87.51% SWISSôTEL SYDNEY
Sydney Australia

Penthouse hotel, formerly the Merchant Court, on the doorstep of the city's most famous landmarks. Since Swissôtel takeover in 2003, has acquired reputation for efficiency and reliability

ROOMS
359, including 37 suites, all with large windows providing uninterrupted cityscape views

FOOD
Stylish JP Bastiani Restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and a cellar stocked with more than 7,000 wines

SERVICE
Guests consistently comment on outstanding concierge and porter service

FACILITIES
Health club with outside heated pool; spa, steam room and gym

COST
Doubles from A$450 (about £190)

68 Market Street, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (00 61 2 9238 8888; fax: 9238 8877; www.swissotel.com)