Where to stay in Melbourne: The luxe hotel experience that costs only $25

Travel can be a luxury, but imagine resting and rejuvenating at a chic hotel for only $25.Match that with the convenience of a two-minute walk to check in for your flight and a mesmerising view of colossal jets soaring skyward, and Parkroyal Melbourne Airport is unique.A signature of the hotel, which has been treated to a plush glow up, is a panorama of the runways - even from bed.At night, the plane lights sparkle with the promise of your pending travel, and double-glaze sound proofing ensures it is whisper quiet.The multi-level hotel - a Melbourne landmark - was recently and meticulously renovated in tones of eucalyptus, terracotta, shell and ocean blue, with splashes of brass, taking from the colours of the Australian landscape. Contemporary, curved furniture echoes the undulating coastline. The hotel faces the terminals, built high to look out and over to the runway, and to the CBD from some suites, and as such is many visitors' first impression of Melbourne. The luxe new look, which includes meeting rooms, the ballroom and corporate spaces, befits its status.Parkroyal Melbourne Airport general manager Cameron Mead says it is rare for a hotel to be so close and connected to the terminals. From reception to the airline check-in desks is a fast and easy stroll over the covered skybridge. "Given the fact it is a 24-hour international airport, you see planes coming and going at all times of the day and, at night, it is a different aspect with all of the lights and so-forth," Mead says."The convenience factor is probably the best thing for a lot of travellers. We find a lot of travellers will go to the airport, drop their bags in, come back, have breakfast, relax and then go through customs."Mead says aviation enthusiasts book rooms just for the view. However, a stay at the Parkroyal Melbourne Airport will suit not just fans of flying machines. Others who will love it are:Happy honeymoonersThe Spa Suites provide the pampering you'll want prior to take off. Nevermind whether you and your beloved have business or first-class seats - in fact, treat yourself to a night here before your flight especially if you are in economy.A second powder room in the vast suite - an apartment-style layout with the bedroom separate to the living room - is a mindful addition for couples who appreciate the extra room to spread out. The living zone includes a 65-inch television, chaise lounge, club chair and dining table. Order a room-service continental breakfast (there's a coffee machine as well in the room) and watch the planes take off. It'll get you in the mood for your own sojourn.Spa suites start at $580 per night. Long-haul nomads in need to a freshen upFor $25, any traveller can book a visit to the Parkroyal Melbourne Airport to stretch and reset between flight legs.The Lounge and Swim Package provides access to the gym, indoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room, showers and changing room. You barely need to bring a thing and will find more fresh towels than at a world swimming championships. It's a first-class experience for less than lunch in the airport food court.The on-the-move and sleep deprivedIf you need a nap between flights, book the Short Stay Hourly Accommodation option, which has access to a guest room for a set number of hours. These guests can also use the fitness centre and pool. Rates start at three hours from $109 per room, up to eight hours from $149.Aussie extending their holidayThe evening my partner and I stayed, we met another couple who had booked a night at the Parkroyal before venturing home from their skiing holiday in the Victorian high country.They live in Perth and rather than head straight from the slopes to the check-in lounge, they stayed for a swim, sauna, drinks and dinner at in-house restaurant Airo, and slid gradually back to their everyday life.Airo Restaurant is a marriage of Asian flourish with a Victorian note. The chefs and staff are caring when it comes to catering to dietary requirements, with generous solutions that add to the dish, rather than subtract.Local highlights include the Pacific oysters with a zinging ponzu dressing, soft morsels of baby Bay Lobster in a velvety crustacean rouille, Colac pork belly with Lakes Entrance calamari and a Mount Lerua three-point lamb rack glossed with a fig emulsion. There is a two-course ($65) or three-course ($75) set menu, kids' menu and elegant wine, beer, cider list with a focus on Australian drops.Airo's continental breakfast spread of pillowy scrambled eggs, a suite of breads, hearty proteins, juices and Melbourne-grade coffee, will set you on your way.Parkroyal Melbourne Airport has 276 guest rooms, of which a number are disability accessible. The hotel's impressive 44-square-metre family suites include a king-sized bed and two single beds. The writer travelled as a guest of Parkroyal Melbourne Airport.