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Tag: australia travel

  • See Australia’s Hunter Valley on the Cheap

    Australia’s Hunter Valley is known for its citrusy Semillons, gourmet restaurants, and five-star resorts. But a stay in this idyllic part of Oz needn’t cost a fortune. There are plenty of ways to enjoy this New South Wales’ hot spot on the cheap.

    There are more than high-end hotels and plush bed and breakfasts on the Hunter’s accommodation landscape. The Hunter Valley YHA might be billed as a youth hostel, but this backpackers’ welcomes budget-conscious travelers of all ages. They can soak up the picturesque location in the middle of the Hunter’s wine region, and enjoy handy facilities like the barbeque area and pool. Dorm rooms are available from just $27 a night.

    If you’d prefer to get back to nature, you can do it at Barrington Tops National Park. This scenic spot in the north of the Hunter has been heritage listed, so it’s as rugged as camping spots come. It’s gained this status because it’s home to the Gondwana Rainforest , which is believed to be one of the oldest temperate rainforests in Australia. There are several campgrounds to choose from, including the lush Black Swamp, the family-friendly Gloucestor River, and the Devils Hole perched high above the Hunter Valley. Spend your days searching for wombats, kangaroos, and birdlife on one of the walking tracks, or fish for trout in the Manning River.

    So long as you avoid taking home too many bottles as souvenirs, a trip to the wineries can be an affordable way to pass the time. Cellars around the Hunter Valley offer complementary tasting sessions for interested visitors. First Creek Winery, located in the township of Pokolbin, also offers free behind-the-scenes tours at 10:30 am daily.

    Of course you should never go wine tasting on an empty stomach. Most of the region’s good restaurants are on the expensive side, so a smarter option is to enjoy the atmosphere and plan a picnic instead! The famed Hunter Valley Smelly Cheese Shop has you covered, with picnic hampers full of cheeses, crackers, dried muscatels, and bottles of water starting from $35.

    It might surprise you to note that many Hunter Valley wineries have more to offer than just wine. Many also house art galleries that are free to view. Lovedale’s Capercaillie Wine Company has some stellar petit verdot and vintage port, as well as artworks from acclaimed Australian artists including Pro Hart and The Magic Pudding creator, Norman Lindsay. Emma’s Cottage and Vineyard, also in Lovedale, could be accused of trying to do too much. It’s a bed and breakfast, a working boutique vineyard, a restaurant, and an art gallery. All pieces in the gallery are created by Megan Barrass who works with her husband Alec to keep Emma’s Cottage and Vineyard running smoothly. Evans Family Wines and Antiques in Pokolbin offers some of the finest things in life side by side. Guests often enjoy browsing the antiques and homewares on show after wine tasting sessions.

    You’ll want to remember your Hunter Valley stay forever, but you don’t want to go home with a tacky souvenir. Opt for quality that doesn’t cost a mint at Pokolbin’s Wine Glass Gallery. This boutique store sells wine glasses and shot glasses that are perfect for serving your other Hunter Valley purchases in! For more choice head to Morpeth, a historic township that boasts around 40 speciality shops offering everything from apparel and accessories to handicrafts and homewares. Some of the items can be expensive, but there are also some bargains to be had amongst this unique collection of stores.

    Wineries in Australia's Hunter Valley
    Wineries in Australia’s Hunter Valley

    Luxury might appear to be around every turn in the Hunter Valley, but with a nose for a bargain you can sniff out more than good wine in this part of the world.

    [Image Source: Nathan Jones/Flickr]

  • Sydney’s Best Walking Trails

    When most of us think of Sydney, we think of soaking up the sun or enjoying the surf on the beaches by day and hitting the clubs by night. But this Australian city doesn’t just cater for beach bunnies and party animals. We suggest exploring all this city has to offer on one of its many walking tracks.

    The Riverside Walk in Lane Cove National Park takes around three hours, but it’s far from gruelling. The terrain from the Max Allen Drive Bridge to Riverside Drive is very easy to navigate; it’s more like a leisurely stroll than a hike. If your fitness levels are low, or you simply want to take in your bushland surrounds, make sure you take advantage of the many picnic areas you’ll pass.

    Governor Phillip Walk is another lengthy path, talking some three hours and 45 minutes to explore. But the track from Ferguson Street in Forestville to Middle Harbour Creek is one worth discovering. Named for Sydney’s founder, this trail will take you out of the suburbs and into the bush of Garigal National Park. The rugged scrublands contrast with some of the best water views you’ll find.

    For a real challenge, head to the beachside suburb of Narrabeen and tackle the Narrabeen Lakes to Manly Lagoon bushwalk. It’s not a particularly treacherous path, but at five and a half hours it’s not a walk for the faint-hearted. The vistas will reward your efforts though. When you’re admiring the stretches of sand dunes and tranquil lagoons, it’s easy to forget how far you’ve traveled. A swim at Manly Beach, your final destination, is the perfect way to cool down after your hike.

    With 17 different tracks to choose from, you’re spoiled for choice at Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. If you’ve only got the time to take one though, we suggest tackling either the Willunga Trig track or the Elvina Bay Aboriginal Engraving Walk. It will take a leisurely 45 minutes to walk the Willunga Trig track, which begins and ends on West Head Road. The sloping trail will test your legs, but you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view across Pittwater once you reach the apex. The Elvina Bay Aboriginal Engraving Walk is a 15-minute feast of indigenous culture. The striking rock engravings you’ll see on the path and the short circuit make it an ideal hike for the kids.

    If you’re looking for a hike to suit man and man’s best friend, you’ll find it at Lake Parramatta. Dogs are welcome on its Banksia Trail, a leafy path which will take you on an hour long walk by the water’s edge. The trail is well signposted so you can learn lots about the unique Australian fauna around you. The walk starts at the main parking lot, which is luxuriously appointed with toilet facilities, Aussie barbecues, and picnic tables.

    Feet at Royal National Park
    Hit the trails at Sydney’s Royal National Park

    If the other trails intimidate you, head to Royal National Park near the beachside suburb of Cronulla. The Nasho as the locals call it was established way back in 1879. That makes it one of the oldest national parks in the world. You can admire the ancient trees, the Hacking River, and the striking rock formations as you walk along Bungoona Path. The path was designed to be accessible by wheelchairs, so it’s very easy to take the 20-minute return journey.

    So make sure you find room for your hiking boots amongst your swimming costumes and cocktail dresses when you’re packing for your Australian getaway. Spending some time hitting the trails is a great way to discover Sydney’s natural beauty without spending a cent.

    [Image Source: Vinni/Flickr]

  • Party for Less in Sydney – Australian City’s Best Free Nightspots

    We all know that Australians love to party, but enjoying an evening out in Sydney can often cost you much more than your cocktails. Hefty cover charges are instituted at many of the top nightspots, and they can put a serious dent in your vacation budget. However, with a bit of know-how you can avoid those sneaky fees and save some cash for an extra drink or two! In this article we round up some of the city’s best free club nights for partygoers of all tastes.

    They start the party early in Sydney with AND waiving the cover charge on Wednesday nights. The crowd is very young, which can get tiring if you’re a bit long in the tooth. But that junior clientele keeps the drink prices down. Hit the dance floor or lose your inhibitions in one of the karaoke booths!

    Why pay $25 to party at ARQ on the weekend, when you can do it for nothing on Thursday nights? It’s Mardi Gras all year round here with some of the best drag talent the city has to offer. Arrive early to see the amateurs strut their stuff before the main show, You Are Soul, an extravaganza of glitter and glamour!

    If you prefer something a bit more traditional you’ll find it the Lansdowne Hotel. This pub is opposite Sydney Uni, so it’s used to catering for folks living on a shoestring. It’s also the venue of choice for some of Australia’s best independent musicians. It might just become your local while you’re in town, as there’s free live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night.

    Music lovers will also appreciate the Excelsior Hotel in the trendy inner-city suburb of Glebe. The place is a local institution famous for nurturing Sydney’s talented singer-songwriters. There are free live bands from resident musicians and acoustic artists every Thursday and Friday night.

    As locals and tourists prepare to usher in the weekend, you’re spoiled for choice on Friday nights. The folks at edgy underground promotions company Niche Productions are behind Movement, Friday night’s entertainment at Bondi’s Beach Road Hotel. A revolving door of DJs pumps dubstep, future beat, and leftfield house music until the early hours.

    If you prefer something a bit more retro, step into Yo Grito! Every Friday night Sydney’s GoodGod Small Club converts its front bar into an authentic rock’n’roll mess hall. Expect an eclectic mix of guitar-driven surf music, punk, garage rock, and soul.

    If you enjoy your beats thumping, Strange Fruit at Ultimo’s Abercrombie Hotel is the place for you on Saturdays. The sound system is far from perfect, but the techno tunes sound better after a few of the bar’s reasonably priced drinks.

    Don’t confuse the Abercrombie’s Strange Fruit for the goings on at Freda’s in Chippendale. This restaurant and bar caters for a totally different crowd with its own Strange Fruit night every Sunday. It’s a much mellower affair, with calypso, jazz, reggae, soul, and other cruisy choices to help you wind down after a boozy weekend.

    Fireworks over the Sydney Opera House (Australia)
    And no matter what day of the week it is, you can enjoy free live music at the Opera Bar near the iconic Sydney Opera House. Don’t let the name fool you; the cool jazz, funk, and soul sounds ensure this place is far from stuffy. The drinks are pricy, but it’s worth paying a premium for those enviable harbor views.

  • Sydney’s Best Picnic Spots – Dine in Australia’s Parks & Beaches

    Sydney is home to many of the world’s best restaurants overseen by leading chefs like Tetsuya Wakuda, Peter Gilmore, and Neil Perry. However dining at their establishments can quickly empty your wallet. But frugal travelers need not miss out on great food and water views while visiting the harbor city. Just bring your own and enjoy some of Sydney’s best picnic spots!

    Soak up Sydney’s sun, surf, and sand with a picnic by the beach. The city has several great coastal parks that are perfect for families. Balmoral Beach in Mosman may be one of Sydney’s most famous, but it’s a reputation that’s well deserved. The Norfolk Island pine trees provide plenty of shade, and there’s a playground to keep the kids entertained. You can bring your own grub or grab some cheap fish and chips from one of the nearby takeaway stores.

    If you enjoy peace and quiet you may prefer a less popular Australian beach like Chinaman’s Beach on nearby McLean Crescent. This coastal spot is a bit of a local secret, but the residents won’t mind you claiming a piece of parkland. There’s plenty of space for enjoying a game of frisbee or Aussie cricket. And of course the water’s not too far away either. The well-protected beach has small and gentle waves just perfect for tiny tots.

    For a different kind of water view choose a spot near Sydney’s famous harbor. The Royal Botanic Gardens is a popular picnic spot for tourists and locals alike. The outlook is incredible, and the shady lawns, rose gardens, and fountains create an incomparable atmosphere. Admission to the gardens is free, and exploring them is a great way to work off your lunch.

    The Royal Botanic Gardens can get crowded when the weather is fine though. If you’d prefer to stray from the tourist path, take a trip to Wendy’s Secret Garden in Lavender Bay. The whimsically named spot was created by Wendy Whiteley in memory of her husband, the late Sydney based artist Brett Whiteley. The large fig trees offer plenty of shade and a home for the resident parrots, kookaburras, and other birdlife.

    Sydney is built around its waterways, but some of the city’s best picnic spots aren’t by the water at all. Centennial Park acts as an oasis in Sydney’s bustling inner east. With 189 hectares of space there’s plenty of room to spread out near the duck ponds and flower beds.

    Picnic in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens
    Picnic in Sydney's Royal Botanic Gardens

    Things are a bit quieter at Lake Parramatta Reserve in North Parramatta. It’s a shade smaller at 73 hectares, but there’s still plenty of space for a family picnic. There are native birds and wildflowers for nature lovers, and rock shelters decorated with the hand-stencils of Sydney’s first indigenous inhabitants.

    So who wants to sit inside a stuffy restaurant? A picnic in a park by the beach or the harbour is a much better way to soak up Sydney and save money!

    [Image Source: Freddy Rhoads/Flickr]

  • Cockroach Racing in Queensland – Unusual Australia Day Celebrations

    As the world is winding down after the festive season, Australia is looking forward to its next celebration. The country marks Australia Day on January 26, the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of British settlers in 1788. Events take place all around the country, but none are as colorful as Queensland’s cockroach races.

    It’s not as glamorous as the Melbourne Cup, but a day at this offbeat sporting event will also cost you far less than taking in Australia’s premier horse race. Spectators at the Story Bridge Hotel swap their champagne for schooners of beer and dress in shorts and thongs, or flip flops if you prefer, rather than cocktail dresses. The races have been run at this pub just outside Brisbane since 1981, a year when legend says Daz, Hawthorne, and Igor, or Gor to his mates, were arguing about whose suburb had the largest cockroaches. Bringing their insects to the pub was the only way to settle the matter, and racing the roaches seemed like the next logical step.

    Make sure you’re there at 11 am to get a prime viewing position amongst the 7000 strong crowd. A gold coin donation will secure you a spot in the tiered seating around the track. It might seem strange to start drinking before noon, but this is Australia after all. A few cleansing ales are just what you need to appreciate the spectacle of the sport. The actual races are run on a vacant plot next to the pub. There a four-meter wide square with a circle within it serves as a miniature race track for the cockies. Their stable is a big bucket, and names written on their back help the punters keep an eye on the action. Once the creepy-crawlies take to the track they can cross the circle in any direction they please, and the first to do so is declared the winner.

    There are usually 14 races on the day, and you can BYOR (that’s bring your own roach) or buy one at the pub for a fiver. If your six-legged stallion is one of the first three to cross the line you’ll win a trophy and prizes. There’s a charity component to the event as well, with funds raised benefiting Variety, a non-profit group that works tirelessly for sick, disadvantaged, and disabled children.

    While most champions are celebrated there’s no joy for the winners of this sporting event. Just like the rest of his competitors he’s unceremoniously sprayed once the race is run. However his name will live on as part of the Cockroach Hall of Fame, alongside other champions like Osama Bin Liner, Cocky ‘N’ Bullwinkle, and Crawl Keating, named after former Prime Minister Paul Keating.

    cockroachThe races are the centerpiece of the celebrations but there are still plenty of other activities to entertain locals and tourists alike. The title of Miss Cocky isn’t quite as prestigious as Miss Australia, but it nets the winner a $200 pub voucher, which will go a long way towards the evening’s drinks. The stakes are even higher for the Best Stable Costume Comp. Teams wearing their wackiest getup have the chance to win a $2000 party at the Story Bridge Hotel. There’s a $10 registration fee, but if you take out the title it’s worth the initial outlay. Bands and DJs are also on hand to entertain the masses, and there’s a dunking machine if the Queensland heat gets too much for you.

    The party lasts well into the night, as all good Australian parties do. You’re likely to wake with a fuzzy head but also some great memories of one of the most unique sporting events Down Under.

  • Self-Drive Adventure From Port Douglas to Cape Tribulation

    Tour operators ferry travelers between Queensland’s Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation each day, but their services are expensive. The round trip along the famous Daintree Rainforest tends to cost between $150 and $200, including admission to the various attractions along the way, and it passes in the blink of an eye. If you prefer a more leisurely journey that’s kinder on your wallet, why not take the wheel and drive yourself? An Aussie road trip is a wonderful way to discover this part of Queensland.

    Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at one of Port Douglas’ popular cafes. The eateries in the dining strip of Macrossen Street, including Cafe Fresq, Cafe Ecco, and Underwraps, all open early enough to serve up your favorite nosh before you set off.

    After half an hour in the car you’ll be ready to stretch your legs, and Mossman Gorge provides an ideal opportunity. Parking is free, and a free shuttle bus will take you from there to the national park’s entrance. It’ll take around an hour to explore the park’s hiking trails, and a little longer if you fancy a swim in the river.

    From Mossman Gorge, head north towards the Daintree River. The car ferry crosses the river every 15 minutes, and can handle 40 vehicles at a time. Expect to pay around $20 for the return journey. This is the most expensive part of your journey, but it pales in comparison to the prices the tour companies would charge you!

    Cape Tribulation, Queensland
    Cape Tribulation, Queensland

    From there it’s another 30 kilometers to Cape Tribulation, although the winding roads will make it feel much longer. It will take the average driver around three-quarters of an hour to reach the sand, but this beautiful beach is worth the wait. Remember to pack your sunscreen and swimsuit to really take advantage of this unspoiled Queensland paradise!

    [Image Source: Tamsin Slater/Flickr]

  • Gold Coast’s Best Hostels – Budget Accommodation in Queensland’s Beach District

    The beautiful beaches, big surf, and pumping nightclubs lure tourists from all around the world to Australia’s Gold Coast. The high rise resorts may unnerve some frugal travelers but rest assured, there’s plenty of high quality hostel accommodation if you know where to look.

    The first step is deciding exactly where you want to stay. The Gold Coast is a collection of Queensland beach towns, each with its own personality. One of the most popular, and most active, is Surfers Paradise. Cavill Avenue is the city’s epicenter, with great shopping opportunities during the day and plenty of Aussie pubs and clubs to keep you entertained once the sun goes down. Islander Backpacker Resort is the pick of the local hostels, as it’s conveniently located within walking distance of the beach, shops, restaurants, and clubs. No doubt you’ll spend plenty of time out and about, but if you do feel like kicking back you can take advantage of the hostel’s tennis court, spa bath, steam room, barbecue area, and bar. These facilities make the Islander feel like anything but a budget accommodation choice. Just remember that everyone in Surfers is looking for a party, so if you like your peace and quiet you may prefer another town.

    Southport is regarded as the Gold Coast’s business center, and the local suits make it a bit quieter than Surfers. However it’s close enough to the action that you needn’t feel you’re missing out on the Gold Coast experience. The friendly folk at Southport’s Aquarius Backpackers make it one of the area’s best budget accommodation options. You’re sure to make friends over the pool table, bar, or swimming pool. The hostel also runs a free shuttle bus throughout the night to ferry its guests to the Gold Coast’s hottest night spots.

    australia gold coast beaches photo
    A beach on Australia's Gold Coast

    Coolangatta is another laidback option particularly popular with surfers and aspiring grommets. The great surf beaches aren’t the only appeal though; its streets are lined with excellent restaurants and it’s a stone’s throw from the airport. Kommune Resorts has a boutique hotel vibe but its rooms cost little more than hostel dorms, despite their beach views. I doubt you’ll spend a lot of time in there though. The outdoor movie lounge and pool and party area are too much fun!

    Australia’s hostels and budget hotels have come a long way since the days of roach infested rooms in rough neighborhoods. Instead they’re a great way to make your money go further on the Gold Coast.

  • Australia’s Best Camping Grounds – Memorable Oz Holidays on a Budget

    Camping isn’t just an affordable way to see Australia; it’s also an ideal way to get back to nature and enjoy the rugged beauty of one of the most picturesque countries in the world. If your budget doesn’t extend to glamping, here are some wonderful, and affordable, places to lay down your swag.

    Victoria’s Cowes Caravan Park boasts an enviable beachfront location. This sheltered cove won’t suit surfers, but its gentle waters are ideal for families with small children. The park is only 10 minutes drive to Phillip Island, which is famous for its fairy penguin parade. This nightly event, where fairy penguins emerge from the waves and waddle to their nests, is also a big hit with kids.

    There are more beach vistas at Tasmania’s Swansea Holiday Park. This caravan park at Jubilee Beach, two hours from the capital city of Hobart, is in a beautiful park of the world; you can walk from your powered site to the ocean and see out to nearby Great Oyster Bay. Visitors are spoiled with a heated swimming pool, outdoor barbeque area, fully equipped kitchen, and playground for the kids.

    And there’s more sun and sand in South Australia at Victor Harbor Beachfront Caravan Park. As its name suggests, this family-friendly park is right on the beach. Children are going to spend plenty of time frolicking amongst the waves, but if you can drag them away there are plenty of other nearby attractions including the Cockle Steam Train and whale watching tours.

    australia travel mapBut not every special Australian campsite is on the beach. Gemtree Caravan Park in the Northern Territory is a great place for enjoying the Outback. With its wild Eastern MacDonnell ranges location, the park feels a million miles from civilization. If you love that sort of thing you can opt for an unpowered site, but there are also powered sites and air-conditioned cabins for travelers who enjoy their creature comforts. Given its name, it’s not surprising that you can also try your hand at fossicking for gems here. Novices are best joining one of the garnet and zircon tours, but if you feel like going it alone you can try your luck at Garnet Gully.

    Whether you have a frugal family vacation in mind, or a recession-friendly romantic getaway, Australia’s camping grounds are an excellent base for your Aussie adventure.

  • Bargain Clothes Shopping in Melbourne – Cheap Buys in Australia’s Fashion Capital

    Melbourne is considered Australia’s fashion capital, but it’s easy to spend a fortune while shopping for that new season wardrobe on exclusive Chapel Street and the Bourke Street Mall. Travelers on a budget needn’t miss out on the goods though. The Victorian capital has many funky clothing stores just made for frugal travelers.

    Vintage shopping is a great way to save cash and enjoy stylish, timeless looks. American Rag at Southgate has a great selection of second-hand apparel from the 40s and 50s. Accessorize with the store’s hats, gloves, and bags for the finishing touch.

    Best Dressed is another great vintage option, especially for label lovers. The Armdale boutique carries plenty of big names including Prada, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent, all for a fraction of their original prices.

    High end designers and household names come together under the one roof at DFO, which stands for Direct Factory Outlets. You’ll find these malls located at the city’s South Wharf, and in the Melbourne suburbs of Essendon and Cheltenham. If you don’t mind small imperfections or old season stock you can save up to 70% on clothes from leading Australian labels including Charlie Brown, Trent Nathan, and Seafolly.Australia piggy bank

    Kids aren’t forgotten either in Melbourne. Peek A Boo Market and Vinegar and Brown Paper both have a great selection of affordable clothes for babies and toddlers. Many mothers are loathe to invest in designer apparel for their kids, knowing that they’ll grow out of the items before the season ends. The bargain prices at both stores make those big name brands seem a bit more reasonable.

    No matter what you’re in the market for, Melbourne is a great place for indulging in some new clothes without spending a fortune.

  • Making Your Australian Dollar Go Further on the Gold Coast

    Tourists traveling to Australia in pursuit of sun, surf, and sand inevitably end up on the Gold Coast. Just the name of this Queensland district makes you think of the area’s famous golden beaches. Of course, like any tourist trap a stay here can be expensive. However by heeding these simple tips you can make your money go further on the Gold Coast.

    Most Gold Coast tourists stay in Surfer’s Paradise. Its summery name is designed to lure you in, and empty your bank account. Coolangatta doesn’t have such a glamorous moniker, but it is much quieter and cleaner. It’s also right on the beach, and much closer to the airport.

    Komune is the pick of Coolangatta’s budget accommodation. It’s classed as a hostel, but don’t let that scare you. It’s quite modern and it offers beach views and a pool, all for the bargain price of around $30 for a dorm bed.

    Spending time at the beach is the ultimate frugal day out. You can visit any of the Gold Coast beaches for nothing and swim in the ocean, laze on the sand, and simply watch the world go by. These beaches don’t have a worldwide reputation for nothing!

    But you can’t spend all your time by the shore. No stay in the Gold Coast is complete without a theme park visit, but with tickets costing around $75 a piece they can be pricey. If you’re going to do it, I suggest doing it right and hiring a Q4U. Dreamworld has just introduced the gadget which allows you to book time on the park’s most popular rides and get VIP treatment. You’ll need to spend $10 to hire the device, but you’ll avoid spending hours waiting in queues. When you’re paying a hefty admission price, you want to experience as many rides as you can.

    After a day’s adventure it’s time to continue the party on The Big Night Out. This backpackers excursion takes in some of the hottest nightclubs in Surfers Paradise. It costs just $30 to jump on board the party bus, which gives you free entry and a welcome drink at four different clubs. After that you’ll enjoy $5.50 drinks for the rest of your night. It’s a really cheap way to party in Australia!Australia piggy bank

    A big night out deserves a big breakfast the next day, and you can do it at Pancakes in Paradise. This café offers an all-you-can-eat stack and unlimited coffee refills for around $13. That should help to shake off the last of your hangover, so you can do it all over again!