least your kids do) then Sydney Sealife Aquarium is your ultimate destination! From dugongs to huge sharks, massive stingrays, majestic turtles, stinging jellyfish, cute penguins, sea dragons, thousands of tropical fish, enormous crabs and more, you can experience it all at Sydney Sealife Aquarium this school holiday. Walk under a giant glass tube to view all the exotic Australian marine animals in their natural habitat! The kids will love all the activities!

Cost: from $15.40
When: Open 365 days a year - 9am to 8pm. Last entries are STRICTLY 7pm.
Where: 1-5 Wheat Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Tickets: http://www.sydneyaquarium.com.au/tickets/
________________________________________






Madam Tussauds 
Do you have a teenager who loves celebrity mags and gossip? Does your kids want to see what their fav celebs look like face-to-face? Then they'll love getting up close to their favourite stars and celebrities at Madam Tussauds wax museum at Darling Harbour! See the historical villains and heroes of eras past, get your picture taken with famous personalities and singers, brag to your friends that you met someone famous. For a fun day checking out famous freakishly life-like wax figures, you can't go past Madam Tussauds!

Here's a short list of some of the wax celebrities you'll see: Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Lady Gaga, Leonardo DiCaprio, Bruce Willis, Marilyn Monroe, Johnny Depp, Rihanna, Michael Jackson, Kylie Minogue, Delta Goodrem, Hugh Jackman as Wolverine and more!

Cost: from $15.40
When: 9:00am to 8:00pm daily (last admission 7pm)
Where: Aquarium Wharf, (next to SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium) Darling Harbour, Sydney, NSW 2000
Tickets: http://www.madametussauds.com/Sydney/OldBuyTickets/Default.aspx#sthash.jQXnZPCD.dpuf
________________________________________

IMAX Cinema Sydney
Want to see the biggest TV screen in the world? Love 3D movies? Then take cinema action to the extreme with Imax Theatre Movies! Available with 3D viewing and also applicable to documentaries, Sydney's IMAX Theatre offers the ultimate viewing experience - via the LARGEST screen in the world! Watch a 3D movie or doco and see the objects come to life. View your favourite movie and get taken in visually by the huge screen and awesome sound. Imax at Darling Harbour is a must-see!

Cost: from $16.00
When: Monday - Sunday 9:30am to 10:00pm
Where: 31 Wheat Rd, Darling Harbour NSW 2000, Australia
Tickets: http://www.imax.com.au/prices/ 
________________________________________



Need affordable, family-friendly accommodation close to all these 4 attractions at Darling Harbour?

Look no further than Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour. Right at the heart of Darling Harbour, close to the list attractions above, walking distance to public transport and taxis, close to shops, restaurants and cafes, plus the rooms have spectacular views of Sydney Harbour!

Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (close to IMAX, Wildlife Zoo, Sealife Aquarium, Madam Tussauds)

Here's a special being offered for the school holidays:

Kids Stay Free Package at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour for:

• $229.00* (Sunday - Thursday)
• $329.00* (Friday)
• $400.00* (Saturday)

View details or To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/316