The Pan Pacific Hotel, Melbourne, Australia

Discover your stairway to heaven

The Pan Pacific Melbourne was one of those hotels that appeared to embody tradition and genuine service. From the help of concierge, to recognition at reception and all the little extras that made a hotel stay memorable, this hotel had them all.  the Pan Pacific was located at South Wharf just outside the city centre, close enough to major transport hubs, event venues and the casino. 

Five star hotels have been known as the epitome of luxury and service, the place visited for any special occasion. While a luxury suite in a classy hotel could be seen as the hotel connoisseur's interpretation of heaven. Could it be the stairway to heaven? . . . Or could it be the wine or perhaps the chocolate? Come with me as introduce you to the Pan Pacific Melbourne where you can discover your stairway to heaven.

Sultry, moody and full of warmth 

Entering the lobby of the Pan Pacific generated a sigh of relief and contentment within me. The space bursted with style and sophistication while maintaining warmth and comfort. It was decorated with rugs, ornaments, plants and cushions, all the features that bring warmth and character to a hotel. The lobby gave a sense of grandeur to the hotel and acted as the central hub and linked to all the main food and beverage outlets.

The reception area was dominated by an imposing wall art similar to "masses of steelo" for those familiar with the kitchen scrubbing brand. The artwork was a beacon at the end of the lobby, from the entrance drawing guests direct to the reception desk. At each computer terminal was a black cylindrical bench that provided a spot for guests to place their bag so they could forage for their credit card! The concierge was situated adjacent to the desk. At times it did appear isolated, however in peak times the space was full of guest luggage as concierge staff navigated the arrivals and departures.

On the left side of the lobby was a long carpeted space that was calm, relaxing and had a range of lounges, ottomans and armchairs ... and I had to try them all! I was pleased to see this area because sometimes space is treated as a premium and given over to revenue raising uses rather than keeping space for the guest and the hotel ambience. It was ideal for relaxing with friends, waiting for the uber, or enjoying that welcome glass of bubbles. 

Panoramic views from the Panoramic Suite

The Panoramic Suite in the Pan Pacific was a wonderful room. It was bright, light and spacious. All the rooms had large floor to ceiling glass with panoramic views of the Melbourne Skyline and the Yarra River. The suite was carpeted with woolly masculine toned carport throughout. There was kitchenette with an extensive mini bar, coffee making facilities and fridge. The bathroom was expansive with a double 2 way shower and large bath. In the evening it was wonderful to sit and lounge with a glass of bubbles and gaze down the river and the twinkling lights of Melbourne. This was my idea of heaven.

Dock 37 and Cafe Orr

Dock 37 bar and kitchen was the key location for breakfast and dinner. At breakfast time an extensive breakfast was on offer with a bountiful selection beyond the normal brekkie favourites. Could waffles or pancakes be your occasional guilt go to? If so, Dock 37 had the most awesome chocolate fountain to spread over the evidence, along with some sweet additions! In the evening the restaurant was a` la carte only serving up contemporary and modern Australian dishes with Italian influences, they utilised regional seasonal items and created house-made specialties. Dock 37 was closed for lunch, but guests had the option of soothing their lunch munchies at Cafe Orr located in the lobby next to the restaurant. The cafe operated independently serving up snacks, pastries, sandwiches and of course; coffee.

The stairway to heaven

Perhaps chocolate is your stairway to heaven

Wine not your thing? Well Dock 37 had an alternative to help the sweet tooth cravings. The breakfast buffet was home to an amazing chocolate fountain. Guests could coat their pancakes or dip their fruit or smoother their waffles. One thing was for sure, this hotel had a stairway to heaven for everyone.

Low key but functional event spaces

The Pan Pacific had a versatile event space that could hold stand up cocktail events for around 200 people. The business case for an expansive event space would not stack up with the exhibition centre next door! The hotel benefited in other ways through room revenue from guests attending events. The events space also housed a couple of smaller spaces that could be utilised for various purposes.

The hotel was conveniently located adjacent to the Melbourne Conventional and Exhibition Centre. With Melbourne's unpredictable weather it was easy to enter the exhibition and convention precinct avoiding rain and gales.

Stephen's Take

Unit of Competency Mapping

Article and photos original by Stephen Duncan