BACKPACKER

/ ESSENTIALS /AUGUST 2016

TROPICAL
NORTH
QUEENSLAND
A WORLD AWAY

SYDNEY BREAK
48 HOURS ON A BUDGET
THERE BE HOBBITS
NZS LORD OF THE RINGS TRAVELS
WONDERFUL WALES
CASTLES, MOUNTAINS, COAST

/ ESSENTIALS

/ ESSENTIALS

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INSIDE
BACKPACKER / ESSENTIALS

AUSTRALIA/NZ
NEW YHAS

GLOBAL NEWS
TRAVEL THE WORLD

13

GETAWAYS

TOP DEALS IN OZ & NZ

18
u

NEW ZEALAND
LOTR TRAVELS

VOL 20 / No 4
AUGUST 2016

TROPICAL
Cover image: Ocean Safari

NORTH
QUEENSLAND

MANAGING EDITOR
Janet McGarry
NEW ZEALAND EDITOR
Brindi Joy
DEPUTY EDITOR
Melanie Tesoriero

YHA CONTRIBUTORS
Leah Kmiec
Rachel Seymour
Di Caught

25

Tourism Queensland

Backpacker Essentials is the member magazine for YHA Australia. Opinions expressed are not necessarily
those of the Association. No material may be reproduced without prior permission from the editor. All travel
prices are subject to change and conditions apply. All hostel prices are YHA member rates and are subject to
change. YHA Australia ISSN 1328-6749. YHA Australia, Hostelling International and YHA house and tree
logos are Registered Trademarks of YHA Australia Inc., PO Box A2462, Sydney South NSW 1235

32

WALES

CASTLES, MOUNTAINS, COAST

40
u

SYDNE BREAK

48 HOURS ON A BUDGET

47

WHATS ON

AUSTRALIA/NZ EVENTS

ART DIRECTOR
Justin Thomas
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Nicolas Chua

EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES
The Editor,
Backpacker Essentials,
GPO Box 5276,
Sydney NSW 2001.
T: +61 2 9261 1111
F: +61 2 9261 1969
E: backpackeressentials@
yha.com.au

AUSTRALIA/ NZ
THREDBO / SUSTAINABILITY / YOUR YHA

KOSSIE IN COSSIES
YHA and Thredbo YHA were honoured to
sponsor five very brave men from Sydneys
south who - in the middle of winter - tackled
Mount Kosciuszko in nothing but their budgie
smugglers! (and protective snow shoes, of
course).
The group, named 'Kossie in Cossies', stayed
at Thredbo YHA for a training hike when the
weather was a little less harsh and then again in
the lead up to their hike in July.
They are aiming to raise $100,000 for
beyondblue to help the organisation continue to
address the social problem of depression and
anxiety, whilst also promoting beyondblue to
young people. Three of the team members are
school teachers and have seen the issues that
young people face firsthand and wanted to do
their bit to help - plus show their students that a

physical and mental challenge such as this can

be achieved with persistence, endurance and
commitment - a very noble cause!
Check out the slideshow to see the Kossie in
Cossies team at the hostel before the hike - and
reaching the summit!

Summit Celebration

/ SUSTAINABILITY

YHA AND SUSTAINABILITY

SUSTAINABLE HOSTEL
FUND UPDATE

YHA GOES GEOTHERMAL

IN ROTORUA

YHAs Sustainable Hostel Fund was launched

in 2010, since that time YHA guests have
contributed $210,462 (up to June 2016) towards
projects in hostels that help to reduce carbon
emissions. Every dollar donated by guests is
matched by at least one dollar by YHA! In the
6 years since the fund was launched, YHA has
completed many projects that help reduce our
carbon emissions with 8 major projects already
part funded by guests and two more in the
planning stage.
Some of these projects include:
Installing solar hot water systems

(including some gas-boosted) at Byron Bay
YHA, Adelaide Central YHA, Pittwater

YHA, Glebe Point YHA, Grampians Eco YHA

and Brisbane City YHA.

Rotorua sits squarely on New Zealands

Volcanic Plateau and the Pacific Ring of
Fire which means theres a whole lot of
geothermal action bubbling away in her
belly. YHA has tapped into that action by
tapping into a pre-existing geothermal
down-bore heat exchanger that will heat the
hostels potable hot water supply.
That means a 30% reduction in the
hostels greenhouse gas emissions. And the
news only gets better. Geothermal energy
is possibly the cleanest form of renewable
energy and by utilising it in the hostel,
guests get a chance to learn
more about geothermal power
BOOK
and how geothermal power
NOW
supports CO reductions.

Solar Panels at Alice Springs YHA and

Perth City YHA.
Solar panels on Perth City YHA

Guests can donate to the Sustainable Hostel

Fund by booking on yha.com.au and choosing
the donate option in the payment proccess. We
will keep you up to date on future projects.

Rotorua Geothermal Field

Chris McLennan

YOUR YHA
YHA NEWS FOR MEMBERS IN AUSTRALIA

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

YHA TASMANIA MERGER

PROPOSAL

YHA Directors and senior managers from around

Australia recently participated in a strategic
planning meeting, focussing on delivering even
better services to members and guests in the future.
The YHA Strategic Planning Conference took place
in July 2016 in South Australia, bringing together
delegates from around the country, and including
overseas representation from YHA NZ and HI-Canada
Pacific Mountain Region.
Participants took part in two days of discussions,
brainstorming and innovative thinking on the ways in
which YHA can develop its business through to 2020
and beyond. Topics included how to grow strategic
partnerships and alliances, sustainability, and how to
better bring YHAs not-for-profit ethos to life.
Themes and ideas from the conference will now
feed into a new national YHA Australia Strategic Plan
which will guide the organisations future development.
Thanks go to all the staff, and particularly the volunteer
Directors, who gave up their time so generously to join
in the planning process.

The Council of YHA Tasmania continues

to work towards a merger with YHA Ltd
(the operator of hostels across Australia,
including the ACT, NSW, NT, Queensland,
South Australia and Victoria). The benefits
would include having a more streamlined
structure and creating a stronger, more
united entity. A due diligence process is
underway with reports to be considered
by the Council of YHA Tasmania and the
Board of YHA Ltd in August.
Subject to acceptance of the reports
the next step will be for the Council
of YHA Tasmania to recommend the
merger with members in that State to
be given the opportunity to vote on the
merger proposal from mid-September
either by proxy postal vote or in person
at a Special General meeting in Hobart
scheduled for the evening of Tuesday 18
October 2016. Full details will be sent to
members eligible to vote in due course.

BRIDPORT

STRAHAN

Whilst in South Australia, Directors and managers visited

Mount Lofty YHA the longest running hostel in the YHA
Australia network.

COLES
BAY

HOBART

GLOBAL

FRANCE'S BEST CYCLING ROUTES / NEW HOSTELS / YHA MEMBER BENEFITS

FRANCES BEST
CYCLING ROUTES
Green tracks, hidden lanes, vineyards,
walnut tree orchards, cheese makers, canal
towpaths and abandoned railway tracks - you
dont have to be a Tour de France champion
to enjoy the picturesque bike paths of the
French countryside, especially when theres
a glass of red and a plate of cheese to look
forward to at the end of a long day on the
road! Heres our list of Frances top five
cycling routes, including a few tips before you
hop on your bike. Bon voyage!

THE ATLANTIC
MEDITERRANEAN TWOSEAS CANAL

Entre-deux-Mers, or between
two seas, is a beautiful name
for a beautiful route, which
stretches 800kms between the
beaches of the Atlantic and the
Mediterranean. Wind your way
along the Gironde estuary, the
Garonne Canal and the Canal
du Midi - a registered UNESCO
World Heritage site - along this
green route shaded by trees
and free of motorised traffic.
Tackle the whole trip or explore
individual legs at your leisure.

Stay at: HI Ste Youth Hostel,

HI Carcassonne Youth Hostel

Shutterstock

/BEST CYCLING ROUTES

Brittany
Shutterstock

LA VLODYSSE

As you follow the Cyclists

Odyssey, you always have the
Atlantic Ocean at your side and the
wind, the cliffs, the beaches and the
forests of pine trees to awaken your
senses. The longest cycling route
in France - more than 1,200kms,
and 80 percent of it car-free - the
Vlodysse connects seaside Roscoff
to the Basque coast via the shores of
Brittany.

Stay at: HI Pontivy Youth Hostel,

HI La Rochelle Youth Hostel

LOIRE VLO

See the orchards, vineyards

and Renaissance architecture
of the Loire Valley from 800kms
of peaceful cycle ways trailing
alongside Frances longest river.
The Loire is renowned for its palatial
chteaux (castles), as well as the
regions cuisine: cheese (Crottin
de Chavignol, Sainte-Maur de
Touraine), wine (sancerre, chinon,
muscadet), and mouth-watering
fruit desserts - dont say no to a
tarte Tatin, a Sologne specialty, or a
plum pt from Angers.

Stay at: HI Nantes Youth Hostel

Loire Valley
JD Billaud

/BEST CYCLING ROUTES

Notre Dame
Shutterstock

VLOSCNIE

Pedal from Paris Notre Dame

to the island commune of
Mont Saint-Michel via the historic
Veloscenic route, which passes five
UNESCO World Heritage sites on its
way from the French capital to the
stunning Normandy fort. The 450kms
of green pathways and forest tracks
are great for all levels of cyclist,
especially families.

Stay at: HI Paris

LAC DANNECY

The 40-kilometre bike circuit of

Lake Annecy is a classic, looking
over the clear waters from alpine
heights and providing plenty of beaches
for a quick dip along the way. You can
decide which route you take and
theres a 300 metre altitude difference
between some of the 100-plus routes
but the old town of Annecy, 40kms
south of Geneva and nicknamed the
pearl of the French Alps, provides a
special start and end point.

Stay at: HI Annecy Youth Hostel

Lake Annecy
Shutterstock

/NEW HOSTELS
BERLIN
GERMANY
PANTANAL
BRAZIL
Berlin's Brandenburg Gate
Shutterstock

HI BERLIN OSTKREUZ
Perched on the doorstep of Berlins busiest transport
interchange, Ostkreuz station, the state-of-the-art Youth
Hostel Berlin Ostkreuz is the ideal base to explore the
German capital. The refurbished school building is the
fourth and biggest HI hostel in Berlin, and boasts
modern en-suite showers and toilets in every room.
Youth Hostel Ostkreuz is located just steps away from
trendy Friedrichshain, one of Berlins most lively and
creative districts brimming with bars and cafes, while all
the attractions of this uber-cool and budget-friendly city
like the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag, Museum Island,
Checkpoint Charlie and East Side Gallery (Berlin Wall) are only a couple of S-Bahn stops away.

BOOK
NOW
HI BERLIN OSTKREUZ
u

hihostels.com

info@jugendherbergeberlinostkreuz.de

/NEW HOSTELS
BERLIN
GERMANY
PANTANAL
BRAZIL
Brazils Pantanal region
Shutterstock

HI HOSTEL SO JOO
If youre looking for a hostel that offers an authentic local
experience of Brazils epic Pantanal region, youll love HI
Hostel So Joo Ecotour. This newly opened property is
surrounded by 2000 hectares of untouched nature the
perfect launch pad for your adventure into the worlds
largest tropical wetlands, home to a breathtaking variety of
plants and animals such as jaguars, macaws and tapirs.
Hostel So Joo offers organic local cuisine, tours into
the beating heart of the South Pantanal on horse, boat
and foot, and comfortable multishare and private airconditioned rooms as well as the chance to sleep in
open-air hammocks just like the Pantanals trailblazing
cattle ranchers.

BOOK
NOW
HI HOSTEL SO JOO
u

hihostels.com

saojoao@passodolontra.com.br

/YHA MEMBER BENEFITS

YHA MEMBERS
SAVE IN THE UK
Harry Potter buffs, ever wanted to stroll
around the grounds of Hogwarts? Game of
Thrones addicts, fancy a visit to Winterfells
Stark Castle? Batman fans, how about Wayne
Manor from The Dark Knight Rises?
If youre planning a trip to the UK, your YHA
membership is your key to these famous sites
and countless more film and TV backdrops.
They are all properties owned by the National
Trust and you can save $35 on membership
of the Trust when you join here in Australia.
This then gives you free or discounted entry
to more than 180 historic properties in
Australia and over 500 belonging to their
partners at the UK National Trust (excluding
special events). Youll save a fortune! Simply
enter promo code YHA at checkout on
nationaltrust.org.au.

Lacock Abbey - used for the Harry Potter films

Shutterstock

NATIONAL TRUST

Belton House - used for TV show Pride and Prejudice

Shutterstock

DEALS

YHA DEALS IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

YHA
GETAWAYS

Surfers Paradise
ChameleonsEye

YHA WHALE
WATCHING
SPECIALS

SURFERS PARADISE YHA

Package includes:
u
u
u

Its that special time of

year again! Thousands of
humpback whales have
begun their 10,000kms
migration north to
warmer waters. Dont
miss out on seeing these
beautiful creatures along
Australias east coast!
If you want the best
vantage points, why not
visit one of these top
locations and score a
bonus accommodation
package while youre at it!

1 night accommodation
Half day whale watching tour
Complimentary morning tea

From AU$112 p.p multi-share.

Valid until 30 September 2016.

SURFERS PARADISE YHA

BOOK
NOW

+61 7 5571 1776

surfersparadise@yha.com.au

PORT MACQUARIE YHA

Package includes:
u
u
u

3 nights accommodation
1.5 hours whale
watching cruise
3 days Premium Wi-Fi

From AU$87 p.p multi-share.

Valid until 31 August 2016.

PORT MACQUARIE YHA

BOOK
NOW

+61 2 6583 8133

portmacquarie@yha.com.au

Port Macquarie Whale Watching

Port Macquarie Cruise Adventure

HERVEY BAY YHA

COOLANGATTA YHA

COFFS HARBOUR YHA

Package includes:

Package includes:

Package includes:

u
u

2 nights accommodation
Half day whale watching tour
- morning or afternoon

From AU$135 p.p multi-share,

AU$270 double/twin room
or AU$520 for 2 bed selfcontained villa. Valid until 14
October 2016.

HERVEY BAY YHA

BOOK
NOW

u
u

2 nights accommodation
Half day whale watching tour

From AU$100 p.p multi-share.

Valid until 31 October 2016.

u
u
u

3 nights multi-share or
double room accommodation
3 hour whale watch cruise
1 entry into Dolphin Marine
Magic Park including
dolphin shows

From AU$150 p.p. Valid until

31 August 2016.

COOLANGATTA YHA

BOOK
NOW

+61 7 4125 1844

+61 7 5536 7644

herveybay@yha.com.au

coolangatta@yha.com.au

COFFS HARBOUR YHA

BOOK
NOW

+61 2 6652 6462

coffsharbour@yha.com.au

ADELAIDE CENTRAL YHA

BED & BREAKFAST
Relax in the comfort of a double room
and then get out and enjoy the citys cool
cafes, bars, markets, a spot of shopping
and a bit of culture. Or maybe youd like
to hike up a mountain, walk along the
beach, bicycle along the river - it's all
here, and it's all easy. Package includes:
u
u
u

3 nights accommodation in a
double room
Continental or DIY hot breakfast
every morning
Free premium Wi-Fi for three days

From AU$120 p.p.

Valid until 30 September 2016.

ADELAIDE CENTRAL YHA

u
u

PERTH CITY CRUISE BREAK

This awesome deal will help you make the most of
your visit to this amazing city with a stunning cruise
along the Swan River to the historic port city of
Fremantle. Package includes:
u
u
u

2 nights accommodation - double/twin ensuite or

4 share room
2 days' breakfast
Perth - Fremantle River Cruise

From AU$99 p.p. Valid until 31 October 2016.

PERTH CITY YHA

u
u

+61 8 9287 3333

perthcity@yha.com.au

Fremantle River Cruise

Captain Cook Cruises

BOOK
NOW

+61 8 8414 3010

adlcentral@yha.com.au

BOOK
NOW

AUCKLAND UNDER THE SEA PACKAGE

Sharks and stingrays and penguins, oh my!
Get ready to go under the sea with one of
Aucklands best attractions: Kelly Tarltons Sea
Life Aquarium. Immerse yourself in Stingray Bay,
Underwater World, Fish Gallery and Seahorse
Kingdom. Then hotfoot it back to the hostel to dry
out. Package includes:
u
u

1 night accommodation
Entry into Kelly Tarltons Sea Life Aquarium

From NZ$47.20 p.p multi-share or NZ$125 per

private room. Valid to 9 September 2016.

YHA AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL

u
u

+64 9 302 8200

auckland@yha.co.nz

BOOK
NOW
Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium
Kelly Tarltons

BAY OF ISLANDS ESCAPE

All aboard YHA NZs only houseboat to explore
the Bay of Islands with an activity-fuelled, naturefilled, awesome-full overnight cruise. Get ready to
swim, snorkel, kayak, fish, target shoot, dive for
mussel and kina, play beach cricket and go island
walking. Plus theres some pretty sweet extras.
Package includes:
u
u
u
u

1 night accommodation
BBQ dinner, continental breakfast & packed lunch
Wetsuit & towel
Hot cuppa or cold brew upon arrival

From NZ$214.20 p.p multi-share or NZ$477 for

private cabin. Valid until 30 September 2016.

u
u

+64 9 402 7796

bayofislands@yha.co.nz

Waterfalls, rainforest and loads of fun! This

overnight adventure to the Atherton Tablelands
will be one to remember. Plus you get two nights'
stay at Cairns Central YHA. Package includes:
u
u

u
u

1 night accommodation in the

Atherton Tablelands
2 nights' multi-share accommodation at
Cairns Central YHA
Full day guided tour of the Atherton Tablelands
1 x breakfast, lunch and dinner

From AU$175 p.p. Valid until 31 March 2017.

BOOK
NOW
YHA BAY OF ISLANDS THE ROCK CRUISE

ATHERTON TABLELANDS
OVERNIGHT WATERFALLS ADVENTURE

Shutterstock

CAIRNS CENTRAL YHA

+61 7 4051 0772
u cairnscentral@yha.com.au
u

BOOK
NOW

HIT THE SLOPES TEKAPO DEAL

CANBERRA YHA FLORIADE SPECIAL

Whether you shred the slopes at a screaming fast

pace or youre an energetic novice, Roundhill Ski
Area has group lessons to keep every snow addict
satisfied. Plus theyve got the wickedest views. Cap it
off with soaking in the nearby hot pools, then settle
in for some fireside chilling at the lakefront YHA.
Package includes:

Floriade is Canberras way of celebrating the

return of Spring and with one million flowers
in bloom on display, its a sight you dont want to
miss. NightFest Floriades twilight event with
amazing light displays, night markets and more
is a must-see. Stay at Canberra City YHA with this
amazing package, including:

u
u
u

1 night accommodation
1 Roundhill group lesson
Entry to Tekapo Springs including steam
and sauna

u
u
u
u

From NZ$92 p.p multi-share or NZ$214

for a private room. Valid until 11 September 2016.

2 nights accommodation
Breakfast daily
Premium 3 day Wi-Fi
1 day bike hire
1 meal voucher at Transit Bar

From AU$98 p.p in a multi-share.

Valid until 30 September 2016.

Tekapo Springs at Night

Mark Gee

Toursim ACT

YHA LAKE TEKAPO

u
u

+64 3 680 6857

tekapo@yha.co.nz

BOOK
NOW

CANBERRA CITY YHA

+61 2 6248 9155
u canberracity@yha.com.au
u

BOOK
NOW

TONGARIRO WINTER CROSSING

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is considered the best day walk in
New Zealand. Crossing in winter offers one special perk summer
doesnt - snow! Tie up your hiking shoes and clip on your crampons
before embarking on this challenging fully guided journey across a
remarkable volcanic landscape. Spot the volcanic peaks of
Mt Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom in LOTR), Tongariro and Ruapehu, old lava
flows, craters, emerald green lakes, volcanic vents and panoramic
views covered in pristine snow. Package includes:
u
u
u
u

2 nights' accommodation
8 hour guided Tongariro winter alpine crossing with Adrift
Crampons, ice axes & warm winter gear
Transport

NZ$215 p.p in a multi-share. Valid until 6 October 2016.

YHA TAUPO
+64 7 378 9292
u taupo@yha.co.nz
u

BOOK
NOW

Tongariro National Park

Destination Lake Taupo

FEATURE / NEW ZEALAND

Everything's coming up

HOBBITS

NEW ZEALAND WAS A BIG DEAL LONG BEFORE

ORLANDO BLOOM TURNED UP IN A PAIR OF TIGHTS,
BUT JAMES DRAVEN DISCOVERS THAT NO TRIP AROUND
THE NORTH ISLAND WOULD BE COMPLETE WITHOUT
THESE LORD OF THE RINGS EXPERIENCES.

Weta Cave and Weta Workshop

are a mecca for LOTR fans
Weta Workshops

DONT DROP THAT,

says our guide with a broad, friendly grin but fear in his eyes, its worth
a gazillion dollars.
Wellingtons Weta Workshop is the worst place on Earth to not be
allowed to take photographs. Literally everywhere you look there is an
awesome Instagram opportunity. Including the gazillion-dollar blade
I hold before me that isnt shimmering with hues of blue, warning of
nearby goblins, but merely reflecting my grin-spattered face.
After being shown Weta Workshops pioneering method of handknitting chain mail with lightweight plastic and seeing the formidable,
unyielding Sauron suit of armour, and realising its also made from
pliable polymer, Im delighted to feel the weight of a real, metal
shortsword in my hand. And not just any shortsword, this is Sting.
Its not a reproduction or a replica; this is the actual weapon of Frodo
Baggins, used on film in the Lord of the Rings movies. And Im thinking
about using it as the ultimate selfie stick.
Being a fan of the genre, Im channelling my inner geek, trying to use
telepathy on my companions, silently screaming, Somebody, please
take a sneaky picture of me! Nobody does. Elven royalty, Galadriel, can
rest assured Ill not be troubling the good people of Middle-earth with
my powers of mind control.

Nadine Jaggi
applying finishing
touches to the
Giant Eagles
Weta Workshops

Lurtz on
display inside
the Weta Cave
Weta Workshops

Inauspiciously located in a residential neighbourhood in the suburb of

Miramar, just outside Wellington and a jaunt from Weta Workshop, you
might walk right past the Weta Cave if it werent for the three largerthan-life stone trolls standing, petrified in the front garden. They do
tend to catch the eye.
Inside youll find a tiny museum featuring Bilbos brogue-busting
prosthetic feet from The Hobbit movies, as well as some genuine Elven
armour and ... well, let's not forget that Weta is about more than Lord of
the Rings: expect goodies from their other projects like King Kong, The
Chronicles of Narnia, James Camerons Avatar, Stephen Spielbergs
Tintin, and, erm, pre-schoolers TV show, The WotWots. The adjoining
shop sells all the usual LOTR souvenirs along with some unexpected,
hand wrought, limited-edition goodies exclusive to Weta.
Go nuts getting pictures of yourself here with a life-size and lifelike
model of Gollum or Lurtz, the dirty-great Uruk-hai (thats a big orc),
that stands sentinel beside a variety of Middle-earth mementos. Theres
also a minuscule screening room, showing a genuinely interesting
documentary featuring Richard Taylor and Peter Jackson. All of this
can be accessed for free, but since youve come all this way you might
as well fork over the $25 to go on the behind-the-scenes tour.

Dwarf, Dwalin
on display in the
Weta Cave
James Draven

Bilbos feet in
the Weta Cave
James Draven

The Trolls on
display outside
the Weta Cave
in Miramar
Weta Workshops

Dont arrive expecting a Hollywood-style veneer of glamour, Weta

Workshop is a real-life, working effects department, and a much more
authentic experience because of it. Here youre likely to see members of
the design and production teams working on movie projects or private
commissions. Its a diminutive space crammed full of incredible, genuine
movie memorabilia and tours are led by actual members of the Weta team
who are themselves part of the creative process and can give meaningful
and technical insights into the secrets behind the silver screen.
For example, did you know that there was going to be a movie based
on hit video game series, Halo? Directed by Neill Blomkamp, produced
by Peter Jackson and scripted by Alex Garland? Well there was until
the project was shelved and Weta went so far as to design and build a
fully functioning Warthog (a fictional, machine-gun-turret-equipped light
reconnaissance vehicle) to promote the video game, Halo 3, and tease
the movie that never was. Its currently parked in Wetas workshop.

TOURS ARE LED BY ACTUAL MEMBERS OF

THE WETA TEAM WHO ARE THEMSELVES
PART OF THE CREATIVE PROCESS
After being shown its step-by-step design and manufacturing process,
Im allowed to pick up and tote a plasma rifle from Neill Blomkamps
gritty sci-fi classic, District 9: the film that resulted from the axing of
the Halo movie And then, of course, theres that sword.
JRR Tolkien described Sting as practically a dagger by Elven
standards, though the perfect shortsword for Frodo Baggins, and Bilbo
before him. The latter is said to have been able to conceal Sting in his
breeches, and he was still able to run about stealing dragon treasure
unhindered, and unpierced, by its legendary prick.
Im still considering if I could get Sting into my trousers, personal
legend intact, when my furtive glances are noticed and Im disarmed,
with a smile.

Gollum at
Wellington
Airport

Hobbiton
Ian Brodie

KEY FACTS
Find out more about
Weta online

STAY AT
YHA WELLINGTON
+64 4 801 7280
wellington@yha.co.nz

YHA TAUPO
+64 7 378 9292
taupo@yha.co.nz
Hobbiton
Sara Orme

YHA OHAKUNE
+64 6 385 8797
ohakune@yha.co.nz

YHA NATIONAL PARK

+64 7 892 2870
nationalpark@yha.co.nz

3-STEP PERFECT HOBBITON PHOTO PLAN

1. Get there early
So youre in Hobbiton (on
picturesque private farmland
in the locally known town of
Matamata) and you want to
capture the peaceful, bucolic
beauty of the Shire on camera.
Save yourself hours of trying to
Photoshop grass over dopeylooking tourists by turning up as
early as you can by getting on
the first tour of the day.

of the group.
Assuming youve followed tip
#1, skip this photo op and head
up the hill quickly to be the first
of the day to arrive at Bilbos,
giving you the chance to get a
sneaky (read: forbidden) picture
behind his garden gate.

3. One GIF to rule them all

Remember when Bilbo
slipped the One Ring on and
disappeared in front of the
Party Tree on his eleventy-first
2. Get the ultimate selfie
birthday?
Theres a moment on the tour
Well bring a tripod and take two
when the group stops to take
photos of the tree, one with you
some pictures of visitors
peering out of a random hobbit in it and one without, then make
hole; the guide will tell all those an awesome animated GIF of
you disappearing just like Mr
who finish to continue up to
Bilbos house and await the rest Baggins.

BOOK
NOW

TONGARIRO NATIONAL PARK:

SURMOUNTING MT DOOM
Theres no way Frodo and Samwise would have made this climb.
Stopping every five minutes for a cuddle and a pep talk, or a tiff
about whos eaten all the sammies. The magic of the movies is the
only way those two vertically challenged ring-bearers didnt meet
their vertical limit and actually made it to the top of Mount Doom to
chuck that abominable golden band into its fiery, volcanic depths.
Sure, Mount Ngauruhoe, to give it its actual name (but dont
ask me to pronounce it), isnt raining lava down upon me it
hasnt erupted in the real world since 1975. But as a loose
rock comes gambolling down the 45-degree incline towards
me, bouncing within a few feet of my head before gleefully
prancing towards some other foolish climbers below, like an
enthusiastic puppy greeting newcomers Im starting to think
this little perpendicular detour wasnt such a great idea. Then
the peak becomes engulfed in cloud and it starts to rain. Great.
This optional side-schlep from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing
which is one of New Zealands ultimate tramping adventures through
the eponymous national park climbing the 2,287 metres up the
cone of Mount Ngauruhoe is made more challenging by the shifting
volcanic sands that slip underfoot, giving way with each step. Theres
no marked track; you find your own way up, if you can. Make it to the
top to see its steaming volcanic vents though, and you can bask in
the knowledge that you too could have defeated Sauron and that
youre probably a good metre higher up than any hobbit would be.
Tongariro Alpine Crossing
YHA New Zealand

Blue Lake, Tongariro

Alpine Crossing
Johan Lolos

NEW ZEALAND
HOBBIT ADVENTURES

NORTH ISLAND

AUCKLAND

TAUPO
NATIONAL PARK
OHAKUNE

WELLINGTON
SOUTH ISLAND

FEATURE / TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND

Queenslands
Northern Stars

Tourism Queensland

HEAD NORTH ON A ROAD TRIP FROM CAIRNS AND YOULL

FIND THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS IN CAPE TRIBULATION AND
PORT DOUGLAS, WRITES JO STEWART.

AUSTRALIA

CAPECAPE
TRIBULATION
TRIBULATION

DAINTREE
DAINTREE NATIONAL
NATIONAL PARK
PARK
PORT
DOUGLAS

CAIRNS
CAIRNS

Tap to return
to story

LINKED BY

a rainforest and sugar cane-fringed

highway, these two spots with
distinctly different personalities show
two sides of Tropical North Queenslands coin.

Tap to
see map

TOTALLY WILD

About 140
140kms
kilometres
north ofnorth
Cairns,
of Cairns,
Cape Tribulation
Cape Tribulation
is where
is the
where
forest
themeets
forest
the sea.the
meets
Actually,
sea. Actually,
its where
its two
where
UNESCO
two UNESCO
World Heritage-listed
World Heritage-listed
places
come together
places
come together
in a magical
in a magical
way, soway,
its the
so its
typethe
of type
placeofwhere
place spending
where
most of your
spending
most
time
of your
outdoors
time is
outdoors
a wise investment.
is a wise investment.
With no mobile
With no
phone
mobile
signal or
phone
signal
Wi-Fi
oravailable
Wi-Fi available
once you
once
make
youthe
make
ferry
thecrossing
ferry crossing
into Cape
into Cape
Tribulation, it makes sense to be immersed in the natural wonders of the
UNESCO-approved Daintree and Great Barrier Reef.
Daintree National Park,
Cape Tribulation
Shutterstock

Boardwalk with
fan palms
Shutterstock

Millions of years older than the Amazon Rainforest yet not nearly as
famous, the Daintree Rainforest has something special for everyone from
avid twitchers keen on a tropical bird sighting to water babies excited to
swim with sea turtles, or thrill seekers in the mood for some super fun
zip-lining. If theres an adventure you need arranged, in Cape Tribulation
theres a whole host of passionate locals keen to make it happen for you.
While diving, snorkelling, jungle surfing and kayaking are all perfectly
good ways to experience Cape Tribulation, a good old fashioned walk
is one of the best ways to get acquainted with the unique wildlife and
environment of the area (and as a bonus it doesnt cost a thing to have
a wander). A simple walk reveals everything from swampy mangrove
systems full of twisted tree roots to a rainforest filled with graceful,
electric blue Ulysses butterflies.
The Dubuji Boardwalk is an easy option at just over a kilometre and
reveals many species including tree snakes, spiders, stick insects
and bats. Because this walk is essentially a series of interconnected
boardwalks, its the perfect introduction to the local environment and
a great option for visitors without much time on their hands. A bigger
challenge comes in the form of the Mt Sorrow Ridge Walk. Taking about
five to six hours to complete the return trip, walkers are challenged
with difficult terrain and an abundance of leeches who are fond of the
lush environment and low hanging canopy. While annoying, leeches
arent considered dangerous so walking with long pants or gaiters is
recommended, as is taking plenty of water. Walkers who manage to get to
the top are rewarded with unforgettable views at the lookout, especially
on a typical Queensland sunshine-filled day.
While the thought of being surrounded by leeches, crocs, tree snakes
and spiders may seem a little unsettling, this is the beauty of Cape
Tribulation. It really is a world away from everywhere else.

CAPE TRIBULATION
FOOD EXPERIENCES
Cape Tribulation has
many outdoor adventures
on offer, but the food
experiences found in the
rainforest arent to be
overlooked either. Here
are three ways to taste the
tropics in Cape Trib:
Whet your appetite
Whet Caf & Bar sits in a
tropical rainforest setting
and serves native fare like
kangaroo, crocodile and

barramundi, as well as a
fierce curry that is so good
it could come straight from
the streets of India.

and coconut, or go for

something left field with a
tub of Guinness-flavoured
ice cream. Cheers!

Daintree Delights
Marketed as supernatural
biodynamic organic ice
cream, the range of
flavours at Floravilla
Ice Cream Factory is
very impressive. Choose
from tropical favourites
like passionfruit, mango

Meat as Masons
Exotic meats are the order
of the day at Masons Caf.
You can have wild boar,
buffalo, emu or camel meat
on your burger if beef is too
pedestrian for your tastes.

Cape Tribulation
Tourism Queensland

HIGH SOCIETY
If Cape Tribulation is the perfect place to drop off the map for a while,
then Port Douglas is the place to be social. Popular with everyone from
backpackers to honeymooners, retirees and young families, easy, breezy
Port Douglas is one of those places that has a holiday vibe all year
round. About 70 minutes drive from Cairns, Port Douglas proximity to
the Great Barrier Reef makes it a great launching point for diving and
snorkelling trips, yet many people head to Port Douglas simply to relax
in a cosmopolitan spot with a distinct village feel.
While Macrossan Street is undoubtedly the hub of all things coffee,
burgers, beer and brekkie, it pays to wander further afield. Over at the
Reef Marina, a brand spanking new microbrewery offers something
special for the discerning drinker in search of something more than a
tinnie of XXXX. While theres nothing wrong with Queenslands iconic
golden ale, Hemingways Brewery gives beer lovers a genuinely great
selection of locally-brewed craft ales. From crisp pilseners to super hoppy
IPAs, dark lagers, zesty ginger beers and beyond, the beers brewed at
Hemingways are all inspired by stories of local legends who have helped
to shape the face of Port Douglas over the years. Keeping this in mind,
drinking at Hemingways is practically a history lesson so get studying!

St Mary's by the Sea,

Port Douglas
Shutterstock

Four Mile
Beach
Shutterstock

But its not all about eating and drinking in Port Douglas. While you
may not have much spare cash to invest in art, it doesnt cost anything
to look at the colourful works of Indigenous art adorning the walls at
Ngarru Gallery. From kaleidoscopic dot paintings depicting Dreamtime
stories to more abstract contemporary works, this light and bright
space isnt the type of gallery where window shoppers are made to feel
unwelcome. Instead, guests are encouraged to soak up the knowledge
and beauty of the works on display, even if theyre not in a position to pay
for one. With a collection of artefacts including sculptures, weavings and
termite-hollowed didgeridoos, the gallery also stocks smaller items like
jewellery boxes and cards, for those of us not accustomed to dropping
five grand on a painting.
Over at Whileaway Bookshop & Caf, visitors can buy a book and grab a
killer latte at the same time. While many towns geared towards travellers
serve up questionable coffee, Port Douglas has some solid coffee options,
with locals and tourists alike gravitating towards Whileaways laid back
charm and friendly staff (who are keen to pair you up with the perfect
book to read while in town).
Whether youre after books, brews or a little boutique shopping, Port
Douglas has you covered!

Sunrise
Sunrise
on Four
Mile Beach
Shutterstock

EATING PORT DOUGLAS

After a long day exploring the reef, a good feed is in
order. Here are two
three
Port
Port
Douglas
Douglas
spots
spots
toto
make
make
aa
beeline for:
Iron Bar
A quintessential Queensland experience, the in-house
cane toad racing comedy show held here nightly is a major
drawcard for visitors. Six different types of steak and a
range of fresh seafood seal the deal.
Rattle 'nSallys
Cyclone
Hum
If premium
Warm
and friendly,
wagyu burgers
the low and
key American-style,
Rattle 'n Hums no-fuss
slowcooked pub
classic
spare
menu
ribs and
are friendly
your thing,
staff
then
make
Cyclone
it a favourite
Sally with
delivers
locals
and
allvisitors
this andalike.
more along with American and
Australian craft beers and ciders.
Rattle n Hum
Warm and friendly, the low key Rattle n Hums no-fuss
classic pub menu and friendly staff make it a favourite with
locals and visitors alike.

MORE INFORMATION
Try out Ocean Safaris reef trips
or ziplining with the Jungle
Surfing Canopy Tours crew
whilst in Cape Tribulation the
hostel can help you out with
bookings.

WHERE TO STAY
CAPE TRIBULATION
BEACHOUSE YHA
+617 4098 0030
capetribulation@yha.com.au

CORALDOUGLAS
PORT
BEACH LODGE
YHA YHA
+617 4099 5422
portdouglas@yha.com.au
Cape Tribulation YHA

The Iron Bar

Tourism Queensland

with turtles
Snorkelling withSnorkling
turtles
Ocean
Safari
images
Ocean Safari images
PLAY VIDEO

BOOK
NOW

FEATURE / WALES

WONDERFUL
WALES
IT'S SAID THAT WALES HAS MORE CASTLES, PER SQUARE
KILOMETRE, THAN ANY OTHER COUNTRY. AND THE
FORTRESS OF CONWY IS POSSIBLY THE MOST IMPOSING
AND ENCHANTING OF THEM ALL. BY STEVE MCKENNA

The fortress
of Conwy
Shutterstock

MANCHESTER
CONWY
BETWS-Y-COED
BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
SNOWDONIA
NATIONAL PARK

ENGLAND

WALES
LAUGHARNE

CARDIFF

COMMANDING

a rock above the musselblessed River Conwy near

Llandudno, with the verdant
hills of Snowdonia in the background, this UNESCO World Heritage site
stirs the imaginations of even the biggest historyphobes. I can't help but
think of Game of Thrones - and the castles of Winterfell and King's Landing
- as I delve into its dimly-lit, greystone nooks and crannies, past spartan
chambers and dungeons, and up spiral staircases to breezy ramparts and
watchtowers that afford spellbinding views over a former garrison town
that's encircled by 1.3 kilometres of walkable, moss-covered walls.

The castle was built in the Middle Ages for Edward I, an English monarch
with an appetite for invasion (not content with quashing the rebellious
Welsh, he also sought to crush those independence-seeking Scots; William
'Braveheart' Wallace was perhaps his biggest nemesis). During Edward's
iron-fisted rule, you'd barely hear Cymraeg (Welsh) spoken in Conwy (the
natives were shunted out behind the town walls). But these days, this melodic,
at-times tongue twisting language permeates the narrow, salty-aired streets
- it's estimated that almost 40% of Conwy County residents can speak (at
least some) Welsh alongside English.
Conwy Castle
at night
Shutterstock

Conwy Castle
Steve McKenna

A 90-minute drive from Manchester, Conwy is a rewarding first pit stop

on our road trip through Wales, a country that's similar in size to Israel, but
noticeably greener. They certainly get their fair share of rain here, but as luck
would have it, we enjoy wonderfully warm and dry weather (it's May and the
Welsh countryside, speckled with grazing cows and sheep, and etched with
ancient dry stone walls and farmhouses, looks utterly idyllic under the sun).
Snowdonia National Park is particularly beautiful. Founded in
1951, carpeting 10 percent of the country, Wales' first national park
is a gorgeous collision of craggy mountains, glacier-carved valleys,
mirror lakes and cute towns and villages (some of which are linked
by scenic heritage train rides). We really like Betws-y-Coed, which,
in English, roughly translates to 'chapel in the wood'. Fringed by oak,
beech and conifer forests, and gushing rivers and waterfalls, it has the
air of an alpine resort, with photogenic clusters of stone cottages and
bridges, and cosy cafes and restaurants that cater to hungry hikers
and sightseers.

As well as traditional Welsh dishes - think lamb cutlets, leek soup

and rarebit (it's like cheese on toast but with a creamy, mustardy
sauce) - you'll find creative menus big on locally-sourced produce.
Olif, for example, serves 'gourmet' Conwy Valley beef burgers and
'Welsh tapas', including pan-fried chorizo, Menai prawns in garlic
butter and Anglesey goat's cheese salad. We eat exceedingly well in
Wales - the quality and quantity of the food are impressive, and the
prices markedly cheaper than London's.

Zip World Titan

Steve McKenna

WE SPEND AN EXCITING MORNING

AT ZIP WORLD TITAN NEAR BLAENAU
FFESTINIOG, AN HISTORIC SLATE
MINING TOWN THAT APPARENTLY
ONCE 'ROOFED' THE WORLD.
We find plenty of fun ways to burn off the calories (2016, incidentally,
is Wales' 'Year of Adventure' and campaigns are being run to promote
the country's diverse adrenaline-fuelled activities). We spend an
exciting morning at Zip World Titan near Blaenau Ffestiniog, an historic
slate mining town that apparently once 'roofed' the world. Hitting
speeds of up to 70km/h, we zip line a total of 2 kilometres over sheepdotted moorland, jagged quarries and denuded hills, while glimpsing
faraway vistas of Snowdon (at 1085m, Wales' highest summit). Another
much talked-about new attraction is Surf Snowdonia. Built over a
former aluminium factory site, this inland artificial wave lagoon lures
both novice and accomplished surfers. Despite spending countless
summer days by the beaches of Margaret River, Bondi and Byron
Bay, I'd never surfed before (I blame my shark phobia, clumsiness
and terrible coordination). But, clad in a thick winter wetsuit (which
I initially mistakenly put on back to front), my first-ever lesson is a
surreal treat. Guided by my instructor Sirena, I manage, after about
15 attempts, to paddle smoothly onto my board and catch one of the
regular-as-clockwork, machine-generated waves (they range from
0.5m to 2m high). It's exhilarating - for about three seconds, then I
lose my balance and splash, once more, into the lagoon.

Zip World Titan

Steve McKenna

Mt Snowdon
in Snowdonia
National Park
Visit Britain

Another memorable activity that sees us wading through chilly Welsh

waters is coasteering. The good folk of Pembrokeshire - in south Wales
- tout themselves as the pioneers of this quirky fusion of daring coastal
pursuits (think: rock climbing, cliff jumping, wave riding and swimming
into sea caves). As our guide, Lucy, explains: "Coasteering is basically
everything your parents said you couldn't do." It's a thrilling
way to experience one of Britain's most ruggedly picturesque
coastlines - especially when you're flushed around in turbulent
wave pools nicknamed 'The Toilet' and 'The Washing Machine'.
Driving along Wales' south coast towards Cardiff, we pull into some
beguiling little towns. Perched by the heron-peppered Taf Estuary, with
an eye-catching ruined castle by its shore, Laugharne is best known for its
Dylan Thomas connections. The most revered Welsh poet of all time, and
a notoriously prolific drinker, Thomas spent the last four years of his life
in Laugharne (we actually lunch in The Boathouse, his former waterfront
abode and now a cafe and museum dedicated to him; Prince Charles came
to pay his respects a few summers back).
Accustomed to the tranquillity of the Welsh countryside, the vibrancy of
the capital, Cardiff, takes us aback. Once the world's largest coal port,
it's reinvented itself as a buzzing city of leisure and culture, with dazzling
modern architecture, world-class museums and exuberant festivals. On
17-18 September 2016, the city will mark the 100th anniversary of the birth
of its famous son, Roald Dahl. Secrecy cloaks the itinerary, but events will
be staged in several iconic Cardiff locations. Rumours abound that Brain's
Brewery, which has been slaking Welsh beer drinkers' thirsts since 1882,
will double up as Willy Wonkas Factory. Bute Park, a lovely leafy space in
the shadow of Cardiff's eclectic neo-Gothic castle, will host a giant Dahlthemed pyjama picnic. In the words of the author's made-up language,
Gobblefunk, it promises to be a flushbunkingly gloriumptious weekend.

Coasteering
Preseliventure.co.uk

Coasteering
Preseliventure.co.uk

FIVE OTHER THRILLING ADVENTURES IN WALES

1. M
 OUNTAIN BIKING Wales has some fantastic free designated mountain biking
trails. Check out Snowdonia's Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park, which has snaking
routes of increasing difficulty.
2. C
 OASTAL HIKING You'll need a few months to 'do' the 1400km Wales Coast
Path, which spans the country's entire coastline. But you can hike smaller
sections - say the charming Gower Peninsula, near Swansea - in a day.
3. C
 AVING AND POTHOLING Scramble through some of the longest limestone
caves in Britain in the Brecon Beacons National Park, a haven of outdoorsy
pursuits an hour's drive north of Cardiff.
4. H
 ORSE RIDING In Pendine, on the county border between Pembrokeshire
and Carmarthenshire, saddle up and navigate enchanting oak forests and
sweeping sandy beaches.
5. B
 OG SNORKELLING Held annually in the Mid-Wales town of Llanwrtyd Wells,
the World Bog Snorkelling Championships sees competitors race through a
peat bog, clad in snorkels, flippers and fancy dress.

Coed y Brenin
mountain biking
Steve McKenna

Horse riding in
Pendine
Steve McKenna

FIVE OTHER CARDIFF HIGHLIGHTS

1. CARDIFF BAY Arresting sights fringe the capital's
rejuvenated waterfront, including the Wales Millennium
Centre (a mecca of drama and culture); Doctor Who
Experience (the hit BBC show is filmed in Wales), and the
Norwegian Church Arts Centre (where Roald Dahl was
christened).
2. THE ARCADES Far more alluring than its modern malls
are the city centre's spruced-up Victorian and Edwardian
arcades, which shelter independent shops, cafes and
eateries.
3. PRINCIPALITY STADIUM Formerly the Millennium
Stadium, the home of Welsh rugby - nestled by the River
Taff - is not to be missed when the national team is
playing. The atmosphere is electric.
4. NATIONAL MUSEUM CARDIFF Housed in an elegant
neoclassical building, this admission-free gem boasts
one of Europe's best collections of Impressionist art, with
paintings from the likes of Monet, Renoir and Sisley (who
got married in Cardiff in 1897).
5. NIGHTLIFE Few British cities are as lively as Cardiff
after dark. You'll find everything from craft ale taverns
and slick wine bars to boozy clubs and rocking live music
venues (you might be lucky enough to catch the next
Manics or Stereophonics).
Morgan Arcade
Visit Britain

Betws-y-Coed YHA

WHERE TO STAY
There are many YHA hostels
in Wales ranging from small
quaint cottage-style hostels in
Snowdonia National Park to a
modern city hostel in Cardiff.
You can see all of them and
book online.

FEATURE / SYDNEY INSIDER ATTRACTIONS

Shutterstock

Opera Bar

WITH A STUNNING HARBOUR, COUNTLESS BEACHES AND

PLENTY OF TRENDY CAFES, BARS AND MARKETS, A VISIT TO
SYDNEY KEEPS YOU ON YOUR TOES. BUT WITH PLENTY OF
TOURIST APPEAL COMES A TONNE OF TOURIST TRAPS. WE
LOOK BEYOND THE CLICHS TO BRING YOU THE TOP INSIDER
ATTRACTIONS FOR 48 HOURS IN SYDNEY. BY JENNIFER ENNION

DAY ONE
BREAKFAST
There's a reason Sydneysiders love The Grounds of Alexandria - it's where
design meets secret garden meets top-notch food. With multiple spaces,
both indoors and out, The Grounds, as the locals say, is somewhere to hang
awhile. It gets busy, so visit early for breakfast. The main cafe serves a
delicious platter of fruit, nuts, granola and organic yoghurt (among other
dishes), and does a perfectly spiced chai tea. You can also grab takeaway
muffins, pastries, cronuts (croissant-donut pastries), donuts, plump
strawberries and loaves of sourdough - great for hostel snacking later. If
you ride a bicycle there, you'll get free coffee, too.
SHOP
Just around the corner is The Grounds Markets, held on weekends. They're
small but a good place to pick up a stylish souvenir. Soul & Ark sell beautiful
soy candles in fragrances such as pink champagne and coconut lime. They
come in lightweight tins, too, making them easy to fit into a backpack. You'll
also find jewellery, children's books and cards.
Afterwards, walk to Green Square station (10 minutes) and catch a train to
Bondi Junction, via Central. Then catch a bus (333, 380, 381, 389) to Bondi Beach.
Once in Bondi, head to Hall Street, home to local favourite Gertrude & Alice
Cafe Bookstore. There are more than 25,000 second-hand books for sale,
making it the perfect place to pick up your next read. Bondi Markets, in Bondi
Beach Public School, is your best bet for affordable clothing, but if you're in
the mood to splurge, head to Gould Street's high-end boutiques.
Once you're shopped out, stroll down to the beach for a dip, before
wandering up the hill into North Bondi.

The Grounds Markets

The Grounds

Jennifer Ennion

Jennifer Ennion

The Grounds
of Alexandria
Jennifer Ennion

LUNCH
Head away from the main drag for a no nonsense lunch at The Hill Eatery,
North Bondi. Here, you're removed from the "Bondi scene" and can dine
on reasonably priced, simple burgers while surrounded by pot plants and
fresh flowers. The Hill also has mellow Sunday sessions, during which you
can enjoy a burger, beer and beats. Plus, there's free Wi-Fi.
WALK & SWIM
Burn off that burger by following one of Sydney's most stunning trails,
the Bondi to Coogee Walk. Saunter for 6 kilometres along cliff edges,
over headlands and across beaches as you visit the beautiful postcodes of
Tamarama, Bronte and Clovelly. Stop for a swim at Bronte and, if the ocean is
calm, don't forget to carry snorkelling gear for Gordons Bay. Reward yourself
at the end with a swim at family friendly Coogee Beach.
Catch a bus from Arden Street to Oxford Street, Surry Hills (about 30
minutes), then walk to Butter, on Hunt Street.
DINNER & DRINKS
It may look like a sneaker store from outside, but Butter is a new small
restaurant/bar making its mark on the Sydney after-dark scene. Perch on a
stool behind the shopfront of high tops and hoe into a basket of spicy fried
chicken as you tap your toes to the great soundtrack of hip hop tunes. With
black decor, laid-back staff and a beer and champagne menu, this place will
make you linger. It's a popular spot, so arrive about 6pm to avoid queues.

Butter
Jennifer Ennion

DAY TWO
BREAKFAST
For breakfast with a difference, start your day at Reuben Hills, in Surry
Hills. Quirky creations include porridge with Milo, sultana syrup and charred
mandarin, and a broken omelette roll with fried shrimp and bacon jam. This
cafe is also a great spot for people-watching.
Once your belly is full, walk to Central Station (10 minutes), catch a train to
Circular Quay (8 minutes), and board a ferry to Cockatoo Island (27 minutes).

Cockatoo Island
Shutterstock

TOUR
A ferry trip to Cockatoo Island is a harbour "tour" without the price tag. Aside
from the views of the Harbour Bridge and waterside suburbs, the island has
an interesting history. It was settled as a convict prison in 1839, and was
later home to a reformatory school and one of Australia's biggest shipyards.
Visitors can learn about it all on a self-guided audio tour.
After about two hours, return to Circular Quay and explore The Rocks by foot.
LUNCH
The Rocks is one of Sydney's most treasured suburbs, with its history
rooted in European settlement. Today, its biggest drawcard is the numerous
old Aussie pubs, and The Glenmore is one of them. Built in 1921, it has a
narrow, soaring stairwell to a rooftop bar with stellar views of the Opera
House. Private parties can reserve the best seats at night, so call in at
lunchtime when it's less crowded and dishes such as barbecue beef ribs
are on the menu.
Walk back down the hill to the impressive Museum of Contemporary Art
(MCA) on the harbour.

The Rocks

MCA
Shutterstock

A FERRY TRIP TO COCKATOO

ISLAND IS A HARBOUR "TOUR"
WITHOUT THE PRICE TAG
VISIT
Culture vultures will love the MCA, which showcases works by contemporary
Australian artists. You'll find a wide range of mediums on exhibition, from
painting, photography and sculpture to moving image, and works on paper
and bark. The MCA is also a good place to view Indigenous art, with pieces
from Arnhem Land from the 1950s. Learn more about the collections on
one of the free daily tours, and download the free MCA Australia app.
DINNER & MUSIC
It's loud, crude and definitely hip, which makes Frankie's Pizza, on Hunter
Street in the CBD, all the more attractive. Snap up a booth in the tiny cavern
of a restaurant, where the young crowd dines on pizzas in dim light. Then
move into the main bar, where freshly squeezed orange and apple juice is
served with spirits as the screams of a rock 'n' roll band reverberate across
the poster-plastered room. The biggest selling point is the row of pinball
machines in the back corner - they're a blast and a great find in Sydney's
white-collar district.

Frankies Pizza
Jennifer Ennion

HIP HANGS AFTER DARK

1
2
3

Shady Pines Saloon

If you're hankering for some cowboy culture,

head to this North American-style drinking
hole located in Darlinghurst.

Opera Bar

4
5

The Enmore Theatre

From comedy shows to rock 'n' roll, if

you're keen to see a live show, The Enmore
Theatre, in Newtown, has a decent dose of acts to
choose from.

Attracting Sydney's "it" crowd, Opera Bar is

Scubar
the place to be seen. It's also on the doorstep
If you're hankering for some old-fashioned
of the Opera House and has awesome bridge
backpacker fun, visit Scubar, underneath
views.
Sydney Central YHA, for parties and theme nights.
Monday is a highlight with cane toad racing.

The Bucket List

Bondi locals make a beeline to The Bucket

List for lazy dusk-to-dark beachside
sessions, when drinks flow and party people play.
Opera Bar
Shutterstock

POOLS WORTH DIPPING INTO

1. Bondi Baths (aka Icebergs)
It's one of the most
Instagrammed attractions in
Sydney, and the famous Bondi
Baths is the place to hang when
the ocean's too rough for a surf.

neighbourhood of Balmain.
Whilst closed over winter, they
reopen 1 October for summer.

4. North Sydney Olympic Pool

Located in one of the city's
most expensive suburbs, and
within a swimmer's splash
2. Whylie's Baths
A short walk around the corner of the Harbour Bridge, North
Sydney Olympic Pool is an
from Coogee Beach, Whylie's
attraction in itself.
Baths has been drawing
Sydneysiders since its opening 5. Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool
in 1907.
For more views of Sydney
Harbour, check out Andrew
3. Dawn Fraser Baths
(Boy) Charlton Pool, on the
Built in the 1880s and well
edge of the Royal Botanic
off the tourist trail is the
Gardens and just a skip from
charming Dawn Fraser
Baths, in the trendy inner-city the CBD.
North Sydney
Olympic Pool
Shutterstock

Sydney Harbour YHA

WHERE TO STAY
You are spoilt for YHA options
in Sydney.
Sydney Central and Railway
Square YHAs are choice for
transport links, and exploring
Chinatown and Darling Harbour.
You cant beat the harbour views
from the rooftop at Sydney
Harbour YHA in The Rocks.
Or the beach views from Bondi
Beachouse YHA. And if you are
staying longer and want to live
like a local, try Glebe Point YHA,
in one of Sydneys trendy inner
suburbs.
See all the Sydney YHAs and
book online.

Bondi Icebergs
Shutterstock

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NOW

WHAT'S ON
HERES OUR PICK OF EVENTS COMING UP IN YOUR REGION

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!

Put some colour back into your life with
these floral festivals and banish the
winter blues.

FLORIADE
17 September 16 October 2016

ACT

Nothing sings spring more than Floriade,

when more than one million blossoms
dazzle the shores of Canberras Lake
Burley Griffin for a month-long flower
festival. Over 400,000 green thumbs flock
to the capitals Commonwealth Park every
year for Australias biggest celebration of
spring, filled with gardening tips, music
and entertainment, plus activities and
workshops for kids and families. And
the best part about the largest floral fair
in the Southern Hemisphere? Its free!
floriadeaustralia.com.
u
u
u

Stay at Canberra City YHA

+61 2 6248 9155
canberracity@yha.com.au

Floriade
Canberra Tourism
Canberra Tourism

BOOK
NOW

Scroll for more

Wellington Spring Festival

PWT Wellington

WELLINGTON
SPRING
FESTIVAL
24 September 2 October 2016

NZ

Wellington celebrates what we love

about spring with spectacular flowers
and colourful activities. The Botanic
Garden touts their tulips and other
colourful and fragrant spring flowers,
while nature lovers are invited to New
Zealands native-plants-only public
botanic garden. wellington.govt.nz.

60TH ANNIVERSARY
ALEXANDRA BLOSSOM
FESTIVAL
21 September - 10 October 2016

Flowers in full bloom

Wellington Botanic Gardens

Herald spring in Alexandra with a

grand procession, egg-throwing
competition, live bands, fireworks,
drag racing and self-drive garden
tours to 10 established country
gardens and budding marvels.
blossom.co.nz.

TARANAKI GARDEN
SPECTACULAR

28 October - 6 November 2016

Slip on your walking shoes and
get set to wander through private
and public gardens galore, from
sub-tropical to rural to gardens
of international regard. Add on
workshops, guest speakers, celebrity
chefs and more. gardenfestnz.co.nz.

u
u

Stay with YHA New Zealand

0800 278 299 (NZ) or
1800 242 191 (Aus)
book@yha.co.nz

BOOK
NOW

BRISBANE EKKA
5 - 14 August 2016

QLD

Queenslands most loved

annual event, the Royal
Queensland Show - or Ekka as the locals
affectionately call it - is almost here! Visitors
will flock to Brisbane for 10 fun-filled days jam
packed with show bags, adrenaline-pumping
rides and super cute animals. ekka.com.au.
Brisbane Ekka
Royal Brisbane Show

ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW

2 - 11 September 2016

SA

September is Show Time

in Adelaide! Were talking
rollercoasters and show bags, fireworks and
cakes, entertainment for kids and kids at heart.
Step back in time with the wood-chopping
competitions, baby pig races and baking contests,
or test your nerve on one of the crazy rides - and
dont worry, there are gentler attractions for the
faint-hearted! theshow.com.au.
Royal Adelaide Show
Shutterstock

u
u
u

Stay at Brisbane City YHA

+61 7 3236 1004
brisbanecity@yha.com.au

DARWIN FESTIVAL
4 - 21 August 2016

BOOK
NOW

u
u
u

Stay at Adelaide Central YHA

+61 8 8414 3010
adlcentral@yha.com.au

BOOK
NOW

NT

Food stalls, live music, dance

shows, circus acts, theatre
performances, stand-up
comedy, visual arts, cabaret, and the
festive atmosphere of the tropics . . . its
not hard to see why the Darwin Festival
is one of the highlights of the Territorys
calendar. Make the most of the Top Ends
warm weather with this colourful and
family-friendly outdoor extravaganza.
darwinfestival.org.au.

u
u
u

Stay at Darwin YHA

+61 8 8981 5385
darwin@yha.com.au

BOOK
NOW
Darwin Festival
Fiona Morrison

ROYAL MELBOURNE
SHOW
17 - 27 September 2016

VI C

Running for 11 days

in September at the Melbourne
Showgrounds, the 2016 Royal
Melbourne Show celebrates the best
that Victorian agriculture has to offer.
Be enthralled by live entertainment
and rides, marvel at the animals
featured in prestigious competitions,
try out delectable award-winning food
and drinks and - of course - dont
forget to grab yourself a show bag!
royalshow.com.au.
u
u
u

BOOK
NOW

Stay at Melbourne Metro YHA

+61 3 9329 8599
melbmetro@yha.com.au

CONSERVATION WEEK
10 18 September 2016

Royal Melbourne Show

RASV

NZ

Make sure you make your

mark on improving New
Zealands beautiful backyard
and get back to nature by lending a hand
during Conservation Week. Choose from the
Department of Conservations nationwide
volunteer opportunities plus a national
geocaching challenge and conservation quizzes.
Hashtag #conservationweek to add your voice to
the conversation. doc.govt.nz.

u
u

Stay with YHA New Zealand

0800 278 299 (NZ) or 1800 242 191 (Aus)
book@yha.co.nz

N SW

Chocoholics, sweet-tooths,
dessert addicts, this ones for you! The Smooth
Festival of Chocolate is back for its third year
and ready to transform Sydneys The Rocks
precinct into an oasis of sugary treats for one
decadent weekend. Over-indulge at 80 mouth
watering stalls then smuggle a stash of sweets
back to your room at Sydney Harbour YHA, just
minutes away. smooth.com.au.

Shutterstock

Shutterstock

SMOOTH FESTIVAL OF
CHOCOLATE
10 - 11 September 2016

BOOK
NOW

u
u
u

Stay at Sydney Harbour YHA

+61 2 8272 0900
sydneyharbour@yha.com.au

BOOK
NOW

GISBORNE WINE & FOOD

FESTIVAL
22 - 23 October 2016

NZ

Fertile loam and sunny climes

means Gisborne is a wine-making Mecca, and
they celebrate it all with a weekend at cellar
doors for local food. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
and Merlot aplenty with a chance to meet the
makers. gisbornewineandfood.co.nz.

WHITIANGA SCALLOP
FESTIVAL
10 September 2016

If you love scallops, then

shuck your way to Whitianga on the Coromandel
Peninsula and enjoy scallops served up in more
ways than you can imagine. scallopfestival.co.nz.

Shutterstock

u
u
u

Stay with YHA Gisborne

+64 6 867 3269
gisborne@yha.co.nz

WELLINGTON
ON A PLATE
12 - 28 August 2016

BOOK
NOW

Shutterstock

u
u
u

NZ

Foodies flock to the coolest

little capital for mouth-watering
events from backyard brewing to artisan baking,
to banquets and more. visawoap.com.

Stay at YHA Whitianga

+64 7 866 5380
whitianga@yha.co.nz

KAIKOURA SEAFEST
1 October 2016

u
u

Stay at YHA Wellington

+64 4 801 7280
wellington@yha.co.nz

BOOK
NOW

BOOK
NOW

NZ

Kaikouras ocean heaves

with delicacies from the deep
and Seafest cooks it all up
for scrumptious tucker of baby octopus, paua
(abalone), whitebait, crayfish (lobster) and mucho
fishes. seafest.co.nz.

Kaikoura Seafest

Wellington on a Plate

NZ

u
u
u

Stay with YHA Christchurch

+64 3 379 9536
christchurch@yha.co.nz

BOOK
NOW

ROTTOFEST
17 September 2016

WA

Every year, Rottnest Islands annual comedy and

music festival rocks the land of the quokka and
puts on the liveliest show you could imagine. Get
your laughs from local and international comedians and groove
along to live music, from rock to indie and everything in between.
Whatever type of entertainment youre into, Rottofest can provide.
rottofest.com.au.
u
u
u

Stay at Fremantle Prison YHA

+61 8 9433 4305
fremantle@yha.com.au

BOOK
NOW

HENLEY-ON-TODD REGATTA
20 August 2016
How do you hold a boat race in a bone-dry
riverbed? Ask the organisers of this Red
Centre regatta! Crowds of up to 20,000 flood
Alice Springs to watch competitors carry
bottomed-out boats around the waterless
waterway as well as plenty of other whacky
events. Watch out for the YHA boat and cheer
it on! henleyontodd.com.au
u
u
u

Stay at Alice Springs YHA

+61 8 8952 8855
alicesprings@yha.com.au

Rottofest
Naomi Craigs

NT

u
u

Stay at Alice Springs YHA

+61 8 8952 8855
alicesprings@yha.com.au

BEERVANA
12 -13 August 2016
Stay YHA Wellington

MELBOURNE WRITERS
FESTIVAL
26 August - 4 September
2016
Stay Melbourne Central YHA

HOBART FLORAL
SHOWS
26 August - 2 October
2016

NT

The first authentic Indigenous Festival in Light

will use the newest technology to showcase the
oldest continuous culture on earth. Traditional
and contemporary Indigenous art will light up the 300 million year
old canvas of the MacDonnell Ranges in Desert Park to celebrate the
culture and stories of local people, producing a breathtaking display for
10 nights in the heart of Australia. parrtjimaaustralia.com.au.
u

WHITSUNDAYS REEF
FESTIVAL
5 - 14 August 2016
Stay Airlie Beach YHA

BOOK
NOW

PARRTJIMA
23 September - 2 October 2016

MORE
EVENTS

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NOW

Stay Hobart Central YHA

AUCKLAND HERITAGE
FESTIVAL
24 September 9 October 2016
Stay YHA Auckland
International
BOOK ONLINE

YHA.COM.AU
YHA.CO.NZ
Parrtjima
Glenn Campbell

BACKPACKER
/ ESSENTIALS

YHA.COM.AU
YHA.CO.NZ
NEXT ISSUE AVAILABLE
6TH OCTOBER 2016