Exercise? On the walls by the stairwell is written: "We don't have a gym but we've got stairs!" Six flights, in fact, leading to the rooftop terrace, where you can recuperate on one of the loungers before the downward trip. Also, the doors are quite solid and heavy, so there's your weights workout.
Minibar? No, just complimentary water bottles. The mezzanine level on the first floor offers beer and wine on an honour system; there is also tea and filter coffee available.
Food and drink: The breakfast buffet is continental style - a choice of cereals, yoghurt, milk and a variety of artisan breads, fresh baked muffins and friands. In the evenings friands are available for guests free of charge by the lounge area. Dinner can be had at the Shadow Wine Bar next door and charged to your room, otherwise there's no lack of choice in neighbouring streets.
The bed: Sleep-conducive and comfortable. Despite three attempts, I failed to see a whole movie from start to finish.
Bathroom: Compact, with a shower, toilet and basin. All top-notch, though.
Toiletries: There are large bottles of Botanical shampoo, conditioner and body wash in a dispenser in the shower - so no option to slip them into your bags. There's an Alex-branded cake of soap by the basin and a selection of packets - shower cap, nail file and makeup remover. Unusually, once you have used items, the packets are not replenished by the service team, nor are the water bottles.
Perfect for: Exploring Perth and its environs.
Would I return? Without hesitation. Everyone was friendly, helpful, the room comfortable and the breakfast buffet delicious.
Contact: Alex, 50 James St, Perth.
The writer travelled as a guest of Tourism Western Australia and Qantas.
