The Journal

Stories, Guides & Opinions

In-depth editorial features, curated lists, and insider guides to Australia's luxury hotel scene.

News

Waldorf Astoria Sydney Pushes to 2027: What's Coming to Circular Quay

Hilton's first Australian Waldorf Astoria has slipped to early 2027. Inside the Kengo Kuma tower, the Forrest family's $520m bet, and a $140m penthouse next door.

Guides

When the Kimberley Reopens: A Guide to the 2026 Dry Season

The 2025-26 wet was one of the heaviest in years. Here's what's actually open in April and May 2026, when to go, and which lodges are worth basing from across the Kimberley.

Best Of

The 2026 Hotel Openings Reshaping Australian Luxury

Ten hotel openings across six states that mark a turning point for Australian luxury: global brand debuts, heritage revivals, and wilderness lodges pushing further into the landscape.

Guides

Luxury on Tasmania's East Coast: The Only Guide You Need

Wineglass Bay, the Bay of Fires, oyster farms, cool-climate wine, and the Hazards range. A practical guide to planning a luxury trip along Tasmania's 220km east coast, with the best places to stay at every price point.

Opinion

The All-Inclusive Question: Are Australia's Most Expensive Hotels Actually the Best Value?

A pricing reality check on Australia's luxury lodges, where the most expensive nightly rate on paper rarely tells the full story once meals, drinks, and experiences are tallied.

Best Of

Australia's Best Wine Country Hotels

Seven luxury hotels across five wine regions where the restaurant alone justifies the journey. Hatted dining, vineyard settings, and kitchen gardens that treat the postcode as the point.

Guides

Hidden Gem Boutique Hotels Worth Discovering

Beyond the big-name resorts, Australia's most memorable stays are often its smallest. These intimate boutique hotels reward the curious traveller with character, art, and a personal touch that larger properties simply cannot replicate.

Best Of

Australia's Best Luxury Hotels

Eight luxury hotels across six states, each selected for singular character and a deep connection to place. City landmarks, wilderness lodges, private islands, and heritage estates that represent the best of Australian hospitality right now.