Hotel Abelia House (Byron Bay, Australia)

Everything on offer here is a great way to begin your morning exploration. The pastries and cold options extend far beyond the prepackaged fare offered by the majority of hotels, and the smaller nature of the property means that arranging for special items is rarely a hassle.

The general style of the building evokes a sense of home, but there are more than enough comforts to give your room and the common areas a true feeling of luxury. The style is cohesive and classic, and the colour scheme gives each room a beautiful, clean finish.

The manicured gardens throughout the estate are perfect for afternoon wandering. There are ample spaces for sitting and enjoying the atmosphere, and there are also patio sections for eating your breakfast or enjoying a drink at sunset.

The building's rooms are fairly clustered as a result of its domestic roots, and despite this closeness between the guests, the rooms don't receive much soundproofing. It's possible to hear your neighbours throughout the day, and at night, sounds travel far more easily (including the noise from fans).

There are no air-conditioning units to speak of, and in their place are sets of ceiling fans. This is adequate for most guests, especially considering the small scale of the rooms, but if you have strong sensitivity to heat, then it might not be enough in some of Australia's warmer months.

Because the building was converted from a large home, the rooms suffer from trying to cram numerous appliances and furnishings into a single living area. The bathrooms are airy, but the bedroom portions feel too cramped, especially with larger groups.