Ibis Central, Melbourne (review)

My experience at the Ibis Central in Melbourne was far from what you’d expect from a four-star hotel. Here's why:

• Not a Four-Star Standard: The amenities and services provided were far below the expectations for a four-star rating.
• Towels: Only two large towels for the shower and two tiny hand towels were provided—no face towels at all.
• Cleanliness: The bed sheets were never changed during my five-day stay, and the bed was made so poorly it felt unprofessional.
• Room Size: The room was a cramped 13 square meters, with no surface to place belongings. I had to use the ironing board as a makeshift shelf.
• Misleading Photos: The booking sites show photos of larger rooms (18 square meters). Be careful to check which room you’re actually booking.
• Minibar: The minibar was completely empty.
• Elevator Issues: The elevator worked sporadically—one time out of ten. Even worse, pressing the help button repeatedly yielded no response from staff.
• Breakfast: The takeaway breakfast was extremely poor—a juice box, a milk carton, and some cereal. The buffet breakfast was far from what you’d expect in a four-star hotel restaurant.
• Double Charges: The hotel charged my card twice for “card authorization” fees (nearly $12 in total), which were supposed to be refunded at checkout. Despite paying the full amount with another card, the fees were never returned to my account.

Overall, this hotel does not live up to its four-star rating. I cannot recommend it, as the experience was disappointing and frustrating on multiple levels.