Holiday Inn Express Brisbane Central Review
I don’t write up a review of every hotel I stay in. I definitely skip a lot of the cookie cutter, chain hotels like Holiday Inn Express. However, I was quite impressed by this new property so thought it worth a post.
There are only four Holiday Inn Express properties in Australia. I believe the brand has only recently expanded to the continent and it seems their introduction is focused on a more hip hotel similar to aloft or Hyatt Centric.
Location
The Holiday Inn Express Brisbane is located in Spring Hill, just a few blocks from the heart of the downtown CBD. It isn’t in the heart of the city, but pretty close. There are a few restaurants and stores within a block or so, and everything else you need is within a walk including a ferry stop.
Check In
The lobby or “Great Hall” is located on the ground floor. The check in desk doubles as the bar. Bright colors create a welcoming, less sterile experience.
I redeemed 20,000 points for my one night stay. I got great value as the list price was $230 per night. I was greeted as a Platinum elite and given room 1216 on the top (12th) floor. Parking is available for $20 per day in a garage under the hotel.
The halls feel modern and creative.
Room
I don’t think I have ever seen a more utilitarian hotel room. Every inch is utilized. Which is to say, the room is small but doesn’t feel like a closet.
As you enter, the closet is to the left and bathroom to the right. However, the bathroom flows into the rest of the room. The main area has a queen bed, seat, a desk and TV.
The room is light thanks to a large window and back lighting behind the bed headboard. Black out roller blinds that fit tightly to the window meant darkness when needed.
The view from the 12th floor was not fantastic but was high above the surrounding area.
Back towards the built in closet was a coffee service and mini fridge.
Bathroom
The bathroom is essentially part of the rest of the room but divided by glass walls. The shower is in the middle of the room, though the map wrap gives some privacy. Still, make sure if you are sharing a room it is with someone you feel comfortable with.
The door to the shower doubles as the bathroom door. If you open the shower door, it acts as a door to close off the bathroom from the rest of the room. Pretty cleaver design.
The toilet and sink are tight, but it works.
The bath products are higher quality than I expected from a Holiday Inn Express.
Breakfast
As it is a Holiday Inn Express, breakfast is included. The buffet is a step up from what you get in the US.
There is hot food, fruit, yogurt, cereal, pastries, granola, pancakes, and various juices.
While there is no pool, there is a small gym on site.
I had low expectations with the Holiday Inn Express Brisbane Central. However, the modern high rise property surprised me with a very nice stay.