“Could have been excellent!”
Overall an enjoyable stay, comfortable room clean and well appointed, liked the room darkening curtains which allowed us to sleep late.
Downsides were, dirty towels not being replaced when taken from bathrooom even after requested, likewise with glasses supplied to room.
We primarily chose this hotel for the indoor pool and gym facilities which appeared ideal when we checked them out, but this was soon spoiled by the lack of planning by hotel management. On the first visit the pool was a nice temperature and the spa was hot although the pool guy was trying to clean the pool with the hose, second visit, no maintenance guys but the pool was really cold, third visit, the pool guy was back again this time topping the pool up with freezing cold water, and the spa was only luke warm not good!!
Another drawback is the only way to get to the pool from the towers as they call them is to parade through the main foyer lounge area in your swimming attire, not my wifes favorite pastime I might add.
I suggest the hotel should do maintenance after the pool closes at night instead of during the day when guests may want to use it, and when dirty items are removed from the room they are replaced!
These facts led to a dissapointing stay for us
Area recommendations
Melbourne CBD is a hive of activity with lots of stuff to do, for just about all interests, chinatown is excellent for restaurants although the choice can be a little overwhelming. likewise with Lygon St. with its mostly Italian fare. We particularly enjoyed the walk along the south side of the river with its many restaurants and cafes, and picked up a great lunch deal at one of them.
Fitroy street also has a lot of restaurants and shops to browse and was a short stroll from the hotel.
Getting there
Booked a shuttle with sunbus to the hotel through expedia, fantastic service and a really friendly driver who filled us in on some of the history and suggested places to go.
Getting around
Leave the car at home! the tram system is fantastic with regular service and the day rider ticket is only $7 per adult. A free tram also circles the CBD so you can hop on and off aas much as you like once you get to the city. The trams also get to avoid the rush hour traffic most fo the time.
What to pack
Apparently Melbourne is well known for its very changeable climate, so take a mix of everything! We were lucky and had nice sunny days around 16-18 C.
