Metro Hotels Australia Website

Thursday, December 6, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central Wins Hotel Excellence Award - Metro Hotels


Agoda.com, Asia’s leading hotel booking site has announced Metro Hotel Sydney Central as one of 494 recipients of its prestigious Gold Circle Awards in 2012. The Awards recognise hotels from around the globe that lead by example in the competitive hospitality industry.

Launched in 2009, the Awards are given to Agoda.com partners who are committed to accommodating the unique needs of the online booking industry, which has seen significant and steady global growth as technology continues to make online booking faster, easier and more convenient.

In determining this year’s Gold Circle Award winners, the new judging criteria takes into account the number of positive customer reviews including aggregate scores, a hotel’s utilization of Agoda.com’s Yield Control System, top-performing properties, competitive pricing, and a hotel’s understanding of the complex business dynamics that define the industry.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central’s General Manager, Sandra Calabretta, said she and her staff were thrilled to be recognised for customer service excellence, and offering great value at a fair price to its guests.
“We constantly strive to ensure the best hotel experience for our guests. Customer service is very difficult to get right all the time, and often you only receive feedback when things go wrong.
“This Award is testament to our success in ensuring our guests enjoy a high level of service as well as value for money.”

Metro Hotel Sydney Central recently completed an extensive refurbishment of four of the hotel’s 10 floors, now offering only Superior and Deluxe rooms, with standard rooms being phased out. It will embark on upgrading the remaining six floors in February 2013.

“This is an exciting time in the history of the hotel as we are offering our guests not only superior customer service, but also a significantly better quality of accommodation and facilities,” Ms Calabretta said.

View Source

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Ipswich Boy to Play Pugsley in The Addams Family Musical


THEY'RE creepy and they're kooky, mysterious and spooky, and an Ipswich boy has joined them; the Addams Family.

Which character from the Addams Family are you most like? Click here to vote
 
Young Ipswich Grammar School student Jaxon Graham-Wilson has been chosen to play Pugsley in Sydney's Capitol Theatre production of The Addams Family - The Broadway Musical.

Landing the role came as an early birthday surprise for Jaxon, who turns 14 tomorrow.
"I've know for a while, but I had to keep it quiet until Sunday, when it was properly announced," Jaxon said. "I flew down to Sydney to audition after my mum found out about it, and we went back down last Monday to do the photo shoot with the other Pugsleys."

Jaxon will star alongside well-known actors John Waters and Russell Dykstra in the show.
The Collingwood Park boy said he would have no trouble getting into the character of Pugsley, Gomez and Morticia's son and brother to Wednesday.

"I've watched all the movies and TV shows and I saw the original cast on Broadway," he said.
Jaxon said he loved the "creepy" nature of the family.

"Pugsley is a bit devious and loves torturing his sister, so I'm basically always in character when I'm annoying my own sister," he joked.

The Addams Family production opens next March, and Jaxon will move to Sydney for nine months with his mother and sister.

"I'll be doing distance ed and my sister will go to school," he said.
"I want to travel and do shows when I'm older so this is exciting."

Family Facts
  • The Addams Family was created by American cartoonist Charles Addams.
  • It was first developed into a television series in the 1960s, and has since inspired films, books, videos and a musical.
See original article from QT

Chitty Chitty Goes Off With a Bang Bang


THERE are live dogs, lots of children and a strong cast but the star of the musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is the amazing car of the title. 
 
It really is a fantasmagorical machine that draws gasps of delight when it flies, in a genuinely magical moment.

Based on the 1968 film, the stage adaptation makes some judicious changes bringing in the Vulgarians, who are intent on stealing the car, right from the start - and adding jokes for the adults.
As the crackpot inventor Caractacus Potts, David Hobson reins in the eccentricity, giving a gently endearing performance.

Rachael Beck is lovely as Truly Scrumptious, Alan Brough and Jennifer Vuletic are thoroughly entertaining as the tantrum-throwing, toy-loving Baron Bomburst and his Baroness, while George Kapiniaris and Todd Goddard are a hoot as the bumbling Vulgarian spies.

Roger Hodgman directs, using Anthony Ward's clever, eye-catching design, with its set inspired by the idea of invention and machinery.

Energy-wise, the production could go up a gear at times and Dana Jolly's choreography lacks a little oomph but it's a fun show that clearly charmed the children around me and had the audience clapping along with the title song.

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Rachael Beck is Truly Scrumptious in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang



RACHAEL Beck describes her character in the upcoming musical production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as a strong, funny woman with an absolutely terrible name.

Beck will take on the role of Truly Scrumptious, an upper-class socialite who gets drawn into a world of outrageous adventure, evil child-catchers and magical flying cars.

A stalwart of both the stage and screen, Beck has previously played staring roles in Les Miserables, Cats, The Sound of Music and Singin’ in the Rain but despite her experience the 41 year old said this new role would not be without its challenges.

“In one of the opening scenes I hoon around the stage on a vintage motorbike with a sidecar,” Beck said.

“It’s a bit concerning because I nearly run over all the props and crash into different parts of the set.
“It’s great fun and there are so many interesting moments like that throughout the show.”

Opening at the Capitol Theatre on Friday, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is an adaptation of the 1968 children’s film, based on a book by Ian Fleming.

Beck said the stage production followed the same storyline as the movie but parts of the script had been modernised to suit a current-day audience.

“I think it’s a lot funnier than the movie,” she said.

“People certainly won’t be let down by the production because it’s such a wonderful family show.

“I have this bad habit of falling in love with the characters I play and Truly Scrumptious is no different … hopefully the audience will do the same.”

SEE IT ON STAGE

Opens Friday, November 16
Capitol Theatre, Haymarket
Tickets from $69
Details: www.chittychitty.com.au

Festive Season Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels


Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering this Festive Season Special from $195.00 per night including:
  • One night's accommodation in a Deluxe Room
  • A box of candies on arrival
  • A big bottle of house wine on arrival
  • Free Internet
Book this Festive Season Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central

View Metro Hotel Sydney Central
 
 Terms and Conditions:
  • Offer is strictly subject to availability.
  • Valid until 30th December 2012
  • Rates are not valid with any other offer.
  • All other terms & conditions will be provided when making your booking 

Thursday, November 22, 2012

Sydney Hotel Reviews: “Good Value in a Convenient Location” - Metro Hotel Sydney Central



This hotel is conveniently located near Central Station and the Light Rail. Plenty of good reasonably priced cafes and restaurants in immediate vicinity. Staff were helpful and rooms clean and comfortable
 
 
 
 

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Hotel Accommodation in Sydney's CBD. Metro Hotel Sydney Central is just minutes away from Sydney attractions Darling Harbour, Cockle Bay Wharf, Star City Casino, Sydney Entertainment Centre, Paddy's Markets and the city's dining and cinema districts.

Located on the corner of Pitt and Campbell Streets directly opposite the Capitol Theatre. Metro Hotel Sydney Central is a short walk for business guests to all major corporate and government offices and for those attending one of the many national or international conferences and trade shows at Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, the hotel is just a pleasant 10 minute journey.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central


Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering this Chitty Chitty Bang Bang package for $205.00 including:
  • 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 this Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central 

View Metro Hotel Sydney Central
 
Terms and Conditions:
  • Offer is strictly subject to availability and may not be available for special event dates.
  • Children age is 00 – 12 years old.
  • Valid until 20th December 2012.
  • Rates are not valid with any other offer.
  • All other terms & conditions will be provided when making your booking
    Bookings are non-refundable

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Second Stage of Refurbishment for Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Metro Hotel Sydney Central, Metro Hospitality Group’s flagship property on the corner of Pitt and Hay Streets, Sydney, will embark on the second stage of refurbishment early next year with the remaining six floors of rooms in line for a full upgrade.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central completed the first stage of its refurbishment in September with guests now enjoying a superior standard of accommodation and a 100% smoke free environment. The hotel has phased out all Standard rooms and now offers only Superior and Deluxe rooms.

With the refurbishment of four of the hotel’s 10 floors, the rooftop pool area, the restaurant terrace and guest lifts now finished and drawing excellent feedback from guests, Metro Hospitality Group is keen to ensure the remainder of the hotel’s accommodation and facilities offer the same high standard.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central General Manager Sandra Calabretta said Stage Two was scheduled to commence in late February 2013 and would involve upgrading the remaining six floors of guest rooms at the hotel.

“This is an exciting time in the history of this hotel as we are offering our guests a significantly better quality of accommodation and facilities as a result of this refurbishment,” Ms Calabretta said.

“We have received positive feedback from our guests regarding the first stage so have decided to move ahead with the next. The end result will be a hotel perfectly placed in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment precinct offering a quality accommodation option at an affordable price.”

Deluxe rooms at Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is situated directly opposite the Capitol Theatre and is a popular accommodation choice for people wanting to watch one of the many national and international productions staged at the Capitol and State theatres each year.

The hotel is a short walk from Chinatown, Paddy’s Market, Cockle Bay, the Queen Victoria Building and the popular King Street Wharf.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Book Hotel Accommodation early This Christmas to Avoid Disappointment - Metro Hotels

The Christmas holiday season is a popular time for people to stay overnight in Sydney to avoid driving home after festive celebrations, or to accommodate visiting relatives and friends in city accommodation - but many people leave it too late to book, a leading Australian hotel chain has warned.

George Bedwani, COO of Australian hotel chain Metro Hotels, said accommodation in Sydney is already booking fast for the Christmas and New Year period, and people planning celebrations in the city during this period should consider booking now to avoid disappointment.

“It is important to remember that if you book early you will save on hotel rates as leaving it until the last minute, occupancy will rise and premium rates will apply.

“Our experience is that the current depressed economy has not impacted bookings for this period at all and accommodation in Sydney will be heavily booked for December and January. If people already know the date of their office Christmas party or want to spend New Year’s Eve in Sydney, now is the time to book accommodation.”

Mr Bedwani said New Year’s Eve in Sydney continues to be an international highlight, with Sydney City Council ensuring each year is uniquely themed to ensure crowds continued to congregate around the harbour to enjoy the spectacular fireworks and other festivities on offer.

He said some rooms were still available for New Year’s Eve for people keen to make the most of the celebrations, or to show visitors one of the best celebrations anywhere in the world.

Loft Style Apartment at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Metro Hotels has five hotels and apartments in Sydney CBD. All its Sydney properties are heavily booked so people seeking accommodation for the December or January period should visit the Metro Hotels website at www.metrohotels.com.au

or call the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321.

Book Hotel Accommodation early This Christmas to Avoid Disappointment - Metro Hotels

Monday, October 8, 2012

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Coming Soon to Capitol Theatre Sydney


Chitty Chitty Bang Bang finally lands on the Australian stage!

Sensational sets, stunning special effects, an irresistible story, and an unforgettable score by the Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book), including memorable classics like “Truly Scrumptious”, “Hushabye Mountain”, and, of course, the Oscar®- nominated title song, all add up to a blockbuster musical that everyone will love. Starring David Hobson, Rachael Beck, Alan Brough, Jennifer Vuletic, Peter Carroll, George Kapiniaris and Tyler Coppin as The Child Catcher.
Sheer Theatrical Magic” Evening Standard, UK

This multi-million dollar production remains the longest running musical ever to play at the London Palladium and was nominated for three Olivier Awards, five Tony Awards, ten Outer Critics Circle Awards and four Drama Desk Awards. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang holds the Guinness World Record for the most expensive stage prop in the history of British theatre!


Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will fly into the Capitol Theatre for 10 weeks only from November 16 2012.

Read More and Buy Tickets

Paul Kelly - Conversations with Ghosts


Australian singer/songwriter Paul Kelly joins forces with ten performers from the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) and the incomparable recorder virtuoso Genevieve Lacey to present the world premiere of an original song cycle, based on the poetry of W.B. Yeats, Lord Alfred Tennyson, Kenneth Slessor, Judith Wright and Les Murray, as well as several new lyrics of his own.

Created by Kelly in collaboration with ANAM’s 2011 resident composer, James Ledger, Conversations With Ghosts is a bittersweet reflection on the nature of mortality and an uplifting memorial to those who have been lost. Presented by One Louder & Artist Voice in association with the Australian National Academy of Music. From Slessor’s incantatory ‘Five Bells’ and Yeats’s ‘Sailing to Byzantium’ to Murray’s ‘Once in a Lifetime Snow’, Conversations With Ghosts pays homage to some of the English language’s greatest wordsmiths, offering a unique and unforgettable evening of music and lyricism.

Composer, Voice & Guitar Paul Kelly
Recorders Genevieve Lacey
Ensemble ANAM Musicians
Composer & Electronics James Ledger

Wednesday 10 October at 8pm

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central Completes Major Refurbishment - Metro Hotels


Metro Hotel Sydney Central, the Group’s flagship property in Pitt Street, Sydney, has just completed a major refurbishment designed to provide guests with a superior standard of rooms and facilities.

The refurbishment of four floors of rooms is now complete, and from this month, Metro Hotel Sydney Central will only offer Superior and Deluxe rooms, with standard rooms completely phased out.  The entire hotel is now 100% smoke free.

“The rationalisation of room categories will make it much easier for our clients to make a booking and get the quality of room they are looking for,” Ms Calabretta said. “Prior to the refurbishment we had too many room categories and it was a little confusing for our guests.”

The rooftop pool area and restaurant terrace are now finished, providing guests with a more welcoming and enjoyable venue in which to relax. Improvements to the area included a pool upgrade, re-tiling of the area, new and improved lighting and the addition of modern pool furniture.

The guest lifts have been upgraded, with the third and final lift to be completed by mid September.
According to Ms Calabretta, the refurbishments are already proving to be a success. “The new pool deck looks great and, not only will it be an excellent and attractive facility for our guests to use, we have received a number of enquiries from organisations who want to hire the area for an evening cocktail function by the pool.”

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is situated in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment district, directly opposite the Capitol Theatre.  The hotel is a popular accommodation choice for interstate and intra-state visitors in Sydney to watch one of the many international productions staged at both the Capitol and State theatres each year.

“The recent production of Mary Poppins brought us a lot of business, and we are expecting a similar flow-on effect when The Addams Family is staged in March 2013 and when The Lion King returns in December 2013,” Sandra said.

The hotel is just a short walk to Chinatown, Paddy’s Market, Cockle Bay, Queen Victoria Building and King Street Wharf. A car is not necessary when staying at Metro Hotel Sydney Central, because, as the name implies, the hotel is so central you can get around car-free with ease. Discounted light rail and monorail passes are available from the hotel’s reception. Central railway station is just a 500 metre walk, and the light rail and numerous bus routes provide lots of opportunities to explore wider Sydney.

Sunday, July 29, 2012

“Excellent for the price, great location” - Metro Hotel Sydney Central Guest Review


I managed to get a really good deal on this hotel for only $100 AUD, which in the centre of Sydney is great. I arrived after a 23 hr flight from London very early in the morning, and the reception staff did everything they could to accommodate me into an empty room as soon as possible, for which I was incredibly grateful.

The first room I was put in was a little old and un-renovated with a view of a grey wall, but it was very quiet and easy to sleep in. The room was large, clean and comfortable, with a large clean bathroom. I was moved later in my stay to a much nicer room facing Central station, that was very modern and stylish.

The staff were so great that even when I became ill during my stay at had to be hospitalised, they moved my baggage for me into storage and stopped my payment for that night! I was extremely impressed at the high level of customer service and friendliness I experience. The genuine concern alone was appreciated and not expected in todays customer service.

Everything you need is right outside your door - major transport hub of trains and buses all over Sydney, Darling Harbour is a 15 min walk and Town Hall and the shopping district is only 12 minutes away. Chinatown is only 5 minutes away with great restaurants and the Chinese Gardens. There are little convenience stores dotted around the hotel if you need snacks or amenities, and the lobby has vending machines too for drinks or munchies in the middle of the night.

Really surprised at the negative reviews on here - these guys could not be faulted. I'm coming back to Sydney in October, and will be staying here again. People, for $100 AUD a night to stay in the centre of town within walking distance of everything, with nice clean large rooms - this was a gift.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

BESydney expands the 2012 ABEE Hosted Buyer Program


Australia’s leading convention bureau, Business Events Sydney (BESydney), in conjunction with the Australian Business Event Expo (ABEE) and airline partner Qantas, has expanded the ABEE Hosted Buyer Program to include both Hosted and Semi-hosted Buyer Programs that will run from 14–16 August 2012.

Last year’s Hosted Buyer Program catered for a qualified number of fully hosted buyers. This year, expanding the program to two streams will introduce more local buyers to the show floor and enhance the quality and quantity of appointments for exhibitors.

“The expansion of the ABEE Hosted Buyer Program is a strategic decision to ensure ABEE’s show floor continues to be a dynamic platform for supplier and client connection, networking and business,” comments Lyn Lewis-Smith, CEO of BESydney.

“The two distinct programs ensure that both the hosted and semi-hosted buyer experience is productive, as well as educational, and really delivers on the modern day buyer’s needs. We’ve acted on feedback provided by previous participants and have made supplier appointments, key site inspections and networking the priorities in both programs.”

Jodie Richmond, CEO of Exhibition and Trade Fairs (the owner of ABEE) adds, “It is fantastic to work alongside Business Events Sydney and airline partner Qantas to grow the already successful ABEE Hosted Buyer Program. Our combined understanding of the business event market, paired with a savvy, concise format, will see the Program deliver enhanced results to both our Buyers and our Exhibitors this year.

Hosted buyers will receive complimentary Qantas return travel to Sydney and 2 nights' accommodation in a leading Sydney hotel. This program includes participation in the educational program that is punctuated with fantastic speaking talent, scheduled appointments, the Destination Site Inspection Tour, gala events and all ground logistics.

Semi-hosted buyers will have the opportunity to schedule appointments with suppliers, listen to selected speakers on the educational program and enjoy the ABEE Hosted Buyer Dinner. They will also have the option of participating in a full-day Destination Site Inspection Tour.

The Australian Business Events Expo runs from 15–16 August 2012 at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and is the ultimate marketplace for business events in Australia.

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central, NSW - 4 Stars on TripAdvisor By ABDUL RAHIM M, June 6, 2012


1) I stayed at the hotel from 30/5 until 4/6/12. Here are my comments:
a) the room was clean and was made up every day.
b) it will be much better if there are more lights in the room but since we didnt have the time
do much reading, it is okay.
c) the lifts were fast.
d) the location is superb : easy access and near to many of the attractions of Sydney.
e) will definitely stay there again.
2) For muslim travellers, there are 2 halal restaurants nearby : Cafe Kasturi on George St
which serve Malay food (closed on Sundays and the Christmas period) and an Indian
restaurant at Paddy's Market. There is a halal Chinese restaurant (Neptune Palace) at
Circular Quay.
3) If you want to go on a day trip ie to Canberra etc ..........it is much cheaper to book the tour
in Sydney itself rather than by booking it online, which is very strange indeed. For examples,
a) I booked a day trip to Canberra by online and it cost me AUD 155. A fellow traveller only
paid AUD 100 when she booked it at the travel agent near the YHA which is located nearby.
There is nothing exciting in Canberra except for the guided tour of the Parliament House.
Along the way we stopped at the beautiful small town of Berriwa which is an absolute gem.
I booked by online a tour to the Blue Mountains and it cost me AUD 155 (inclusive of lunch).
A similar trip cost only AUD 138 if the booking is done in Sydney. If you travel to Katoomba
by rail and then take the Hop On Hop Off bus there, the cost is even less.
4) From the hotel, walk to Central Station and take a train on the North Shore Line to Milson's
Point. There you can get a picturesque views of the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Then walk across the bridge to The Rocks. The views are breathtaking.
5) The cheapest place to buy Australiana souvenirs is at the Paddy's market, within easy
walking distance from the hotel. The cheapest perfumes can be found at the shops of
Discount Chemist. I found one such shop at Bondi Beach. The prices were much cheaper
than those at the duty free shops at the airport.


Monday, July 2, 2012

Metro Hotels Appoints Business Development Manager - MICE

Metro Hotels has appointed Mr. Div Grover to the role of Business Development Manager – MICE for Metro Hospitality Group in Australia.

In this newly created role, Mr. Grover is responsible for building and maintaining the small meetings, incentives, conferences and events business for Metro Hospitality Group’s network of properties Australia-wide.

The position reports to Metro Hotel’s National Sales and Marketing Manager Gary Long, who today welcomed Mr Grover’s appointment.

“Div brings to this role significant experience in the hospitality industry gained over the past 9 years, Mr Long said.  

“While many hotels only cater for large events, it is often difficult to find venues for small meetings and seminars.  Metro Hotels is increasing its focus on the small meetings and functions market.  We see Div’s strong background in building and maintaining business relationships as instrumental in developing this niche market to drive business and further enhance the reputation and patronage of Metro Hotel’s network of properties,” he said.

Read on at Metro Hotels Press Releases

Read other Metro Hotels News

Monday, June 18, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central – Perfect For a City Escape

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the perfect accommodation choice for visitors to Sydney, situated right in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment district and providing easy access to the best Sydney has to offer.

Situated directly opposite the Capitol Theatre, Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the ideal accommodation choice for theatre-goers, particularly with the amazing line-up of internationally-acclaimed productions planned for this year and next. 

Shows include Barry Humphries Farewell (July 5 – 14, 2012); A Chorus Line (July 20 – August 5, 2012); Eifman Ballet (August 15 – 26, 2012); Next to Normal (September 13 – 23, 2012); Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (November 16 – December 16, 2012); The Addams Family (March 2013); and The Lion King (December 2013), and guests are advised to book their accommodation at the same time as they book their tickets to avoid disappointment.

To enjoy the above shows, Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering a great value Capitol Theatre Special for $145* per night, which includes:

  • One night’s accommodation in a Superior Queen Room
  • Hot Buffet Breakfast for two adults
  • Extended checkout until 12 noon the following day
*Tickets to Capitol Theatre are NOT included in this package
Subject to availability, may not be available for special event dates, and valid for stays until September 28, 2012


Located in Pitt Street in the city, Metro Hotel Sydney Central offers quality, comfortable accommodation, including 10 guest suites, 154 superior rooms and, for the more budget conscious, 66 well-equipped standard rooms.

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

QR Code for Metro Hotel Sydney Central Official Webpage

QR Code for Metro Hotel Sydney Central Official Webpage

Get to the Metro Hotel Sydney Central Homepage fast with the above QR code.

http://www.metrohotels.com.au/hotels/new-south-wales/metro-hotel-sydney-central/welcome/

Sunday, April 29, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central To Butt Out Smoking - Metro Hotels

The 3 1/2 star Metro Hotel Sydney Central is set to make a fresh start to the new financial year by becoming a 100% smoke-free hotel.

"The move has come about following increased demand for more non-smoking rooms from a wide cross section of our clients," said Hotel General Manager, Ms. Sandra Calabretta.
And the timing for the changes couldn’t be better. “We are currently undergoing a refurbishment of the rooms and common areas of the hotel so it makes very good sense to make the switch now,” explains Ms Calabretta.

Since 2006 seventy per cent of the hotel plus the common areas have been smoke free. The hotel still had demand from some guests, mainly the Asian inbound groups, for smoking rooms so a number of floors were set aside to cater for this market.

“Over time we have seen a large decline in the need for smoking rooms from traditional markets so now it is a case of catering for the majority and not the minority,” said Ms. Calabretta.

In 2005, the Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour, also located in Sydney's CBD, was the first Metro property to adopt a smoke-free policy with no negative effect on the busines.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central To Butt Out Smoking - Metro Hotels

Extensive Refurbishment Underway for Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is currently in the midst of an extensive refurbishment as it moves towards providing guests with a superior standard of rooms and facilities.

The 3½ star Sydney hotel is undergoing renovations designed to ensure guests enjoy a high level of facilities and services as well as value for money.

The first part of the program involving the redevelopment of the rooftop pool area, is now nearing completion, providing guests with a more welcoming and enjoyable venue in which to relax. Improvements to the area include a pool upgrade, re-tiling of the area, new and improved lighting and the addition of modern pool furniture.

The second stage of refurbishments is currently underway and will see a complete renovation of the hotel’s three guest lifts. One lift has already been completed and work is underway on the second lift. The third and final lift will be completed by the end of August.

According to Hotel General Manager, Ms Sandra Calabretta, the staged upgrade of the lifts ensured guests were not inconvenienced as two lifts remain operational at all times.

“The Hotel has more lifts than it actually requires to run efficiently, and so there has been no inconvenience to guests,” Ms Calabretta said. “Combined with the new pool deck, these improvements are already proving to be a success. The new pool deck looks great and, not only will it be an excellent and attractive facility for our guests to use, we have received a number of enquiries from organisations who want to hire the area for an evening cocktail function by the pool.”

Read on at Metro Hotels Press Releases:

Extensive Refurbishment Underway for Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central – Perfect for a City Escape - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the perfect accommodation choice for visitors to Sydney, situated right in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment district and providing easy access to the best Sydney has to offer.

Situated directly opposite the Capitol Theatre, Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the ideal accommodation choice for theatre-goers, particularly with the amazing line-up of internationally-acclaimed productions planned for this year and next.

Shows include Shen Yun (April 27 – May 6, 2012); The Nutcracker on Ice (June 2012); The Addams Family (March 2013); and The Lion King (December 2013), and guests are advised to book their accommodation at the same time as they book their tickets to avoid disappointment.

Located in Pitt Street in the city, Metro Hotel Sydney Central offers quality, comfortable accommodation, including 10 guest suites, 154 superior rooms and, for the more budget conscious, 66 well-equipped standard rooms.

Guests will enjoy a little slice of Asia with Chinatown, Little Japan, Little Korea and ThaiTown offering an eclectic mix of restaurants, mini-marts and shopping outlets all within easy walking distance.

Read on:

Metro Hotel Sydney Central – Perfect for a City Escape - Metro Hotels

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Special ‘Love Never Dies’ Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is making it more attractive to catch the spectacular new Andrew Lloyd Webber production ‘Love Never Dies’ before it leaves Sydney at the end of March with an accommodation package sure to appeal to Sydneysiders and visitors to the city alike.

Situated directly opposite the Capitol Theatre where ‘Love Never Dies’ is being staged, Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the ideal accommodation choice for theatre-goers and people looking for a highly memorable yet affordable night out in Sydney’s thriving entertainment quarter.

The musical has received rave reviews in both Sydney and Melbourne, where it opened last year, and is a must see for anyone who enjoyed the brilliance of Phantom of the Opera. The Metro Hotel Sydney Central package is priced at an affordable $165 and includes:

Love Never Dies Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central*:
(maximum 2 people per package)
- One night’s accommodation in a Superior Queen Room
- Bottle of wine and chocolates on arrival
- Extended check-out to 12 noon the following day

Love Never Dies Package @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central (View and Book)

The package is available until Love Never Dies leaves Sydney on March 31. It is not valid with any other offer and does not include tickets to the stage production.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central offers quality, comfortable accommodation in Sydney’s cosmopolitan entertainment quarter. There are 10 guest suites, 154 superior rooms and, for the more budget conscious, there are 66 well-equipped standard rooms.

Located in Pitt Street, Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the perfect hotel for an overnight stay following a night at the theatre. Guests will enjoy a little slice of Asia with Chinatown, Little Japan, Little Korea and ThaiTown offering an eclectic mix of restaurants, mini-marts and shopping outlets all within easy walking distance.

With popular local attractions such as Paddy’s Markets, Cockle Bay, Queen Victoria Building and King Street Wharf only a short walk away, Metro Hotel Sydney Central will soon feel like your city home away from home.

You won’t need your car if you’re staying at Metro Hotel Sydney Central because, as the name implies, the hotel is so central you can get around car-free with ease. Discounted light rail and monorail passes are available from the hotel’s reception. Central railway station is just a 500metre walk whereas the light rail, monorail and numerous bus routes provide a myriad of options for exploring wider Sydney, be it the beach at Bondi, Luna Park in North Sydney or the magnificent Blue Mountains. There are a wide range of day tours available from the hotel.

Special ‘Love Never Dies’ Package at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Monday, February 6, 2012

Lion King Stage Show to Return to Sydney

The Lion King will return to Sydney in 2013 and the state government says the musical will make the city a tourist magnet.

The stage show finished in Sydney in 2005 after running for two years and playing to 1.35 million people.

It will reopen at the Capitol Theatre in December next year.

Tourism minister George Souris said a new generation of young families is ready to enjoy the musical.

“It’s the most successful musical in the world and it exceeded all expectation in 2003,” he told reporters in Sydney on Tuesday.

Mr Souris said the 2013 production was expected to attract 500,000 visitors from interstate and overseas, generating $36 million for NSW.

He said visitors who came to watch the show would also take part in other activities in the city.

“If they came right now, they’d go to the Picasso exhibition, they’d go to the Harry Potter exhibition, they would have enjoyed the Festival of Sydney,” Mr Souris said.

“They may have even enjoyed the cricket season against India.

“All of that drives tourism and the importance of having a premier run in your state cannot be overestimated.”

Thomas Schumacher, Disney’s president of theatrical productions, said although the musical had premiered in 1997, enormous demand for it continues worldwide.

“It’s still going to be new to the audience that see it for the first time,” Mr Schumacher told reporters via videolink from New York.

“Then of course there’s the people that want to come back to it.

“We get many more requests around the world for productions of The Lion King that we can’t accommodate or in fact are interested in accommodating.”

Since opening in America in 1997, there have been 19 production of the musical around the world.

It’s estimated to have been seen by 63 million people and grossed more than $4.7 billion.

The Sydney production is predicted to run for about eight months.


Lion King Stage Show to Return to Sydney

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Love Never Dies now on at Capitol Theatre in Sydney

Love Never Dies advertisment on the side of a Bus in Sydney

Love Never Dies is currently on at Capitol Theatre directly opposite Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Love Never Dies Accommodation Package available

Sunday, January 29, 2012

End Of Summer Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering this End Of Summer Special for $175.00 per package (maximum 2 people per package) including:

- One night accommodation in a Superior Room
- Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast for 2 adults
- $30 Food & Beverage voucher from Yardhouse Sydney
- Book this End of Summer Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central

View Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Terms and Conditions:

- Offer is strictly subject to availability and may not be available for special event dates.
- Valid for stays between 01st February and 29th February 2012.
- Rates are not valid with any other offer.
- All other terms & conditions will be provided when making your booking
- Bookings are non-refundable.

http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/246

End Of Summer Special at Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Metro Hotels

Sunday, January 22, 2012

Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Trip Advisor Guest Reviews

Three Recent Trip Advisor Guest Reviews of Metro Hotel Sydney Central:

“Good Central Hotel in Chinatown” - Reviewed 17 January 2012 NEW

This hotel is located in a very good location, right in Chinatown - extremely near to food shops, supermarkets, Chinatown shops - no issues finding nearby amenities. Good location for tourists as it is walking distance to some tourists attractions (e.g. Paddy's markets, Darling Harbour, City Centre), and is near to bus stops to further areas (e.g. Opera House, The Rocks, Harbour Bridge).

Hotel rooms I stayed in was a standard room (either 1 double bed or 2 single beds). Has TV (with limited cable), kettle, cups and glasses, coffee and tea, table with mirror, bathroom, and basic facilities. Comfortable room. Though, I felt that the room lighting is a bit too dim at times (with no overhead lights, only table lamps). Bathroom feels small and I had to bend down to reach the taps (not ideal for people with bad backs). Otherwise, room was clean and tidy. Good value.

I also paid for the morning breakfast, which was decent but wasn't great (it was buffet style with limited variety of food - got sick of eating the same food after a few days).
For business trips, etc. - Internet is not free, you have to pay a certain fee for it.

Pros - good value; extremely good central location; clean, basic rooms; basic room facilities present; helpful staff
Cons - small bathroom; need to pay for Internet access; very limited choice for breakfast

  • Stayed November 2011, travelled with family
    • 4 of 5 stars Value 4/5
    • 5 of 5 stars Location 5/5
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality 4/5
    • 3 of 5 stars Rooms 3/5
    • 4 of 5 stars Cleanliness 4/5
    • 4 of 5 stars Service 4/5
“Steps from Chinatown, CBD, transport and markets!” Reviewed 9 January 2012

This hotel has a great location, one block up is a shopping centre with a supermarket, food clothes etc..

Paddy's market and chinatown is in walking distance, as is the Capitol Theatre and entertainment centre. Transport is all around as well as cheap restaurants and pubs.

We stayed here for NYE celebrations had no views of fireworks but we were in walking distance to Circular Quay where we had tickets for an event, the walk was about 15 minutes but this was fine, was pratically a straight line down George Street

The room was clean, bed comfy and tv worked, staff were good they refreshed coffee etc straight away when we asked

I would stay here again

  • Stayed January 2012, travelled with friends
    • 4 of 5 stars Value 4/5
    • 5 of 5 stars Location 5/5
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality 5/5
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms 5/5
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness 5/5
    • 5 of 5 stars Service 5/5
See these reviews and more on Trip Advisor

Metro Hotel Sydney Central - Trip Advisor Guest Reviews