The Sebel Pier One Sydney, Sydney

A fashionable choice, in an attractive location, this aptly-named hotel is a dockside converted warehouse tucked almost below the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. The interior is sleek and enticing, with marine-inspired design and floor-to-ceiling glass doors facing the water, which make the most of the view and natural light. A noteworthy quirky addition is a glass panel in the floor of the modern lounge bar, looking into the water below. Some of the upmarket "dress-down" set congregate here on the long narrow terrace which flanks the building, especially for jazz on the pier, which takes place on Sunday afternoons. - Sara Moss