"How did it strike you on arrival? A skip from iconic Bondi Beach, QT Bondi is within the contemporary Pacific Bondi Beach building on main seaside street Campbell Parade. Enter up the stairs from the front of the complex through the tree-dotted atrium or drive in from Beach Road. Nice. What’s the crowd like? You’ll bump into surfers and style-seekers at this hip boutique hotel, sister to the city’s vintage-chic QT Sydney. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. A coastal-cool vibe rules in the 69 spacious studios and apartments, by Australian designer Nic Graham, with beach-motif cushions, porthole-shaped mirrors, rocking chairs and geometric rugs. Sleek contemporary furniture, blonde wood floors and white walls create a chilled-out feel. QT Deluxe Kings and QT Gould Suites offer city-view balconies, QT Atrium Suites have balconies with atrium views (don’t expect ocean vistas). We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us? QT King and QT Deluxe King studios feature open-plan sleeping and sitting zones; QT Atrium Suites and QT Gould Suites have a separate bedroom and lounge. Generous beds feature plain, white linen, contrasted with zingy yellow, blue, red and green accessories. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? Quirky minibars come stacked with snacks, soft and alcoholic drinks, plus fun beard kits. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down. Modern bathrooms combine white and mint-green industrial subway tiles with oversized circular mirrors and black taps. Double basins, a bath, shower and American Malin+Goetz products add luxe. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word? Complimentary Wi-Fi and movies. Room service: Worth it? QT Bondi doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, but you can whip up food in the kitchenette. You’ll find a Woolworths supermarket below in the Pacific building, plus Fishbowl for yummy poke bowls to go. Panama House café off the atrium and Bondi Beach Public Bar (180 Campbell Parade) have ocean views. Staff: If you could award one a trophy, who gets it, and why? The 24-hour reception and concierge desk are at your disposal, or see the QT’s website and social media for local drinking, dining and activities. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. The beach is just over the road. The QT offers access to Speedo Fitness Club and pool downstairs. Valet parking is available for a fee or hire a Lekker bike to explore. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay? Showcasing video and photographic art by Australian Shaun Gladwell, the vibrant lobby celebrates surfers and beach life. Kitsch-cute flamingo and palm tree lights dot the seating nooks. Bottom line: worth it, and why? Bondi’s blend of barefoot living and coastal gentrification makes it one of Sydney’s most seductive neighbourhoods, appealing to fitness freaks and fashionistas." - Sophie Davies
