City East Motel

Stayed at City East Motel, just off Hoddle St, and the location is definitely a winner — super convenient for getting into the city. The setup is a bit unusual, more like a dorm-style layout with rooms opening onto a central atrium, but it works. Bonus points for a solid number of undercover parking spaces. Check-in was quick and easy, which is always appreciated after a long day. The good: * Basic, but clean and surprisingly spacious rooms * Comfortable beds (slept well 👍) * Handy in-room extras: fridge, microwave, and basic utensils * Free parking underneath 🚗 * Free WiFi * Great proximity to the city. Close to public transport. * Fantastic Thai restaurant within 5 min walk. The not-so-good: * Overpowering scented air freshener — had to unplug it immediately and hide it in a drawer. * Strong smoke smell in the room (was told it drifts in from next door… not entirely convinced). Could not get rid of this despite airing the room for a long period. * Fridge/freezer hadn’t been cleaned properly — something icky frozen to the edge 🤢 * Bathroom basin needed a proper wipe-down (fixed it myself) * Toaster didn’t work. * Reception was meant to be staffed from 8am, but on Saturday morning, no one responded despite ringing the bell multiple times over ~45 minutes. The “innkeeper” was friendly enough, but ultimately not very effective — lots of effort, not much resolution. Overall: A convenient, budget-friendly option with the basics covered, but let down by cleanliness inconsistencies and a few frustrating service gaps. I’d consider staying again for the location and value — just not in room 12.

This is a budget motel and as expected the rooms are a little dated and dirty. However the room was comfortable, it had air con, it is in a good location and it is cheap. It is the ideal place to stay for those not wanting to spend much on accommodation.

The room was ok. Mattress very comfortable. Bathroom not so much. Walls paper thin. Sometimes very noisy. Wifi internet dropping in and out. Plenty of places to eat or drink in area. Walkable distance to public transport.