A $150 million development has birthed AVANI Broadbeach Gold Coast Residences: an ultra-slick, ultra-modern addition to the Gold Coast’s already teeming apartment accommodation scene, though not an unwelcome one. Opened in time for April’s 2018 Commonwealth Games, the debut property from the brand is one of two entry points into the Australian and New Zealand market for Minor Hotels and it’s clear the company aren’t taking this big step lightly.
I had a recent stay to pilot a new concept AVANI were testing called Keys to the City, a rather neat social media initiative that allows guests to scan a QR code off the keycard upon check in, opening up a direct Facebook Messenger chat with locals (during the day) and the reception team (at night). This gives guests access to local knowledge, and ensures that they always (phone battery allowing) have a quick and easy line to ask questions, get recommendations on eats and activities and whatever else one would have to scroll through search results to find. With Google (or Ask Jeeves, I’m not judging) now flooded with disingenuous guides and misinformation, and Gold Coast rife with tourist-traps, something like Keys to the City is a forward-thinking way for hotels to extend the guest experience beyond the property; it represents a major enhancement to AVANI’s offering and (mostly) works like a charm.
I write “mostly” because there were a few teething issues with local “influencers” taking their time to reply, even though none of the questions were urgent – I have been to the Gold Coast many times before and know the area well. When things got going, suggestions were uniformly on point though: Rick Shores and Social Eating House being the best food recommendations. I even managed to get a decent quality meal in the notoriously average dining precinct of Pacific Fair Shopping Centre thanks to the help of my mystery digital buddy.
Although this isn’t exactly what guests will experience moving forward. Keys to the City is now a chat-bot with loaded recommendations from the locals to help guide guests on anything they need. It still works in exactly the same fashion – you chat via Facebook Messenger and ask questions – just slightly tweaked.
My “One Bedroom Premiere Ocean Suite” had two large double bedrooms – both with an en-suite bathroom; though only one with direct access to the balcony – flowing from an even bigger living area and kitchen. The well-equipped modern kitchen includes the laundry facilities neatly tucked away in a closet. As far as apartment hotels go, AVANI is tremendous value, especially considering that between two people the rates start from around $100 each.
The sense of space through the apartment is complemented by that beautiful view from the balcony, an almost uninterrupted vista that wizzes past neighbouring high-rises and gives guests a good perspective of that famous beach. On a characteristically sunny day up at the Gold Coast, few views can compare.
Squeaky clean apartment aside the property doesn’t have much in the way of amenities, but what it lacks in offerings it makes up for in location. Fitness junkies have the sprawling gym on the same level as a big outdoor pool and grassy barbecue area, and those who really want to wrap themselves in the Broadbeach scene are well-placed only a short walk from all the restaurants, cafes and bars of the area. Though you’re still far enough away from the strip so those who’d rather spend their days at Pacific Fair or The Star can easily do so by simply crossing the road.
The Oracle precinct which is home to Broadbeach’s best restaurants – that’s where you’ll find essential dining option Social Eating House – is just a stone’s throw so those using Keys to the City are bound to be pointed in that direction at least once during their stay. It’s also worth asking the digital assistant for the more hidden gems as well, like Aloha Bar and Dining which is tucked away off a quiet alleyway with a neon entrance giving way to a hip, festive eatery that’s most ideal to load up on local craft beers.
Apartment hotels often lack that kind of customised attention guests credit to high-end hotels, but with a digital concierge it seems AVANI have skipped through that issue and pulled a major element of hotel hospitality into their offering.
Large, spacious apartments mirroring the quintessential easy, breezy lifestyle oft associated with the Gold Coast; a sprawling backyard with a barbecue area and outdoor pool; and elegant summery design consistent throughout the hotel. It may not be a distinctive entry for the overcrowded hotel scene towering over that enormous stretch of golden sand, but it sure is a comfortable and welcome addition.
For more details on Keys to the City you can head on over to our feature HERE.
Room rates at AVANI Broadbeach start at $199.
AVANI Broadbeach Gold Coast Residences
Address: 2663 Gold Coast Hwy, Broadbeach QLD 4218
Contact: 1300 110 903
Website: minorhotels.com
The author stayed one night as as a guest of AVANI Broadbeach
Feature image supplied.
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