Backpacker Essentials 2015 April

BACKPACKER / ESSENTIALS / APRIL 2015

GET OUT OF JAIL FREMANTLE PRISON YHA OPENS

EUROPE STREET ART TRAILS WORKING NZ MAKING IT HAPPEN STUNNING STRADDIE QLD ISLAND PARADISE

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INSIDE BACKPACKER / ESSENTIALS

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AUSTRALIA/NZ Tourism WA

NEW YHA’S

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GLOBAL NEWS BRAZIL & SCOTLAND

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GETAWAYS

TOP DEALS IN OZ & NZ

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ACROSS THE DITCH WORKING IN NZ

VOL 19 / No 2 APRIL 2015

FREMANTLE ◆

MANAGING EDITOR Janet McGarry DEPUTY EDITOR Brindi Joy YHA CONTRIBUTORS Christina Harris Rachel Seymour Tanya Heuke Francois LaJoie ART DIRECTOR Dan Morley GRAPHIC DESIGN Nicolas Chua

SKIP THE TOURIST TRAPS, SEE MELBOURNE LIKE A LOCAL

24 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

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EUROPE

STREET ART TRAIL

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STRADDIE

ISLAND PARADISE

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WHAT’S ON

AUSTRALIA/NZ EVENTS

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 SKI SEASON / SUSTAINABILITY / NEWS

BOUT

A START THINKING

THE 2015 N O S A E S I SK

Now is the time to book your ultimate white winter break. Whether it’s skiing or snowboarding Australia’s top ski runs in the heart of the alpine village of Thredbo, or enjoying the stunning views from New Zealand’s best slopes, YHA has a range of great value multi-share and private room options for you, so book now!

Book Thredbo YHA here See more on NZ snow hostels here

Shutterstock

/ SUSTAINABILITY

YHA RAGLAN OFFERS PERMACULTURE COURSE YHA Raglan, Solscape Eco Retreat is situated on the stunning west coast of New Zealand’s North Island, two hours south of Auckland and overlooking world famous surf breaks such as Manu Bay and Ocean Beach. This unique hostel focuses on providing environmentally sustainable facilities including non-toxic building materials, earth floors, solar powered LED lighting, solar heated indoor-outdoor showers, composting toilets and gravity-fed fresh mountain stream water. The Raglan hostel staff are dedicated to preserving the natural environment and raising awareness on all levels, whilst providing healthy, comfortable accommodation to all guests.

As part of their commitment to sustainable living and well-being, YHA Raglan are hosting a 2 week intensive Permaculture Design Certificate Course - ‘Designing for Abundance and Adaptability’ from 13 - 26 April 2015. This course will teach participants about the philosophy behind permaculture and the integration of landscape and people, as well as exploring the ideas of Designing for Change.

BOOK NOW YHA RAGLAN u raglan@yha.co.nz u yha.co.nz

BUSH REGENERATION AT PITTWATER YHA Come and help regenerate the bush surrounding the gorgeous Pittwater YHA. Located on the edge of Kuring-gai Chase National Park in northern Sydney, this is a special Bush Regeneration weekend where you spend a few hours removing invasive weeds to help restore the bushland to good health, but still have time to relax in the beautiful surrounds of the hostel.

The weekend package includes 2 nights’ accommodation, dinner, BBQ lunch, and use of the hostel’s kayaks.

When: 15-17 May 2015. More information here.

PITTWATER YHA u pittwater@yha.com.au u yha.com.au

BOOK NOW

/ NEWS

FREE WIFI AT YHA HOSTELS

PICK UP A COPY

Whether you are away for a night or a year, you want to stay in touch and Wifi has become one of life’s essentials. YHA is committed to not only offering the best Wifi deal for guests but also a good quality service throughout its hostel network.

NEW! In Australia, you can now access a free Wifi hotspot at all the larger YHA hostels, and many of the smaller regional properties. By the end of this year, all YHAs (with the exception of small bush properties) will offer a free Wifi option. It’s perfect for looking up travel information, email, skyping family and friends, and booking your next bed.

And if you want to use the internet in your room, at most locations you’ll be able to upgrade to a paid service from only $5 per day.

In New Zealand, members can get up to 1GB of free Wifi per day (for guests staying overnight) at 25 + YHA NZ hostels around the country - you can see where here.

Your FREE YHA Australia Accommodation Guide 2015 and FREE 2015 YHA Australia and YHA New Zealand Maps are available at all YHA hostels for you to enjoy. Pick up a copy today and receive handy travel route information, YHA Australia and YHA New Zealand hostel listings and information, as well as a list of great discounts available to all YHA members.

BEST RATE DEALS Planning your trip online can quickly become a bit of a challenge, with information overload. And when you come to book where to stay there are many sites promising you the best rate, the best deal, a special price. Most of these sites are the online equivalent of the old fashioned travel agent - they work on commission and are not necessarily offering you the best place (or price) for your particular needs, but rather what makes them the most money.

YHA is committed to always offering its members the best price on its own sites - yha.com.au and yha.co.nz with no fuss, no false promises and no red herrings that are really there just to get you to click. And, as a not-forprofit, all monies stay within YHA and go to building better and newer hostels.

So, when you are next booking your accommodation, give the other sites the flick and just come direct.

GLOBAL NOW OPEN / USA EVENTS / EUROPE EVENTS

O T L I Z A R B D N A L T O C S FROM THE DEEP AMAZON TO THE SCOTISH ISLES, WE CHECK OUT THE COOLEST NEW YHAS AROUND THE GLOBE.

The historic centre of Recife, Pernambuco Shutterstock

/NOW OPEN

Unesco world heritage site of Goias Shutterstock

HI HOSTEL 7 GOIÂNIA The Brazilian city of Goiânia welcomes its first HI Hostel, complete with swimming pool, BBQ area and all the flash facilities you could ask for. Goiânia not only provides your ultimate nightlife fix, but is a major transport and commercial hub, and the perfect base to explore the wilds of Goias or central Brazil.

Explore fiery sunsets burning over lush green savannahs, miles of National Parks carved up by waterfalls and gorgeous colonial villages of Cidade de Goias only a couple of hours away from the city. HI Hostel 7 Goiânia is positioned in a prime location to discover the greener alternative to Brazil’s capital, Brasilia.

BOOK NOW HI HOSTEL 7 GOIÂNIA u

hihostels.com

/NOW OPEN

Boipeda Island, Bahia Shutterstock

HI SOSSEGO HOSTEL Amidst impossibly blue skies, blindingly sun-bleached sandy beaches and turquoise oceans even Photoshop would find difficult to replicate, lies Boipeba Island in tropical northeast Brazil. With no cars this peaceful island hideaway is so close to paradise, you’d struggle to believe it’s real.

The HI Sossego Hostel is located in the village centre of Boipeba Island close to all basic amenities and a handful of bars and restaurants. With private double rooms available in beautiful wooden garden huts, this hostel offers true tranquility. If you’re after a more social environment then large common areas and dorms are also available, along with private porches with hammocks and, of course, WiFi.

BOOK NOW HI SOSSEGO HOSTEL u

hihostels.com

/NOW OPEN

The Amazon River Shutterstock

HI AMAZON ADVENTURE HOSTEL Imagine a trip of a lifetime exploring the Amazon rainforest.

This new hostel is located in Manaus, the capital of the state of Amazonas, which means you can combine access to all the facilities of a city but have a central base to explore this wonderful environment.

You’ll love the eco-tourism packages and guided tours available from the hostel, including the chance to swim with the ‘botos’ (river dolphins) and visit Terra das Cachoeiras or Land of the Falls. Better still, take the chance to combine a stay here with an overnight visit to the Amazon Mamori hostel - Brazil’s forest hostel.

BOOK NOW HI AMAZON ADVENTURE HOSTEL u

hihostels.com.au

/NOW OPEN

Isle of Skye Shutterstock

ISLE OF SKYE – PORTREE YHA One of the most famous destinations in Scotland – the Isle of Skye – now has a brand new hostel in the heart of its main town, Portree.

Just minutes from the town square, galleries, shops, restaurants and public transport, the new Portree YHA offers modern accommodation in an ideal location for exploring the island. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or have just come to see the finest Scottish landscape, the hostel will be a great base. There’s a choice of share and private room as well as all the other facilities you would expect.

Just north of the town lies the spectacular scenery of the Trotternish Ridge, dominated by weird and wonderful rock formations such as the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and the truly extraordinary pinnacles of the Quaraing. Other popular activities on the island include walking, cycling, pony trekking, boat cruises, coasteering and wildlife spotting, and catching a glimpse of one of Scotland’s rarest birds of prey, the White Tailed Sea Eagle.

Skye lies in western Scotland, five hours drive from Glasgow, and is reached a bridge connecting it to the town of Kyle on the mainland.

BOOK NOW ISLE OF SKYE PORTREE YHA u

hihostels.com

/GLOBAL FESTIVALS

COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL Indio California, Los Angeles Week 1 – 10 - 12 April 2015 Week 2 – 17 - 19 April 2015 Taking place over two consecutive weekends in April, the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival is a 3-day celebration of some of the industry’s finest in the middle of the Colorado Desert in Indio, California. Set against a stunning backdrop of palm trees and sweeping mountainsides, Coachella showcases some of the world’s biggest names in music as well a number of emerging artists and reunited groups, with AC/DC, Drake, Jack White and Florence + the Machine all heading up this year’s bill.

If you’re lucky enough to have scored tickets to Coachella or planning a trip to LA, check out the great-value HI hostels here. coachella.com

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Stay at HI Los Angeles, South Bay or HI Los Angeles, Santa Monica hiusa.org

THE GOVERNORS BALL MUSIC FESTIVAL Randall’s Island Park, New York City 5 - 7 June 2015 The Governor’s Ball Music Festival is a 3-day festival held on Randall’s Island in New York City. Not only does it feature an array of music from indie rock to electronic, hip hop to folk and more, the Gov Ball also hosts a multitude of popular NYC restaurants and food trucks, a silent disco, ping pong, photobooths and lawn games between sets.

This year’s huge line-up boasts the first New York performances for Florence + the Machine, Lana Del Ray and Bjork since 2012, plus EDM star DeadMau5’s first area show in four years.

If you’re heading along to the festival this year or looking for quality affordable accommodation in a great location to explore this dynamic city, secure your accommodation at HI New York City. governorsballmusicfestival.com

BOOK NOW u u

Stay at HI New York City hiusa.org

BOOK NOW

/GLOBAL FESTIVALS

PRIMAVERA SOUND Parc Del Forum, Barcelona 28 - 30 May 2015 One of the largest music festivals in Spain, Primavera Sound has become one of the top tickets of the European festival season. Held in Parc del Fòrum, an urban park right on the shores of the Mediterranean in downtown Barcelona, Primavera is an exceptional, wideranging lineup of international and homegrown artists. With an amphitheatre that looks out towards the water, this year’s lineup will feature big names such as the Strokes, the Black Keys, Interpol, Belle & Sebastian, Damien Rice, Alt J, Underworld and more.

Combine a trip tp the festival with exploring all the sites of Barcelona. primaverasound.es

BOOK NOW u u

Stay at HI Barcelona Center Rambles hihostels.com

FIELD DAY FESTIVAL Victoria Park, London 6 - 7 June 2015 Field Day has slowly become one of London’s most premier music festivals, featuring a variety of the world’s finest alternative acts from obscure pop and emerging indie artists, to underground dance producers and folk musicians. With a stellar line-up in 2015 featuring Ride, Caribou, Patti Smith, FKA Twigs, Chet Faker, Madlib, Django Django and loads more, this 2-day summer festival is one not to be missed.

Explore more of London in summer after the festival. There are 7 great hostels to base yourself including London Central, right in the heart of the city. fielddayfestivals.com

BOOK NOW u u

Stay at YHA London Central yha.org.uk

DEALS

YHA DEALS IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

SYDNEY CITY BREAK

MELBOURNE CITY BREAK Take a short city break in cultural Melbourne with this great value city deal.

3 nights' accommodation at Melbourne Metro YHA u Daily breakfast u A 1-day MYKI travel card for public transport u

Priced from AU$106.50 per person multi-share or from AU$450 per double/twin private ensuite. Valid 1 March 30 September 2015.

BOOK NOW MELBOURNE METRO YHA

Fancy a short break in the heart of Sydney? Save with this great value package at this award-winning hostel.

3 nights' accommodation at Sydney Harbour YHA u Daily breakfast u 1 lunch or dinner at The Australian Hotel

BRISBANE CITY BREAK

Whether you are visiting Brisbane for an event, a weekend away or as part of a longer trip, you can save with this great Brisbane City Break.

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2 nights' accommodation at Brisbane City YHA u Daily breakfast u Free luggage storage u

Priced from AU$153 per person multi-share ensuite or AU$450 per double/twin. Available 1 March - 31 October 2015.

Priced from AU$73 per person multi-share room or from AU$223 per double/twin private ensuite. Available 1 March - 30 September.

SYDNEY HARBOUR YHA

BRISBANE CITY YHA

BOOK NOW

BOOK NOW

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+61 3 9329 8599

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+64 2 8272 0900

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+64 7 3236 1004

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melbmetro@yha.com.au

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sydneyharbour@yha.com.au

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brisbanecity@yha.com.au

There's no better place to be than Tropical North Queensland. Cairns is a traveller's hotspot, whether you're taking a day trip out to The Great Barrier Reef, enjoying the restaurants and nightlife or just relaxing by the pool at Cairns Central YHA, Cairns has something for everyone.

Take the break you deserve and stay 4 nights for the price of 3!

SPRING SAND 'N SURF IN RAGLAN Raglan surf breaks are world-class. So, what better place to learn to surf? Join YHA Raglan’s in-house Solsurfer Surf School for expert tuition and experience the waves Raglan surfers bunk work for. You’ll stay in one of New Zealand’s top eco lodges set on picturesque ten acres with epic views of the sets rolling in. Package includes: u u u

Tourism Shutterstock QLD

CAIRNS STAY 4, PAY 3

Prices start from AU$80 per person for 4 nights’ accommodation. Offer is valid until 30 April 2015.

Conditions apply.

2 nights’ multi-share with YHA Raglan 3 hour beginner group surf lesson including transport to the break Full day board and wetsuit hire

NZ$148.50 per person for members and NZ$165 for non-members.

Price is based on triple-share caboose. Private rooms in cabooses, Earth Domes and self-contained cottages are also available. Package can be altered to suit. Valid to 4 June 2015.

RAGLAN 4 FOR 3 Book a YHA Raglan double caboose for 4 nights and pay for 3. NZ$216 for members and NZ$240 for nonmembers. Valid until 4 June 2015.

BOOK NOW

CAIRNS CENTRAL YHA

YHA RAGLAN u u

+64 7 825 8268 raglan@yha.co.nz

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BOOK NOW

+61 7 4051 0772

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BLUE MOUNTAINS YULEFEST 2015 Winter is a magical time in the Blue Mountains, with crisp days and clear blue skies just perfect for outdoor delights by day and warming meals by the cosy fire at night. Enjoy some mid-year cheer with this cool Yulefest deal which includes: u

2 nights' double or family room accommodation u Daily breakfast u Christmas-themed dinner on Saturday night - bring your own favourite bottle of wine as the evening is BYO Priced from AU$299 per double with shared facilities or from AU$327 per double with ensuite. Family room from AU$425 with shared facilities or from AU$447 per family room with ensuite. Valid 10-11 July 2015 and 17-18 July 2015. Conditions apply.

BLUE MOUNTAINS YHA

BOOK NOW

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+61 2 4782 1416

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bluemountains@yha.com.au

GRAMPIANS PAY 2, STAY 3

Whilst we’re still enjoying the warm weather, it's an amazing time to take a real beach break in Port Elliot. To really enjoy the beautiful beach life, you need three nights, so we've decided to throw one in for you and have added in breakfast to make life a little easier: u 3 nights' for the price of 2 u Light breakfast every morning

The beautiful Grampians National Park is made for city getaways. Get off the beaten track and discover the area's exciting hiking trails, try rock climbing and abseiling or go for a horse ride. Follow up the fun and fresh air with a warming glass of local wine in front of the wood fire heater at Grampians Eco YHA.

Not available with any other specials or for groups of more than 10 people. Conditions apply.

PORT ELLIOT BEACH HOUSE YHA u u

BOOK NOW

+ 61 8 8554 1885 portelliot@yha.com.au

Tourism Victoria

PORT ELLIOT BEACH PAY 2, STAY 3

3 nights’ accommodation for the price of 2 in any room type. u

Prices start from AU$54 per person in a multi-share.

Offer valid from 7 April - 30 September 2015 in all room types. Offer not available 24-25 April, 2-3 May and 5-7 June 2015.

Conditions apply.

GRAMPIANS ECO YHA u u

BOOK NOW

+ 61 3 5356 4544 grampians@yha.com.au

AFL FOOTBALL SEASON SPECIAL

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2 nights' in a private double/twin or 4 share Match day breakfast x 1 Pub meal and soft drink voucher x 1

Priced from AU$68 per person multi-share or from AU$90 per person for a double/twin room. Offer valid only on AFL game weekends from April - September 2015. Double/twin offer based on 2 people per room. Conditions apply.

ADELAIDE CENTRAL YHA u u

BOOK NOW

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

RIDE LIKE A LOCAL IN ROTORUA Descend on the mountain biking mecca of New Zealand where all the cycle touring, downhill and world class rides satisfy weekend warriors and hardened pros. Cycle through volcanic and geothermal landscapes stopping at geysers, mud pools and multi-coloured pools. Or hit the deep green contrast of the redwood Whakarewarewa Forest’s 140kms of epic trails before crashing for the night at YHA Rotorua.

1 night with YHA Rotorua u Hardtail bike and helmet hire u

Prices from NZ$64 per person multi-share or NZ$155 for 2 people in private ensuite room. Full suspension bike upgrade is available. For YHA members only. Valid until 4 June 2015

YHA ROTORUA u u

64 7 349 4088 rotorua@yha.co.nz

BOOK NOW

Nick Lambert

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Shutterstock

Coming to Adelaide to see a game of AFL football? Have we got the special for you! With our convenient location, just a short walk from Adelaide Oval and quality accommodation at budget prices, you're going to find it hard to look past this offer.

KIMBERLEY CROC STAY 3, PAY 2

FRANZ JOSEF PADDLE POWER Make the most of Westland's alpine environment just minutes from Franz Josef Glacier. Paddle the glacial Lake Mapourika and enjoy mirrored reflections of the mountains and glaciers.

Navigate your kayak into some of Westland’s oldest untouched rainforest and get up close to nature in the protected habitat and kiwi sanctuary. No previous kayaking experience necessary.

Glacier Kayaks

Package includes: u u u

2 nights' with YHA Franz Josef 3 hour guided glacier kayak tour - equipment provided Photos Transport

Priced from NZ$143 per person multi-share and NZ$348 private for 2 for members.

NZ$149 per person multi-share and NZ$368 private for 2 nonmembers. Offer valid to 4 June 2015.

BOOK NOW

Offer only applies to multishare rooms. Offer valid from 17-24 BOOK May 2015.

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KIMBERLEY CROC YHA u

+ 61 8 9168 2702

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kununurra@yha.com.au

YHA FRANZ JOSEF u

+64 3 752 0754

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franzjosef@yha.co.nz

Shutterstock

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From 17 - 24 May 2015, stay in the relaxing tropical setting of Kimberley Croc YHA in Kununurra and save between AU$28 and AU$33!

NELSON WINES, BREWS & VIEWS Jump aboard the brews and views tour in sunny Nelson, home to some of New Zealand’s best hops and vines. Sit back, toast and taste-test your way through some of the region’s magnificent boutique wineries and craft breweries for this half day tour. Member rates from NZ$141 per person in a multishare, NZ$322 private for 2. Non-member rates from NZ$147 multi-share, NZ$338 private for 2. Offer valid to 30 June 2015.

Package includes: u u u u

2 nights' with YHA Nelson Tour of 2 wineries Tour of 2 breweries Transport including pick up/drop off at YHA Nelson

YHA NELSON u

+ 64 3 545 9988

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nelson@yha.co.nz

BOOK NOW

ACROSS THE DITCH DI FEATURE / NEW ZEALAND WORKING HOLIDAYS

JESSICA DAVIOT DIVES HEADFIRST INTO A WORKING HOLIDAY IN QUEENSTOWN, SHARING HER EXPERIENCE OF LANDING THE PERFECT JOB IN A PERFECT TOWN.

Swan dive from the Kawarau Bridge, Queenstown.

AJ Hackett: Bungy New Zealand

I NEVER DREAMED

of living anywhere but Melbourne until I visited Queenstown, New Zealand for my brother’s wedding. That visit planted the seeds for a year-long working holiday.

I was smitten with Queenstown. It was stunning and the vibe buzzed like Mardi Gras. After my brother’s I do’s at a local art gallery, I hit the road and travelled north for three weeks. As I explored Christchurch, Wellington, Rotorua and Auckland I couldn’t shake my impression of Queenstown.

After returning to Melbourne I tried to get back into the swing of my daily routine. I couldn’t. Without giving myself time for second guessing I quit my corporate job, bought a one-way ticket and said goodbye, for now, to my family and friends.

It was time to take a punt on something new.

Panic didn’t set in until I landed at the Queenstown airport. I panicked because I didn’t know how or where to find a job, or what kind of job to even look for. Then I needed to find a place to live and start to make new friends.

After settling in my hostel, I soon discovered a few avenues for job advertisements: Trade Me (like eBay), the local newspaper and hostel notice boards. There was no shortage of job opportunities and I soon found myself in an overwhelming pool of interviews.

I WAS SMITTEN WITH QUEENSTOWN. IT WAS STUNNING AND THE VIBE BUZZED LIKE MARDI GRAS.

Roadside rest, Lake Wakatipu.

Julian Apse

FIND A PLACE TO LIVE Landing in a new town can be daunting when you don’t have long term accommodation sorted. But don’t worry! Book your hostel for a week or so whilst you try to find permanent accommodation, settle in and scour these sites for tips and a long-term place to live: Trade Me is great for finding flatmates looking for flatmates.

Flatting is common in New Zealand and you can end up living with locals which means you might not need to buy furniture or appliances. trademe.co.nz Need to buy the odd piece of furniture? Trade Me has that too. trademe.co.nz Hostel noticeboards often display adverts for rooms to let which are usually posted by other travellers.

Flatting 101 offers plenty of resources so you can do your research before jumping into an agreement. dbh.govt.nz

But the Queenstown job market can be competitive because of the transient nature of the town. As much of a cliché as it sounds, I decided to just be myself and to find work that I would be happy doing.

That’s the key to a working holiday, isn’t it? Finding work you enjoy and that makes you happy.

My first interview was a job trial at an upmarket cocktail bar where they expected me to know the difference between a pinot noir and a pinot gris.

(I’d stated on my CV that I worked in a bar for five months in Melbourne, which wasn’t actually true.)

Within the next few days I had three more interviews and I was offered each job including the cocktail bar.

I was finding my feet!

Or so I thought. I chose the job that suited me best but it fell through within four weeks. My bank account groaned.

Back to square one.

It was a long shot but I sent my CV to YHA Queenstown. They hired me for reception and frontline sales. I was chuffed! This would be a dream job. Working in tourism in Queenstown meant I would be able to enjoy many of the tours and activities that travellers do, but I’d get to do them for free because it’s then easier to sell those tours and activities to guests. Queenstown is home of the adventure/adrenaline bucket list and I soon ticked off skydiving, bungy jumping (three times), white-water rafting and horse riding.

Everything was finally coming together.

NEWS

I was lucky even though my Queenstown lifestyle was significantly different than my Melbourne life. My income was almost half and my rent was more than double. Saving became a pipedream.

But I couldn’t put a price on adventure. I had an amazing job, I found an awesome house and I settled into the best group of friends I could ask for.

The only possible drawback to living in Queenstown was that it could be exhausting! There was always something going on. I might dance all night at a gig, do a pub crawl or go to a party at a friend’s house. It was always someone’s birthday, going away party or a tourism industry function. I often found myself out five nights a week and completely drained for the few days I had to myself. I guess that comes with the Queenstown lifestyle.

I found my feet in Queenstown and I learned a lot about myself in the process. I learned that I can keep working towards a goal and, no matter where I travel or choose to live, I can make things work by tackling challenges one at a time. And have fun along the way.

I’m settling back into Melbourne life now and my friends and family are glad of it. And so am I, but I do miss Queenstown so much already.

I might need to start making plans for another working holiday ...

The streets of Queenstown come alive after dark. iStock

THE ONLY POSSIBLE DRAWBACK TO LIVING IN QUEENSTOWN WAS THAT IT COULD BE EXHAUSTING! THERE WAS ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON.

Take a chairlift to the top of Bob's Peak to ride the luge track. iStock

TOP TIPS FOR A WORKING HOLIDAY Third-party agencies will offer to sort out the small stuff that’ll get you on your working holiday … for a fee! There’s really no need because if you take these steps, you’re on your way:

• Have two quality references (your most recent employer is a good idea) on hand who are contactable by email and phone.

• If you leave NZ before one year, or work less than 12 • Don’t sign that contract until months in a tax period, you you understand your rights! may be eligible for a refund. dol.govt.nz ird.govt.nz

• You’ll want to sign up for an IRD number, without one you’ll • Superannuation is be taxed at a higher rate. compulsory in Australia ird.govt.nz but optional in NZ. Decide if • Be sure to set up an NZ bank joining KiwiSaver is right for account. No need to do that you. Keep in mind that until you’re in NZ but bring two forms of ID. • When applying for jobs be upfront with the employer and let them know your intended or planned travel times.

KiwiSaver can be transferred to your Australian super later. kiwisaver.govt.nz

• And if you have any lingering questions about moving, living or working in NZ, newzealandnow.govt.nz offers info and tips to get you settled.

FIND A WORKING HOLIDAY JOB Australian citizens can work in New Zealand without needing a visa.

Plus there’s no limitation on how long they can stay. Landing a job for a working holiday can be quite the task. So get the ball rolling: YHA Careers lists vacancies in YHAs on both islands. Pining to work in Queenstown, Wellington, or anywhere else where there’s a YHA-managed hostel and there are no vacancies listed? Send your CV with cover letter outlining hostel of choice and intention to stay to: ◆ ◆ hr@yha.co.nz ◆ yhacareers.co.nz Trade Me Jobs lists thousands of full, part time or temp NZ jobs from office administration to hammerhands, hospo and tourism, flipping burgers, nannying or retail. It’s all here. trademe.co.nz

BOOK NOW

SEEK and you shall find on NZ’s #1 employment site! Set up an email notifications for the kind of jobs you’re after and they’ll be delivered to your inbox. seek.co.nz

WHERE TO STAY

SEEKVolunteer is for those who want to flex their philanthropic muscles by volunteering in humanitarian issues, arts, culture, animals, wellness and more. seekvolunteer.co.nz

If you want to follow in Jess’s footsteps in Queenstown, stay at one of the two YHAs whilst you get your working life organised:

Backpacker Board offers paid jobs, accom only and accom and food with jobs ranging from au pairs, dairy farm hands, gardening and baristas. backpackerboard.co.nz Seasonal Jobs helps travellers find work at short notice and for varying duration. From apple picking in Hawke’s Bay to cherries in Otago, hospo, writing or odd jobs in resort towns, cities and off the beaten track spots. seasonaljobs.co.nz CareersNZ curates a jobs database that includes job descriptions across industries, pay ranges, job opportunities and links to relevant/specialized recruitment sites. It also overviews the labour market and labour shortages, ie the current shortages in Auckland and Christchurch. careers.govt.nz

YHA QUEENSTOWN CENTRAL u +64 3 442 7400 u queenstown@yha.co.nz u yha.co.nz

WORKING HOLIDAYS FOR NON-AUSSIES Not an Aussie and you still want to come to New Zealand for a working holiday? You might just be in luck.

New Zealand has special working holiday agreements with over 40 countries from Uruguay to the United Kingdom to Slovakia to Italy and more. You just need to meet NZ’s health and character standards and be between 18 and 30 (35 in some instances) for the chance to travel and work in NZ on a 12-month working holiday visa. immigration.govt.nz

YHA QUEENSTOWN LAKEFRONT u +64 3 442 8413 u queenstown.lakefront@yha.co.nz u yha.co.nz

FEATURE / FREMANTLE

FREMANTLE HAVE YOU EVER SPEELED A DRUM, MET A SWAG CHOVEY BLOKE OR SAT DOWN TO A POT OF SKILLY? CONSIDER YOURSELF LUCKY, IT MEANS YOU WEREN’T ONE OF THE 9,925 CONVICTS THAT LEFT THEIR MARK ON THIS WESTERN AUSTRALIAN PORT CITY.

BY ALECIA HANCOCK.

FANCY A NIGHT IN PRISON? EXPERIENCE THE NEW AND UNIQUE FREMANTLE PRISON YHA

Fremantle's Fishing Boat Harbour.

Tourism Australia

WHILE IT

might have been chicken-stealing Brits deported in manacles that made Fremantle – quite literally, as convicts transported to Fremantle between 1850 and 1868 were put to work to build many of the historic buildings brick by brick – the city of today more than makes up for its less than law-abiding beginnings.

Located at the mouth of the Swan River, the former penal colony can be found at the end of three major highways and a railway line. Located just over 20 kilometres south of Western Australia’s capital city Perth, in the Fremantle of today you’re more likely to stroll past local ARIA-award winning musician John Butler Trio busking on the footpath than a swarthy cutthroat.

The pace in Freo, as it is affectionately known to locals, is noticeably slower than in its capital city cousin and is a natural home for artists, craftsman and the eco-conscious. Home to the longest running community festival in the country (the Fremantle Festival runs from 25 October to 8 November 2015), the city is bursting with art galleries, cultural centres and clubs and pubs like the Norfolk Hotel, Mojos and Fly by Night Club where local musos perform live.

A large part of the city’s charm emanates from the melting pot of

Freo’s cappuccino strip. David Steele, Shutterstock

characters that come from being part of a port city. As you approach the city along the coast, there is little doubt Fremantle is still a working port.

Towers of commercial shipping containers loom over the road, before being hauled by crane to a waiting cargo ship.

The city also still has a huge commercial fishing fleet based here – make sure you pick up a serve of fish and chips freshly wrapped in white butchers paper, chances are the fish was still swimming that morning.

Cargo and fish aren’t the only thing arriving here by sea. Visit any one of the local pubs and clubs, and you’re likely to be queuing at the bar side-byside with a broad-shouldered American sailor, a guest from a south-east Asian cruise liner, and a typical local curly-haired surfer whose calves are still crusted with white beach sand.

There is also no shortage of great places to eat. You’ll find Indian restaurants alongside Turkish, and raw vegan restaurants vying for space with steakhouses. While fish and chips from the Fishing Boat Harbour is a must do, you’ll also find plenty of restaurants on the famous Cappuccino Strip who offer spicy local chilli mussels or authentic wood fired pizza.

Thousands of immigrants arrived in Fremantle from Europe during World War II, and our taste buds are the better for it.

Despite the still active port, there is still plenty of coast left for a thriving

Queen Mary leaving Fremantle Port.

Tourism WA

Port Beach, top, and The Roundhouse, bottom.

Tourism WA

surf culture. You’ll spot tourists who have never even seen the ocean before attempting to stand on a board for the first time, legs as shaky as a newborn foal, alongside tanned-skinned veterans. Look a bit further out and you might even be lucky enough to spot a whale breach the blue-green sea.

Even if you prefer the comfort of dry land, watching the sun set directly over the ocean is a sight everyone should experience at least once.

You can also experience the coast’s darker side with a visit to the local Shipwreck Galleries, where you can check out remains of ships torn to pieces on the harsh shoreline, dating back as far as 1629.

History buffs should also check out the ironically named The Roundhouse – it is actually an octagon – it is the oldest building in Western Australia, and was originally used in the 1800s as a police lock-up.

While the convict’s mark will be forever on Fremantle, there is little doubt there is plenty to see, do, drink and eat in Fremantle whether you’re in town for a day or a week.

5 THINGS TO DO IN FREMANTLE

1

Fremantle Prison Daring escapes, notorious criminals and a visit to the eerie gallows are all part of a visit to Australia’s largest and most intact convict-built prison. Entry to the gatehouse is free, but prison tours (from $20) are worth the cash.

2

Fremantle Markets The smells of fresh baked bread, herbs and spices, and worked leather and wood greet you on arrival. Take the time to wander and enjoy the live music and explore the local wares from handcrafted didgeridoos to oneof-a-kind jewellery and tasty

3

WA Maritime Museum Explore boats from the city’s history from a pearl lugger to a submarine and America’s Cup winning yacht Australia II. Entry is $10 ($5 student concession), but on the second Tuesday of each month you’ll only pay a gold coin donation. treats. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

4

Little Creatures There’s something particularly special about sipping a cold beer actually made in the building you’re sitting in. Grab a few friends, a wood fired pizza and a pint of pale ale and kick back. Jump on one of the daily brewery tours at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm everyday and see where the magic happens.

5

Rottnest If you’re going to splurge on one thing during your stay in Fremantle, make it a day trip to Rottnest Island. Departing from the B-shed or Northport several times a day, one day tickets are $16.50 each way with Rottnest Express. Hire a bike, and spend the day exploring.

FREMANTLE PRISON YHA Imagine living in a room not much larger than a toilet, where the only creature comforts are a hammock, small desk and chair, and a bucket.

This was the fate for the residents of the Fremantle Women’s Prison, opened in 1889 (the first toilets were only installed in 1922) until it was closed in 1970 amid riots and growing concerns about prisoner conditions.

Today, it feels like there is a bathroom or shower on every corner, and while the cells remain, they are now double the size and available to hire by the night as one of Australia’s most unique backpacker accommodations.

Transformed by YHA, the former prison block now has Wifi; a communal kitchen bursting with pantry storage, vending machines, spotless new fridges and six sets of hot plates; and plans for outdoor table tennis, a

grass volleyball court and a giant projector screen for moonlight movie nights.

Even with the addition of some creature comforts, the history of the building is very much alive and well within the confines of the impossibly high limestone walls. Internal walls have been painted in their original colours, wooden floors lovingly restored, and ancient fireplaces and stoves still appear in some of the share rooms.

Fremantle Prison YHA manager Sean Stahlhut, who recently moved to Perth after managing a New Zealand YHA, says he loves the mix of new and old.

“Everything is brand new like the beds, and the facilities, but there’s also this amazing educational experience you can have here. You can stay at the prison, visit the prison, and really live that experience.

“I went on a tour of the prison and was amazed by the information. Not just the convict history, but also modern history, I think few people realise it only closed in 1991.”

Guests can sleep in one of the actual prison cells or grab a room in an additional purpose-built block of private rooms with ensuite.

In a city with limited budget accommodation, a cell bed in this new hostel will start from $29 per person. Private rooms start from $120 and a fully self-contained cottage (just next to the main prison) will be on offer from $280 per night.

WHERE TO STAY FREMANTLE PRISON YHA u fremantle@yha.com.au u

yha.com.au

FEATURE / EUROPEAN STREET ART

Banksy’s Mild Mild West wall in Bristol.

Steve McKenna

S ’ E P URO

T E E R ST T AR E

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WHILE THE UFFIZI, THE LOUVRE AND THE STATE HERMITAGE HOUSE SOME OF EUROPE'S ART TREASURES, STEVE MCKENNA DISCOVERS THAT THERE'S A WEALTH OF ART TO BE SEEN ON THE STREET.

BERLIN

BRISTOL BRUSSELS

BRATISLAVA

PORTO VALENCIA

ART LOVERS

have traditionally flocked to the Old Continent to peruse the famous galleries: the likes of the Uffizi, the Louvre and the State Hermitage. Long queues still snake into these cultural juggernauts, but thought-provoking art is increasingly flooding out onto the streets. Across Europe, you’ll see a feast of eye-catching open-air murals and sculptures from both up-and-coming artists and established names, with a kaleidoscope of themes and issues explored, from the hard-hitting and political to the satirical and light-hearted.

Here are some of the best places in which to get your street-art fix (and some amazing travel snaps).

Bristol's streets are awash with colour.

Steve McKenna

BRISTOL

Banksy, arguably the world’s most renowned ‘guerrilla’ artist, hails from this buzzing port city, which touts itself as ‘The Street Art Capital of the UK’. Led by creative souls, the Bristol Street Art tour traces Banksy’s Bristolian roots and points out some of his local calling cards (including his iconic ‘Mild Mild West’ mural which features a teddy bear throwing a Molotov cocktail at three riot policemen). You’ll also see how artists from Bristol and beyond have helped breathe new life into formerly rundown parts of town. Billed as the country’s most ambitious permanent street art scheme, the See No Evil project on Nelson Street flaunts a colourful array of murals alongside a cluster of trendy bars, cafes and social hangouts.

Shutterstock

Small stencil art to large murals spanning five levels. Steve McKenna

Steve McKenna, Shutterstock

FIVE OTHER STREET ART HOTSPOTS

1

LONDON - The everevolving East End is the epicentre of the British capital’s cutting-edge street art scene, with the borough of Hackney awash with colourful murals.

2

PARIS - Edgy graffiti is dispersed across the City of Love’s 20 arrondissements, especially in the districts of Menilmontant, Belleville and Oberkampf.

3

FLORENCE - Away from the gems of Renaissance Florence, you’ll find a plethora of quirky art, most notably street signs that have been modified with cheeky stickers.

4

GRANADA - The sublime Alhambra palace hogs travellers’ attention, but Granada has heaps of surreal modern murals which sport witty Spanish aphorisms.

5

BELFAST - The giant murals sprinkled across the Northern Ireland capital illustrate ‘the Troubles’, which dominated the city’s turbulent 20th century.

BERLIN

The East Side Gallery is high on the list of ‘must-see’ sights for many Berlin-bound travellers. Stretching 1.3km, it’s the longest remaining part of the barrier that once divided the German capital; with over 100 artists from 21 different countries daubing a vivid montage of surreal images, political statements and graffiti tags. Some find the wall too ‘touristy’ these days, though, and prefer getting lost amid the constantly changing, street-art-splattered district of FriedrichshainKreuzberg, a hip and happening enclave where artistic types love to tread.

For expert guidance, Alternative Berlin arranges guided street art walks, plus workshops that give you a chance to learn - and try out - spray-painting and stencilling techniques.

VALENCIA

Steve McKenna

Madrid may have Spain’s leading art museums, including the magnificent Prado, whilst Barcelona has spawned the mesmerising talents of Antoni Gaudi and Joan Miro, but the country’s third largest city isn’t short of artistic prowess either. Valencia’s much-heralded street art scene is concentrated around the labyrinth-like alleys of Barrio del Carmen, a bohemian neighbourhood just west of the city’s increasingly-polished ancient core.

You’ll struggle to turn a corner without seeing a cartoonish medley, with displays celebrating the delights of paella - Valencia is the birthplace of this iconic dish - and fiery slogans castigating government policies. The Valencia province was one of the hardest hit by Spain’s lingering recession, with a spike in youth unemployment contributing to the rise in graffiti merchants.

A blank building wall or alleyway is hard to find in colourful Valencia. Steve McKenna

Steve McKenna, Shutterstock

PORTO

Tumbling down to the Douro River, upon whose banks stand a raft of Port wine warehouses, is one of Europe’s most atmospheric old quarters.

Ambling through this hilly warren of cobbled streets, you’ll see laundry fluttering from wrought-iron balconies, mosaics of azulejos (painted tiles) clinging to crumbling apartments and churches, and an assortment of characters going about their daily business (think: old ladies sweeping outside their front doors, kids in Cristiano Ronaldo jerseys booting footballs around, and, increasingly, artists decorating walls, abandoned buildings and shop shutters). Porto’s greatest collection of graffiti, however, can be found a 15-minute stroll inland, on Rua Miguel Bombarda - a cool stretch lined with second-hand shops, fashion boutiques, bookstores and bars.

Shutterstock

BRATISLAVA

Peeping out from a manhole cover on a bustling pedestrian street in Bratislava’s quaint old town, the smirking figure of Cumil is the most photographed in a string of bronze sculptures peppered across the Slovakian capital. Local folklore says it is good luck to rub the ball on the top of Cumil’s hat. An 80-minute train ride from Vienna, Bratislava also boasts an impressive array of open-air murals, including a batch painted by artists who attended the 2014 Bratislava Street Art Festival. Prolific Italian spray-painter Alice Pasquini is among those to have left their mark on Tovarenska Street, just outside the old town, 500m from the River Danube.

FIVE ARTISTICALLY -MINDED HI HOSTELS

1

BE HOSTELS SOUND, BARCELONA - Five minutes' walk from Gaudi's Palau Guell mansion, this vibrant hostel was decorated by a team of Spanish artists.

2

ZIG ZAG HOSTEL, KIEV - Local craftsmen have worked their magic on this intimate, arty establishment at the heart of the Ukrainian capital.

3

LOCATION HOSTEL LIGOVSKY, ST PETERSBURG - Part of the Loft Project Etagi cultural space, this popular hostel shoulders galleries, boutiques and a hip cafe in a former bread production plant.

BRUSSELS

Once you’ve finished marvelling at the Grand Place, one of Europe’s most opulent central squares, delve into the gritty inner-city backstreets of Brussels, where the adventures of Asterix, Tintin and other cartoon characters are told in vivid fashion on over 50 walls and gables. On the self-guided Comic Strip Trail (get a map from visitbrussels.be) you’ll pass the Belgian Comic Strip Center, which chronicles the history of pioneering Belgian comics in an Art Nouveau-style building. In recent years, Brussels’ comic frescoes have been complemented by funky murals concocted by the likes of Bonom, whose painted skeletons and animals (such as foxes, octopuses, giant spiders, whales and buffaloes) will have you clicking away with glee.

4

HOSTEL TRESOR, LJUBLJANA - Temporary art exhibitions are held inside this smart backpackers, which occupies a former bank in the snug Slovenian capital.

5

DANHOSTEL CITY, COPENHAGEN - Housed in an old trade union headquarters, this canal-side hostel is a picture of slick Danish design.

Steve McKenna, Shutterstock

FEATURE / NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

Stunning

STRADDIE

Shutterstock

◆

CORINA ADAMS REVEALS ONE OF QUEENSLAND’S LESS WELL KNOWN ISLAND PARADISES.

AUTUMN

in Queensland is jealousy considered summer by most of Australia’s more southern cities.

I don’t like to brag, but they are right. With average temperatures in the south eastern corner of the state a balmy 26 degrees in April, it is the perfect time to get out and experience the great outdoors. Chatting to the locals in Brisbane you may hear about North Stradbroke Island being a favoured escape. It is right on our doorstep, easy to get to and laid back. Surprisingly it has managed to avoid too much commercialism and retains its natural beauty which is what we love about it.

Pack your thongs and swimmers and little else. ‘Straddie’ is the second largest sand island in the world, after the more well-known Fraser Island further north. This means beaches galore and plenty of natural bushland to explore. The main ‘resort town’ on the island is Point Lookout which is on the ‘surf side’ of the island where the gorgeous white sandy beaches are.

The island is also rather well-known for its fantastic whale viewing opportunities available from the North Gorge Headland at Point Lookout, Queensland’s most easterly point. From around May to October each year thousands of humpback whales can be spotted on their annual migration along the New South Wales and Queensland

‘STRADDIE’ IS THE SECOND LARGEST SAND ISLAND IN THE WORLD...

THIS MEANS BEACHES GALORE AND PLENTY OF NATURAL BUSHLAND TO EXPLORE.

Turquoise waters and white sand stretch for miles on the North Stradbroke's Main Beach, and Home Beach, left. Corina Adams

coast. There is a nice and easy 1km walk around the headland which provides fantastic opportunities to see the whales along with turtles, dolphins, manta rays, birds and spectacular views down to Main Beach.

Back to the beaches. Straddie has stunning beaches, spanning from Amity Point, a smaller fishing village, to Main Beach which starts at Point Lookout and stretches for 32 glorious kilometres. There is ample space for relaxing, soaking up the sun, long walks along the beach, surfing and more surfing! Main Beach and Cylinder Beach offer the best surfing conditions and if you don’t have your own board, you can hire one, or if you don’t know how to surf, you can learn! Main Beach and Cylinder Beach are both patrolled. No excuses for not getting in the water, even if you’re not surfing.

My favourite thing to do during my visits to Straddie, aside from kicking back on the sand, is scuba diving. The waters are teaming with life … grey nurse sharks, whales, dolphins, turtles and there is even a spot called Manta Ray Bombie, which says it all. These delights are

Top to bottom: Stradbroke Gorge (top and centre), Cylinder Beach, snorkelling on Straddie. Tourism Qld, YHA

located a short 15 minute boat trip from Adder Beach. If you are not a certified diver, you can take a ‘learn to dive’ course, or do a ‘discover dive’. Or snorkel instead. Again, no excuses!

There is fun to be had away from the beach too with 4WD tours exploring some great tracks through the middle of the island. Take a refreshing dip in Blue Lake or Brown Lake and maybe even some beach driving.

There is so much to do on Straddie … sandboarding, kayaking and fishing are also on the menu, or just stick with enjoying the sunshine, sand and sea.

Main Beach, above, divers are rewarded with a world of marine life in the waters off North Stradbroke.

Corina Adams, Manta Ray Lodge YHA

STRADBROKE ISLAND SPECIALS Make the most of a trip to Straddie with these options based at the YHA which is also Straddie’s leading Dive Centre:

- April), humpback whales (June - October), pods of dolphins and endangered loggerhead turtles all year round.

Straddie Snorkelling and Ocean Rafting Package Get up close and personal with Stradbroke Island’s colourful marine life and amazing beaches with an ocean rafting snorkelling tour from the YHA. It includes heading out on a purpose-built NAIAD rigid inflatable boat across pristine ocean, where you may see manta rays (November

Package includes: ◆ 2 nights accommodation at Manta Lodge YHA ◆ Straddie Ocean Rafting and Snorkelling Tour ◆ Return water taxi tickets to North Stradbroke Island

2 Day Dive Course Learn to dive. Package includes: ◆ 1 pool session ◆ 4 ocean boat dives ◆ All dive equipment hire ◆ PADI open water certification upon completion of course ◆ 2 nights shared beachfront multi-share accommodation (upgrade available) ◆ Discounts on all dive gear in our shop

From $160 per person for 2 nights. From $599 per person.

Valid until 31 March 2016.

Valid until 31 March 2016.

Book direct to (07) 3409 8888.

INTERESTING FACTS Some interesting facts on this lovely, relatively unknown gem: ◆ North Stradbroke Island is located just 30km southeast of Brisbane, in Moreton Bay, and is accessible by vehicle or passenger ferries. ◆ The island is 38km in length, 11 km wide and is the second largest sand island in the world. ◆ The North Gorge Headland at Point Lookout is the most easterly point in Queensland and is known as one of the best whale watching spots in Australia ◆ There are approximately 2000 permanent residents living on North Stradbroke Island and they are very focused on keeping the island in its natural state.

WHERE TO STAY MANTA LODGE YHA & SCUBA CENTRE ◆ (+617) 3409 8888 The sun sets on another perfect day on 'Straddie'.

Tourism Queensland

◆ stradbrokeisland@yha.com.au ◆ yha.com.au

BOOK NOW

Shutterstock

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

VIVID SYDNEY 22 May – 8 June 2015

N SW

Don’t miss the largest celebration of light, music and ideas in the Southern Hemisphere with the return of Vivid Sydney in 2015.

Experience Sydney’s stunning transformation as part of Vivid LIGHT, with dazzling water and laser shows at Darling Harbour, massive 3D projections on iconic buildings, and interactive light and art sculptures throughout the city.

Vivid LIVE is the highlight of the Sydney Opera House’s year-round contemporary music program, as some of the most influential and ambitious names in popular music takeover the Opera House. This year Vivid LIVE welcomes Morrissey, Sufjan Stevens, Daniel Johns, TV on the Radio and many more.

Vivid Sydney also includes Vivid IDEAS, bringing together creative leaders and businesses from a wide range of innovative and imaginative sectors BOOK BOOK including technology, design, architecture, film, visual art, performance, NOW NOW advertising, marketing, animation, VFX, lighting and events. vividsydney.com.

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Take advantage of Sydney Harbour YHA’s City Break package

NZ MUSIC MONTH 1 - 31 May 2015

NZ

Music lovers unite! Every year New Zealand celebrates 31 days of homegrown musical talent across the length and breadth of the country. Roots, reggae, soul, rock, country, classical, blues, dream-pop, and folk… NZ musicians are writing, rocking and performing. Get in on the action and get to some of the hundreds of gigs (many of them free) around the country to make new musical discoveries and to get psyched about your faves from the past. Hear it right! Hear it live. nzmusicmonth.co.nz.

BOOK

NOW

Stay at YHA New Zealand

FILM FESTIVALS

NZ

Get ready to laugh, reflect, cheer and get the heart racing at some of New Zealand’s top-notch film festivals to satisfy extreme sports addicts, documentary junkies and culture mongers. Choose from these festival favourites that cover the gamut: BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL

2 May – 3 June 2015 Hot on the heels of Canada’s Banff Mountain Film Festival, the New Zealand festival tour lands audiences up-close and personal in exotic landscapes with remote cultures and adrenaline-fuelled adventure. banff.nz DOCUMENTARY EDGE FESTIVAL

21 May – 14 June 2015 Australasia’s premiere international documentary film festival guarantees you’ll learn something new. documentaryedge.org.nz

ARROWTOWN AUTUMN FESTIVAL 10 - 19 April 2015 Planting the hillsides around Arrowtown with deciduous trees in the early gold rush days means that these days the historic town is New Zealand’s top spot for blazing yellow, red and orange autumn foliage. And there’s a festival to celebrate it all! Join in on the pub to pub challenge, a Pie and Pint Festival (complete with gourmet pies and boutique brews), a market day, street parade, art exhibition and live music topped off with the swanky Gold Panning Championships on the banks of the Arrow River. arrowtownautumnfestival.org.nz

MAORI FILM FESTIVAL

29 May – 1 June 2015 Maori-made, Maori-themed short films explore and celebrate indigenous cultural issues of Aotearoa as well as highlight the beauty of historically rich locations as far north as the forested Hokianga and at geothermally significant BOOK Rotorua. Haere mai! kiaora.tv

NOW

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Stay at YHA New Zealand

Stay at YHA Queenstown or YHA Wanaka

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Destination Queenstown

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Anywhere Festival is an internationally acclaimed festival exploring the nooks and crannies with performances of theatre, dance, music, spoken word and much more. In May, Anywhere Festival moves to the nooks and crannies of Brisbane.

Brisbane’s biggest and most exciting festival of performance will feature over 400 performances of 60 different productions. Don’t miss critically acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe shows from local performance poet Scott Wings, catch the 15-hour overnight show ‘Last Drinks Before the Apocalypse’

by Josh Donellan, or see sell-out trickster magic ‘Turing Tricks 2’ in an outer suburban warehouse, and loads more. anywherefest.com u u u

Stay at Surfers Paradise YHA +61 7 5571 1776 surfersparadise@yha.com.au

QLD

PORT DOUGLAS CARNIVALE 22 - 31 May 2015 Taste, watch, paddle, dance, eat, play and celebrate Port Douglas Carnivale’s 21st.

Australia’s favourite food and lifestyle festival celebrates everything wonderful, delicious and quirky about tropical North Australia. This 10-day festival kicks off with the the Longest Lunch, a decadent three-course lunch on the Port Douglas waterfront, before seguing into the night with a vibrant street parade, floats, lights and music. Foodies will get their fix at Palates of Port, Zinc Chandon Lunch and the Seafood Extravaganza and actionlovers will cheer for the Japanese horseback archery tournament, Yabusame, on Four Mile Beach and for the first official World Racing Motorised cooler (esky, chillybin) Championships held at the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. carnivale.com.au

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Stay at Port Douglas YHA +61 7 3236 1004 brisbanecity@yha.com.au

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Port Douglas Festival

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QLD Anywhere Festival

ANYWHERE FESTIVAL 7 - 24 May 2015

VI C

GOOD BEER WEEK 16 – 24 May 2015

Good Beer Week returns to Australia’s beer capital for an out-and-out celebration of the local and international craft beer scene. With 250 events across more than 180 venues in Melbourne and Victoria, Good Beer Week 2015 is rightfully retaining its crown as “the best beer week in the world”. The diverse program unfolds over nine days with brewers from five continents coming together to share all things craft beer. Celebrate Good Beer Week’s 5th anniversary with quirky venues, stand-up comedy, live music, food pairing and of course the very finest craft brews from around the world! goodbeerweek.com.au

VI C

GREAT OCEAN ROAD MARATHON 16 - 17 May 2015

Set on the iconic Great Ocean Road, this marathon is one of the world's most visually spectacular runs.

With panoramic views of the Southern Ocean and national forest this run attracts participants from across Australia and around the world to take part in one of the six events across a range of distances, from 1.5km through to 44km. This event offers you the opportunity to experience the Great Ocean Road like never before, pounding the pavement without a car in sight, enjoying breathtaking views and if you’re lucky, possibly seeing a koala or two! greatoceanroadmarathon.com.au

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Stay at Apollo Bay YHA +61 3 5237 7899 apollobay@yha.co.au

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Beer and the Beast Julia Wong

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Stay at Melbourne Metro YHA or Melbourne Central YHA

KIMBERLEY MOON EXPERIENCE 23 May 2015

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WA

Set on the banks of the Ord River, the Kimberley Moon Experience is the highlight of the Ord Valley Muster (ten days of events showcasing the Kimberley region).

This year’s line-up includes The Living End, Dan Sultan, The Whitlams and Megan Washington.

Kimberley Croc YHA Kununurra has a great deal during the muster, stay 3 nights, but only pay for two (multi-share). Tickets to the Moon Experience can be purchased at ordvalleymuster.com.au

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Stay at Kimberley Croc YHA +61 8 9168 2702 kununurra@yha.com.au

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N SW

ANZAC DAY 25 April 2015

CANBERRA Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings, don’t miss what is expected to be the largest national Anzac Day ceremony to date, held at the Australian War Memorial. Canberra City YHA is your perfect stay in town if you’re taking part in the Gallipoli Dawn Service or experiencing many of the free Centenary projects happening at the Australian War Memorial that are within walking distance from the hostel. awm.gov.au SYDNEY If you’re in Sydney for the Centenary then be sure to take part in the annual Anzac Day March where thousands of people will line the streets to pay tribute to servicemen and women, past and present.

The march will start at 9am on the corner of Pitt Street and Martin Place and will journey through George and Bathurst Streets, before ending at Elizabeth Street opposite Hyde Park. The parade will conclude at approximately 12:30pm, and a commemoration service will be held next to The Pool of Remembrance at the ANZAC War Memorial in Hyde Park South. veterans.nsw.gov.au

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Stay at our Sydney YHAs or Canberra YHA

More than a mere food and wine festival, Kangaroo Island FEASTival sets the table for a week, making the most of the island’s scenery and superior produce by way of gastronomic celebration. Degustation, interactive cooking displays, table surfing, home cooked meals in private homes, popup and wilderness events, meet the maker soirees, and even an enchanted garden are all on the menu. tourkangarooisland.com.au

11TH ANNUAL SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL 20 April - 17 May 2015 Stay Sydney Central YHA

ILLUMINATE: WHEN WE GO TO WAR 22 April - 25 April Stay YHA Auckland City

LANGHORNE CREEK WINE SHOW TASTING 3 May 2015 Stay Adelaide Central YHA

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SA

kangaroo Island Festival

KANGAROO ISLAND FEASTIVAL 1 - 8 May 2015

MORE EVENTS

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Kangaroo Island YHA 61 8 8553 1344 kangarooisland@yha.com.au

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BACKPACKER / ESSENTIALS

YHA.COM.AU YHA.CO.NZ NEXT ISSUE AVAILABLE 4 JUNE 2015