Here’s a look at where the glitterati go to sleep, eat, shop and party when in Australia’s fashion capitals.
The Glam Guide: Sydney and Melbourne
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The Pullman Hyde Park Sydney
How do we know that this is the fashion hotel in Sydney? Bryan Boy and Susie Bubble were among those laying their manes to rest in the hotel, which overlooks Hyde Park, during Fashion Week Australia.
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Fashion Week Australia Sydney
Melbourne may often be called the fashion capital of Australia, but the growing importance of Fashion Week Australia, which took place this year within Carriageworks, goes to show that Sydney is a major power player. International and local press gathered to take in shows from a slew of promising names - including Aje, Phoenix Keating, Suboo and Talulah - all of which are worth looking up whether you're in Australia or not.
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Beaches Sydney
There's nothing more breathtaking than a walk (or run!), between two of Sydney's most beautiful beaches, Bondi and Bronte.
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Fitness First Sydney
Speaking of runs, Sydney is one of the most physically active cities in the world. It's not uncommon for people to spend their lunch hour working out and expect to see most people in fitness gear as you roam around the city. For the most part Australians like to workout in nature, but Fitness First offers wonderful indoor/outdoor facilties for those looking for a more traditional setting.
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Jewish Museum Sydney
The Sydney Jewish Museum may be one of the city's most underrated treasures. In addition to moving permanent exhibits that trace the history of Australian Jews as well as Hitler's rise to power through liberation and after, there is a rotating exhibit which through the end of 2013 is titled "Dressing Sydney: The Jewish Fashion Story."
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Icebergs Sydney
Icebergs is not only a posh beach-side eatery, but is a pool with one of the most stunning views of Bondi Beach (you can swim in it for about $5). Not into swimming? Just hang out by the side of the pool or go upstairs and have lunch on one of the balconies overlooking the ocean.
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Panama House Sydney
This is one of the best places to start off your night. Small bites and potent drinks are served in a lively, but intimate atmosphere.
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Corner House Sydney
From the same owners as Panama House, Corner House is located just a few feet away. A local favorite, the bi-level dimley lit space space offers juiced-to-order drinks and a menu the ranges the flavor-profile gamut.
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Otto Sydney
Boasting one of the best views in town, Otto serves up exquisitely prepared Italian fare in a romantic setting overlooking the water. Service is impeccable and every dish is market fresh and beautifully presented.
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Mejico Sydney
One of the newest addition to the Sydney dining scene, Mejico is a young and vibrant restaurant complete with bright chairs, neon walls and fresh market-driven fare.
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Catalina Rose Bay Sydney
If you're going to splurge on one dinner in Sydney let it be a dinner at Catalina Rose Bay. Family run and operated for decades the food and service are impeccable and the views are unbeatable.
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Mojo Sydney
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Ivy Pool Club Sydney
Day-to-night, this is Sydney's see and be seen spot.
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Country Road Sydney
Think of this chain as Syndey's answer to J. Crew.
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Glenmore Road Sydney
One of Sydney's best shopping areas, this is where you'll find the likes of Camilla and Marc, Zimmerman, Bassike and Ginger & Smart.
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Park Hyatt Melbourne
The only problem with the Park Hyatt Melbourne is that the sprawling Art Deco hotel is so welcoming and amenity-filled you'll have a tough time leaving your room. Stocked with Le Labo beauty essentials, rooms come equipped with TVs in the bathrooms, ample closet space, iPod docks, Nespresso machines and so much more. The spa and fitness center are top notch and they have a pool, business center, an outdoor tennis court and one of the best lounges you'll ever come across (just don't go in if you're on a diet or risk a Cacao brownie overdose...).
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High Tea Melbourne
High tea is a major pastime in Melbourne and the Park Hyatt Melbourne is a standout in that regard as well. Though it's served most of the afternoon, prime time is around 2:30pm when tea, coffee and small bites (scones with vanilla chantilly and homemade jams, petit fours, pastries, finger sandwiches...), can be enjoyed in the hotel's tea lounge.
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Melbourne GPO
This is the place for luxury shopping in Melbourne. In addition to name brand stores like Acne, you'll find a slew of boutiques stocking a mix of well-known and up-and-coming designers.
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Victoria's Market Melbourne
Whether you're looking for fresh produce, ready-to-eat ethnic dishes, homemade ice cream, faux UGGs, souvenirs or pretty much anything else you can think of that might be sold at a market, you'll find it at one of the thousand-plus stalls at this outdoor/indoor market.
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Merrywell Melbourne
Located in the mega complex, Crown Melbourne, The Merrywell is the perfect place for dinner or drinks before hitting up one of the nightclubs in the Crown (the Crown is a multi-level casino filled with countless bars, nightclubs, restaurants and shops - think Vegas in Australia). Make sure to snag a table outside overlooking the water and stick around for the fire show (did we mention the Crown was like Vegas?), which takes place at the top of every hour.
