STAR footballers retiring, others being given the flick, a coach sacked and season over for 8 Australian Football League teams. Yep, it’s the end of the home and away season in the AFL and it all turns a little stir crazy as the other 8 teams are a chance in this year’s finals – it’s time to find some accommodation and snap up a bargain rental car at Melbourne Airport for that big day on October 1 when the MCG comes alive for a full day of entertainment and footy action.
CLOSE TO THE ACTION
Pullman on the Park
Upscale hotel right opposite the “G” and Fitzroy Gardens. If you want to be right on top of all the action for both the pre GF parade and the big game the next day then you probably need to get in quick for Pullman on the Park. Only 24km from the airport, the hotel is also smack bang in the middle of Melbourne’s sports precinct.
10 words or less: Swish hotel and everything is within walking distance.
CLOSE TO THE AIRPORT
Airport Tourist Village Melbourne
Let’s face it, if you’re flying into Melbourne from interstate, sometimes it’s easy to park your wheels somewhere close for when you arrive and when you depart. While ATVM is a budget option for a stay in Melbourne, it’s convenience with a capital C and “just plane handy”, as the ATVM say. It’s a mixed bag of studio units, executive apartments, deluxe or standard cabins. Simplicity, clean and tidy, and undercover BBQ facilities. modern park, centrally located just minutes from Melbourne’s domestic and international airports, and an easy trip by car or public transport from Melbourne’s CBD.
10 words or less: Super close to the airport, simple, tidy, close to CBD.
A LITTLE LUXURY
Grand Hyatt Melbourne
Another one right near the footy action. It’s also a five minute walk to Federation Square, 15 minute walk to the National Gallery of Victoria and all the other attractions Melbourne’s CBD has to offer. Throw in the fact the facilities are five star magic, stunning floor to ceiling windows, service of the highest standard and you’ll be sleeping like a king or queen when you’re not screaming support for your favourite footy club.
10 words or less: sheer luxury in the heart of the city.
A LITTLE QUIRKY
The Olsen Hotel
Adorned with beautiful artworks from artist John Olsen, close proximity to trendy Chapel Street and less than 3km from the MCG – the Olsen is a special kind of place to experience unique accommodation in the heart of Melbourne.
10 words or less: Quirky, quality, trendy and THE best bed and pillow combo around.
TAKE A PUNT
Crown Towers
Lavishly appointed guest rooms, suites and villas in beautiful Crown Towers in Southbank. Just a kilometre from historic Flinders Street Station, it’s a hive of activity right near the Yarra River, which snakes its way with accompanying walking tracks up to the mighty MCG where the two best teams in the AFL will battle it out for the big one. An ideal hotel for those looking for all the magic of Crown casino.
10 words or less: glitz and glam by the riverside in beautiful Southbank.
Also try Spring Sensations In Melbourne or What’s Hot on the Melbourne Food Scene
SCOTT PODMORE