Recently had a one night stay due to my normal choice (Westin) being sold out. Currently three nights short of qualifying for my tenth year as a <former> SPG platinum and lifetime status but can't recall ever staying at a four points before but was pleasantly surprised and pleased with my stay.

Arrival was a bit hit and miss as I couldn't see where I was suppose to park to check in so I parked in the taxi zone where a local taxi driver "helpfully" shared his thoughts on the matter. I helpfully pointed to the shared loading zone sign and politely suggested an orifice where he could place his cab.

Once inside things were a lot smoother - handed my keys to the concierge for valet parking and was promptly checked in. Late check out was proactively offered, breakfast or points was offered as amenity and I was also given two drink vouchers. Upgraded to a Bay Studio room on the top floor (Room 1512) arguably one of best in the hotel. The room wasn't overly large - at best the same izw as a standard room at the Westin. It did have quite a large bathroom, with a huge bath. Had a seperate living area and bedroom which would be good for families - as a solo traveller I felt the room was a bit small for this setup - what would have been a nice sized open plan room felt like two slight claustrophobic rooms. Nice view over the docklands out to the bay and across Bolte Bridge to the worker's socialist paradise of the Western Suburbs.

Room still looked brand new and was in excellent condition - as expected for an entry level chain the furniture/fittings were utilitarian but got the job done. No problem streaming Netflix on the wifi. Breakfast was as discussed in the thread - nothing great but I was very happy with my omelette.

Also appreciated small details like, being cheap, that I got a free copy of the Financial Review - 100 nights at the Westin and they still want to charge me $4 for it [img]images/smilies/frown.gif

Checkout was a bit slow as an aircrew was arriving at the same time but not a big deal. Did notice when leaving that outside of business hours there is plenty of free street parking available around the hotel. Really easy access to citylink for my departure to Essendon Airport (and for anyone going to Tullamarine).

I'd be happy to stay here again - but only as a quick overnight stop as I did find the room slightly cramped and a bit dull for a longer stay - however this hotel is often $200-250 cheaper than the Westin so is certainly good value for money. I find this part of the docklands a bit dull, a lifetime ago I use to attend "illegal" raves in the dilapidated and abandoned warehouses that made up this area and it had a lot more character back then, but for a tourist after a fairly priced hotel it really isn't that far from the main CBD.





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