The StandardX, Melbourne

I’d love to stay at the hotel after visiting its rooftop, which is now open to the public. The place looks gorgeous, and there’s a fun little gift shop downstairs. The rooftop felt more tucked away than we expected. I thought it would be packed, but it was surprisingly low-key. You have to ask to be let up, which probably explains that. The bar isn’t huge, with one long shared table, a few quieter spots around the edges and a couple of small fire pit areas. The views over Fitzroy and into the city are great. The cocktails tasted good, the beer was cold, prices were reasonable and the service was relaxed and friendly. Not much more to ask for.

I used to book CBD hotels, but I’ve found the spot I like. The hotel’s on a quiet street connected to the “Wolrd’s Best Street,” and it has a great Melbourne vibe. The room was spacious and well appointed, with a great bed, and service was friendly and helpful. There are markets nearby, and the rooftop bar has a great view. You can take a tram into the city easily, or walk. With good traffic, it’s 25 mins to the airport.

That early check-in really saved the stay. Our flight got in very early, and the person at the desk let us into the room at 6:30am, which is why I’m giving this five stars. The rooms are on the small side, and the glass bathroom walls and door didn’t give us much privacy. We also weren’t recognized as Globalists at check-in and weren’t offered an upgrade. There’s no pool or gym on site. The location is great, with lots of good food and bars within walking distance. The breakfast was good, though the team seemed overwhelmed when it got busy. If you stay more than a couple of nights, the choices might get repetitive. If breakfast isn’t included, expect to pay $50-$100 Australian for up to two people. The opening hours of nearby places were a little inconvenient, though that’s not the hotel’s fault. We had a good stay, but with other Hyatt properties in Melbourne and their prices, we’d pass on this one next time.

The location is the standout, right in a great neighborhood with plenty to see and do. The room, though, was far smaller than we expected. With two suitcases, there’s barely room to open them and move around. There’s just a little fold-out desk, barely big enough for a laptop, and a stool. Aside from the bed, that’s the only place to sit. We’ve stayed at the Standard in Manhattan, where tiny rooms make more sense in such a cramped city. Why build rooms this small in Melbourne, which is largely suburban? The bathroom has a sliding glass door with a big hole where the handle would be. At check-in, we found dirty footprints in the bathroom and hair in the sink. The robes smelled musty. We left them on the floor to be taken away, but they weren’t replaced. There was only one bin, a tiny bathroom one, so our rubbish ended up piled on the floor beside it. Service was mostly good, but not what I’d expect from a hotel that claims to be five star. Melbourne closes early, including the rooftop bar here. We were satisfied overall, but would choose a hotel with larger rooms next time. For a solo traveler who gets a good price, it might work.