The hotel is in the burgeoning Southbank district, just south of the Central Business District and the Yarra River. The hotel itself is part of Southgate Plaza, a bustling complex with shops and restaurants. Take the escalator up from the street level to check in. The modern lobby was decorated with a Christmas tree during our mid-November stay. Fine artworks embellish the public areas of the hotel as well as the individual guest rooms. The fast elevators whisk you up to your room.

The modern stepped tower, constructed in 1992 and renovated in 2000, consists of 25 floors and 387 rooms. Our slick and modern standard room had nice views of the Yarra River, the Melbourne Aquarium, and a busy office plaza adjacent to the hotel. The room did not seem oversized, but it was certainly roomy enough for two double beds. There is an in-room safe within the closet. The fine marble bath, with separate bathtub and shower, was stocked with plenty of amenities. I jokingly told my friend that whatever he did, NOT to break the decorative dish displayed above the television console!

There is an indoor pool and workout area within the hotel, with sauna and spa. The Sheraton Towers Southgate faces the pleasant Southbank Promenade along the Yarra River. This was the site of an amusing wine serving contest amongst several waiters from some of the 4000 or so restaurants and cafes in the city. The face of "Ophelia", one of the most colorful and familiar sculptures in Melbourne, kept an eye on the competition.