QT CANBERRA
It must be a full-time job updating the political Pop Art that dominates everything from wallpaper to stationery at QT’s digs in the national capital (Turnbull features, but Trump and May are yet to make an appearance). Then again, no one’s really here for a political history lesson. They’re here for the comfort and cool. The comfort comes in QT’s signature gel beds, the latest movies (free), and cocktail nooks at Lucky’s Speakeasy. The cool emanates from playful minibars stocked with retro games, modern Italian eats at Capitol Bar & Grill, and sharp grooming at the Barber Shop. New Acton’s cultural attractions and the vibrant restaurant strip around Canberra Central are just a stroll away. 1 London Circuit, Canberra, (02) 6247 6244, qthotelsandresorts.com Cocktail-making kits have everything required for an in-room Old Fashioned. Just call room service for ice.
Better than a gym session (though the hotel doesn’t have one, there are complimentary passes for guests to a gym nearby), take a walk or cycle around Lake Burley Griffin instead.
The breakfast buffet ($29) has all the fixtures plus, improbably, macarons. If you fancy a lie-in, call downstairs for the French Aussie Quarter ($19), a twist on the traditional bacon and egg roll made with lemon mayonnaise and brioche. Capitol Bar & Grill caters for power lunchers with steak, burgers, seafood and antipasti.
The long Champagne list in the hotel’s Capitol Bar is reason to celebrate. Cocktails at Lucky’s Speakeasy are on the sweet side; the pick of them is the Old Jack Sparrow made with aged Ron Zacapa dark rum. Minibars are stocked with beer and splits of Mumm.
WHERE CBD. COST
From $172, without breakfast. AT A GLANCE
205 rooms and suites, adjoining rooms; bars, restaurant, day spa, barber shop, paid self-parking. IN ROOM
Free WiFi, smart TV, coffee machine, bath, some balconies, Malin + Goetz toiletries. BEST
ROOMS Most rooms have lake outlooks but the best are from the Superior Kings.