Modern 2BR 2BA Close to CBD – Hosted by Canstay

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon this place called Modern 2BR 2BA Close to CBD, hosted by Canstay, during a quick work trip to Canberra last spring – right around when the Floriade festival was wrapping up and the city was buzzing but not overwhelmingly crowded. It’s tucked away in the 2612 postcode, sort of on the edge of Braddon, which is that trendy suburb just a stone’s throw from the city center. Honestly, pulling up in my rental car after a long drive from Sydney, I was relieved to find street parking wasn’t a nightmare – there’s usually spots along Constitution Avenue if you circle once or twice, especially outside peak hours. The check-in was a breeze; the host from Canstay left a key in a lockbox and sent over a quick text with instructions – no fuss, no waiting around in a lobby like some hotels. Walking in, the place hit me with that fresh, modern vibe – think sleek laminate floors that don’t creak underfoot, and a faint scent of eucalyptus from the air freshener they use, which felt authentically Aussie without being over the top.

What really sold me was how it felt like a proper home base rather than just a crash pad. The two bedrooms are spacious enough for a small group – I shared with a colleague, and we each had our own bathroom, which was a godsend after those humid Canberra afternoons. The kitchen’s kitted out with stainless steel appliances that actually work well (the dishwasher didn’t leak, thank goodness), and there’s a balcony overlooking some quiet residential streets where you can sip coffee and hear the distant hum of traffic from Northbourne Avenue without it being intrusive. I mean, it’s not dead silent at night – you might catch the occasional tram bell from the light rail nearby if you’re a light sleeper – but it’s way better than staying right in the CBD where the bars in Civic can get rowdy on weekends. We walked over to Lonsdale Street for brekkie at this little spot called Mocan & Green Grout – their avocado toast is killer, and it’s only about a 10-minute stroll. Oh, and side note: if you’re into politics or history, it’s super easy to hop on a bus to Parliament House or wander down to Lake Burley Griffin for a sunset walk. The place isn’t flawless, though – the Wi-Fi dipped a couple times during my Zoom calls, and the couches are comfy but could use fluffier cushions after a day of exploring.

All in all, if you’re heading to Canberra for a mix of business and leisure – say, checking out the National Gallery or just chilling in the cooler months when the fog rolls in over the lake – this spot’s a solid choice. It’s got that 4-star polish without feeling stuffy, and at a 7 rating, it’s honest value; you’re not paying for over-the-top luxuries, but you get reliability and proximity that makes the city feel accessible. I’d go back in a heartbeat, especially if I’m avoiding the pricier hotels downtown. Just pack earplugs if you’re sensitive to urban sounds, and you’ll be set.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $135. Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed for Max persons: 4

Reviews

• Stay was pleasant but could have been better if issues raised were addressed – Linda from Australia – 14 October 2024 (7/10)

  Location was further from city center than expected.
  
  What could be improved: * No bathmats
  * Only half a toilet roll in one bathroom with no additional supplies
  *Toilet seat in one bathroom was very loose and dangerous
  * Extractor fan and light over oven did not work
  * Mould on wall behind curtain and very dusty bedhead in one bedroom

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities