Brisbane’s best pet-friendly hotel - but it’ll cost you $236 a night
Inner-Brisbane’s James Street is an in-demand precinct for humans, now it’s got dog-friendly digs as well.
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Alfie struts through the foyer like a rock star. Dapper in his bespoke cream and grey fur, he casts an insouciant look at the smiling receptionist before stepping out onto New Farm’s stylish James Street.
He stands for a moment, giving passers-by time to admire him, and after a quick sniff of the air, heads off towards the tree-lined shopping precinct.
Attaboy Alf. Inner-city living isn’t going to faze this bright-eyed, short-legged bitser from the ’burbs. We’re here for the night, staying in a Paws Pad at the hip Sage Hotel, doing a spot of shopping, then heading down to Felon’s Brewery at Howard Smith Wharves for a beer as we kick back and watch the Brisbane River flow under the Story Bridge.
Finding a hotel that will let you have your dog inside with you is not easy but places such as Sage Hotel are realising there are a lot of doting dog owners who will pay $50 extra a night for the privilege.
Alfie was so thrilled on entering the stylishly decorated, black and grey themed room that he spent his first few minutes upside down on the carpet, wiggling his legs in the air.
Then he checked it out: the large bathroom where the supplied water and food bowls are kept, the very comfy bed (they can sit on it, just not in it) and the fridge where his pre-cooked chicken breast is chilling. Satisfied, he toddled out to get some fresh air in the small courtyard with a table and chairs.
The five ground floor rooms open to pets are thoroughly cleaned after each stay – including the carpets and under-blanket. There’s a detailed form to sign, acknowledging such things as the dog being registered and vaccinated and that the owners will pay for any damage.
The dog cannot stay in the room without you but the hotel operators provide a useful guide to the shops and cafes on the street that allow dogs. Alfie is quite taken by the pantsuits in the boutique Mister Zimi. Calexico, featuring international designer labels, is also dog-friendly, as is Conscious Kin, a skincare and beauty store.
After shopping, it’s off to Felon’s (head down Arthur Street and take the lift), where a little girl is thrilled to play with Alfie in the Astro-turfed beer garden. As the sun goes down and the lights of the city start to come to life, we wander along the Riverwalk, our little dog stepping out proudly, tail high.
The writer was a guest of the operators
BOOK IT NOW
SAGE HOTEL
70 James Street, New Farm.
Phone: 07 3222 3111
Rates: From $186 per night,
plus $50 dog fee
nexthotels.com/sage/james-street-brisbane