Perfectly Located 1BR BA Apartment – Hosted by Canstay

Hotel Description

You know, I stumbled upon this little gem called the Perfectly Located 1BR BA Apartment – hosted by Canstay – during a quick getaway to Canberra last spring, and honestly, it turned out to be way more than just a place to crash. I mean, pulling up to the address in postcode 2612, which puts you right in the heart of Dickson – that funky suburb just a stone’s throw from the city center – I was already impressed. It’s tucked away on a quiet side street off Northbourne Avenue, so you’re dodging the main traffic chaos but still close enough to hop on a tram or walk to spots like the Australian War Memorial without breaking a sweat. Check-in was a breeze; the host from Canstay messaged me a code for the lockbox ahead of time, no awkward front desk vibes, and I let myself in around dusk. The building’s got that modern apartment block feel, with secure underground parking – a lifesaver in Canberra where street spots vanish during rush hour, especially around federal parliament sessions when everyone’s buzzing about. Oh, and fair warning, if you’re driving in from Sydney like I did, aim to arrive before 5 pm; the evening commute can turn Northbourne into a parking lot.

Stepping inside, it felt like walking into a friend’s spare room – cozy, not over-the-top fancy, but with all the thoughtful touches that make you settle in quick. The one-bedroom setup is compact but smartly laid out, with a queen bed that’s actually comfy (no sagging springs here, thank goodness), and the bathroom’s got a rain shower that steams up nicely after a chilly Canberra morning. I loved the little kitchenette – stocked with basics like coffee pods and a microwave – perfect for whipping up brekkie before heading out. Sensory-wise, there’s this fresh linen smell that hits you right away, and the place stays pretty quiet at night, even though you’re near the Dickson shops where the Asian eateries crank out amazing pho smells wafting up from below. It’s rated 8.9 for a reason; everything’s clean and functional, though I will say the Wi-Fi dipped a bit during peak evening hours – nothing a quick reset didn’t fix, but if you’re working remotely, pack a hotspot just in case. What really sold me was wandering out to nearby Braddon for a coffee at Lonsdale Street; it’s like Canberra’s hipster hub, with breweries and boutiques that locals rave about, and the apartment’s positioning means you’re only a 10-minute stroll from Lake Burley Griffin for those serene sunset walks. In busier seasons like Floriade in September, when the flower crowds descend, this spot feels like a peaceful retreat – no hotel lobby madness, just your own space.

All in all, if you’re after a solid four-star apartment vibe without the stiff hotel prices, I’d totally recommend booking this through Canstay. It’s not perfect – the balcony is smallish, and you might hear the occasional tram rumble if you’re a light sleeper – but for solo travelers or couples exploring Canberra’s underrated scene, it’s a winner. You get that authentic local feel, like you’re actually living there for a bit, and at that rating, it’s hard to beat for value. Next time I’m in town for a conference or just to catch the autumn leaves, this is where I’d head back – no question.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $156. Apartment with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2

Reviews

• A superbly located and very comfortable apartment for a couple. – Peter from Australia – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

  So well located in Canberra city, parking was provided which is a major plus when city holidaying. Easy walk to restaurants and major shopping centre. The apartment was very well equipped and extremely comfortable and we literally wanted for nothing during our stay. Short drive, or catch public transport virtually at the door, to most major city venues & attractions.
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing to not like.

• Would definitely stay again – Crystal from Australia – 14 May 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing view and so close to the shopping center.
  Kitchen has everything you need.
  The bed is very comfortable and so is the lounge.
  The tv has an xbox and you can get all you're online streaming.
  The free car parking was amazing, saved so much money.
  The view having breakfast, just perfect.
  Would definitely book again.
  
  What could be improved: Hopefully they have replaced the key card as this was missing, but did not effect our stay

• The apartment was excellent, but the access and communication systems could benefit from improvement – Jennifer from Australia – 8 May 2025 (9/10)

  The apartment itself was very comfortable, very well equipped and in a great location. We really liked it.
  
  What could be improved: The instructions for the keys were useful and detailed, however were a little out of date. We were unable to complete one task on checkout, and were unable to contact Canstay to discuss. The email and text messaging system did not work, and while we left a message on the number provided, no-one returned our call. The garage fobs did not work well – and we were unable to advise anyone of this to ensure future guests were not disadvantaged.

• Superb – Greg from Australia – 17 May 2025 (9/10)

  Very central location to city
  
  What could be improved: 3 different codes for access to keys. Worked out ok but with limited external parking could be an issue if you don't know the area well

• Disappointing – Caryl from Australia – 25 April 2025 (4/10)

  What could be improved: Took 3 days before they resolved the issue with the card access for elevator. It was a challenging 3 days for us to access the parking basement and the room on the 7th floor

• Superb – Cecilia from Australia – 3 July 2025 (9/10)

• Superb – John from Australia – 1 June 2025 (9/10)

• Very good – Geraldine from Australia – 29 January 2025 (8/10)

• Exceptional – Kelly from Australia – 12 January 2025 (10/10)

• Exceptional – Travelling from Australia – 7 December 2024 (10/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities