Hotel Alabama’s $100 room and drinks deal could be the best post-COVID tourism deal

Stay at an art deco hotel in Hobart’s CBD with a bar tab included for less than the price of an taxi from the suburbs and a six pack. Check out the deal now >>

A HOBART hotel is running what might be the ultimate post-COVID promotion: $100 for a room, including a $40 bar tab.

Co-owner Emma Hevey and her husband took over the Alabama Hotel on Liverpool St during winter last year, and since then the business has been going gangbusters.
With lifted restrictions, the pair are looking to promote the business and the bar, giving punters in town an affordable place to stay, and a few drinks for their trouble.

“It’s just one of those things, I live out of town, we have friends that live in Dodges Ferry,” Ms Hevey said.

“It’s a pain to come in and have a drink or two and there’s a designated driver, so the concept behind it is people can come in and have a good night, whether it’s starting here and moving on to somewhere else, but having somewhere cheap and comfortable to stay.”

Hotel Alabama co-owner Emma Hevey. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

The pair come from a hotel pedigree, having previously owned and operated the Pickled Frog Backpackers.

“The backpackers are definitely boozey, but we outgrew that market, this one has 17 rooms, max 30 people and a little bar which is a bonus extra – we love the vibe,” Ms Hevey said.

Despite the coronavirus downturn, Ms Hevey has managed to find a silver lining.

“We hadn’t really had a chance to put a stamp on it or add some of our own touches but [the COVID-19 shut down] has been really good for that and we feel really happy now opening the doors,” she said.

Hotel Alabama co-owner Emma Hevey and staff member Dean McKirdy. Picture: LUKE BOWDEN

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However Ms Hevey expects the business to be running at half capacity for some time due to social distancing.

“That will be the biggest detriment. Personally, I’m excited about borders reopening, but I would be happier to get Tassie fully opening in all respects first,” she said.

“It’s a lot of creativity and thinking outside the square for small businesses at the moment, which can be exciting and we’re just hoping people are happy to come along for the ride.”

To find out more or book a room, head to the Hotel Alabama’s website: alabamahobart.com.au.