Starwest Apartments Alderney On Hay

The beds were reasonably comfortable and the linen was OK, which earned it two stars from me. The rest of the apartment felt worn out and badly in need of modernisation. The glossy website photos don't reflect what you actually get, and this place is nowhere near the four diamonds claimed on the site. On arrival, the room smelled of previous guests' cooking, and I never managed to get rid of it. The carpet was ancient, filthy and buckled in places, and the furniture was old and tired. Internet access was effectively nonexistent, so streaming on your own device wasn't possible. The TV only had free-to-air channels. When I asked about the poor internet, I was told, “owners/management don't care as the place is full every night”. Given what I paid, I expected a better response. The gym had no antiseptic wipes for cleaning equipment after use, and the weights weren't labelled with their weight. The surrounding area near Perth hospital had many homeless people, some of whom appeared drugged up.

Be warned, this felt extremely dodgy. They kept my bond after accusing me of leaving floor damage, though it hadn't been there when we stayed. The photo they sent showed old damage we hadn't seen as existing. Then they claimed I had a pet, which I didn't, and I asked them for video evidence. I eventually got my bond refunded, but only after escalating the matter externally.

I had a solid 9 hour sleep even though I'm a really light sleeper. The apartment and location were quiet, and the place was large, comfortable and really clean, including the bathroom. It had a balcony, a great shower with shampoo, conditioner and body wash, and even shaving cream in the bathroom. There was also a washing machine and dryer, kitchen and lounge. The hotel has a heated pool and gym too. Check-in was the one hassle. They're only open until 12pm, and you have to ring before then to complete it. If you can book and call in time, it's fine, but I'm not sure they'd be able to accommodate a same-day booking made after 12pm. One bed seemed due for replacement, though the one I slept in was comfortable. I'm really happy to have found a place in my budget, and I'll stay here again next time I'm in Perth.

The heated pool and recently renovated pool area and gym were fantastic, and the kids loved them. The location is great, and the room had everything needed for a short or long stay. I was there for one night. The apartment was a little older, but spacious and clean. Check-in was tricky because the lobby and desk were closed for the public holiday. I'd definitely stay again.