FYI anyone thinking of coming to Australia this time of year...
Accor has recently offered apartments marketed under the Grand Mercure brand.
We were very impressed with the Grand Mercure apartments at Airlie Beach, next to the Whitsunday islands near the Great Barrier Reef.
The fitouts, apartment size, furnishings and design of the apartments, with every room having full-window views to the coast & islands is a five-star experience!
This place far exceeded my expectations, and the only thing I missed from staying at a five star hotel were its apartment-only characteristics (missing a restaurant/bar 7 room service), which weren't too much trouble for a 2-night stopover.
All for probably 25-40% of what it would have cost if it were a five star hotel!
There are several developments marketed under this banner, but the downside for FTers is that you will not get anything like upgrades or later checkouts, unless Accor has intervened for you (if this is possible), to arrange it.
Having said this, the Peppers Coral Sea Resort is also highly recommended at Airlie Beach, and you DO get the bar/restarant/member benefits (IC?)
, should you prefer this convenience.
Cheers!