Meet your host: Vania
Always ready to lend a hand and go above and beyond her role, Vania Tanzil is our brilliant Assistant Manager at Aiden Darling Harbour. A true lover of being a tourist in her own city, she’s your go-to host on the best things to see, do and eat when staying in Sydney.
You may know that our boutique hotel has been designed for travellers by travellers, but did you also know it’s run day-to-day by travellers too?
Fluent in Indonesian, English and Mandarin, our dedicated Assistant Manager Vania (who has been with us since July 2024) is deeply appreciated by international visitors with plenty of experience living and travelling worldwide.
Hailing from Medan in Indonesia, Vania started off with a Diploma in Culinary Arts in Kuala Lumpur, developing a talent for baking pastries before relocating to Sydney, where she completed a Certificate in Patisserie and gained experience in bakeries and acclaimed restaurant kitchens, including Felix and Quay, followed by a transition to front of house roles to pursue her love of hotels and hospitality.
Her dedication to creating memorable experiences has remained unwavering and as an avid foodie and sleek city urbanite, her skills in helping guests find their way in Sydney, with a personalised approach, is second to none.
Read on to uncover more about your host.
What type of traveller are you?
I am quite laid-back when I am travelling, a mix of explorer and a foodie traveller. I love getting to know their cultures by trying local dishes from hidden gems.
What’s your fondest travel memory?
My first trip to Thailand was a trip that I will never forget. I remember vividly the busy streets covered with mouthwatering local dishes, it was like a never-ending feast for a foodie. From fresh tropical fruits to extreme snacks like fried scorpion, they have it all.
Where was the last place you took a trip?
I recently took a whale-watching trip in Sydney – an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. We were fortunate enough to spot over 15 whales throughout our cruise across the ocean’s large waves.
What do you love most about Sydney?
Sydney caters to everyone. From nature lover, culture seekers, foodies, the list goes on and on. For foodies, they can indulge in authentic dishes from every corner of the world fresh from local market or even hatted restaurant. Nature lovers love Sydney because it’s a city where stunning beaches, harbour views, and lush green spaces are part of everyday life.
Hornby Lighthouse – one of Vania’s favourite views
What’s the best way to spend a sunny day in Sydney? And a rainy one?
My favourite thing to do during a sunny day is to catch a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly before 10am and savour their freshly-baked chocolate almond croissant from Rollers Bakehouse. During rainy days, spending hours in Art Gallery of New South Wales is the best choice.
Credit: Art Gallery of NSW
What’s your favourite dish on the Wayfarer’s menu?
For breakfast, it’s always a good choice to start my day with the Chilli Scrambled Egg Croffle. From the all day menu, I can’t say no to the Roasted Harissa Chicken, it pairs beautifully with our Truffle Fries.
Where will we find you on a typical day in the hotel?
Usually at the front desk, chatting with guests and helping them plan their first day in Sydney. I love hearing about where they’re from and what they’re excited to see.
What’s your insider’s tip about getting the most out of a stay at Aiden Darling Harbour?
Take a morning walk around Darling Harbour before the city wakes up, it’s so calm and peaceful. And don’t forget to try our signature cocktails at the bar in the evening accompanied by our light bites.
