Hotel Sandpiper Holiday Apartments (Lakes Entrance, Australia)

The hosts here radiate a most welcoming and friendly atmosphere. That all-important first impression is excellent. Fortunately, there is very little to disappoint thereafter.

Accommodation is spectacularly clean whilst retaining a cosy and relaxing feel. The bed is comfortable and water pressure is good for showering. They've thought of everything, so the accommodation couldn't be better for short or long-term occupancy. The pool, spa and laundry facility serve to impress even further.

It's a good place to be, with plenty of shops and restaurants in the immediate area. Although fairly central, this street is very quiet.

Probably the luck of the draw and maybe you need to get up a few minutes earlier (?) to avoid the hot water in the shower running decidedly cold.

The decor is a throwback well into the last century and gives a drab and dated effect. Cleanliness isn't an issue here, though. Whilst it's not as luxurious as many  other places, it isn't as expensive either. You pay your money and make your choice! It has to be said that many folk choose to come back here regularly.

That perennial unreliable Wi-Fi problem rears its head again. It's great that they've got a communal washing machine, but not so good that you need a shopping trip to get the powder. They kindly recommended a place to eat along the road ... but it was disappointing and the fish dish, tasteless. A case of ‘long time, no sea'? Ask for another recommendation!