BACKGROUND Exactly a year ago, this four-star property completed a A$4 million (US$4.2 million) guestroom refurbishment meant to showcase the new Mercure design template. The result was a greater sense of place through black-and-white photography of Melbourne’s architecture and landmarks crowning the bed heads, juxtaposed with lively hues used on the soft furnishings.
WHERE IS IT? It couldn’t boast a better location, off the main commercial streets of Collins and Flinders and walking distance to a tram line. At its doorstep are 5.8 hectares of green expanse, known as the Treasury Gardens, convenient for early morning or evening jogs to start or end the day. The nearby Melbourne Cricket Ground, AMMI Park (for rugby) and the Rod Laver Arena are popular with Melbournians to catch their sports idols in action in exhilarating matches. If you have to meet with any of the city’s lawmakers, the majestic Parliament House is just a short stroll away.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? The unobtrusive entrance is accessed by several steps that lead into a lobby featuring a small reception counter and plush waiting area, as well as a larger space devoted to the Lime Restaurant/Café Bar, which has seats positioned along floor-to-ceiling windows for a view of the passing crowd. Despite showing up for an unusually early 0830 check-in – I was transferring from another hotel – the friendly staff signed me through, and I was soon unpacking my belongings in my Privilege King room.
ROOM FACILITIES Though measuring only 20 sqm, the room appeared much larger with its rectangular window overlooking Treasury Gardens and crisp white linen bedding set off by a scarlet runner. Both elements, somehow, helped create an airy aura, especially during the day when natural light streams in. The cube-like lounge seating by the window was too small to actually relax in, but provided more of a place to dump one’s laptop bag or paperwork.
The bathroom was tiny, but the fixtures and lighting were all brand new and gleaming, and the washbasin quite substantial in size and good for hand washing personal items.
Standard facilities consist of a digital LCD TV, glass-fronted mini fridge (helpful in reminding one of foodstuff purchased), no-fuss wifi service, personal safe and clock radio with iPod docks.
RESTAURANTS & BARS Lime Restaurant and Café Bar fulfills breakfast, lunch, drinks and dinner requirements in a cosy atmosphere. The menu features modern Australian cuisine, using regional Victorian produce in innovative presentations such as the parmesan and cumin crusted cauliflower florets, served with Lime’s own hummus and preserved lemon aioli; saffron fettuccini tossed with semi-dried tomatoes and toasted macadamia nuts; and lamb rump on celeriac purée with baby vegetables. The soup of the day comes with a nicely warmed cob loaf. The Grand Vin list has a number of fine Victorian labels such as Lillydale Estate, Yering Station and Austin’s, among others, at prices from A$8 (US$8.44) per glass or A$32 (US$33.77) per bottle.
BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES There are five event venues on the lobby level, named after fruits (Apple, Grape, Melon, Pear and Fig), accommodating various configurations, including theatre, classroom, U-shape, boardroom and banquet for up to 300 people. Amenities provided include wifi access, video-conferencing, and overhead projector among others.
Opposite the reception area is a small cubicle which serves as a business centre, equipped with a Mac desktop and printer.
LEISURE FACILITIES None onsite, but Treasury Gardens across the road provides a great excuse to get some fresh Melbourne air.
VERDICT With a packed Melbourne schedule, I usually left the hotel early in the morning and returned past 2200 every night, but the time I spent in my Privilege room was relaxing, and I never experienced any problems logging onto the internet.
FACT FILE
HOW MANY ROOMS There is a total of 164 guestrooms with either views of Treasury Gardens (with some having a balcony) or the cityscape. King, Queen or twin beds are available in each of the categories.
ROOM HIGHLIGHTS Splashes of colour and ample natural light made this comfortable room feel larger than its 20 sqm.
PRICE Best unrestricted internet rate for an early November stay
starts from US$276 without breakfast.
CONTACT 13 Spring Street 3000, Melbourne, tel +61 3 9205 9999, www.mercure.com
Margie T Logarta
