I miss the bara, but at least it's quiet.

I hadn't realised it was so long since I had been to Cairns, and boy have somethings changed. The old Holiday Inn with its figure 8 shape, 1 suite and a pond full of Barra that were there from day dot has followed its mates in Darwin to become part of the Hilton chain, under the Double Tree brand. 

Barely a year passed before IHG announced they would once again have a presence in Cairns, taking over the old Mecure. With most of the hotels around the $200 mark, I was presently surprised to see the HI at $100, and given I was here mainly for some R&R in aircon or by the pool, figured it was worth checking out, especially as I needed a weekend stay for a promo.

What can I say, it's effectively half way between the city and the airport, there is nothing handy at all except the hospital. There is a free shuttle every hour from the hotel, otherwise it will be a taxi. The good thing is that means the area is quiet in general, however aircraft noise is noticeable.

I booked the entry level room and as a Spire member was upgraded to an executive king. The hotel has two towers and my room was on the Harbourside tower with an Ocean View. It was almost a loft without the loft, with a very high ceiling in the main living area. Surprisingly no lounge, which seems a waste given the space available. If this room was at the IC in Melbourne, it would be a junior suite! 

I believe the beds have been updated but everything else was somewhat old, although to be fair it was all in workable condition and the aircon worked very well.

Checkin was friendly and quick, although I was the only one at the time doing so.

I was happy with my stay, I knew the location and the age of the hotel so had few expectations that were high. Unlike some chains (like Rydges) who take an old property and just milk it, there is an effort improve the place. The pool is new, as are the beds, hopefully over time other improvements will be made. Given the location, I would love to see a coffee pod machine put in each room, or at least in the Exec rooms, as aside from the hotel bar, it's a long walk otherwise.

Depending on the price and your plans, the hotel is an Ok option, and at least it's an IHG presence in a popular holiday town. Being at the top of the esplanade, those wishing to enjoy the outdoors can do so with a walking and running track. There are also electric BBQs which are cleaned most nights, great for a cheap breakfast with millionaire views with a little preparation.

Would I come back, yes, if the price was right, which in my books is around $40 below that being charged by the old Holiday Inn which is now the Double Tree.