IC Double Bay

[markis10]

There has never two ICs in the one Australian city, in fact it was not long ago the whole country could boast two in total, so visitors to Sydney are somewhat spoilt for choice. While the CBD option has long been a favourite with one of the better lounge views in the world, I decided to use a free night to check out the new Double Bay IC, a short ferry ride away.

Being new, the service has taken a bit of a bagging on trip advisor, touch wood I have experienced the opposite during my stay, and could not fault it. However there are some odd things that perhaps could be attributed to the hotel being newly refurbished. For instance, the lift is an excellent example of less is more. In this case the "less" being the absence of any signage as to what floors have what facilities. For the record, the pool is on the sixth floor (aka the roof).

 

[markis10]

The room.

Being on a freebie, I suspected I would not get the Presidential Suite, and as it turned out, I got the village view room, which is nice enough, although the going rate when I stayed was $450.

 

[markis10]

Inside a cabinet that could be confused as a wardrobe, you will find the mini bar and tea/coffee facilities. A big tick for the Nespresso pod range, including two of each incl my favourite. The mini bar has some interesting options, I look forward to returning as a Royal Ambassador on a paid stay when it becomes free.











I note the chips are slightly dearer than the CBD IC, but double the size.

 

[markis10]

The bathroom has copped a bit of criticism for its small shower, although I found it fine for one person , oddly the toilet is bigger in size. Another comment was about the lack of toiletries, perhaps they did not open a drawer?

 

[markis10]

As an Ambassador a welcome amenity is provided along with water and fruit, this IC has gone to the top of the list with their offering.

 

[markis10]

As mentioned the pool is located on the roof, and was not too busy when I stayed, the bar looks nice.

 

[Fifa]

Wow - thanks for the review markis10.
Love that fruit bowl .

 

[JohnK]

I note the chips are slightly dearer than the CBD IC, but double the size.

A jumbo 1kg size packet of chips?

Seriously you wouldn't want to accidentally open the Brut or one of the wines. :shock:

 

[markis10]

A jumbo 1kg size packet of chips?

Seriously you wouldn't want to accidentally open the Brut or one of the wines. :shock:

Huh, 1kg, where are u getting that from

 

[Isochronous]

Good to see them using TWG!

 

[moa999]

and A$14 (us 11.50) for a beer has got to be getting up there.

at least the wines are very drinkable.

 

[markis10]

Some outside shots of the hotel.





Reception

 

[Princess Fiona]

Thanks for the review. That looks pretty nice and I like that area of Sydney. Great people watching opportunities

 

[markis10]

A couple more pool shots when there is no one around.





Those wishing to partake of an evening swim after dark may be disappointed.



There are also courtyard rooms which overlook this:

 

[markis10]

Another attraction to some not mentioned in any hotel publicity might be Woolworths flagship store a block away, featuring some innovative ideas like a walk in cheese room, aged meat and various other things not normally found at your local Woolies. There is also a Dans attached, should the mini bar have been hit hard and be in urgent need of a less expensive refill.

 

[markis10]

Pictures of the bar area.

 

[markis10]

Final thoughts.
Sadly the service bug did bite, in the form of a non existent iron and ironing board some 20 minutes after making the request. Why my room did not have one in the first place I am not sure, it might be a space thing as the wardrobe is very small, so check if you need one during your stay.

Overall I did enjoy my stay, having only a few floors and limited rooms, the property has a boutique feel about it. It's a nice alternative to the city locale and easily accessed by public transport (ferry or train) should the Rolls be in for a service. I cannot see myself as a regular given the room rates are generally $400+, but as a special occasion venue it has significant merit, and obviously a good place to spend points.

Hopefully the service niggles will go, and it becomes a success. There is nothing worse than investing in a chain for regular stays only to see your options whittle away as properties leave. If they are going to close the pool at sunset, why not look at using it as a restaurant venue, it's already got the bar! if you are an INXS fan, no doubt at some stage you may make the pilgrimage to the place where Michael took his life, it's certainly a very different hotel to back then, and Double Bay is probably better for it.

 

[Fifa]

Great pics.
Did you enquire about the price of club access?

 

[AirKat]

Thanks for such a detailed review, so useful. Handy Dans/Woolworths knowledge too

 

[JMFK]

Looks good. Not $400+ a night good. But good

Thanks for posting!