Thursday, 25 October 2012

Grand Mercure Apartments Flinders Lane






This property has been refurbished mid 2011 and the outcome is incredible. The decor and styling is magnificent- really classy and beautiful looking. You get what you pay for.



There are 59 rooms only 4 of which are a studio room. This is not a hotel so they dont really advertise the studios- they are primarily to  be sold as interconnections to the 1 bedrooms to extend the sleeping. 

The 1 bedroom standard - the kitchen is fully loaded - only thing missing is an oven- and there is a coles express around the corner- and there is a small dining area in the entry, sitting/ entertainment room and a bedroom.



These ones go up to a signature suite which can sleep 6 passengers. It is a massive apartment with 2 sitting rooms, a shower and massive bath overlooking the courtyard, and a wine fridge.

There is also corporate fitness centre downstairs is $5.50/ session and parking off site is $30/night.
(Prices at Nov 2011).

Victoria Hotel, Melbourne




-  average property in prime location. 430 rooms with twin, double, family and triple configurations.
- the hotel has recently been refurbished but it is still very basic.
- it is tidy, but not exceptionally clean and you would want your passengers' expectations to match what they are getting or they will be disappointed.
- there is a plunge pool, spa, sauna and small gym.
- daily buffet breakfast super cheap - $17/ day and the restaurant does lunch and dinner thai style.
- parking $16 / night.

Sofitel On Collins, Melbourne



This is an amazing 5 star hotel property. It is grand and fancy and has amazing facilities, and all rooms have amazing views as the hotel starts from level 35 upwards in a high rise building on the Eastern end of the CBD..


There are 363 rooms in total in a variety of configurations. They are all beautifully appointed, modern and very comfortable - they have the cloud bed experience and a pillow menu !

Club access is worth it for your corporates/ special clients. Private access to the club dining for breakfast , day time snacks and night time canapes and drinks. The food here is amazing- this is where we had a hosted morning tea and the pastries were delicate and delicious. Everthing about it is 5*.


Mercure Treasury Gardens, Melbourne




- $4 million refurbishment was completed in November 2011 and the rooms are stunning. Nice colours, amazing decor and very beautiful.
- the bathrooms are modern and very nice.
- located right on the Treasury Gardens .
- the standard rooms overlook the city, the superiors overlook the park and it is the first Australian mercure to meet international standards of Mercure.
- on site restaurants and bar, including 24 hr room service.
- all king rooms are able to be split into twins and and the garden view queen can have 2 queens to sleep 4 passengers.

The Blackman (Art Series), Melbourne



The Blackman is a stunning and unique property just a 10 minute tram ride from the city - the hotel staff very friendly and helpful and tram is easy- even I can do it! 

The rooms are definitely 5*. This is a boutique style, very trendy, and beautifully appointed. You will feel a little bit like a rock star to stay here :) The studio twin includes kitchenette (everything but an oven) and a balcony on every room with stunning views.

There is an Italian restaurant and a French cafe on site and the food at both is divine!




Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport



- the rooms are massive. Mine was a standard and there was plenty of space.
- bedding and kitchenette (tea and coffe, mini fridge and storage area) were modern .
- bathroom slightly dated (style wise) but very clean , tidy and well-presented.
- work station for business people but internet is extra.
- check in staff very friendly.
- not well signposted, but very close to the airport- 5 minute walk through/ airport the carpark.


Wednesday, 24 October 2012

Outrigger Little Hastings Street, Noosa


Noosa is one of Australia’s most visited destinations and after a weekend here I’m reminded why! Just an easy 2 hour drive north of Brisbane and you arrive at one of the most beautiful destinations Queensland has on offer.



Noosa itself is a small beachside town, but filled with life, restaurants, and shops and of course a magnificent beach. The most famous part of Noosa is perhaps Hastings St; however, the Noosa River is an easy 5 minute drive and has its own happening atmosphere. Plenty of hotels, restaurants and shops on this side of town also.



We stayed at the relatively new, Outrigger on Little Hastings St, situated at the end of Hastings St, and an easy 5 minute walk from the action. This property is made up of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments. Most have ocean views and are very modern and spacious with full laundry and kitchen facilities. Suitable for both couples and family getaways. If returning to Noosa, we would certainly stay here again.

 


If relaxing by the beach or strolling through the shops is not for you, then you can learn to surf, kayak or jump on a day tour over to Fraser Island. And if you are there on a Wednesday or Saturday, drive out to the famous Eumundi Markets!

If the beaches of Queensland are your next holiday hot spot, then Outrigger Little Hastings in Noosa will certainly serve you well.