The Sebel Melbourne

We had a three bedroom apartment which was ideal for two couples and two kids. The apartment had everything needed for a short to medium term stay and was well located, being in easy walking distance of a tram stop within the free zone and numerous restaurants. Our apartment had great views over the water at Docklands, but unfortunately the balcony was not usable when the A/C was running as the noise was unbearable.

For quite well-appointed apartments, the rate this place charges is rather reasonable. The apartment is spacious and very well decorated. If one were to put a well-known brand to this place, the price could more than double, very easily. The room is not far off from rooms at a 4 to 5 star hotels, making this place very good value for money. (I am surprised it wasn't much more expensive ) The location is rather central - not far off from the main business districts, shopping precinct, and public transports. If you are planning for a long term stay in Melbourne for business or for pleasure, I would strongly recommend this place. Is there any downside? Well - yes, but they are rather minor ones. Firstly, there is no reception - (1) this place is managed through telephones. If there are issues, you contact someone who is located externally to this place. (2) you do not get any room service (clean-up etc). It is by request. The washer/dryer is however, handy if you want to do some washing which brings in another problem of having to buy your laundry detergent. (3) No wifi access - not even paid ones. So, bring your own. Having said that, if you are located in one of those rooms at the back of the building, reception may not be too good.

First the good news. These are very nice apartments in a very good location, just a few blocks from Southern Cross Station (which is handy for the train and the airport shuttle). It has an IGA next door for all your supplies, cafes scattered everywhere in neighbouring blocks and the rooms are a good size with nice furnishings (though the combined bathroom/laundry is fairly basic). The apartments are more at the business end of the city, but are an easy walk to the tram, or the Melbourne laneways and Vue de Monde is not far away. Views are, however non-existent, but this is Melbourne and very few places have views of much more than the adjoining building. In short, for the location and the room they are great value. The bad news is the business model, which skimps on staff. Check in involves buzzing for entry through a gate in Queen Street, and there's no one on early or late. Sunday check out doesn't even open til 10, so if you want to head out early and leave your bags, you're stuck. In our case, the non-arrival of the sole person on the desk left a lobby of angry people and us stuck in the hotel til after 11 (delayed by the marathon everyone in Melbourne knew about but the check in person). I've since received a decent apology from the hotel and a very generous compensation offer which makes me want to give this place a 2nd try. I'd say in summary - this place is great value, and worth a try, but really does need to fix the one issue which crops up here in many reviews, the check in and check out process.If they do, even at the cost of a slight raise in the room rate, then I'd have no hesitation in backing them.