There's a lot to like about this hotel.
The hotel's location right on the Queen St Mall makes it very central. The motor entrance, on Burnett Lane, isn't well signed and is easy to miss. Central Station is probably a 12 or so minute walk with part of the transit on a reasonable incline so not ideal for walking there to catch the train to the airport. A rideshare cost me $8.
My recent long stay here was overwhelmingly very enjoyable. Staying on a long-stay rate includes 20% off F&B, 20% off laundry and 20% off parking. On top of that, as a Globalist, I received a bowl of fruit and typed card as a welcome amenity, plus some bottles of water. Beyond that, I was exceptionally well treated and regularly addressed by name. Although there's no Club lounge (and staff were unsure as to whether one would be added) I was given vouchers for a complimentary house beverage for each day of my stay.
Staff here seem to be a very big asset. There are a number of younger staff but they seem well suited to hospitality. There are a number of experienced staff who were training some younger, newer team members. It was clear to me that the older hands knew hospitality well and so I'm encouraged by the knowledge they can impart. I always that having a pleasant stay and being comfortable were very important to them.
The breakfast buffet every morning was complimentary (a $35 value) and very extensive. A sizeable charcuterie selection and glazed donuts were in addition to the usual cereals, juices, fresh fruit, homemade yoghurts and four hot dishes (eggs, tomatoes, bacon and sausage). Lennons restaurant also caters for lunch and dinner. I ate dinner a few times and although the menu isn't extensive and on the pricey (i.e. hotel) side, they were tasty and served quickly.
It's my understanding that the hotel is still yet to undergo a full refurb of the rooms. The entry level rooms are quite small at about 23 square metres from memory but I was upgraded to the best room currently on offer which is a river view king at 33 square metres. It was a very decent size and very spacious. The bathroom is open on two sides with sliding doors for privacy. The walk-in shower was large. No tub. Power outlets were easily accessible but there weren't any USB outlets. One thing that did annoy me was the inability to make the room completely dark. The room is east-facing and gets the morning sun which streams strongly through the sides of the curtains on each end. Housekeeping was a big disappointment throughout the stay to the extent that I put the privacy sign on the door and wanted them to stay away. I understand housekeeping is outsourced and that may be under review.
The pool area is great but isn't particularly large. There's probably space for at most 14 sunbeds, in addition to a half-dozen tables and chairs and it gets the morning sun but it's still a nice place to relax. The adjoining Hibiscus bar serves food and drink and waitstaff regularly roamed around the pool taking and delivering orders. Unfortunately the pool closes at 6pm which I think is far too early for Brisbane's climate.
In all I think it's a really good addition to the Hyatt portfolio. I look forward to returning.