Cathay Diamond member Kee Foong’s guide to Sydney

Kee Foong knows how to travel. The Cathay Diamond member is a jet-setting travel writer who spends his days hopping from one incredible destination to the next – and documenting the best places to stay, dine and explore.  

Foong was born in Ipoh, Malaysia, and raised in Sydney, where he worked for a few years before relocating to Hong Kong.  

We caught up with Foong hot off his stints as a panellist on the Cathay Members’ Choice Awards and Academy Chair of the World’s 50 Best Hotels . He shares his favourite places in Sydney – and the one spot his fellow Diamond members simply can’t miss.

Why I love Sydney

Sydney is one of the world’s most beautiful and liveable cities. It has great weather year-round, spectacular beaches and harbour, delicious food and produce, an unbeatable lifestyle, and a tolerant multicultural society with a strong sense of fairness. I was back in Sydney for Christmas last year – that’s a special time to be there.

Where I stay

I’m lucky to have my own place near Tamarama beach. This is in the Eastern Suburbs, home to the quintessential Sydney experience – beaches, coastal walks, and great food.

But I recently stayed at the new Capella , in a beautifully renovated heritage sandstone building in the heart of the city. Although it doesn’t have views of Sydney Harbour, it’s probably the city’s best hotel right now. It feels luxurious, light and airy as soon as you step inside, with stylish interiors, great art and good service. Furnishings and finishes look and feel luxe too.

My favourite place to spend an afternoon 

If I’m not in the surf or doing the magnificent Bondi to Coogee clifftop walk – which is usually loveliest in the morning or early evening, when the light is at its best – then I’m probably catching up with friends. In the Eastern Suburbs, there are lots of good spots: including the Woollahra Hotel and Paddo Inn – which are both pubs, not places to stay.  

The most delicious food 

Sydney has no shortage of amazing – and international – eats. Go for Mod Oz cuisine at Cafe Paci in Newtown or Ester in Chippendale. The hawker food at Malay Chinese Takeaway brings me a taste of Ipoh. Go for Thai food at Porkfat on the edge of Chinatown and Thai Town; and dig into Sydney Rocks oysters and wood-fired grilled seafood at Margaret in Double Bay. And that’s before you get to all the multicultural hubs in the suburbs. 

The best spot for a drink 

The classic Sydney drink comes with a view of sun, sand and sea. That’s why Bondi Beach is my go-to. Icebergs Dining Room is a classic for a reason: smart cocktails paired with knockout ocean vistas. You should also check out North Bondi RSL , at the other end of the beach: here you’ll get a no-frills pint with equally great views. Then there’s Promenade , which is quite literally between the two and has a great outdoor terrace that’s ideal for people-watching.  

Where to shop 

Head to the upscale neighbourhood of Paddington for Aussie womenswear designers such as Zimmermann , Scanlan Theodore, and Camilla and Marc , as well as the tailor P Johnson , independent bookstore Berkelouw Books and Great Dane for Scandinavian furniture. In hipster Darlinghurst and Surry Hills, you can seek out vintage finds and cool clothing, books, gourmet food, design and homewares.  

How to recharge

Sydneysiders love anything outdoors. Hiking in national parks, strolling along the harbourfront, swimming in the surf or in a harbour or ocean pool – Sydney has lots of options. Take the Watsons Bay route around the southern headland of Sydney Harbour, or head to Spit Bridge from Manly Beach for something more strenuous. 

My favourite memory of the city

The approach to Sydney airport is one I always look forward to. When flying from Hong Kong, sit on the left side. Hope for good weather and the right flight path – you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of Sydney Harbour, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, the city’s skyline, beaches by day and city lights at night.

Diamond members shouldn’t miss

If you love art, you’ve got to visit the new Naala Badu wing at the Art Gallery of New South Wales – it boasts an excellent collection of Indigenous Australian art. Lorraine Connelly-Northey’s rusted, bag-like sculptures made from salvaged material in the gallery’s loggia are particularly eye-catching.

Don’t forget to pack

Swimmers and sunnies.

More inspiration

Sydney travel information