Lonely Planet Review

This part of town is slowly but surely getting a bit of a clean-up and nowhere embodies this better than the Pensione Hotel - a tasteful reworking of a stately George St building - and with prices guaranteed to make it popular.

You'll find it next to St Peter Julian's church, so at least you'll know the neighbours are quiet. Mind you, George St is one of the city's busiest thoroughfares, meaning that if you get a room at the front of the building you'll bear the brunt of it (although you'll also get natural light through the windows). Smart, neutral-shaded rooms have air-con, TV and fridge, although standard rooms don't have tea or coffee-making facilities. Security is good and service is friendly - there's a lounge on the Sussex St side of the property that has lockers, so you can store your luggage or valuables safely. Make note of the building's grand main staircase - a carved wooden affair that contrasts nicely with its simple, restrained surrounds.

Review by author Sally O'Brien

Map

Facilities

1. 24-hour reception
2. Air conditioning
3. Children allowed
4. Clothing iron
5. Cafe / Restaurant
6. Communal area - Indoor

1. Safe
2. Tea and Coffee maker
3. Tour desk
4. TV in room
5. Wake up service
6. Lockers

1. Non smoking rooms
2. Phone/Fax
3. Facilities - Private
4. Room service
5. Linen/Towels supplied
6. Communal area - Outdoor

1. Internet access
2. Kitchen/Kitchenette
3. Laundry service
4. Left luggage/storage
5. Lift/Elevator/Wheelchair access