The Park Hyatt's location, right on the harbour with views to the Bridge and Opera House, is second to none, but I don't think you'll be disappointed with the service or facilities at the Observatory. It's a charming hotel, reminiscent of an English country house.

Next in terms of location & service would be the Four Seasons.

Hi Skai-Were you able to get seats assigned for flights within Australia? Booked and paid for mine on Qantas, told seats will be assigned at airport. Sounds chaotic.

There is nothing chaotic about getting assigned seats at airports. However you can phone Qantas and ask for an assigned seat.
We do not have the chaotic mess that you are used to at our airports - everything is done quietly and efficiently in the main.

>>>>Hi Skai-Were you able to get seats assigned for flights within Australia? >>>>

Within Australia? I don't think so, but didn't realize that until now. Some airlines here (Southwest?) have first come--first take seat, and it's not too bad. I do have some pretty long flights - from Hobart to Cairns for example. How about you? Aside from Sydney, where are you going?