DeziGal

Has one of the best locations in Cairns – at the oceans's edge overlooking the marina. Of course, there are several properties that are ocean front or have its views (including some as cheap at $60/night), but the only other hotel on the marina is the Hilton. The Marina area itself is nicely landscaped and well planned, but one of the busiest and most touristy with the ferry terminal, an esplanade of shops and eateries, a beautiful public pool, a casino and an assortment of other tourist driven businesses.

The Cairns property, very different from its more fancy counterparts, was previously a Radisson (and sometimes it shows). Though the foyer is beautifully done in a mod-zen style, once you get past the elevators and walk to your room, it’s easy to see the Radisson underneath. The lobby leading to the rooms with its narrow, dark walls and non-descript carpet, desperately needs a do over. Once you get to your room things change for the better. Try and get an ocean front room on the second (and highest) floor and the views, from a small but well maintained balcony, will keep you going. The inside is quite modern with linear furniture and reef art in shades of sand and brown. The side tables, desk, and bathroom – all look like they belong to the former owner but somehow manage to fit in. Overall, a great room except for the archaic TV. Where's the flatscreen hello?

The pool is decent with multiple levels, a bar, hot tub, kids’ area, and landscaped seating, but belongs at a cheaper chain resort. The highlights are the restaurant and bar called Tides and Ba8- beautifully done in a mod style with Asian influences in a palette of blues, greens, and chocolate with wood and brushed steel. The serving areas are indoors, but the seating spills outside with sofas and tables overlooking the Marina. A perfect place to spend an evening after the day’s adventures. Very popular with locals as well.

Verdict: Great pick for Cairns. Needs a few changes, but the location, views, and bar area will make you forget the rest. For a more upscale all inclusive resort Palm Cove, with its line of spa resorts from Angsana to Sea Temple, is a much better option and centrally located between Port Douglas and Cairns, the departure points for most day trips to the reefs or rainforests.