u/No_Ant852

Something strange going on with hotel prices in Melbourne from the beginning of March through until around mid April. Basic places (e.g. Oaks, Rydges, Best Western) which usually cost around $150-200 a night are seeking $600-$800 night throughout the whole 40 day period, with many websites showing just one room available at that price. Cannot see any similar issue in Sydney.

Only possible explanation I can think of is hotels holding back inventory pending confirmation of the dates of the 2027 Australian Grand Prix. Is that what is happening here? If that is the reason, will hotel prices fall significantly (particular for non-F1 dates) once the F1 calendar is confirmed?