Packing for a holiday is often a bittersweet experience for pet owners. On one hand, the promise of new adventures beckons; on the other, the guilt of leaving behind a furry companion tugs at the heart. As a travel writer, this dilemma is familiar, so when the opportunity arose to bring my dog along for a getaway, I jumped at the chance.
Curiosity had long piqued my interest about the experience of staying at a pet-friendly hotel, especially one as luxurious as the Crystalbrook Albion in Surry Hills, Sydney. While excited, I couldn’t help but feel some anxiety about the potential challenges. Would my dog bark at inconvenient hours? Would she chew the furniture or have an accident? Only one way to find out.
Let me introduce my travel companion, Lia—a 15-year-old cockalier with the energy of a much younger dog. In her prime, she was a puppy model and even starred in the 2012 production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre.
Upon arrival at the Crystalbrook Albion, Lia was treated like royalty. The reception staff immediately showered her with attention, and a quick tour of the hotel’s heritage building—once a convent dating back to 1903—ensued. The boutique hotel offers 35 rooms, with a section dedicated to pet guests (for an additional $130 per night). Our cozy room, located on the ground floor for ease of access, was ideal for a short stay, though it might be a bit cramped for larger breeds like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds.
Inside the room, I was pleased to find hardwood floors, a large dog bed, and a water bowl awaiting Lia’s comfort. A bone-shaped biscuit was provided as a treat, which Lia eagerly devoured in moments. The only area off-limits to pets was the self-serve Honour Bar, which offered a selection of hot drinks, snacks, and alcohol—though no dog treats were available.
What surprised me most was the hotel’s policy of allowing guests to leave their pets unattended in their rooms. After informing the reception staff and leaving emergency contact details, I was free to step out for dinner. Instead, I chose to pick up takeaway and enjoy it with Lia on the hotel’s beautiful rooftop garden.
When I returned, Lia had settled in comfortably. She was fast asleep on her bed, though she had managed to raid my bag and devour the remaining snacks—reminding me that no food is safe from a curious pup.
Our one-night stay at the Crystalbrook Albion was a resounding success. Lia slept soundly through the night, only waking for a morning bathroom break. After considering a puppuccino or a run in one of the nearby parks, I decided to treat her to both, marking the end of our relaxing staycation.
Would I take my dog on another holiday? Without a doubt. But next time, I’ll be sure to hide the emergency snacks a little better.
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