Think of student housing and you might picture cramped shared rooms and long communal bathroom queues. But hold that thought – my recent stay at Campus Melbourne proved all those stereotypes wrong.
From the moment I checked in (their flexible booking dates let me start my stay on my schedule!), the accommodation felt welcoming. Greeted by a friendly receptionist who seemed genuinely happy to see me and provided me with plenty of helpful tips, the tone was set for a great stay.
Given that it was university holidays, I practically had the whole place to myself. VIP treatment, anyone? My room was a Studio Deluxe with a view of the pool (more on that later)—spacious, well-equipped, and came with a thoughtful welcome pack: Aussie snacks, a notebook, a tote bag, and a face mask—they really know how to make a girl feel special!
First priority upon arrival at new accommodation—test the bed comfort. Tick of approval from me! A roomy queen size and ultra-comfy, perfect for a solid night’s sleep.
The room also featured a 43″ smart TV, high-speed Wi-Fi and an en-suite bathroom—no sharing required (phew!). With plenty of storage space, a microwave, kettle, and bar fridge, it felt more like a mini-apartment than a typical student dorm room.
Down the hall, there’s a communal kitchen and laundry area. The best part? Each floor has its own, so you never have to worry about waiting your turn to cook or do laundry.
As for the facilities, you’re spoiled for choice. Think of a 24/7 gym that flows into a heated outdoor pool area with sunbeds, a BBQ area, and even a giant chess game. Oh, and did I mention the full-size basketball court? Whether you’re working up a sweat or just in it for the poolside selfies, they’ve got everything you need.
For those who mean business, The Link co-working area is a dream. Spacious, with high-speed Wi-Fi and meeting rooms, it’s designed to boost productivity and maybe even inspire your next big project. And for a bit of relaxation, the Campus Hangout offers a primo cinema experience right at home, complete with a big smart TV and Disney+.
If you don’t land a room with a pool view like mine, no stress. Many of the rooms offer a front-row seat to the stunning Melbourne skyline.
Hungry after all that exploring? Check out The Yard, the trendy cafe on the ground floor with pool views. They serve barista-made coffee and tasty, budget-friendly bites (I went for the chia seed pudding which did not disappoint), and with $6 toasties, your wallet will stay happy too.
What really sets Campus Melbourne apart is its packed calendar of events. Pizza parties, video games nights, paint & sip, table tennis tournaments—you name it, they’ve got it lined up.
The accommodation is in Preston, about 9km north of Melbourne’s CBD, but they offer a free shuttle bus that takes residents straight to the CBD, stopping right in front of RMIT—super convenient. I hopped on and experienced it firsthand. The driver was clearly a hit among the students, keeping everyone chatting and laughing throughout the ride. It was a great example of the tight-knit community vibe here.
When I ventured out, the local area had plenty to offer. From the best ramen I’ve ever slurped down at Shop Ramen to delicious Italian coffee and doughnuts from Pausa Pranzo, I certainly ate well. A few students at the accommodation also recommended the $10 Bahn Mi at CJ, which is now on my must-try list for when I’m next back. Plus, it’s just a tram ride away from Thornbury High Street, buzzing with bars and cinemas.
So, would I choose Campus Melbourne if I got to relive my university years? Absolutely! Honestly, the amenities alone had me hooked – hello, who wouldn’t want to lounge by that stunning pool after a day of classes? But, it was more the sense of community that really won me over. The accommodation provides countless opportunities to meet and bond with students from around the world, making it much easier to settle into a new city and feel right at home.
