Choice Hotels Asia-Pac is expanding its metropolitan portfolio with the addition of Comfort Hotel Melbourne Central.

The 54-room hotel, located close to popular shopping precincts and tourist destinations, includes one- and two-bedroom apartments with full kitchens and laundry facilities.

“There is no doubt that Melbourne’s CBD was hit hard during the pandemic, but with holidays at the forefront of the agenda now, particularly for international visitors, we’re looking forward to delivering on strong growth for our CBD hotels,” said Choice Hotels Asia-Pac CEO, Trent Fraser.

Comfort Hotel Melbourne Central’s General Manager, Samir Chandnani, is a third-generation hotelier with family properties across Asia Pacific including in India and New Zealand. He said he is excited to welcome back travellers.

“COVID has shown us the importance of being part of a strong network that can reach an audience beyond the local market,” Chandnani said.

“Now that Australia is open, it is a wonderful time to capitalise on this opportunity and get overseas travellers excited about what Melbourne has to offer.”

Hotel franchise group CEO Fraser added: “I’m thrilled to grow our metropolitan portfolio and welcome Mr Chandnani and his family to our network.”