We created a little bit of a conundrum when we got our pets.
Freelancing means working from home and that can mean the occasional long stints behind the computer without seeing other humans, which is why our dog is so important to us, she gets us out of the house and into the world. In that way she’s cheaper than therapy (and gives much better cuddles).
But when we’re not home-bound we’re often travelling to and from jobs in Sydney. Cue frantic last-minute calls around the neighbourhood for sitters on Pawshake or spending almost a weeks rent on sending our pup to the local pet resort.
‘No more!’ we said recently. We think it’s time Sydney really owned its world-city title and got a little French with its allowance of pups in public.
While we may have a ways to go before you spot Fido sharing a fries with his owner inside a cafe, we’re comforted to know that there are a few hotels who understand that to many people their dogs are as close to them as their kids.
Here are a few of our favourite hotels that will welcome you AND your pup, without scrimping on the little luxuries as well.
The Larmont, Potts Point
@larmont_sydney
Top of our list not only for its dog-friendly inclusions but The Larmont has a location that just cannot be beaten.
Tucked a road away from the hum of Kings Cross nightlife, a short stroll to the restaurants and tapas bars of Darlinghurst and just down the road from the romantic old-world architecture of Elizabeth Bay, this is our top pick of places to make camp for the ultimate Sydney stay (plus proximity to Kings Cross Station is extremely helpful for those looking for a feed a little further afield).
While your furry friend may not be able to score entry into most of the nearby eateries, they can indulge in a pampered pooch stay with their own plush dog bed and an abundance of treats on arrival.
Set them up with the 42-inch plasma and your good boy will be happily distracted waiting for your return.
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Pier One, Walsh Bay
@pieronesydney
While Circular Quay, with its views across the Opera House, might get all the kudos Walsh Bay enjoys the quieter and more historic side to Sydney Harbour. And Pier One is the perfect spot to base yourself for a weekend of theatre performances, galleries and glasses of vino watching the boats sail by with your pooch by your side, tucking into their own special mini-bar packed with delicious dog-friendly snacks.
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The Langham, Millers Point
@langhamsydney
Looking for the ultimate in pet-friendly luxe? Then look no further than The Langham in Sydney’s Millers Point, which we love for its position close to the CBD and some of Sydney’s most iconic pubs near The Rocks.
Here your precious furball (yes, that includes cats too) will be treated to the ultimate in 5-star treatment.
We’re talking a Pet Room Service Menu, including filet mignon with scrambled eggs or the very best in gluten-free high-protein kibble. It’s almost enough to make your own mouth water, until you realise you’ve got Bistro Remy just downstairs.
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Little Albion Guest House, Surry Hills
@littlealbionguesthouse
If you’re looking for a pet-friendly escape that boasts more home-spo than a copy of Vogue Living then we’d like to introduce you to Little Albion in Surry Hills. Nestled in Surry Hills, arguably Sydney’s epicentre of quirk and creativity, this is the place for those who consider luxury to be less about sea views and all about art, inspiring aesthetics and lots of exclusivity.
Little Albion believes your little furballs shouldn’t miss out on all the fun either and have set aside select rooms on the ground floor to allow guests with pets easy access to the outdoors so there’s no drama when it comes to those late-night doggy doo-doos.
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Citadines Connect Hotel, Mascot (formerly Felix Hotel
@citadinesconnect_sydney
Citadines Connect used to share a name with arguably the world’s most famous cat (Felix) so it’s no surprise it’s not at all precious when it comes to pets.
We already love Citadines for its unique and modern take on the usually staid airport hotel structure, they just seal the deal by offering space for your ‘support animal’ prior to stepping onto your flight (even if said ‘support animal’ is mostly just supports you by being cute).