Tried & Tested

Hotel check: Fraser Place

31 Mar 2014 by Clement Huang

BACKGROUND

Since its inception in 1998, Singapore-based Frasers Hospitality has grown to include more than 80 properties across five distinct brands dotted in major cities around the globe. Following the unveiling of Fraser Suites in Sydney and Fraser Suites in Perth, Fraser Place Melbourne opened its doors in 2012. Unlike its eastern and western siblings, Fraser Place Melbourne is a four star rated property. It targets both short and long stay business and leisure travellers. 

WHAT’S IT LIKE?

Even at high occupancy, you’ll feel like the only guest there. The décor is clean and simple, with a subtle sense of place. There is Aboriginal artwork in the lobby, and modern Melbourne cityscapes in rooms. The friendly staff are happy to dispense advice on how to make the most of your time in their city. 

Lobby

WHERE IS IT?

Located on a quiet residential lane near the central business district (CBD), Fraser Place is within easy walking distance to Melbourne Central Station and Bourke Street Mall, the city’s retail heart. This bustling neighbourhood is also home to fantastic cafes, restaurants and bars, and is close to historic Victorian era landmarks, including the vibrant inner city Queen Victoria Market, and Parliament House, one of Australia’s oldest and most architecturally distinguished public buildings. On nearby La Trobe Street you can hop on the free city circle tram, which loops the CBD throughout the day and stops at major tourist attractions. 

THE ROOMS

Opt for an executive or premier room on higher floors if you want natural sunlight and a view of the surrounding area. Lower level rooms face outwards to neighbouring buildings or onto the courtyard and have neither a view nor sufficient natural light. 

The usual corporate tech tools are available in each room, including an iPod docking station, flat screen television and landline. internet access is available and complimentary throughout the building, including in all public areas. International travellers are recommended to bring their own universal adaptors to connect to Aussie sockets. Reception does have some, but had run out when I asked. 

Modern open plan kitchens in each room category feature a dishwasher, refrigerator, kettle, toaster and built-in sink, plus an assortment of mismatched cups, cooking utensils, cutlery and crockery. There is ample cupboard space for groceries, which can be bought at a nearby convenience store on the corner of La Trobe and Exhibition Street. 

There are adequately sized wooden desks positioned by the window. For guests staying in lower level room categories, it is the only table space for work and in-room dining. 

Laundry and dry-cleaning services are provided at a cost, while long stay guests staying in select rooms can avail themselves of the installed washer-dryer. 

BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES

There are no dedicated business facilities, but there is a small workstation with two Apple computers and comfy red armchairs located near the reception. They are used on a first come, first serve basis. Printing can be done on request by reception via USB.

LEISURE FACILITIES

A modest gym is located on the first floor, and can be accessed via electronic keycard 24/7. There is a sparse outdoor roof terrace with long tables and chairs to catch some seasonal sunshine or take in the hotel’s best city views. 

RESTAURANTS AND BARS

Located on the ground floor, the residents’ breakfast room features a buffet of cereals and breads and a small selection of western breakfast items such as scrambled eggs, bacon and hash browns. It’s open from early morning till 11am, and is the perfect place for a quiet cup of a coffee to kick start your day. 

Room service is available, but limited to evening meals. Orders can be made from 5pm-10.45pm Sunday to Thursday, and from 5pm to 11.45pm on Friday and Saturday. Food is not prepared in-house, but sourced from nearby eateries. The menu features a selection of popular western classics including pizzas, burgers, wraps and pastas. A pepperoni pizza costs A$13.90 (US$12.50) while a Porterhouse steak sandwich is priced at A$21.90 (US$19.70).  

VERDICT

Comfortable and clean, with everything you’d expect from a four star property. Best of all is its unbeatable location: while situated on a quiet residential lane, it’s within walking distance of the CBD and a host of fantastic eateries.

 

FACT FILE

  • HOW MANY ROOMS? There are 112 studio apartments, which come in three configurations: deluxe (28-30 sqm) executive (30-33 sqm) and premier (48 sqm). 
  • ROOM HIGHLIGHT The large kitchenette with cooking utensils and appliances is great for keen cooks and long stay guests who prefer to dine in. Otherwise, restaurants nearby will satisfy almost any craving. 
  • PRICE Internet rates for a flexible midweek stay in May start from A$169 (US133.7) for an executive studio.
  • CONTACT 19 Exploration Lane, Melbourne; tel + 61 3 9669 6888 http://melbourne.frasershospitality.com

Elizabeth Wood

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