After staying on St Kilda Road for years, I decided it was finally time to try someplace new, and in the CBD more or less. Price and location drove me to Oaks on William. I checked in and was directed to my Studio View room on the 22nd floor. However, getting to the 22nd floor isn't the easiest - you get on one elevator, go to floor 3A, get off, walk around the building to another corridor and get on another elevator for the 22nd floor. It seems as though this would be required for floor 20 and up.
The room itself was well appointed, with a small kitchen area, a small but functional bathroom, and a nice sitting area. I found the bed comfortable enough. My issue was the view...first, it had a balcony which was great. However, the website talks about the view of the city, when in fact I had a view of the park and not much else. I was quite disappointed, as I hoped to see the other buildings of Melbourne from my bed and balcony, and had paid extra for this.
WiFi is expensive at $18 per day, but was quick and reliable. Location is good - 10 minutes from Southern Cross Station, on the edge of the CBD, and about a 7 minute walk south of Swanston Street and the associated tram lines. Tram 55 does stop right by here, but that line may or may not be useful depending on where you need to be.
I would likely stay here again, but would not be dedicated to it. Being in the city certainly gave me many more food options that I am used to on St Kilda Road, so the area in general will draw me back...but not sure if the hotel will. read more