Travel

Student Adventures: Road Trips in Australia

2010-06-24T00:29:40Z

Australia’s geographical diversity naturally lends itself to incredible, scenic road trips for adventurous students with a few study-free days available to travel the open road. Grab some friends, fill a backpack with snacks and a camera, and set out on one of these four popular Australian road trips.

The Great Ocean Road Australian Student Road Trip

Victoria’s world-renowned Great Ocean Road student road trip begins in the coastal town of Torquay, about 90 kilometers southwest of Melbourne. This southern coastline excursion is 243 kilometers from Torquay to Allansford, but there’s no need to pack the drive into a single day.

Along the way, you’ll find mountain cliffs, unpopulated beachfronts, rainforest vegetation, river estuaries, and outside of Apollo Bay in the Port Campbell National Park region, an off-shore rock formation known as the Twelve Apostles.

The Matilda Highway Australian Student Road Trip

The main route through Queensland’s Outback, the Matilda Highway drive runs north-south almost the entire length of Queensland, between Karumba on the Gulf of Carpentaria and Cunnamulla at the New South Wales border. The 1,812-kilometer route traverses vast plains, rocky ridges, small towns and unspoiled wildlife habitats.

Must-do stops on your Maltida Highway student road trip include the Cosmos Centre and Observatory in Charleville, Australia’s last remaining steam-powered wool washing plant in Blackall, the Quantas Airline Founders’ Outback Museum in Longreach and the Waltzing Matilda Museum in Winton.

The Pacific Coast Australian Student Road Trip

Between Sydney and Brisbane, most of this 940-kilometer student road trip on the Pacific Highway, Australia’s Highway 1, unfolds in New South Wales before it winds up in Queensland. You’ll deviate off the coastline occasionally, but it will be worth it.

Notable inland stops include wine country in Hunter Valley, where you can visit one of the region’s 120 wineries, and Ellenborough Falls, past the town of Wingham, where you can view the southern hemisphere’s tallest single-drop waterfall. Along the coast, endless beaches and water fun await sun-worshipping students. Swim, surf, take a guided fishing or whale-watching sea tour, explore sand dunes in a dune buggy or on a camel’s back, and enjoy fresh seafood at countless waterside restaurants.

The Eyre Highway Australian Student Road Trip

For a truly ambitious student road tripper, the drive from Adelaide to Perth via the Eyre Highway stretches approximately 2,700 kilometers across both South and Western Australia, along the southern edge of the flat and arid Nullarbar Plain. Fortunately, Eyre Highway is a straight shot, with few opportunities to get lost.

The Eyre Highway road trip will take you through many unpopulated areas; there are few tourist attractions along the route, so the drive may appeal to students who desire a true, stress-free escape from city lights and university stresses. Watch out for wild kangaroos crossing your path, and be sure to stock up on food, water and petrol at the small towns you’ll visit along the way.

It’s not the destination but the journey -- literally -- that makes for a memorable road trip. Be sure to map out your journey prior to your departure, obey all the rules of the road and allow for extra time in case you encounter bad weather or find an especially interesting stop during your travels. You’ll make memories that will last a lifetime, and your Australian road trip may turn out to be the most unforgettable out-of-the-classroom experience you’ll have during your university years.

The Top 10 Things to Do in Australia

2010-03-10T19:15:49Z

No other place in the world combines wild, scenic beauty and sophisticated entertainment as well as Australia. Whether it's rock climbing or wine tasting, Australia offers the finest in outdoor adventure and as well as the excitement of city life.

Below is a list of 10 must-see Australian attractions:

1. Queensland's Gold Coast Beaches

With over 35 miles of coastline, the 21 Gold Coast beaches offer just the right mix of activity and relaxation. Whether you want a quiet place to lay in the sun or are ready to surf the waves, there is a beach for for you. Breath taking views and conveniently located amenities ensure a comfortable and exciting time.

2. Sydney Opera House

Often called the face of Australia, the Sydney Opera House is a marvel of architectural design. With its exquisite acoustics and physical presence, the Sydney Opera House is widely recognized as a world class performance arts center. See a show or take a tour – the Sydney Opera House is not to be missed.

3. Royal Botanical Gardens

Just a short walk from the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanical Gardens is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. More than one million botanical specimens may be viewed and there is a train available to take visitors from one spot to another.

4. Sidney Tower's 360 Bar and Dining

Pamper yourself with elegant service and modern Australian cuisine prepared by award winning chefs at the 360 Restaurant located 80 stories above Sydney. The illuminated shell bar offers spectacular city views and a variety of cocktails and wines.

5. Australian Outback

Considered one of the few remaining wilderness areas in the world, the Outback is a rugged expanse of desert and kangaroos and, in the northern part of its range, a wet/dry tropical climate with gorges and waterfalls. Driving tours for short visits and hiking tours for longer stays are available.

6. Australian Museum

Everything from mummies to dinosaurs has a place in the Australian Museum. Learn all about Australia, its inhabitants, geography, and interesting wild life. Visitors may take a guided tour or get a map and explore on their own.

7. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Hug one of the world's most endearing animals, the koala. Near Brisbane, the Sanctuary is also home to Australia's native kangaroos, emus, and wallabies. Enjoy feeding the animals and learning more about Australia's wildlife.

8. Daintree Village

Daintree Village on the banks of the Daintree River is a look into the past. River tours range from crocodile and wildlife spotting tours to Aboriginal culture tours. Go fishing, experience what it's like to work in a cattle station, visit museums, and enjoy the services at the Silky Oaks Spa.

9. Victorian Alps

In the summer, hike the peaks, fish, rock climb, or bike the Victorian Alps for phenomenal mountain views. In the winter, experience the best skiing Australia has to offer. Near Melbourne, there are plenty of resorts and hotels for quiet respite.

10. Great Barrier Reef

The world's largest coral reef is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Australia. Diving, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing are popular activities. Rental equipment is available and beginning scuba diving classes are offered for those who are new to the sport.

Australia is a land rich in cultural and natural diversity. Australia boasts a distinctive landscape and unique wildlife not found in any other continent in the world. A visit to Australia is an opportunity to experience more than a vacation. It's a chance to see the world in a new way.

Australia's Top Town: Yamba, New South Wales

2009-04-16T01:13:14Z

Nestled amongst the trees along the northern coast of New South Wales, there is a charming little fishing village named Yamba. Until recently, Yamba was a relatively undiscovered coastal jewel where its 5600 residents lived in relative solitude in this idyllic setting just down the way from Angourie, a far more famous town with one of the most popular surf breaks in all of Australia.

But now this once little-known village has topped the list of towns in Australia and has become a must-see tourist destination for Aussies and international travelers alike. Yamba was named Australia’s top town in a survey of travel and tourism experts conducted by Australian Traveller magazine, well-known for their annual lists of the best and worst towns in Australia.

Although the Australian Traveller opted to forego their worst town list this year – which previously included towns like West Wyalong in New South Wales and Zeehan in Tasmania – the 100 best towns list was published as usual.

Of note are the top ten towns, including:
• Yamba, New South Wales
• Esperance, Western Australia
• Port Douglas, Queensland
• Broome, Western Australia
• Port Fairy, Victoria
• Beechworth, Victoria
• Byron Bay, New South Wales
• Apollo Bay, Victoria
• Strahan, Tasmania
• Margaret River, Western Australia

According to this survey, New South Wales is certainly a must-see state, as it contains 29 of the top 100 towns – more than any other state in Australia.

Now that the Australian Traveller has let the secret out, Yamba residents may have to share their serene coastal village. While Yamba will undoubtedly retain its old-world charm, it may just become a hopping seaside tourist town.

Perth Hotel Guide

2009-02-05T01:24:41Z

Although Perth is an isolated capital city, it has many of the qualities of a larger city with great dining, nightlife, and public transportation. In addition, you will find many other interesting and fun things to do such as whale watching, fishing expeditions, island visit, wine tasting, and tour of the surround forest and nature. We’ve complied 5 great hotels that will assist you in your travels.

1.   Intercontinental Burswood Resort Hotel
       Great Eastern Highway
       Perth Australia 6100
The InterContinental Burswood Resort is a 5 start luxury hotel about 2 miles from downtown Perth. The hotel is ready to service you with the following amenities: 24-hour room service, gift shop, local area shuttle, hairdresser, babysitting service, ATM, laundry/dry cleaners, currency exchange, shoeshine, business center, 24-hour casino, nightclub, theater, fitness center, tennis courts, indoor and tropical outdoor pools and spa area. There is just so much to do at the Intercontinental Burswood Resort that you will not have enough time to do everything you want. The hotel also has a great restaurant and cocktail bar where you can mingle with other guests. Your room will feature a satellite TV, bathrobes, internet access, mini-bar, refrigerator, work desks and other modern furnishing. You will be amazed by what you will find here at Burswood Resort.

2.   Rydges Hotel Perth
       Cnr Hay and King Streets Perth, WA 6000
       Perth, Australia

The Rydges Hotel is a perfect choice for those that want to be right in the middle of Downtown Perth. It is situated near the entertainment and retail district and very close to attractions such as the Kings Park and Theatre. Guest rooms are decorated with modern furniture and very spacious, and each room overlooks either the city or river. Downstairs you will find a restaurant and bar where you can dine and drink with other guests. And you will find 6 conference rooms perfect for seminars or company meetings. The Rydges Hotel is a great place for your business needs.

3.   Joondalup Resort Perth
       Country Club Boulevard, Connolly, Western Australia.
       Perth, Australia

Joondalup offers its patrons top quality services and great facilities. The hotel is located right next to “Australia’s Number 1 Resort Gold Course” and a walking distance away from the shores of Sunset Coast. Great shopping and entertainment in Joondalup City is just around the corner to keep you from getting bored. The hotel has 70 rooms and each of them come with their own private balcony or courtyard and it offers a restaurant, bar, café for guests in addition to recreational facilities. Joondalup Resort is a great place to relax and play.

4.   Criterion Hotel Perth
       560 Hay Street Perth Western Australia 6000
       Perth, Australia
Opening in the summer of 1996, the Criterion Hotel is Perth’s newest hotel. It is located right in the middle of the business district and just walking distance away from commercial and government offices and entertainment facilities. The hotel is situated near a large network of public transportation routes, making sightseeing extremely easy and convenient. In addition, the hotel is located near a lot of great restaurants and bars for guests to go out and have some fun. The Criterion Hotel is a great modern venue where you will enjoy the city of Perth.

5.   Comfort Hotel Perth City
       200 Hay Street, East Perth WA 6004
       Perth, Australia
The Comfort Hotel in Perth City is an extremely affordable hotel that also offers world class service. For the prices you pay, the location is great and the service is extremely top notch, making this hotel a great value to their guests. The hotel is located within walking distance to Perth’s shopping malls and business district. Additionally, the hotel offers a great lounge, café and bar area where you will find an international breakfast and dinner daily. This is a great place to stay with affordable prices.

Melbourne Hotel guide

2009-02-05T01:15:16Z

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria and has a population of over 3 million people. The city is a cultural and artistic hot spot, located on the East coast of Australia, on the banks of the Yarra River. Melbourne is also home to some of the greatest hotels in the world. In order to assist you in your accommodations in Melbourne, we have provided you with 5 hotels that we recommend.

1.   Hotel Windsor Melbourne
       111 Spring Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
       Melbourne, Australia

The Windsor has been deemed one of the “Leading Hotels in the World.” It is a 5 star hotel and the only Grand Hotel remaining in Australia. The Windsor exemplifies the classical Victorian Architecture and offers top quality service and facilities, such as a 24 hour business centre and a modern gym area where you can work out. You will also find an array of accommodation choices within the hotel’s 180 rooms and suites. It is VERY IMPORTANT to keep in mind that The Windsor does not accept cancellations or amendments to your stay. You must be 100% sure of when you want to stay at the hotel or you will be charged the total fee if you cancel. The hotel is located right in the center of Melbourne’s shopping and business districts, opposite from the Parliament House. Princess Theatre and Fitzroy Gardens are very close in addition to Collins and Bourke Streets, which are great places to go for entertainment.

2.   Crown Promenade Hotel
       8 Whiteman Street
       Melbourne, Australia 3006

This 4 star luxury hotel is located about 12 miles from the Melbourne Airport and right near Melbourne’s entertainment and business district. In fact the Crown Promenade Hotel is connected by a bridge to the Crown Entertainment Complex where you will never get bored. The complex has many restaurants, bars, cafes, 4 nightclubs, luxury shopping stores, a bowling facility, an arcade, a cinema, a modern virtual reality theme park, and Australia’s largest casino.

The hotel itself offers many amenities to their guests:
•   Fully serviced business center with fax and photocopying services
•   Entertainment supply rentals such as CD players and DVD players
•   24 hour staff and room service
•   Currency exchange
•   Heated indoor pool, sauna, and steam rooms
•   Modern fitness centre
•   Café and lounge with internet access
•   Buffet restaurant (known as Mesh)
•   Guest rooms offer:
o   Floor to ceiling window
o   Flat screen TV
o   Cable channels and movies
o   Sony Playstation 1, 2, 3 and videogames
o   Mini-bar refrigerators
o   Broadband internet
o   Heating and cooling system

3.   Park Hyatt Hotel Melbourne
       1 Parliament Square
       Melbourne, Australia

Park Hyatt Hotel Melbourne is a 5 star hotel situated at the end of Collins Street, one of the city’s most elegant and historic centers, and right across the way from St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Melbourne’s oldest cathedral. The hotel itself has a very unique location, architecture and interior design that radiates a warm environment. The service is exceptional and customized to every guests needs. And its facilities are very modern and guaranteed to meet to make every guest comfortable and satisfied. Please keep in mind that Park Hyatt Melbourne is 100% Non-Smoking Hotel.

4.   The Albany Hotel
       1 Millswyn Street South Yarra
       Melbourne, Australia 3141
The Albany Hotel is a stylish, 4 star hotel located near Fawkner Park and the Botanical Gardens. It is situated conveniently near many great restaurants and the well known shopping boutiques on Chapel Street. Great attractions can be easily reached with public transportation which is just the around the corner on Toorak Rd. The Albany has 74 guest rooms that come in different sizes and styles, allowing the hotel to offer a room that will accommodate any budget and need.
The rooms feature a suite style bathroom, a TV with FOXTEL and free movies, a tea and coffeemaker, a radio, and a wide variety of bed configurations. A local gym is located a short distance away and can be used for free with your stay.

5.   Jasper Hotel
       489 Elizabeth Street
       Melbourne, Australia 3000
Jasper Hotel is Melbourne’s newest 4 star boutique hotel with all 65 rooms designed in modern styles offering soft lighting and stylish furniture. The livid colors of the hotel bring about a tranquil environment. The Jasper Hotel is 100% non-smoking environment and offers the following amenities:
•   24 hour staff
•   Massage Centre
•   Health club access including a swimming pool, spa, and sauna
•   Parking facility
•   Café and restaurant

The Jasper Hotel is also located right in the middle to Melbourne’s market district where you want go great shopping, dining and entertainment.

Hobart Hotel guide

2009-02-05T01:01:59Z

Hobart is the capital of Tasmania, an island located at the southern most part of Australia. It is one of the deepest harbors in the world and a great landing spot for many cruise liners. You will find fresh produce, historic art galleries and architecture, great scenery, world famous fishing and much more. Below are 5 hotels that will help you in your accommodation search in Hobart.

1.   Wrest Point Tasmania
       410 Sandy Bay Road Sandy Bay, TAS 7005
       Hobart, Australia

This 4 star hotel gives you a great view of the harbor and it has a unique and prestigious atmosphere. Its Tower rooms will give you scenic views found nowhere else in the Australia. The Wrest Point has great dining in its world class restaurants, offering buffet –style meals. The hotel also has an indoor fitness center including a heated pool, spa, sauna and gym, and it offers guests tennis courts and a nine hole miniature golf course. This is a great place to stay if you want to be overlooking the water.

2.   Quest Trinity House Hobart
       149 Brooker Avenue, Hobart, Tasmania 7000
       Hobart, Australia

Quest Trinity House has 37 large and comfortable, fully serviced apartments, situated in a peaceful garden setting. It is located right in the middle of Hobart’s historic Glebe and walking distance away from the water and all the city’s major sporting venues. This historic property has apartments that come in sizes from studios to 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms, perfect for just you or for a vacation with the whole family. The apartments offer full kitchens and laundries and a conference room that is perfect for 35 guests for you business meetings.

3.   Bay View Villas
      34 Poets Road West Hobart, Hobart Tasmania 7000
       Hobart, Australia

The Bay View Villas are situated walking distance away from all of Hobart’s attractions. This property is great for family vacations because the Villas offer 1, 2 and 3 bedroom suites, perfect for any size family. Additionally, the Villas offer a number of amenities such as a heated swimming pool, child playground, barbecue area, and much more. These Villas are also ideally situated near Hobart’s busy restaurants and all of Southern Tasmania tourist attractions. This is a great place to stay if you want to experience the best that Tasmania has to offer.

4.   Quest Savoy Hobart
       Quest Savoy Hobart 38 Elizabeth Street HOBART TASMANIA 7000
       Hobart, Australia

The Quest Savoy is situated right in the middle of Hobart’s shopping and business districts. It is ideally located near the waterfront and next to Hobart’s popular restaurants, bars, cafes, galleries and markets. The hotel offers 19 studio rooms, 4 one bedroom apartments, 3 executive suites, and 2 specialty rooms. Every room is equipped with queen or twin beds, luxurious bathroom, spacious living area, dining tables, work stations, internet access and TVs. Additionally the main facility offers amenities such as a heated salt pool, spa, steam room, sauna, and massage and beauty treatments.

5.   Woolmers Inn Hobart
       Woolmers Inn 123 - 127 Sandy Bay Road Sandy Bay, Hobart Tasmania 7005, Australia
       Hobart , Australia

The Woolmers Inn is located in the suburbs of Sandy Bay, but within walking distance to all of Hobart’s popular restaurants, markets, shops and minutes away from Wrest Point Casino and city centre. The Inn offers studios and two-bedroom apartments, making it a perfect place to stay and adventure out into the city and southern Tasmania. It also offers top notch service and facilities, making this a great place for business people, families, and couples. You can’t go wrong here.

Gold Coast Hotel Guide

2009-02-05T00:41:00Z

One of Australia’s top holiday spots is the Gold Coast, home of Surfer’s Paradise. Here you will find some of the world’s prettiest beaches and most entertaining nightlife. The Gold Coast is packed full of so many attractions that it will take some time to experience. So we’ve put together 5 hotels that we will help you in finding accommodation.

1.    Azzura Greens Resort Hotel Gold Coast
       Activa Drive Hope Island 4212 QLD
       Gold Coast, Australia
Azzura Greens is a 5 start luxury resort offering top notch service with its professional staff and its world class facilities that will satisfy all of your needs. The resort has 159 spacious apartments that both classy and elegant in design. Guests have the opportunity to pick between a one or two bedroom deluxe or a 2 bedroom executive apartment, each coming with a balcony and modern furnishings. An 18-hole championship golf course and a world class tennis centre, both managed by a team of international professional, are located right next to the resort. If you are looking to relax and get away from your daily-life, you will not be disappointed with Azzura Greens Resort.

2.    Mantra Legends Hotel Gold Coast
       Surfers Paradise, QLD 4217
       Gold Coast, Australia

Australia’s Gold Coast is one of the world best places to vacation and this 4 start hotel is ready to accommodate you whenever you decide to visit. The Legends hotel is situated right in the middle of Surfers Paradise and it has over 400 luxury rooms and suites with private balconies available. The hotel offers guests amazing views of the ocean and the city. It is a short distance away from all of Surfers Paradise’s world renowned beaches, entertaining night-life, shopping centre, and restaurants. The Legends Hotel is situated in the prefect position to combine business with entertainment.

3.    Vibe Hotel Gold Coast
       42 Ferny Avenue Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
       Gold Coast, Australia

You will not find a place that is closer to the heart of all that Surfers Paradise has to offer. From world famous beaches, great surfing, exciting nightlife, and an ideal climate, the Vibe Hotel is the perfect place to stay in paradise. Next to the Hotel, you will find the Titanium Bar where you can have some dinner or mingle over a drink. It is ideally situated on next to the Nerang River and offers breathtaking views of the city and the coast. If you want to have the most convenient location during your stay, the Vibe Hotel will not disappoint.

4.    Surfers Royal Resort Gold Coast
       9 Northcliffe Terrace, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
       Gold Coast, Australia

Surfers Royal is a 4 star hotel that offers guests the option between one and two bedroom apartments with a majestic view of the coastline. It is your dream beachfront holiday. The hotel offers many attractions:
•   Organized activities
•   BBQ area
•   Half court tennis
•   Secured parking
•   Spa, sauna, indoor swimming pool, and sundeck
•   Tour assistance
•   Garden
Surfers Royale is also ideally located about a 5 minutes walk to Cavill Mall, which is the center of all that happens in Surfers Paradise. You will find tons of attractions there ranging from restaurant and shops to exciting nightlife and people.

5.    Sofitel Hotel Gold Coast
       81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach, QLD 4218
       Gold Coast, Australia

The Sofitel Gold Coast is a 5 star hotel with 295 hotel rooms and suites that offer modern furnishings with earthy themes, intended for optimal comfort and style. The hotel is known for its luxury and state of the art technology. Some of the standard things offered include:
•   Flat screen LCD TV
•   Digital telephones
•   Occitane bathroom products
•   Cotton bathrobes and bath towels
•   Relaxing armchairs and large desk
The hotel’s variety of different rooms ranging in style and size allows it to accommodate anyone’s needs. The Sofitel’s attention to detail and professional service makes it stand out from it competitors and offer you the best luxury accommodation available in Gold Coast.

Brisbane Hotel guide

2008-11-21T23:55:12Z

Brisbane is the capital city of Queensland and has a population of around one and half million people. Below is five different hotels ranging in price, location, style, facilities, etc. We hope one of the below hotels meets your criteria in finding accommodation for your travels.

1.    Watermark Hotel Brisbane – 4 Star
       551 Wickham Terrace Spring Hill Brisbane QLD 4000
       Brisbane City, Australia

Watermark is located next to the old historic Spring Hill that features tropical lush green scenery. The hotel is surrounded by 15 hectares of tropical gardens along with close by shopping, dining, and entertainment. Also located 1km from the city centre and 15km from the Brisbane Airport. Watermark has 95 guestrooms that include large scenic balconies to capture the sights of Spring Hill and the Street Parklands.
Five Fifty One is Watermarks featured restaurant with a modern Australian cuisine. You can relax and sip on a cocktail while taking in the vibrant views of the parkland. Relax along side Watermarks pool deck or inside the bubbly spa. You can also stay fit by taking a scenic run on the Parkland track.

2.    Brisbane Riverview Hotel- 5 star
       Cnr Kingsford Smith Drive and Hunt St Hamilton Brisbane, QLD 4007
       Brisbane, Australia

This 5 star luxury hotel overlooks the beautiful Brisbane River and has a unique prestigious atmosphere. The Brisbane Riverview has 90 luxury rooms and fully equipped suites along with two restaurants and bars, gorgeous pool, sauna, and romantic spa. This popular international hotel provides first class modern facilities along with amazing hotel service. The hotel is only 5 minutes to the City centre and takes 10 minutes to get to the Brisbane airport.

3.    Royal Albert Hotel Brisbane- 4 star
       Cnr Albert & Elizabeth Streets
       Brisbane QLD 400, Australia

You will notice the royal décor right from the start when you open the large double doors to enter Royal Albert. Located in walking distance from the queen street mall and the Treasury Casino. Also close by is the beautiful Botanical Gardens and the scenic river walk leading to the South bank Parklands. This hotel is listed as a Heritage building as it is 140 years old. This royal heritage building was redeveloped about 5 year ago. They offer one and two luxury rooms that include a full kitchen. Some of the convenient hotel services include laundry service, babysitting, and valet parking.

4.    Point Hotel Brisbane- 4 star
       21 Lambert Street Kangaroo Point
       Brisbane QLD 4169, Australia

Point Hotel is one of Brisbane newest contemporary hotels located next to the Story Bridge within the suburb of the exciting Kangaroo Point. This is a great central location surrounded by arts, entertainment, and fine cuisine. This is a great location for business travelers due to its central location. The Point hosts a variety of suit type of rooms to accommodate there local and international travelers. Point has a café bar that server’s breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Point’s guest can enjoy the heated swimming pool; play a friendly game of tennis, or stay fit in there gym.

5.    Marriott Hotel Brisbane- 5 star
       515 Queen Street Brisbane-city 4000 QLD
       Brisbane, Australia

This 5 star popular hotel overlooks the Brisbane River. It is within walking distance to the financial district witch makes it perfect for business travelers. All the 267 large rooms offer scenic view of the Brisbane River. Petries Lobby Bar is a great place to grab a coffee, or cocktail. Petries Bistro offers an elegant indoor dinning setting. The Marriott is also known for their excellent guest services and customer service.

Sydney Hotel guide

2008-11-21T23:41:25Z

Sydney which lay on the coast of New South Whales is an international hot spot. Sydney has some of the best hotel accommodations in all of Australia. Below we have picked out 5 different types of hotels that are all special in there own way.

1.    Swissotel Sydney
       68 Market Street
       Sydney, Australia 2000

This 5 star beauty is located in the heart of Australia’s entertainment and shopping district. The hotel has 358 rooms and suites that showcase breathtaking views of the city. Guest can relax and rejuvenate at the Amrita Spa. Guest can also order drinks at the Crossroad Bar, experience amazing cuisine at JPB Restaurant, or take a swim in the luxury heated pool. Every room has high speed internet, large bathrooms with tubs, bathrobe with slippers, etc. The Swissotel also has a business room, and fitness center to keep in shape while on vacation.

2.    Oaks Hide Park Plaza Sydney
       38 College Street Hyde Park Sydney NSW 2010
       Sydney Hyde Park, Australia

This 4 star gem has a located in the city and is next to the fashionable Oxford Street that overlooks the gorgeous Hyde Park. Oaks Hide Park Plaza is a short walk to the main department stores, financial districts, cute cafes, and boutiques. At night it is also in walking distance to all the hot spot nightlife clubs and bars. Oaks Hide Park Plaza also hosts a rooftop recreation deck, sauna, pool, and a fully equipped gym. Oaks Hyde Park Plaza has studios, one and two bedroom apartments with an equipped kitchen witch is perfect for a family vacation.

3.    Vibe Hotel Sydney
       111 Goulburn Street Sydney NSW 2000
       Sydney City, Australia

Vibe’s a 4 star hotel- has a great location that is within the vibrant fringe villages of Surry Hills, Chinatown, Darlinghurst, and the downtown live music theatres. Darling Harbour, Rocks, and Circular Quay are all within a few minutes from the hotel. Vibe host 190 rooms that feature modern amenities. Vibe Hotel Goulburn Street caters for a variety of events such as weddings, business conferences, professional seminars; etc.Vibe also has a business center, café bar, laundry room, swimming pool, sauna, etc.

4.    Aarons Hotel Sydney
       37 Ultimo Road Haymarket Sydney NSW 2000
       Sydney, Australia

Aarons is a 3 star hotel that was recently refurbished. This is a discount hotel that offers travelers a great price for its accommodation. Aaron Hotel host single rooms and also rooms that can accommodate a family of six. The rooms include cable TV, tea, coffee, fan, heater, air- conditioning, etc. Aarons Café Nine restaurant offers a contemporary modern cuisine with a friendly atmosphere. Down from the café is Jade’s Bar witch is a great place to relax and enjoy a local beer.

5.    Maisonette Hotel Sydney
       31 Challis Avenue, Potts Point, Sydney New South Wales 2011
       Sydney, Australia

Maisonette a 2 star hotel is a cute little bed and breakfast located in the suburb of Potts point. Travelers can take a 20 minute walk through the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens and end up at Sydney’s famous Harbor. This is a simple bed and breakfast that has clean and comfortable rooms. The rooms are fully equipped with TV, phone, microwave, and a refrigerator.

5 Important Tips for Hostel Accommodation

2008-11-21T23:30:17Z

1)   Make a reservation in advance- You might be ok just showing up to the hostel without prior booking, but their have been many horrible stories of travelers being stuck when they arrive to there new destination because all the hostels are 100% booked. The last thing you want to do is pay extra for a hotel or sleep outside. This is very important during the high travel season. To reserve a hostel you have to usually pay a small deposit using your credit card.

2)   Hostel ratings- Most hostel booking sites have a section showing all hostel ratings such as:
•   Price
•   Location
•   Cleanliness
•   Safety
•   Fun meter
•   Staff

It is important to look at all the ratings but just as important is looking through all the past comments made by travelers who have stayed in your prospective hostel and taking into account their likes or dislikes.

3)   Location is Key- when looking for what hostel you might want to booked it is a good idea that you take location into account. It is usually a good choice to stay downtown or in a central location. You want to be located in or next to the following:
•   Public transportation
•   Food markets
•   Bars and restaurants
•   Sight seeing
•   Safe area

4)   Things to bring- Hostels vary from what kind of accommodations and extra facilities they supply for there guest. Below is a short list of recommend items to bring when staying in hostels:
•   Earplugs
•   Alarm clock
•   Waterproof slippers or shoes for the shower
•   All bathroom utilities such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, towel, etc
•   Zip-lock bags
•   Set of locks
•   Small flashlight
•   Swiss army knife

5)   Safety- It is important to have your backpacks locked up at all times. Most of the hostel rooms have lockers in them, so make sure to bring a secure lock. If you have two bags it is a good idea to lock all your valuable items like your money, passport, travel passes, and camera into the locker and place your second bag full of clothes under your hostel bed. Also if one of your hostel roommates that you do not know is causing trouble, doing illegal drugs, or is acting shady it is your responsibility for your own safety to go tell a hostel employee.