The spotlight is firmly on the Gold Coast in the lead up to the Commonwealth Games, with new development and infrastructure projects improving the look and feel of the GC for visitors. One such new development is the brand new Rhapsody Resort at the northern end of Surfers Paradise.
Rhapsody Resort opened in early 2016 offering a step up in quality and style from traditional apartment hotels found on the Gold Coast. In the first instance, the check-in process is efficient and professional and we're greeted by a team of young enthusiastic staff kitted out in smart blue check uniforms, providing a welcoming arrival and full of helpful local knowledge.
Whizzing up to our room on the 24th floor reveals a stylish room with the Gold Coast stretching out in front of us in all its gold and aqua beauty.
The décor isn't Gold Coast kitsch, but modern contemporary city sleek, with plush carpet, geometric print rugs and sophisticated abstract prints adorning the walls. Our apartment is a One Bedroom Ocean View and is certainly spacious enough to settle in for a weeklong holiday extravaganza on the Gold Coast.
The kitchen is fully equipped so you can enjoy a longer stay with gas stovetop, oven, microwave, dishwasher but no coffee machine or minibar, so it's definitely a self-catering arrangement. In-room laundry facilities are handy if you're here for a longer stay too. The open plan, living and dining is stylish and comfortable and the bedroom even has a little study nook. Free wifi is a welcome bonus, with the ability to connect multiple devices, ideal for the social media junkie!
Head across the road and you'll find the Chapter & Verse Bar on the ground floor of the Marriott (pictured below) a pleasant spot for cocktails overlooking the pool and tropical surrounds. Using Rhapsody Resort as your base at the quieter end of Surfers Paradise, you can utilise the new G:link Gold Coast Light Rail to traverse the coast. A dose of retail therapy at the newly renovated Pacific Fair is essential while visiting the GC or you can zip down to other restaurants along the route for some variety during your stay.
Rhapsody Resort enjoys uninterrupted views of the Pacific Ocean and the views are certainly dazzling from our room, with the sun streaming through from the floor to ceiling windows or step out onto the balcony and feel the sea breeze. Just heaven.
If you book a room without ocean views, you won't be disappointed as guests can enjoy the guest lounge and outdoor area on level 27 as well as the rooftop. The pool is on the ground floor and while compact, looks fun for kids to splash about.
The rooftop on level 41 offers incredible views up and down the coast and is for the exclusive use of guests to relax and enjoy the private terrace in solitude. Even the gym affords spectacular views if you're that way inclined!
There's truly nothing better than falling asleep to sound of the ocean, making for a restful sleep in the comfortable cloud like beds. It's Queensland, so with no daylight saving, I'm up early for a stroll along the beach and watch the sun rise over the ocean for an invigorating way to start the day.
In search of a good coffee, I head to a hidden gem recommended to me by local Gold Coast travel blogger Annette from World Travel Tribe with the intriguing and quirky name Bumbles Café. It's off the main drag, and peacefully opposite Budds Beach. It's the kind of place you'd love to be your local, to leisurely sit with a coffee and devour the morning papers. With super cute eclectic interiors, there's plenty of space in the converted house with a series of rooms including the gorgeous 'blue room' (pictured below) as well as abundant outdoor dining on the pavement to choose from. I definitely long to return and linger longer.
The one bedroom apartment at Rhapsody Resort is perfect for solo travellers or couples and there are also studio apartments ideal for short stays or two bedroom apartments for families. Unlike most Gold Coast apartments a daily mini clean is included in your stay, just to keep things all nice and tidy while you're relaxing at the beach.
Rhapsody Resort is a welcome addition to the Gold Coast accommodation scene and a great choice for those looking for a stylish stay on the glitter strip.
Rhapsody Resort
3440 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers Paradise
Book at Rhapsody Resort here.
