As a frequent business traveler, the line between good and great is often blurry. I'm typically just looking for a comfortable place to sleep, and with all the good new bedding installed by the major chains, I often can't discern the difference in value among the major hotel chains. Hence, when I book at places like the Westin Melbourne - luxury hotel with many awards - I tend to be disappointed at the price I pay (even when on business). However, at this Westin, the awards are very well deserved.

First - location - it is right downtown, two blocks from the Waterfront and right in the midst of all Melbourne's shopping areas. Second - the service - although Westin is known for it, at this hotel it was exceptional. Everyone from reception to the concierge to the room service delivery was incredible helpful and good natured, but not in that pompous-luxury-hotel type way you see too often. They genuinely want to help, and are humbled by the opportunity to do so. Third - room quality - I had one of their workout rooms with a treadmill - because of the treadmill, the room is huge, with plenty of space to stretch out if you have a longer stay. Fourth - the bathroom - double sinks, and a shower head that came straight from the cieling. After 24 hours of travel from the US, it was fabulous. Fifth - the pool and exercise facilities were quite nice.

Of course, being a Starwood, they charge you for everything - phone calls are more expensive in Australia than they are in the States. But that is to be expected, and they know they can do it because of their clientele. If you go to Melbourne, and can afford it, I would recommend the Westin wholeheartedly.

I think this hotel is great, one of the best in Melbourne. Check-in was prompt and no problems getting a room first thing in the morning. The rooms are very large, I had a nice King size bed and very large bathroom with shower cubical and bath. The view was straight out into another building so i couldn't see anything but bricks. The bed was fine but I really dont think it was a Westin Sweet Sleeper bed, and funnily there was not any Westin amenity's in the room, it was as if I was staying at a No brand name hotel. They did give me a later check-out on the Sunday for a fee. Internet was to expensive in the room but they did have free wireless internet in the lobby, a big plus.
Anyway really nice hotel, better if i had a nice view of something.

We were in Melbourne for the Good Friday/Easter weekend in order to attend a friend's wedding. We were highly disappointed by our stay at the Westin.

The hotel didn't warn us that they would not be having laundry service for the entire 4-day weekend; for a hotel of this (supposed) standard, they should have made contingency plans with alternative laundry service providers. (If you cut off laundry service, why don't you cut your room rates too?)

The reception desk frequently had no one manning the desk. Similarly with the concierge desk. Trying to get connected to the concierge from the room phone required many attempts.

Also, check your bill when you are checking out. The hotel makes an automatic deduction from your bill for a donation, without telling you in advance. It's not the money that's the issue, but the principle of making the deduction without notifying us is simply unacceptable and highly presumptious.

The one good thing I can truly say about this hotel is the location. Pity about the service. Will not stay here again.

Great hotel which is of the same as every other Westin. I was particulary impressed with the porter service as they record the number plate of the taxi you arrive in (just incase you leave something behind and need to contact the taxi company). Located in the middle of the CBD so its a good base if you are visiting the city for shopping or the theatre.