WHAT'S IT LIKE? The contemporary feel doesn’t skip a beat, starting with the hip lobby.
WHERE IS IT? Medina Executive Flinders Street is two blocks to Flinders Station, which is opposite Federation Square featuring some of Melbourne’s most fashionable restaurants and bars. To the Melbourne Exhibition & Convention Centre, it’s 10 minutes by cab.
HOW MANY UNITS? 63 one- and two-bedroom apartments.
ROOM FACILITIES: The extra spacious living room caught my eye the moment I entered the Premier Two-Bedroom Suite I was to share with my colleague Wendy. Even with the kitchenette and dining area factored into the design, one never felt boxed in when enjoying the lounging area. Sliding doors opened to a balcony which looked out onto the Melbourne skyline.
BUSINESS FACILITIES: Rooms are Wi-Fi-ed, however, connection is not instantaneous and involves requesting for a media pack from the front desk (a good thing I called up before arriving to enquire about internet service and I was advised to reserve one). Since setting up was rather complicated – neither I nor anyone at reception was tech-savvy – I ended up having to contact the hotline and had to be walked through the entire procedure. This took about an hour!
When I enquired why this was the state of play, I was told management felt demand didn’t warrant the investment. Although I was informed beforehand this property was “an apartment hotel and not a fully serviced hotel”, I had hoped there was at least a business centre on the premises.
DINING: No restaurant but the corner coffeeshop (run by a very friendly staff) whips up big yummy breakfasts.
VERDICT: Except for the tech hassle, my stay was relaxing and extremely comfortable.
PRICE: From US$297.78 for a two-bedroom unit until December 30.
CONTACT: 88 Flinders Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia, tel 61 3 8663 0000, www.medina.com.au
Margie T Logarta
