Urban Rest - Bondi Central

The room was clean, and the balcony view was lovely. I had everything I needed in the King Studio, including a kitchen and utensils, which was handy for cooking. In the 40-plus-degree heat, the air conditioning kept the room nice and cool. The bathroom was clean too, though it was missing bath towels at first. I called reception and housekeeping brought two up within a couple of minutes. Calvin checked me in smoothly that afternoon, upgraded me to the King Studio Suite with Balcony, and arranged late checkout. I needed help figuring out the stove, and he talked me through the switch on the side that turns on the electricity for the cooktop. I’m a bit behind with today’s tech. Dipesh checked me out and we had a pleasant chat. Thanks for the hospitality and great service. I’ll be back for a longer stay sometime soon.

The early check-in after my long flight was a kind gesture from the staff, and I was grateful for it. The room itself was a poor standard for the price. I faced the street, so loud cars woke me several times; the window wouldn't shut properly and let even more noise in. Light came through both the curtains, which didn't cover the window fully, and a large gap beneath the door from the hallway.

The location is the hotel's strongest point, with bus stops and public transport close by, and it's central for downtown or the famous bondi beach. Check-in was lovely, thanks Alexandra. The cockroaches were awful. They moved me to another room, but I spent one night killing them and then slept in my car the next night. I know it's an island and it's spring, but some prevention would be great. A few big spring and summer events are happening, so many hotels are booked up. I'm still debating whether to cancel the remaining 12 days of my 14-day trip here. I can't see myself spending them at this hotel.

For what I paid, I expected a 4+ star stay, so the room standard and cleanliness were a letdown. It was dated, the fridge was dirty, and there was mould in the shower. The shower leaked when the door was closed because the seal was old, and the toilet paper holder swung down. The cutlery and crockery didn't match either. I met another guest in the lift who was already on his third room change. I was on a work trip and couldn't be bothered changing rooms myself. Holiday Inn, do better or lower the price.