Joan Collins stayed at the Hotel Urban when she sashayed into town. Alistair Sutton can see why, as he sips champagne on his eighth floor balcony, gazing out at the city lights.

Refurbished in 2008, the Hotel Urban retains a retro vibe with its revitalised décor, comfortable rooms and world class conference facilities. The hotel’s location on Wickham Terrace overlooking the city and the Roma Street Parklands, makes it an ideal base for a night out with Brisbane’s CBD just a short walk down the hill, not to mention the gay venues of Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley.

The hotel lobby is airy and light-filled, with free guest internet facilities and the Gazebo Restaurant (where we lunched on arrival.) There is a spacious pool terrace on this level with loafer lounges, heated pool, spa and a small gym. We were impressed by the reception staff on duty, James and Malcolm, who remained friendly and unflustered during a particularly busy period while we were checking in.

Our suite comprised a lounge area and spacious separate bedroom, with a well stocked mini-bar and tea and coffee making facilities. Both rooms had large 32 inch LCD TVs with access to Foxtel. The bed was extremely comfortable with large pillows and big fluffy doonas and, unlike so many hotel rooms, easily operable air conditioning.

The décor, like the rest of the hotel, was designed in warm browns and the odd splash of colour with stylish fittings, a pleasing re-working of the hotel’s seventies origins. I almost put my neck out trying to perve on the cute bare-chested waiter on the balcony below, serving what appeared to be a group of high-spirited girls at a bridal shower party. The room was very quiet which surprised me after seeing the partying downstairs and considering the function rooms were directly above us.

Lying in bed with the lights of Mount Coot-tha in the distance, we thought the suite at night had a mellow yet sophisticated ambience. We loved it.

The conference facilities on the top floors of the hotel have stunning views of the city skyline, Roma Street Parklands and the hinterland. James showed us the Panorama Room which features floor to ceiling windows, providing a memorable backdrop for special occasions. I was interested to see the Loft penthouse, with its balcony, bar facilities and chic intimate atmosphere; it can hold up to 80 for a cocktail party. This is the Holy Grail for Joan Collins fans if you want to see where she actually stayed. James explained this was formerly the hotel penthouse. There are various conference packages available depending on your budget and tastes, so check out the website.

The Gazebo Restaurant has a relaxed stylish atmosphere at night with an ambitious a la carte menu which overall works well; the presentation of the food on large white plates was impressive.

The Urban offers an affordable and convenient base to explore Brisbane’s inner city attractions and especially its night life. The late check out at 11am was especially welcome and meant we didn’t have to rush breakfast, allowing us some final time to savour the comforts of our room and watch the bustle of Roma Street in the distance as another day began. Joan Collins eat your heart out.

Hotel Urban Brisbane, 345 Wickham Terrace, Brisbane. Phone: 07 3831 6177.  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it