Hotspot: Sydney, Australia

In a new weekly column, we recommend the best place in the world to visit right now, and why

In a new weekly column, we recommend the best place in the world to visit right now, and why

Why go now?

With warm summer weather just beginning, November is the perfect time to visit Sydney, the city that lives and plays outdoors. Expect average daytime temperatures to hover around 26C and you won't be disappointed. Being close to the ocean means that the hot days are tempered by cool sea breezes and evenings are often balmy - perfect for enjoying a spot of alfresco dining. Sydney enjoys a temperate climate all year round, with warm summers and mild winters.

Any other reason?

The Rugby World Cup is currently taking place with the semi-finals being played in Sydney's Telstra Stadium, which hosted much of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. The semi-finals are played over the weekend of 15-16 November, with the third-place play-off on 20 November. The final itself is on 22 November.

Where should I stay?

The Observatory (00 61 2 9256 2222; www.observatory hotel.com.au) is one of the grandest hotels in the world and is currently celebrating its 10th anniversary. Located near the historic Rocks and central business district, it is ideal for exploring the city. There are 78 spacious deluxe bedrooms, nine junior suites, 12 executive suites and the swanky Observatory suite. Opulence, stately Georgian grandeur and luxury are guaranteed. Fine French dining is on offer in the Galileo restaurant with brasserie fare served in the Globe bar. The hotel also has an impressive Day Spa offering Li'Tya and Dermalogica treatments. Rooms cost from £166.

The Establishment (00 61 2 9240 3100; www.merivale.com/establishment) is the best boutique hotel in town with 33 guest rooms and two penthouses. Combining an eclectic mix of colonial heritage and cutting-edge luxury, the Establishment is located in the central business district, close to the harbour. Wide screen TVs, DVDs and CD players come as standard along with three telephones and data port access. Sydney's élite is to be found in the Establishment's cool bars and Tank nightclub. Rooms cost from £129.

Park Hyatt (00 61 2 9241 1234; www.sydney.hyatt.park.com) has a commanding position overlooking the harbour with great views of the bridge and the Opera House. Built in 1990, most of the 158 rooms have private balconies overlooking the water and the property is the only hotel in Australia to offer 24-hour butler service should you so wish. There's also a great spa, a rooftop heated pool and terrace. Rooms cost from £258.

What shouldn't I miss?

Bridge Climb (00 61 2 8274 7777; www.bridgeclimb.com.au) is Sydney's top must-do attraction. Take a guided hike day or night over the arching bridge to view the sites from 134 metres above sea level. Costs from £64 to £72.

No trip is complete without taking in a tour or performance at the famous Sydney Opera House (00 61 2 9250 7777; www.sydneyopera house.com). November highlights include Madame Butterfly and A Midsummer Night's Dream.

For hot new restaurants check out Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach (00 61 2 9365 5000). Perched on a cliff with fabulous views over Bondi, enjoy great Mediterranean-style fare. Approx £35 per head. Moorish Restaurant and Bar, 120 Ramsgate Avenue, North Bondi (00 61 2 9300 9511). Great Spanish-influenced cuisine. About £25 per head.

Who should I call?

ITC Classics (01244 355527; www.itcclssics.co.uk) offers a seven-night room-only break at The Observatory from £1,935 per person, including return flights with Qantas and transfers.

What if I can't afford that?

Australian Affair (020 7616 9199; www.australian-affair.com) offers a seven-night room-only break at the three-star Sullivans Hotel from £836 per person, including return flights with Cathay Pacific.

Where can I find out more?

The Australian Tourist Commission (0191-501 4646; www.australia.com).

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