Rockhampton's Hidden Gem: Motel 98 - Your Aussie Oasis Awaits!
Rockhampton's Hidden Gem: Motel 98 - Your Aussie Oasis Awaits!
Motel 98: Rockhampton's Hidden Gem? Honestly, Let's Dive In! (A Brutally Honest Review)
(SEO & Metadata: Rockhampton Accommodation, Motel 98, Aussie Oasis, Accessible Motel, Pool with a View, Rockhampton Hotel Review, Free Wi-Fi, Outback Stay, Luxury Rockhampton)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a stay at Motel 98 in Rockhampton, and I'm ready to spill the tea. Forget those perfectly polished travel blogs; you're getting the unvarnished truth, warts and all. Let's be real, finding a decent motel in the heart of the Outback can be a gamble, like playing roulette with your sanity. So, did Motel 98 hit the jackpot, or did I end up feeling like a broken-down caravan?
First, the Vitals: Accessibility, Cleanliness, & Safety – The Boring But Important Bits (Mostly!)
Alright, alright, I know you don't want to read about fire extinguishers immediately, but let's get the practical stuff out of the way, shall we?
- Accessibility: Now, I didn't need the wheelchair access, but I did notice. They do have ramps and facilities for disabled guests. (Accessibility, Wheelchair accessible, Facilities for disabled guests) That's a huge plus!
- The 2023-COVID-Is-Still-A-Thing Checklist: I'm a bit of a germaphobe at the best of times, so believe me, I was WATCHING. (Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol) The staff actually gave me a brief rundown of their cleaning protocol, and while I didn't see them wielding UV lights in the hallways, the place did feel genuinely clean. They had hand sanitizer everywhere, and I think I even saw them wiping down the elevator buttons… (Elevator, CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property) Oh, and they had (Cashless payment service), which scored major points with me.
- Safety & Security: They had all the usual suspects: (Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, Security [24-hour], Front desk [24-hour]). Look, I felt safe. No shadowy figures lurking in the parking lot, no creaky noises that made my hair stand on end. Just…peace. The peace of a basic, well-maintained (and reasonably clean!) motel.
The Room: My Little Outback Sanctuary? (Spoiler Alert: Mostly Yes!)
This is where things get interesting! I’m a sucker for a good room – I need to feel cosy.
- The Good Stuff (Mostly): The room was…pretty good. It was air-conditioned (thank GOD, Rockhampton heat is NO JOKE!), surprisingly spacious, and the bed was comfortable. Actually comfy. Like, I slept solidly. Which, let’s be honest, is the most important thing. (Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, In-room safe box, Ironing facilities, Linens, Mini bar, Non-smoking, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Satellite/cable channels, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens) And speaking of comfortable, they had (Bathrobes, Slippers). Score! The Wi-Fi was actually decent! And hey, (Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!)
- The “Meh” Stuff (A few minor niggles): Okay, let's be honest, the decor wasn’t exactly designer chic. It was functional, clean, and the kind of place you plonk down to relax and take a break. There was no (Additional toilet), which can be a pain when you’re travelling with a friend. Did I mention the decor? It's not going to win any interior design awards, but you know what? I wasn't there for the art, I was there to sleep, and it did the damn job.
- The "I wish…": They don't have pets allowed. (Pets allowed unavailable) This is a shame.
The Food, Glorious Food (Or Mostly Glorious, Anyway)
Okay, so I’m a eater. It’s a lifestyle, okay? What does Motel 98 have on offer?
- Breakfast: (Breakfast in room, Breakfast takeaway service, Breakfast [buffet], Buffet in restaurant, Asian breakfast, Western breakfast**) I opted for the buffet, because, well, *buffet*. It was…standard. The eggs were a bit rubbery (let's not lie), but the bacon was crisp, and the coffee was drinkable. (Coffee/tea in restaurant) I didn't brave the "continental" options (fruit loops? Really?), but I saw someone take a takeaway container, so I guess it's there.
- Dinner: (Dining, drinking, and snacking) I ate at the restaurant one evening. (A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, Bottle of water) The options are wide. I felt like some Western Cuisine but I tried the Asian food… Let's put it this way, it was fine. They had that quintessential "motel restaurant" vibe. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't going to win any awards. But I wasn’t expecting Michelin stars in the Outback, so I was happy.
- Room service: What I loved was that the (Room service [24-hour]) was available. Seriously, sometimes you just want to sprawl on the bed and get someone to deliver food to your feet.
The Extras: Pool with a View (And Other Goodies!)
This is where Motel 98 really shines. Because, let's be honest, a motel is more than just a bed (even if that bed is amazing).
- The Pool! (Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor], Pool with view) This is where the “Aussie Oasis” thing kicks in. The swimming pool is awesome. It’s a decent size, well-maintained, and the view…oh, the view! Surrounded by palm trees and with a stunning outlook, it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon. I spent hours just lounging by the pool, reading and sipping a cold one (got one at the (Bar)). It was pure bliss, and a major highlight of the trip. The best bit? I'm pretty sure I had the entire pool to myself most of the time!
- "Things to do, ways to relax": (Fitness center, Gym/fitness, Massage, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath). I also loved the gym. It wasn't huge or spectacular but it was perfect to get in an exercise before I needed to get on the road again. They have a spa too… Maybe next time!
- Oh, and for those into the business/meetings stuff (Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Indoor venue for special events, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Seminars, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center)
Services and Conveniences: Above and Beyond (Mostly!)
- (Air conditioning in public area, Car park [free of charge], Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes, Terrace, Valet parking) Mostly everything you need. They have a convenience store and a gift shop. They have a terrace to take a break. I didn't use the (Food delivery), but it's available.
The Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Absolutely. Motel 98 isn't perfect, but it's a solid, reliable choice for a stay in Rockhampton. The pool alone is worth the price of admission. The staff were friendly and helpful. It was clean, safe, and comfortable. And sometimes, honestly, that's all you need. It's a hidden gem, and this review is a glowing testament to that. In a nutshell: This place is a yes. Go on, go get that "Aussie Oasis" vibe started!
Escape to Paradise: River Cree Resort & Casino Edmonton Awaits!
Motel 98 Rockhampton: A Rambling Itinerary (Because Let's Be Real, Plans Are Just Suggestions)
Right, so, here's the "plan" - and I use that word loosely – for my stay at Motel 98 in Rocky. Honestly, booking this place felt like a leap of faith based on a grainy photo and a surprisingly chipper phone call with a voice that sounded like she'd seen things. Anyway, here we are. Buckle up, buttercups, because this could get messy.
Day 1: Arrival and Mild Panic
- 14:00 - Arrive at Motel 98. Check in (and pray). Okay, first impressions… the website definitely played a very clever trick with the camera angle. It's…well, it's a motel. The receptionist, Brenda, looks exactly like I pictured, complete with a nametag that’s seen better days and a knowing glint in her eye - like she’s seen me before. (Note to self: avoid making eye contact with the taxidermied cockatoo in the lobby. It’s judging hard.)
- 14:30 - Unpack and assess the room. Deep breath. Alright, room check. Shower? Check. Miniature soaps shaped like…diamonds? Check. Air conditioning that sounds like a jet engine taking off? Check. Okay, we can work with this. There’s a distinct smell of…something. Old air freshener? The lingering ghost of a cigarette? Honestly, at this point, I’m just hoping it’s not actual ghost.
- 15:00 - Coffee and reconnaissance. Find the nearest decent café. Urgent mission: caffeine. Rockhampton, where do they even hide good coffee? I need a map, a compass, and possibly a therapist after driving for so long today. Found a place called "The Coffee Bean" – fingers crossed.
- 16:00 - Stroll along the Fitzroy River. Pretend I’m not sweating buckets. Okay, Rocky's a bit of a scorcher. The river is… well, it's a river. Looked vaguely brown and probably home to things I don’t want to meet. But the air smells different here, like salt and some kind of slightly rotting vegetation. Not bad, actually. There's a real, raw beauty in the heat, the sprawl, and the fact that everyone seems to be casually going about their lives, including the massive, friendly dogs at the park.
- 17:00 - Grocery store run: essentials (snacks and beer). And maybe a lottery ticket. The motel mini-fridge situation is…limited. Tonight, we feast – on chips, dip, and the dream of early retirement! Found a weird brand of chips. "Kangaroo Crunch." Oh dear God, what have I gotten myself into?
- 18:00 - Back to the room. Watch TV and try not to judge the peeling wallpaper. Channel surfing. The choices are…diverse. The news is a bit depressing, but the local ads are pure comedic gold. "Need a new car? We've got a lot of vehicles!" The air con is still roaring. This is paradise.
- 19:00 - Dinner – in-room dining (aka chips). Contemplate life choices. Is this the life? Is this what I'm going to do with my life? So many choices! Pizza and beer? Too cliché. Should I order the Chinese? How will I finish all of that? Then the beer and chips? I am going to have to walk laps tonight.
Day 2: Culture, Critters, and a Deep Dive into Disappointment (with Bonus Ramblings)
- 07:00 - Wake up. Regret the beer. Curse the jet engine air-con. Seriously, this thing is a menace!
- 07:30 - Coffee (from the instant stuff in the room. Send help.) Well, you will know better next time, won't you?
- 08:00 - Check out the Dreamtime Cultural Centre. (Hoping for Insight, preparing for tourist traps) Okay. We're going to learn some things today, right? I’m going to try and be respectful and open-minded. Plus, it’s air-conditioned, so win-win.
- 10:00 - Walk around the Botanic Gardens. This place seems promising. All I ask is for there to be water, shade, and maybe a cute bird.
- 11:30 - Lunch. Somewhere – I'm starving. Okay, this is important. Food is fuel. And I need fuel.
- 12:30 - Rockhampton Zoo and Critters! This is a must-do. Love animals, even the ones that look like they want to eat you. Bring on the crocs!
- 15:00 - The Art Gallery. Perhaps. Possibly. Maybe not. I really should go, but then again, I might get eaten alive by a croc.
- 16:00 - Back to Motel 98. Rest and recharge. Naptime? Another beer? The important decisions.
- 17:00 - Dinner. I saw BBQ sign! BBQ, BBQ, BBQ. With dessert this time!
Day 3: (Potentially): The Great Escape (Or, More Likely, Packing and Leaving)
- 08:00 - Coffee. The good coffee this time (hopefully).
- 08:30 - Final packing and sulking (depending on how much I enjoyed this place).
- 09:00 - Check out. Say goodbye to Brenda and the taxidermied cockatoo.
- 10:00 - Depart (if I haven't spontaneously moved in, that is).
Ramblings, Reflections, and General Gripes:
- The Heat: Seriously, I was not prepared for this level of heat. I’m pretty sure my makeup has melted off my face and is now forming a fascinating (and slightly disturbing) design on my luggage.
- The Air Con: Need I say more? It could probably power a small town.
- The Bugs: They appear to be…everywhere. I'm pretty sure I've become part of the food chain.
- The Charm (or Lack Thereof): Okay, look, I’m not going to lie. This motel isn’t winning any awards for glamour. But there’s a rough-around-the-edges honesty here. It’s real. And maybe, just maybe, that’s kind of beautiful in its own weird way.
- The People: Everyone is so incredibly friendly. Is it because they're used to tourists? Or are they just genuinely nice? Either way, it's a welcome change from my usual cynical city life.
- The Food: I've gotta find some seriously good food, or I'm going to wither away into a pile of regret and half-eaten chips. This is a quest. A culinary quest.
This itinerary is probably going to be a disaster. But hey, at least it'll be my disaster. And hopefully, in the midst of the peeling wallpaper and the jet engine air-con, I'll find something to laugh about. Wish me luck! Or, you know, send pizza. Or both.
Escape to Paradise: Bali Sari Homestay - Your Dream Bali Getaway
Motel 98: The FAQ - Or, How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Brown Bricks of Rockhampton
Okay, seriously, what *is* Motel 98? Am I walking into a horror movie set?
Alright, deep breaths. Motel 98 isn't *exactly* a horror movie set. Though, let's be honest, the brown brick exterior does have a certain...atmosphere. Think of it more as a time capsule. A really, really *good* time capsule. It's in Rockhampton, and yes, it's a motel. Picture your classic Aussie motel, the kind your nan used to drag you to on family road trips. The kind that smells vaguely of chlorine and the ghosts of a thousand sunburnt tourists. But! (And this is a big but), there's charm there. A weird, slightly dusty charm that grows on you. It's less "abandoned house" and more "eccentric aunt's house, filled with questionable antiques and surprisingly comfortable beds."
Is it...clean? I have standards.
Look, I'm gonna be honest. My first thought, waltzing in, was "Right, gotta check for spiders. And possibly alien lifeforms living under the bed." (Okay, maybe the second thought was a tiny, self-deprecating one about how *I* look under the bed.) BUT! And it's a BIG but, the place is surprisingly clean. They clearly take pride in keeping things tidy. Crisp sheets! Gleaming bathroom! The kind of clean you can actually *relax* in. The staff is fantastic, and if you *do* spot a rogue dust bunny (which, let's be real, is a possibility in any old building), they'll have it sorted in a flash.
What about the rooms? What are they like?
Ah, the rooms! This is where Motel 98 truly shines. It's less about minimalist chic and more about a comfortable, lived-in vibe. Forget a sterile hotel room – you're getting a proper, down-to-earth space. Think sturdy furniture, probably a bit of floral wallpaper somewhere, and a proper Aussie-sized bed. My last stay, the air conditioning was a bit temperamental – the remote had a real mind of its own, and the window lock was a relic of a simpler time. I nearly locked myself out with a rogue breeze once. But you know what? It added to the experience. It's like living in a good, old family home. I had this beautiful, massive, slightly-too-soft bed, and I swear, it was the best sleep I’d had in ages. More people need to appreciate that kind of comfort. It reminded me of my grandpa’s, and made me feel safe and sound.
Is there a pool? Because a motel pool is a *must*.
You betcha there's a pool! And listen, this isn't some tiny, sad little puddle of a pool. This is a *proper* pool. Clean, well-maintained, and perfect for floating around on a hot Rockhampton day. I spent a good hour in there last time, just drifting and watching the clouds. Pure bliss. It's the kind of pool that screams, "Relax, you deserve this."
What's the location like? Anything interesting nearby?
Motel 98 is located, conveniently, in Rockhampton. Rockhampton, as I found out during my first trip, is a city that's best described as 'quintessential Queensland'. It's a great base for exploring the area. You're close to a lot of things. I'm not going to claim it's in the heart of the bustling metropolis... but you can get to most places without too much fuss. Plus, the staff can give you plenty of recommendations. Just ask! They're local experts. Be prepared for a bit of driving. Rockhampton is a place where you drive to get *anywhere*. But look on the bright side, the drive is a great chance to take in the scenery. I actually took a detour for a look at the Fitzroy River. It was pretty cool.
Is there a restaurant/breakfast situation?
Alright, here’s the dirt: There's no in-house restaurant, BUT! Look, there's plenty of food around - and the motel often offers a continental breakfast: toast, cereal, juice. It wasn't five-star fare, folks, but hey, free breakfast! Plus, there are takeaway options nearby. A quick Google search will point you to the nearest (and delicious) burger joint or the local bakery. Frankly, sometimes a motel breakfast is just what you need. Don't expect gourmet, expect something that kicks you into gear and lets you get on with your day.
So, you'd recommend it? Even with the potential for rogue air conditioners and dust bunnies?
Absolutely. A thousand times, yes! Look, if you're after a sterile, soulless hotel experience, this ain't it. If you're after character, charm, a good night's sleep, and friendly service? Motel 98 is your place. It's not perfect. It's *real*. It's got personality. It's the kind of place that stays with you long after you've checked out. Yes, there are quirks. Yes, there's a chance the remote control might have a mind of its own. But that's part of the fun. It's honest, it's comfortable, and it’s got a certain something that you won’t find in some big chain hotel. Go. Embrace the brown bricks. Soak up the atmosphere. You won’t regret it. Really, you won't.
Any insider tips? Like, what to *really* expect?
Okay, here's the deal. My top tip is to *talk* to the staff. Seriously. They're locals, they know the area inside and out, and they’re genuinely lovely people. Ask them about the best places to eat, the hidden gems in Rockhampton, anything! They're your secret weapon to an awesome stay. Also… pack a book. Or two. And embrace the quiet. That's the real magic of Motel 98. It's a chance to unwind, switch off from the world, and just… breathe. And one more thing: pack light. Because, let's be honest, the less you have to unpack, the quicker you can settle in and enjoy the oasis. And give the aircon remote a bit of a tap before getting too comfy. Just in case.
Alright, you've convinced me. But what if something goes wrong? Like, seriously wrong?
Post a Comment for "Rockhampton's Hidden Gem: Motel 98 - Your Aussie Oasis Awaits!"