Avani Melbourne Central Residences

The central location was the only positive part of this stay. For over AUD$200 a night, it was deeply disappointing, and I hope management takes the safety, service and cleanliness issues seriously. It's embarrassing to have to leave a review like this, and I don't enjoy writing negative ones. On our second last night, we came back to find the electric door cover loose. The room door opened without a key card tap, so it was essentially unlocked. We felt extremely unsafe and had to stack luggage and chairs against it to sleep. No one paying this rate should have to worry about basic room security. The room also looked nothing like the listing photos, which showed bright natural light and a spacious feel. In reality, it was dim, poorly lit and very different from what was advertised. The room phone never worked during our stay despite telling staff multiple times, and the balcony door lock was faulty. Not being able to call reception in an emergency is extremely concerning. Housekeeping was included in our booking, but after accidentally spilling crumbs, we asked for vacuuming for three days in a row. On the fourth day, reception said vacuuming was only weekly and might cost extra. I've never known a hotel to treat vacuuming as outside standard housekeeping. One time reception also wrongly told us housekeeping wasn't included, then later confirmed it was without apologizing. Reception service was lacking, rude and sometimes dismissive, especially from a few of the Indian women on staff. Once, while a staff member was serving another guest, she asked what I needed and immediately told me to “wait” before I could answer. The incorrect housekeeping information was also corrected without any acknowledgment or apology. There are many other places in the same area at a similar price that likely offer better service and standards. I left this review under an alias.

The view was the only good thing about the room, and even that depends on getting one. Before booking, I called to ask if a room with a view was available, but they couldn't help or commit either way. That's really disappointing. We booked one night to see what the room was like. We did get a view, but still left after that night because we didn't like the place. They call it a hotel, though it feels more like an apartment building. The policies are extremely inflexible, the room is very basic, and at $300 a night it just isn't worth it.

The pool area was great, but we wouldn't stay again. The rooms are small and poorly equipped for such an expensive tariff, and the bedroom carpet was stained. Our room on the western side got very hot, with inefficient air conditioning. They also charged extra for early check-in even though the room was ready. I haven't had that experience at other hotels or apartments. Not good value for money.

The pool was fantastic (!!), the staff were friendly, and the location couldn't have been better. We had a really enjoyable two-night stay and will be back. We couldn't figure out the TV, but that didn't matter since we were busy exploring Melbourne. Highly recommend, and thank you!