Currently trying to figure out where to stay in Sydney. Widely varied options include The Grace (York and King Sts), Cambridge Hotel (Surry Hills), & the spiffy new YHA hostel at the Rocks.

Clearly the Rocks/Circular Quay is a fabulous area, and one we must explore! But we have 5 days in Sydney, and don't want to just see the übertouristy ( Read more... )

For those of you who will be using public transport in Melbourne, you can plan your trips through the Metlink web site. Note that many attractions such as the Immigration Museum and the Aquarium are in walking distance of the convention site, and that the Melbourne Zoo is reachable by train!

Note that due to reported track difficulties, there might be some issues with train travel from Sydney to Melbourne until further notice. You might want to check a service changes page for up-to-date information.

lauriemann has found a well-thought-out list of recommended items to bring on the plane with you, plus some survival tips.

I'd add the following items (don't mean this as a commercial ad, just items I use myself and find helpful) and tips:

• Have a pen (and your passport if you don't have the number memorized) in easy reach so you can fill in the landing forms
• ( Read more... )

United has just announced extremely cheap fares from the US to Australia. It's not too late!!!

Be sure to check out our Travel & Tourism page for lots of handy hints about visiting Australia and Melbourne! (Also, for international travelers, make sure you have made arrangements for your electronic visa - see the Australian Immigration site for details.)

Looking for a person to share my room at the Crowne Plaza, beginning on September 1st and checking on out the 7th. Am older female, nonsmoker (would rather not share with a smoker) and snore little.

Other information available upon request. Send me a message or reply here. Thanks.

I'm thinking of staying at one of the Melbourne airport hotels the night of the 8th because my flight leaves early the next day....anyone (female) interested in sharing a room that night? If you post here and I don't notice, you can reach me on my own LJ or facebook.
Thanks
Ellen Datlow

Video exploration of the pedestrian-friendly elements of Melbourne on Streetfilms.org.

Finally cajoled into taking the long trip to Melbourne, I was told to expect a city where walking abounded, where the streets were flowing with energy, where the quality of public space would blow my mind. Little did I know my already high expectations would be ( Read more... )

To help get you in the mood for visiting Australia: baby wombats!