By Kip Brook
Simpsons. It’s not an international five-star hotel – it’s not the Park Hyatt or the Hilton; it’s better.
Simpsons is one of the grandest, Victorian style heritage buildings with stunning stained glass windows, in possibly the best street in Potts Point, amongst the most expensive real estate in the city.
It’s a five minute walk down to Woolloomooloo where Russell Crowe and Nicole Kidman own apartments at the end of the wharf. Then on to the Botanical Gardens, the NSW art gallery and down to the Opera House and Circular Quay.
Stand on the footpath outside Simpsons and you see the harbour, the city high rise, the Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the gardens. The streets are crammed with classy restaurants, trendy cafes, delis and people doing business lunches. It is such a great area, such a top location and the hotel has the charm and elegance befitting its status.
Simpsons rates number one on Trip Advisor; ratings that guests have given them over the years referring to the ambience of the historic building (probably unique in Sydney), the cosmopolitan area of Potts Point, the proximity to the city, and the personal effort to make guests as comfortable as they can.
Simpsons is not perfect – only half of the fourteen rooms had a big, flat screen TV, there’s no room service (though they will bring you breakfast to your room if you ask), the decor is not modern – but this place is very cool. Their library has two fireplaces, load of books, leather recliners, sofas, sherry and port wine, and a computer with free wi-fi internet.
The location is excellent. The place is run by Keith, Marie and Vanessa. They meet every guest’s needs. They are incredibly helpful; that genuine, professional personal service can not be matched by big hotels.
The neighbourhood has a chic but lived-in feel. Challis Avenue is a spectacular tree-lined street, with gracious and elegant period terraced houses. You could spend all week eating on the street at Fratelli Paradiso, La Buvette or the Sardine Room. The quality of the food and drinks is among the best in Sydney.
Simpsons is not trendy, sparse, or sterile, but it oozes Australian history and possesses beautiful Australian antiques and artwork. There is an unspoken tranquil atmosphere there, surrounded by quality furniture in an historic 120 year-old house. The lounge-library is an excellent place to retreat after a long day traipsing around Sydney.
The warm and sincere hospitality is almost unmatched. I arrived at 8am after an overseas Emirates business class flight. My room was not ready of course, but I had use of a bathroom to shower and change in, as well as breakfast (not charged for). It’s clear why this hotel is currently ranked number one in Trip Advisor’s list for Sydney. If you are a bit-old fashioned or romantic, you can not beat a place like this.
