Staying at the Pier One Autograph Collection, Sydney

Pier One hotel, Sydney.

Aimee Shaw checks into the Pier One Autograph Collection, Sydney.

Check-in experience: We arrived at midday after requesting an early check in but were told we would have to wait until 2pm, so just mooched around the lobby until then.

Bubbles on arrival — win.

Room: Modern with awesome rustic-chic interior, finished with hues of blue and black and unusual statement pieces of art and furniture. The room was small but cosy and offered lots of natural light.

What's in the neighbourhood? The hotel is under Sydney Harbour Bridge with access to nearby jetties. It's in the Rocks area so is close to Darling Harbour, the international cruise ship terminal, restaurants and bars, weekend markets, the Opera House, ferry terminals and art galleries.

Food and drink: We ate out during our stay.

The bed: Plushy and luxe.

The view: Though we couldn't see all of the Darling Harbour skyline, we could see water and boats passing by regularly, which added serenity to the room.

Bathroom: Spacious, clean and in keeping with the rustic-chic theme. Great selection of own-brand supplied toiletries.

Room service: Didn't try room service. Had a squizz over the menu, and all items were very expensive: NZ$38 per person for no-frills continental breakfast.

Value for money: The location is central and very handy, so $270 a night for a waterside deluxe double room was expected.

Facilities: No (much-needed) pool! Apart from that it had all the expected facilities including small gym, hotel restaurant, bar, outside decking area with plenty of seating and water mist jets to manage the heat. We were pleasantly surprised by the in-room mini bar offering. As well as all of the standard drinks and snacks, it also had adaptor plugs, ear phones, a cap, high-end liquor and condoms for sale.

Online: pieronesydneyharbour.com.au

Perfect for: Business travellers, couples, honeymooners.

Would I return? Yes, the location is awesome and the views are a treat.