Visitors to Melbourne looking for luxurious hotel accommodations in a location central to the city's premier shopping, dining and theatre district, should look no further the Sofitel Melbourne.

Located on Collins Street, the Sofitel Melbourne has 363 luxurious rooms, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views of the city. All rooms are located above the 35th floor, offering truly amazing views, especially after dark with the lights of Melbourne spread out below you. In addition to the floor-to-ceiling windows, all rooms offer contemporary furnishings, marble bathrooms, Sofitel's exclusive MyBed and state-of-the-art technology (LCD or Plasma TV, surround sound, CD/DVD players). Classic Rooms, available in King or 2 Single Beds, offer city views, while Deluxe Rooms (king bed only) offer sweeping views of the Bay; both are 390 square feet, offering plenty of room to stretch out. Luxury rooms, at 430 square feet, also include two window bays with 180º views of the city or bay. Club Level accommodations are also available, with the Club Sofitel benefits including turn-down, breakfast, refreshments, and evening drinks & canapés. Two suite types are offered; the Sofitel Suite, at 540 square feet, is an open-plan suite combining living and bedroom spaces, and the Prestige Suite, at 830 square feet is a 1-bedroom suite with living room on the Club Level.

I have to take a moment to praise Sofitel's exclusive "MyBed." During my stay here at the Sofitel Melbourne, I found the bedding to luxurious, soft, and among the most comfortable beds I've ever had the pleasure to sleep in. Not that bedding is the most important feature of a hotel, but when you arrive in Australia and are adjusting to the time difference, there is nothing quite like having a truly comfortable bed to make the transition easier.

Fine dining can be had in Cafe La, which continues the floor-to-ceiling window motif; service is prompt and courteous. Sofi's Piano Bar makes for a relaxing start or end of the day, where you can enjoy a light breakfast and lunch, or drinks. The Atrium is a cosmopolitan meeting place on the 35th Floor serving cocktails, tea, coffee & late night supper.

But the location, in addition to all of the amenities, is what truly makes the Sofitel Melbourne a great hotel. Centrally located, it's in easy walking distance to local restaurants and entertainment, trams, and nearby attractions. The next time you are in Melbourne, I highly recommend a stay at this hotel.