Comfort Inn Cairns City

Breakfast isn't served in-house, though there are several cafes and restaurants nearby. The room was simple and clean, with a compact bathroom and basics like an electric kettle and coffee and tea supplies. It's reasonably priced and good value, even if it doesn't match the standards I usually see at Choice Hotels in the USA. Service could be better. Reception is open for limited hours, which might be inconvenient if you arrive early or late, or need help outside the busier times.

The restaurant is a real convenience, especially in the evening, and the food was delicious. This place also works well for a short stay, with both private and public hospitals and the city nearby. The showers should be made easier to use for anyone unsteady on their feet, and a few hooks behind the door would be handy for clothes.

The location worked well for us, about a 10-minute walk to the center and a 10-minute taxi ride from the airport. The pools were clean, though unheated, so we walked to the nearby Esplanade for a swim, around 11 minutes away. After our 19-hour trip with three flights, we were exhausted. The woman at the front desk kindly checked us in straight away because the room was ready, which let us get a much-needed nap. The room was clean and well looked after, even if the pink bathroom tiles looked a bit dated. Service was a highlight. On checkout day, our flight wasn't until 6.30 p.m., and they offered us a fresh towel so we could shower at 4.30 p.m. before travelling. I told a staff member how impressed I was with the cleanliness and service, and he said they were the new owners. They had recently cleaned and painted all the rooms and upgraded most of the air conditioning units. They're also renovating the rooms, starting with the most outdated ones. It's clear they're focused on guest comfort.

The Chinese restaurant out front serves excellent food, and the motel is a short walk from the CBD and Esplanade. It's also close to CPAC for concerts. Rooms are clean and quiet, and the staff are always friendly and accommodating.