Has your wanderlust been crushed? The ongoing battle against COVID has inevitably restricted our ability to travel – the iconic ‘flying kangaroo’ grounded along with our dreams of holidaying aboard. But no need to fear because staycations are here!

Australia’s hotel, leisure + hospitality industry are showcasing their finest, with unforgettable experiences available to travel-hungry Aussies. Many hotels are leveraging their facilities to stand out. Today, we’re looking at Australian hotels that transcend traditional accommodation to provide unique experiences to local tourists.

INSPIRED BY | The Calile Hotel

The Calile Hotel | Brisbane, QLD

Once upon a time on James Street, there was a hotel that made your staycation dreams come true. The Calile Hotel, designed by architects Richards and Spence, is an oasis set within an inner-city location. The 175-room hotel draws on Queensland’s subtropical climate to deliver a luxury resort experience like no other.

The Lobby Bar, described as the ideal location for an espresso in the morning and an espresso martini at night – takes a classy & unfussed approach to the consumer experience. The bar fit-out features floor-to-ceiling windows, pink marble tables, a wrap-around bar and custom bench seating with black & white textiles. This ground floor venue has become a popular meet-up spot, adding value to the hotel and the James St area.

The Calile Hotel is also home to an award-winning restaurant – Hellenika. This mouth-watering Greek eatery is the perfect place to gather with friends for alfresco dining during your staycation. The restaurant fit-out includes white, marble and timber features with pops of soft pastel tones + greenery. The instagramable restaurant is THE go-to location for events within the Brisbane area – now that’s a hotel worth staying at.

INSPIRED BY | QT Hotel

QT | Perth, WA

If you’re seeking a luxury staycation then QT Perth is the hotel for you. Surround yourself with the finer things in life and experience a designer oasis that offers more than just accommodation.

One of the primary reasons for staying at QT Perth is the popular hotel restaurant – Santini Bar & Grill. The Italian-inspired wonderland prides itself on serving up the good, the healthy and the naughty. If you plan on staying a while? Not to worry, this hotel dining venue boasts an extensive menu designed for extended stays. The restaurant fit-out features timber furnishings, rich colours and a variety of unique lighting fixtures to create a futuristic atmosphere for guests. If that wasn’t enough, the hotel is also home to a stylish rooftop bar where patrons can treat themselves to one…or two intriguing cocktails inspired by the local area.

Now if you fancy yourself a coffee aficionado? The QT Café can also satisfy your coffee cravings with aromatic coffee that’s made to be savoured. The contemporary café fit-out features high reflective ceilings, metal detailing and a subtle retro funk design that can be appreciated while sipping on your favourite beverage.

INSPIRED BY | Hilton on Little Queen St

Hilton on Little Queen Street | Melbourne, VIC

Say hello to Hilton’s new flagship hotel – located on Little Queen Street in Melbourne’s ‘Parisian’ end of town. Built in 1931, the former Equity Chambers building, has undergone a huge transformation. With help from Australian architecture studio Bates Smart, the heritage establishment has introduced a six-level extension to the historic site. Beyond the 244 stylish guest rooms, is Hilton’s lavish in-house restaurant & bar.

The Luci restaurant, located within the grand hall of the Hilton hotel has tastefully retained the buildings old-world charm while combining new + old design elements to create a unique environment for patrons. Guests can enjoy a contemporary Australian menu – whilst soaking up the restaurant’s fit-out featuring sandstone, European oak and bronze materials, high ceilings, marble stone finishes and upholstery in hues of taupe & royal blue. Need a nightcap before heading to bed?

The Douglas Club offers an extensive drink menu. The stylish bar fit-out celebrates the golden age of travel and hospitality. Patrons can immerse themselves in an intimate and brooding space – where guests can choose to sit at the bar and watch the theatre of mixology or sink into one of the emerald green velvet lounges.

INSPIRED BY | Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo | Adelaide, SA

Proudly situated in Adelaide’s Central Market precinct is a vibrant hotel that was built to stand out. Hotel Indigo features multiple culinary venues including Market & Meander – a colour-filled space designed by Studio-gram. The hotel restaurant fit-out features pink + red accents, curved lines, plush joinery, custom artwork and a statement brick backdrop. The eatery, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, incorporates multicultural influences from the local area and prides itself on producing fresh cuisine. The visually gorgeous venue creates a memorable atmosphere for hotel guests to enjoy during their staycation.

Follow your nose to level 16 and you’ll find Merrymaker, Adelaide’s tallest rooftop bar. With delicious light bites and curated cocktails, this art décor inspired space is sure to excite, as it showcases the best of South Australian seafood and charcuterie. The rooftop bar fit-out includes tiles covering the floor + walls, bold colours, delicate fairy lights and a backdrop of Adelaide’s iconic city & hills. Hotel Indigo is a great example of crafting spaces that align with the location and attracts travellers + the local community.

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