Heading to Melbourne for a few days is never a bad thing, even if it’s just for work.
I always enjoy getting around to the many cafes, bars and restaurants in between meetings while in town, and I feel there’s a different, more refined pace about the city than Sydney. But the key thing about making the most of all these wonderful city features is the ability to access them easily. And that’s where accommodation choice couldn’t be more important.
Bourke St
After a slow trip into the city from Melbourne airport, I arrive on Bourke Street delighted to find my hotel is right in the heart of the action. Not just the bars, cafes and restaurants, but shops and transport as well – the tram stop right outside my front door. Walking up the internal thoroughfare to The Citadines on Bourke reception desk, a wry grin takes over my face, I’m in the heart of the city.
Citadines on Bourke
Like many things, first impressions count, and the welcoming smiles behind the desk make you feel right at home. Without fuss, I quickly check in and am guided to my room.
Citdines lobby
The first thing that strikes me is how well the room is set up for a medium-term stay: small office desk, more-than-adequate kitchenette (filled with crockery, cutlery, pots and pans), lounge and coffee table, and functional bathroom (with a delightfully large shower – a big plus for me). It’s neat, tidy, modern, no fuss, and has everything you need. Given the location and amenities, I can easily see the appeal of Citadines to a business traveller in town for a few weeks. I’m only here for three days, and unfortunately cooking – though I enjoy it – isn’t factored into my full schedule.
Citadines bedroom
The best surprise comes when the lights go out. I can’t tell you how easy it is to undo a quality hotel stay with a bad bed, and Citadines certainly doesn’t disappoint. My new king bed is incredibly comfortable and provides a wonderful night’s rest after several days of professional thinking and networking.
Another added bonus is the free WiFi – 500MB per day, so don’t go streaming music or movies, but certainly more than enough, and a nice surprise for me looking to get some extra work done at the end of the day.
My three top tips for enjoying every lastminute of The Citadines on Bourke:
Citadines lap pool
1. Get out on the street as the sun goes down, and hit one of the nearby local restaurants – my tips are Gyoza Douraku and China Red, both on Bourke Street
2. Try out the pool, sauna and gym if you need to refresh or relax.
The gym
3. Make sure you celebrate the end of a successful working day with a cheeky ale or two at the nearby James Squire Brewhouse on Russell Street.
Have you stayed at the The Citadines on Bourke? What did you think?