BUDGET TRAVEL

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A huge amount of budget accommodation has sprung up in the tourist boom of the past few years, and though the more shambolic operations don't survive for long, standards are still wildly variable. Official YHA youth hostels are pretty dependable, and many of their depressingly regimented rules and regulations have been dropped in the face of competition, especially from the firmly established Backpacker Resorts/VIP network and the newcomer Nomads, whose membership cards are as useful and widely known as the YHA equivalent.

At their best, hostels and backpackers' accommodation – both names are widely used, and don't necessarily imply membership of any organization – are excellent value and are good places to meet other travellers and plug into the grapevine. There's often a choice of dormitories, double or family rooms, plus bike rental, kitchen, games room, TV, a pool, and help with finding work or organizing trips. Many have useful noticeboards, organized activities and tours. At their worst, their double rooms might be poorer value than local hotel accommodation, and some are simply grubby, rapid-turnover dives – affiliation to an organization does not ensure quality.

Most hostels provide blankets, but they don't always include sheets; you usually pay extra to rent them, but it's a wise precaution to carry a sheet, or a sleeping bag at least. Expect to pay between $15 and $20 a night for a bed in a dorm, or $30 to $40 for a double room.

If you're travelling on a budget, it's well worth laying your hands on an International YHA card (purchased from your national youth hostel association before you leave home, or available in Australia from around $44). The other option is a VIP card (the Backpacker Resorts equivalent) or a Nomads Dreamtime card, either of which costs around $25 from member hostels. Both of these give you members' rates on accommodation at participating hostels – usually ten percent off – and also entitle you to a wide range of other discounts, on everything from bus tickets and tours to phone calls, museum entry fees and meals. After joining, all three organizations will provide directories of participating accommodation and services. 

Those with email can make enquiries in advance.
Visit the following sites for more information 

• http://gateway.eastend.com.au/nomads
• http://www.YHA.com.au - Youth Hostels Australia

Click here for general Back packer info>>

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