Sydney hotels just don't get any more central than this

Sydney is a big city with myriad accommodation offerings ranging from hostels to ultra-luxe five-star hotels. But if you really want to be in the most central location possible you can't go past Rydges World Square. 

 A major shopping precinct is right underneath you; George Street is on your doorstep; Central Railway Station is just a few blocks away; Chinatown is a two-minute stroll away and there are dozens of Thai and Korean eateries within a couple of blocks.

Walk outside the hip The Cidery Bar & Kitchen and two of Sydney's busiest, buzziest eateries are right there; dumpling heaven at Din Tai Fung and Neil Perry's Burger Project. 

This is where the Central Business District meets the nightlife quarter of Australia's biggest city. Location? Sorted.

Rydges is a full-service hotel in every way. There are plenty of staff to hail you a cab, store your luggage or just point you in the right direction. 

Unlike the remaining dinosaurs who still charge for wifi, here is free in all guest rooms, bars, eateries and public areas.

This is a big hotel; 452 rooms rated 4.5 stars. So the helpfulness and availability of the staff came as a pleasant surprise.

All the bedrooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs and mine had a small balcony (the blessings of being able to enjoy fresh air). I was concerned my room was close to the lifts but it was extremely quiet with a very comfortable bed and I slept very well. 

I loved the vibe of the Cidery (another blog follows) while the buffet breakfast at Sphere offered a good selection (the mushrooms were excellent). At night, however, it was almost deserted and leaves a little to be desired in the ambience department. No problem, really, with dozens of good eating choices on the doorstep. 

On-site offerings include a gymnasium and 24-hour valet parking, along with convention space for up 550 people. Both check-in and check-out were fast and painless.

I would have liked a morning newspaper delivered to my room; and, perhaps, a wider mini-bar choice, but these are mere quibbles. Rydges World Square is a damn fine place to stay. 

Rydges World Square, 389 Pitts Street, Sydney 2000. (02) 8268 1888. www.rydges.com/worldsquare. Packages including overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast, car parking and a barista coffee start from $232 per night.  

# The writer was a guest of Rydges World Square.