This was published 8 years ago
QT Bondi review, Sydney: Quirky humour on Australia's most famous beach
By Craig Platt
The place
QT Bondi, Sydney
Take a dip at Icebergs at Bondi Beach.Credit: Nikki To
The location
Bondi Beach is one of the most famous strips of sand in the country, if not the world. The area is now known as something of a hipster and health-nut haven, with the locals breakfasting on superfoods at local cafes before jogging, swimming or working out down at the beach. Packed on weekends, on weekdays the beach still attracts plenty of visitors, but it's a little easier to get a patch of sand to yourself.
The space
Converted from the previous Swiss Grand Hotel, the latest property to open in the expanding QT group is part of the Pacific Bondi development – a large block that contains a mix of apartments and retail, including a large supermarket on the ground floor, along with the hotel's the 69 suites (is the number another cheeky QT joke?). The building may not have the history of the iconic former Gowings and State Theatre buildings that QT Sydney now occupies, but the brand's distinctive touches can be found throughout the Nic Graham-designed interiors. There's currently no restaurant, gym or pool, but some local eateries offer charge-back facilities and a gym with a pool will open in the building in March which guests will be able to use.
The room
Maybe I've been watching too much Mad Men lately, but the difference between QT Sydney and QT Bondi feels like cutting from a scene at the New York offices – dark suits, mood lighting and understated style – to Harry Crane in LA, wearing bright board shorts and an open shirt. The colour scheme is the most notable difference – it's bright pastels and white walls. In fact I didn't realise I'd left my sunglasses on indoors at one point. There are the quirky and humorous touches we've come to expect from QT – one chair features rocking-horse legs, the mini-bar includes thongs, underwear, a beard-grooming kit (this area is the home of comedy duo the Bondi Hipsters, after all) and dominoes. My Deluxe King Room room is closer to a serviced apartment than a hotel. There's a two-burner stove, microwave, dishwasher and washing machine. Towards the rear of the building, my large balcony doesn't offer much of a view, but it's still a pleasant spot to enjoy the ocean air. There's a huge couch and the TV is also enormous. Combined with the colours, the room feels very much like a place to relax and unwind, not get your leftover work done.
The food
As mentioned, there's no restaurant, but the concierge can recommend several good quality dining options. Porch and Parlour is one of several local cafes that offer charge-back facility and is a solid option for breakfast, even if it's a bit of a walk from the hotel. For something a little more high-end, the iconic Bondi Icebergs lies a short walk to the south. The restaurant, while pricey, offers top-notch seafood. I opt for a mix of NSW and Tasmanian oysters, and zucchini flowers, followed by splitting a seafood risotto and whole baby snapper as mains (dessert is not an option after eating all that).
Stepping out
You have one of the world's most famous beaches on your doorstep, so experiencing Bondi Beach is a must. Stroll along its length from North Bondi. Take a swim or, if you're game, try a surfing lesson (which can be arranged by the hotel). Over summer, there's also the option of enjoying a film at the Open Air Cinema. Check www.openaircinemas.com.au to see what's playing. Further down the coast is Tamarama, where you can enjoy dramatic artworks at Sculpture by the Sea (see http://sculpturebythesea.com).
The verdict
QT Bondi aims itself at filling the gap for boutique, high-end accommodation around Bondi and succeeds in that. For visitors to Sydney looking for the quintessential Australian beach experience, this represents a fun option.
Essentials
QT Bondi. 6 Beach Road, Bondi, NSW, 2026. (02) 8362 3900. Rooms start from $280. See www.qtbondi.com.au
Highlight
The quirks and humour QT brings to its properties – the longer you stay, the more small touches and jokes you will discover.
Lowlight
The multi-purpose building lacks the charm of QT's CBD hotel.
See also: Review: QT Sydney's suites
See also: Sex toys and mirrored ceilings: The hotels bringing sexy back
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