A DIFFERENT TAKE ON MELBOURNE

What is a W Insider and what makes them unique from other hotel concierges?

It’s W’s version of a hybrid elevated hotel concierge and experience curator, delivering experiences you won’t find in a guidebook. What sets W Insiders apart is our network of connections, so we can connect guests with experiences that take their travels to the next level.

Where are your favourite places to hang out in Melbourne?

Finding those hidden gems nestled between the laneways is where I’m at. However, I can’t go past the humble classics. My latest bar to frequent in Melbourne is a cosy and quaint place in Bond St, Bar Jayda ( barjayda.com.au ), which features high-top tables and sharing style nibbles including San Daniele prosciutto and ricotta on focaccia. My cocktail of choice would have to be the Strawberry Yoghurt Negroni.

What makes the coffee scene so great in Melbourne?

Melbourne’s evolving love for coffee is evident on every corner, with coffee kiosks, artisan-style cafes and cocktail bars focusing on beans, blends and everything in between! The coffee scene in the city taps into local styles, and the ways in which the coffee flavour is interpreted. At Curious (recently opened at the W Melbourne), the cocktail menu has an entire section dedicated to the humble bean, with a cheeky play on spoons made entirely out of chocolate to stir into your drink.

Melbourne is also famous for its street art. Where would you recommend guests head to so they can experience it?

Whether it’s a small sketch to the left of a lamp pole or a 4x4 mural, my all-time favourite location is Hosier Lane. Iconic in its nature, the lane features new and emerging talent all lining up to get their artwork on display. One of my favourite murals was on Hosier Lane in September 2022. It was a simple black and white figure with a collar and a vibrant red heart illuminated through the jacket.

You like to cycle round the city. Any routes you like to pedal down when not at work?

Heading down to the Dandenong ranges has always been a favourite pastime, as the green of the forest is breath-taking. As much as I love exploring towards The Thousand Steps, I usually locate a boutique cafe for some scones with jam and cream on the way home.

W hotels are famous for their Living Rooms, where guests are encouraged to mingle. What can guests expect from the Living Room experience at W Melbourne?

W Melbourne’s take on the W Living Room has evolved to include Curious, our new hidden bar. Like any speakeasy worth visiting though, it’s a little tricky to find, which most often means you must either know someone who knows where it is or ask a member of our team to help you find it. marriott.com –

HELEN DALLEY