As part of a 3 week trip to Australia in November, we will be spending 5 nights in Melbourne. We would like to consider an apartment rather than a hotel if possible. In Sydney, we will be staying at the Mecure Apartments in Darling Harbour. Something similar in Melbourne would be great…if it exists. Any recommendations?

We have stayed at the Mecure Apartments at Darling Harbour and enjoyed them very much. In Melbourne, we stayed at the Saville Park Apartments (333 Exhibition St.) and I think you would find them comparable to the Mecure.

Quest Apartments either in Southbank or Carlton are also good - walking distance to the CBD. Have a look at either Not1night or Wotif or Ratestogo or just search self contained apartments and it will bring up heaps.

My favourite place is the Grand Hotel run by Sofitel on the corner of Flinders and Spencer Streets. Very close to everything and a wonderful apartment hotel with very large and nicely appointed apartments but also with the added bonus of being a hotel if you need those facilities. Beautiful old sandstone building.

Try www.grandharbour.com.au