Written by the sisters of Saint Jane, Allegra and Gabriella.

The Hyatt Canberra has always held a very special place in our family story. Our grandmother lived in Melbourne and we spent much of our childhood growing up overseas in places like Singapore and Hong Kong, so whenever we returned to Australia it wasn’t always easy for everyone to travel long distances. 

Some of our most vivid memories are arriving there as children to meet our nanna for afternoon tea. Walking through the doors always felt like an occasion. The staff were so kind and welcoming, and the hotel itself had a wonderful sense of warmth and tradition.

As we got older, the traditions remained — although we began adding a few heels and handbags into the mix. In our late teens we would dress up and go for high tea with our nanna, feeling wonderfully grown up as we celebrated with a glass of champagne. At the time it felt incredibly glamorous, and now those memories feel even more special.

Part of what makes the Hyatt Canberra so unique is its atmosphere. There is a beautiful old-world charm to it — reminiscent of the grand hotels we grew up around in Singapore and Hong Kong. The architecture, the gardens and the quiet elegance of the corridors create a sense of history that feels increasingly rare.

When we recently returned, it was surprisingly emotional. Seeing families there enjoying afternoon tea with their grandparents brought everything flooding back. It made us so happy to see those traditions still alive — a new generation creating the same kinds of cherished memories.

For us, the Hyatt Canberra has never been just a hotel. It’s a place where our family came together, where milestones were celebrated, and where some of our most treasured memories were made.

Saint Jane is an Australian silk house founded by sisters Allegra and Gabriella. Every scarf is 100% mulberry silk twill. Hand-rolled hems and double-sided prints are our signature — details that mark a piece made to last. Explore more: Saint Jane

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