Melbourne Short Stay Apartments Southbank Collection

Home-like setups at attractive prices draw travelers here. While a stay at the Melbourne Southbank Collection isn't likely to be the most memorable, the property throws in some nice perks -- namely its free-to-use pool, gym, and tennis court. Check-in around the block makes it clear you're in for an independent stay, and guests haven't always been allocated their preferred property (the chain has five more across the city), but for self-catering accommodation, modern layouts here are good. The nearby lobby's contemporary and colorful decor offer sneak apartment previews. A multicolor elephant statue brightens the room's glossy black floors and white walls, and tan leather sofas offer a place to sit until late. Apartment concierge staff are on-site 24/7, and this is a good pick for self-sufficient business, leisure, or family travelers, it's a solid pick. Note, bookings require a minimum two-night stay.

South of Melbourne's Central Business District, the hotel sits on a quiet street in the city's Southbank district. Galleries and events forming the Arts Precinct are a nine-minute walk, as is the cafe- and restaurant-packed Southbank Promenade. Panoramic city views from Eureka Tower's observation deck are one-minute closer. It's five minutes on foot to reach the Crown Melbourne casino complex. While casino culture is significant in Australia, accompanying boutiques, restaurants, bars, and family fun here make it an all-around favorite. Fifteen-minute walks across the Yarra River lead to Melbourne CBD, where free trams run around the city, although trams to other destinations stop outside the hotel. A mini-market is across the street, with larger grocery stores a five-minute walk. Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre is 15 minutes away on foot, as is Flinders Street railway station. Melbourne Tullamarine Airport is a 22-minute drive.

Contemporary apartments are outfitted in a mostly neutral palette of stylish gray and beige furnishings, with pops of olive green from pillows, geometric-patterned bed runners, and sofa cushions. One-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments all have spacious living rooms with cozy couches, modern artwork, and chic standalone lamps, and they're bright from floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to balconies -- although you'll need to upgrade for a nice view and highway noise can be a nuisance. Amenities include phones, desks, satellite flat-screen TVs with DVD and music players, and fully equipped kitchens with ovens, fridge/freezers, and dishwashers. Dining tables also come standard. Tiled bathrooms in white and slate gray have walk-in showers, toiletries around vessel sinks, and towels. Free detergent is provided for washer/dryers, plus there are safes, AC, and hairdryers. However, Wi-Fi is at a fee, as are cribs and high chairs. Note, housekeeping is weekly, although daily service is available for a fee. Maintenance issues have resulted in complaints, but they're generally minor.

Limited features here reflect self-catering setups, although guests have access to some good on-site perks. A little small, but fine for laps, the heated indoor pool is free to use, and glass-paneled walls and ceilings here have a conservatory feel. Surrounding high-rises afford an urban, glossy view at the outdoor tennis court, and guests can work out indoors at the gym overlooking it. Though small, equipment includes cardio machines, resistance equipment, and free weights. With most guests cooking in-room or dining at nearby restaurants, there are no restaurant or bar on-site, and the barbecue terrace is rarely used. The 24-hour assistance is handy, but note, front desk services are off-site, and close around 10 p.m. Underground garage parking is at a fee, but cheap for the region. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but at a fee in apartments.