Ibis Budget Melbourne Airport

A boxy bright-yellow and gray facades is a hint at what's to come for this budget chain property. Proximity to airport terminals is the biggest draw here, and routes on foot are well-outlined. Cheerful, 2014-refurbished interiors here challenge the "soulless" reputation generally attributed to airport hotels. The lobby-come-breakfast-area is bright from ample seating and walls in bold colors, and even dishes at the breakfast buffet are a rainbow of colors. Being cheaper than other airport properties, it's a popular layover pick, but rooms are undeniably low on frills and walls are reportedly thin. Note that the front desk isn't staffed 24/7, although self-check-in kiosks are available around the clock.

Immediate surrounds of service roads and highways aren't scenic here, but you'll find that near most airports. The hotel is within walking distance of Melbourne Tullamarine International Airport, requiring walks of between eight and 13 minutes, depending on the terminal. The nearest Qantas terminal has a cluster of cafes and restaurants, and Skybus shuttles from here run to Melbourne's Southern Cross railway station (for Melbourne CBD). Farther terminals offer a Krispy Kreme and more outlets, while a McDonald's, gas station, and ATM are within a four-minute walk of the hotel. Travelers choosing to reach Melbourne CBD by car should allow 25 minutes.

Renovated in 2014, simple rooms offer the bare minimum that's standard for the chain. They're outfitted in a mostly neutral-tone color scheme, with wood floors, white walls, and very basic wooden furniture, plus some pops of green in walls, headboards, and plastic chairs. Tiny floating desks enhance the budget feel, as do exposed hanging rails and fluorescent lighting. Solid comforts include flat-screen TVs with pay-per-view movies, mini-fridges, tea- and coffee-making facilities, full-length mirrors, and alarm clocks, plus the option of an overhead bunk in Triple Rooms (although these rooms can't accommodate cribs). No safes are provided, and reception cannot store valuables, although it does loan hairdryers. Compromised space means sinks with basic soap are in the bedrooms, and tiny pod bathrooms can be a challenge, but their toilets and showers are clean. Rooms are largely well-insulated from outside noise, but there have been complaints of internal noise disturbances. Views are, for the most part, uninspiring. Note, there are no elevators, so those with mobility issues should request a room on the ground level. 

Limited features here are designed for the largely layover guest presence, most of who just want a place to sleep and fuel up in the morning. Served in an upbeat space adjoining the front desk, all-you-can-eat breakfasts are well-priced, and continental offerings include cereals, fruit, and breads with jams, yogurts, and pancakes. Tea, coffee, and juice come standard. The room receives natural daylight, and a TV airs news channels, but food and drink offerings here stop after breakfast. Nearby vending machines sell hot and cold beverages, as well as snacks. Unsurprisingly, the hotel has no gym, but weary travelers here mostly just want to rest. Coin-operated lobby computers are handy, and a laundry room with washers and dryers requires the same payment method. An iron is available here. On-site parking is free for the first night, and at a fee for longer stays. Pets are not permitted. Wi-Fi is free for the first hour, and then it requires a fee.