In an era of cookie-cutter new-build chain hotels it is a delight to stay somewhere with serious individuality and style.
The Art Deco-style Savoy Hotel on Little Collins also has a great location opposite Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, and a fascinating history.
Part of the TFE Hotels group, The Savoy has a definite 1920s-1930s vibe - but with all modern conveniences. And the room rates are surprisingly affordable.
My deluxe room with a king bed was spacious with all the modern comforts you could ask for.
The stately building dates back to 1866 when it was known as the very fashionable Alexander’s Family Hotel.
It has since been through several iterations but retains the honour of having been the first hotel in town with en-suite bathrooms, hot and cold water in each room and climate control. Quite a trendsetter.
After being used as a live-in police academy it was reborn as a hotel in 1991 - as the Savoy Park Plaza.
In its current guise, The Savoy has 162 guest rooms and a suite. There are six meeting rooms and cocktail function capacity for up to 320 thirsty folk. There is also a gym, should you feel so inclined.
The ground floor Alexander Bar has that historic ambiance and is open for breakfast and dinner.
The revamped interior design was done by high-profile Woods Bagot.
Room all have air con, free wifi, HD TVs, tea and coffee-making facilities, in-room safes, iron and ironing board and mini bar.
There is a 24-hour reception - who remembered my 4am wake-up call. Thanks guys.
If you stay you’ll join a list of esteemed guests that includes Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, the Seekers, Frank Sinatra, Ava Gardner and Fred Astaire.
The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins, 630 Little Collins St, Melbourne. (03) 9622 8888. www.savoyhotelmelbourne.com
# The writer was hosted by TFE Hotels
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