Clarion Suites Gateway

This mid-range hotel is a typical specimen of the Clarion chain, with the kind of contemporary interiors that lack character, but are clean and pleasant. Black-and-white tile floors in the lobby are paired with wooden wall panelling and burgundy accents, while a smattering of potted plants add a nice touch. The hotel's heigh-ceilinged dining space is all slick surfaces and gray and beige hues, while massive windows fill it with natural light and overlook the street. The property has a corporate vibe about it, and it's no surprise that many business travelers choose to stay in this convenient Central Business District location. The spacious suites with kitchenettes or full kitchens also attract families.

The hotel is situated on the banks of the Yarra River in the Central Business District. The Immigration Museum is across the street, and there are lots of restaurants, cafes, and bars nearby. There are several other hotels in the area as well as lots of public transportation options; several tram lines and busses stop a block away. Finders Street train station is an eight-minute walk from the hotel and Southern Cross Station can be reached in 11 minutes on foot. Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is a 14-minute walk across the river. There are several attractions within walking distance of the property, including the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium (four-minute walk) and the Crown Casino and Entertainment Complex (11-minute walk), which is not only home to a casino, but also lots of shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. Both the National Gallery of Victoria and Queen Victoria Market are about a 20-minute walk away, or 10 to 12 minutes via public transit. Melbourne Airport is about a half-hour drive or 45 minutes via public transportation.

The hotel offers Studios as well as One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Suites. Rooms are cloaked in a tasteful gray and white color scheme accented by pale green shades in the form of pillows and armchairs, while decor is sleek and contemporary. Plush white beds are topped with geometrically-patterned pillows that add a hip touch to the fairly minimalist spaces, as do etched glass pieces adorning the mostly bare walls. Floor-to-ceiling windows illuminate the spaces with natural light, and some rooms have balconies and river views.All rooms have desks as well as armchairs or sofas and dining tables. Studios have kitchenettes with sinks, mini-fridges, microwaves, toasters, electric kettles, and dishware, plus a selection of coffee and teas is provided. Suites have full kitchens that add extra appliances like stoves, ovens, and washing machines, plus some have dishwashers. Other standard amenities include 48-inch flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and ironing facilities, but Wi-Fi incurs a fee. Bathrooms are compact and could use an update. They're equipped with walk-in showers or shower/tub combos. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided. Note that the hotel is in a busy area and some guests have complained of noise, including from the nearby train and tram lines.

The hotel has an indoor pool suitable for lap swimming. Though there are no fitness facilities on-site, guests get free access to a nearby gym. William's Bar & Cafe serves buffet and a la carte breakfast, as well as lunch and dinner. The bar hosts weekday happy hour specials. Twenty-four hour room service is also available.Other amenities include several meeting and event rooms, a business corner with a computer and printer, and on-site laundry facilities (plus some of the suites have washing machines). Parking is available for a fee. Wi-Fi even incurs a charge in the lobby, while use in the restaurant is available with purchase.