Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast

We liked being in the quieter part of the Gold Coast, away from Surfers Paradise, with Tedder Avenue and its dining options close by. Travelling with our 20-month-old worked well too: there are paths around the resort for little ones to wander, plus a small kids’ pool. The main pool area is fantastic, breakfast was great, and the evening turndown was a nice touch. Some of the breakfast buffet staff were especially warm and welcoming. There was a lot of visible wear around the hotel, and a few staff members were less friendly than we'd hoped. The pool bar could use a major renovation, and the lagoons were drained for renovation while we were there, which was disappointing. A pleasant, family-friendly stay, though updates would make it better.

The place is stunning, with a fancy feel from the glasses of Champaign at arrival to the tidy, luxurious surroundings. The pools are lovely, the beach is just steps away, and the restaurants are all top notch. Food at the Terrace was super delicious, and drinks, music and great staff at The Pearl were just what I needed to finish the evening. There was a mix-up with my room on my birthday, but it was sorted out quickly and amicably. Ebony deserves a huge shout out for fixing everything on arrival, Catherine at The Terrace for her smiles and delicious food spoils, and Abraham for helping when I cut my foot. The staff were incredibly friendly. We will definitely be back.

The beach is the real winner here. Being able to swim in the ocean as well as a nice pool is hard to find. The resort itself is beautiful, though a bit run down. The pool is clean and deep, with a swim-up bar, and the drink range is better than most. Wines and beers are well priced. Poolside food costs a bit more, but the options are really good and portions are generous. I also recommend Pearls bar for drinks and food. I'd call it 4.5 stars. The rooms and bathrooms are the only thing keeping it from five: dated, but very clean and well equipped. With an ocean-view room, the views are exceptional, and the windows open all the way so you can hear the waves and feel the ocean breeze. Service let the place down on my last visit 4 years ago, but this time it was exceptional. Staff smiled and said hello even when I was just walking through. I'll be back.

The buffet is exceptional and a must, and the resort is very family friendly. The pool is large and warm, with free cold and mineral water, plus great cocktails, food and service. The beach is just a few steps away, and nearby there's a lovely marina with good restaurants and a fish and chips shop. Surfers Paradise isn't far either. We hired bikes and had a beautiful ride. Service was exceptional from the porters through the other staff to the managers. When we had a room issue, it was dealt with promptly, and we got a few compliments for the trouble. Our room was clean, spacious and nicely touched, though a little less modern than some other 5 star hotels and resorts we've stayed in. The pool was great, and so was the beautiful new gym, with complimentary water bottles, cold refill water, towels, cooled towels, and a fantastic range of machines, weights and other equipment.