Byron Bay is a seaside town known for it's surfing and its sixties vibe. It is very chilled out here and exactly what you need after the hustle and bustle of city life in Sydney. 

The Beach

I mean this is an obvious one but you need to go to the beach. There are several in Byron and they are all really nice. One thing I will say about Australia is that their beaches are always pristine- no rubbish etc.

Surfing Lesson 

We booked to do a surf lesson because whilst in Rome! I wasn't exactly optimistic about my chances to become a surf superstar but needed to check it out before I counted myself completely out! 

We decided to do our lesson with Mojo Surf. Often you can book the lessons through your hostel but also through the mojo website. They pick you up from your hostel and away you go. 

What I liked about Mojo is that you are taken to quite a remote beach- therefore no one can laugh at your skills! Plus it is safer then having everyone trying to surf/swim. 

First you get in to your wetsuit top and go through the dangers of surfing. Then you perfect your standing technique and stance whilst on the board. There is a lot of info to take in at first but it does slowly click. 

In the water, the instructors help you as much as you can but you also have some time to practice by yourself. There were 3 or 4 instructors and we could have benefitted from one more but I wouldn't have wanted too many more than that because I personally liked being able to go and do my own thing. 

I managed to stand up on my first attempt and surfed to shore once or twice so although not a surfing superstar a victory nevertheless. 

You could buy photos of you surfing Alfie $20 but I would recommend looking at the pictures before purchasing! 

Despite ending the session, covered in bruises and worn out, I am so glad I did it! 

Lighthouse Walk 

It was recommended that we walk to the lighthouse at either sunrise or sunset to be able to get the best views of Byron. We found out our hostel were organising a free walk at sunset so thought we would check it out. Although the walk starts on the beach, I would recommend leaving your flip flops at home and wearing some sturdier footwear. The walk takes about an hour, with plenty of opportunities to get some amazing pictures of Byron along the way. On the walk you also pass the most easterly point of Australia. When we finally made it to the top, the sunset was slightly disappointing because it was cloudy but still worthwhile. 

At this point, everyone in our walking group had split of to get pictures etc. Once we had finished, we looked around and couldn't see anyone from our group. This led to us having to walk across the beach in the dark but in the process we did see a wild kangaroo! Poor organisation from the hostel worker who organised it, who apologised after and assured us that they had all looked for us before getting a lift back to the hostel-YEAH RIGHT! 

Apologies for the awful photo- they are so quick my little camera could nor handle it!

Eco Market 

I don't know if this is a weekly occurrence but on the Saturday (Valentines Day no less) we stayed in Byron we caught an eco market-packed full with food, jewellery and clothes stores! There was even the opportunity to get a massage if you wanted one. There was live music and it was such a chilled out way to start the evening. 

23 Hour Bakery 

Open 23 hours a day-nobody seems to know which hour they are closed but let me tell you this is a must visit whilst in Byron. We sampled a vanilla cream cupcake and a snickers slice. The cupcake was a dream- light, fluffy, everything you want and need in a cupcake! The snickers slice however was even better. Similar to a millionaire shortbread, there was a biscuit base combined with nuts, slathered in thick caramel, coated in chocolate a dropped with a mini snickers. If that does not tantalise your tastebuds I don't know what will. My sweet tooth was going crazy! 

Cheeky Monkeys 

I am not going to lie, we ended up here by complete mistake...

Whilst we were exploring what Byron Bay had to offer, we were given a card that gave us a free entree size bowl of pasta. As a backpacker on a budget, this seemed ideal so we went along to give it a go. Once we arrived, we realised they were not lying about the entree size of the pasta but free is free. 

We were leaving to carry on with the rest of the evening when the club/bar/restaurant manager came over to us and told us that from 9oclock they would be giving away free champagne because it was valentines. We hadn't had anything else planned so we thought why not give it a go! We came back and after a few glasses of champagne later- life was good. We were then given even more free drinks vouchers from a member of staff- life is getting even better! Wait, that isn't the end of our fabulous free night, one of the bar tenders who is also the mc and oh so fabulous then gave us a few rounds of cocktails for free as well. 

The music is good here and it's busy most days of the week. Be careful in Byron though because police are very strict here on the alcohol rules. 

Woodys 

So if you stay at Backpackers Inn, you get free entry and a drink to Woodys on a Monday. We were planning to go out so thought we may aswell go with the crowd. The only thing is you have to leave the common areas of the hostel by 10:30...not ideal. So we went got the stamp and came back and predrunk some more! I ended up having s really good night here but that may be the goon talking...

Whatever you plan on doing in Byron you are going to have an amazing and really chilled out time!

Imogen xoxo

Byron Bay Hostel Review

BACKPACKERS INN

We were recommended this hostel by Base Travel, so thought we would check it out. 

Facilities 

This hostel did not provide wifi, surprise surprise. We didn't purchase any because they were charging $10 per day which is extortionate. Especially when you compare it to Sydney which cost $4 per day and had deals for longer periods of time. One of our room mates did purchase the wifi and said the signal was really bad on it. For those who would not bother to purchase the wifi, there are loads of hotspots in town plus a lot of the travel stores will let you use their wifi. Also, a lot of them will allow you to use their stores to sort out your greyhound buses etc.

The reception is not 24hour but if you are traveling on the greyhound you will be picked up from the station and checked in from there. Plus you need to use a code to get in to the hostel at night-not bad security. 

There is a beach volley ball court in the back yard area and also a pool-although this is small. 

The kitchen they provide is good and there are plenty of hobs available to cook and plenty of fridge space. They also have a free food box which travellers often leave items for others when they move on. To use cutlery and crockery you have to give a deposit which is quite common apparently across Australian hostels. 

Every night they put on different events including walks to the lighthouse, outdoor cinema, vip to clubs and free drinks. 

Breakfast 

Breakfast is not included at this hostel. 

Showers and Toilets

Both facilities are highlighted by green doors and there are several on each level which are divided in to gender. I would say they could benefit from a few more showers but with regards to cleanliness nothing to complain about. 

Staff

I am split on this one because although staff can be friendly there is a group of workers that are very cliquey and aren't necessarily welcoming to guests. Whilst working they aren't necessarily rude but they aren't inviting either. 

Value for Money 

This hostel isn't the cheapest but it isn't the most expensive either. The issue with Byron is you are paying Sydney prices but not getting Sydney facilities. 

Dorms 

Dorms were a lot smaller here. We were in a dorm of 4 which was very relaxed. There were plenty of plugs and lockers in the rooms. The room keys were abit old and we had to change ours in the end because it just wasn't working. 

Despite being for less people the dorms were of a decent size. In fact, in other hostels there probably would have been an additional set of bunk beds in there. 

Location 

This hostel is the only hostel right on the beach and I think that it's biggest selling point. Don't get me wrong, it's a small place you are never far from the beach but it it nice to know that it is on your doorstep. 

OVERALL

The hostel was nice and we did meet some nice people here. The wifi situation just wasn't on though. 

Imogen xoxo 

So after a mammoth journey, I finally arrived down under! 

Circular Quay, Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House 

So after finally getting over the jet lag we thought we should get our bearings a bit better. What better way to explore a city than on foot? We walked from our hostel on Kent Street towards Circular Quay and the Harbour Bridge. We were lucky it was such a good day to soak up the sights of Sydney in the sunshine. We walked over the bridge to see across Sydney and the harbour itself and the views are phenomenal. Here is a great place to get those postcard photo moments that you dreamed of! On exploring across the Harbour bridge we went to see the Sydney Opera House. It's worth checking out the surrounding bars and what events are in and around circular quay! 

Bondi Beach 

 A trip to Sydney would not be complete without a trip to Bondi! It's an amazing beach and it also has a grassy area if you don't fancy getting covered in sand. Be careful though because the cool breeze makes you unaware of how much you are actually tanning/burning -watch out! Supermarkets around here are even more extortionate than in the city so if you are going to get snacks etc, get them beforehand. 

 Manly Beach 

 To get to Manly from the city, you have to get the ferry. The views that you get on the boat of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are phenomenal especially if it's a good day. We actually went to Manly on the day of a surf competition, there were events going on all over the beach and with the music playing, the atmosphere was buzzing. Manly in general is such a gorgeous little sea side town. The corso is filled with shops-just incase you forgot your bikini and loads of eateries, varying in prices and style. 

View From The Ferry

 Coogee Beach 

 Not as well known as the infamous Bondi, Coogee beach is just as beautiful. We went on a Sunday and due to travel being capped on a Sunday with an opal card, the journey cost next to nothing! If you are staying in the city catch the 373 or 374 from Hyde Park and you will be on your way! Again, there is a grassy area with shade if you are not a sand sort of person! I would really recommend checking out Coogee and if you are feeling adventurous maybe try the coastal walk from Coogee to Bondi! 

 Hyde Park 

For when there are sunny days in the city but you don't fancy/don't have time to go to the beach, Hyde Park is your destination. There are several areas of the park you can relax in, with shaded areas for the less sun friendly! The park is also the perfect destination for a picnic and you can guarantee no sand side order like you would at the beach! The only down side of the park is that unlike the beach, the breeze is not as strong. 

Royal Botanic Gardens 

 I thought the Botanic Gardens were beautiful. There was an array of lovely flowers and foliage. Like Hyde Park, this is perfect for a picnic and with you being so close to the harbour, the view is phenomenal too! 

Government House 

 The opening times for Government house are between 10 and 4. We came just after so were unable to take a look inside but the building itself was really impressive. The security guard was helpful and also offered to take our photo with the sign! I would of loved to have come back and seen the property in all its glory but time did not permit! 

Museum of Contemporary Art 

So one day we were in Sydney and the day took a turn for the worst and was a bit grey. I never thought being grey would amount to negative weather-how times have changed ay! So we thought we would check out the art museum. It wasn't particularly art that I loved as I like portraits and landscapes but it was interesting and most importantly free! If you have limited time in Sydney, unless you are really in to contemporary art I would give it a miss. Although the building on the Circular Quay side does make a good photo! 

Cyren

I had difficulty placing this activity because it comprises of day time drinking! However, between 3 and 6 in the afternoon several bars on darling harbour so happy hour. We saw the advertisement as we were walking passed and thought it would be perfect. The offer includes $5 for champagne,bulmers cider on draught,, wine, bottled corona. Also, they offer a reduced food menu as well which includes pizza, salads and calamari. We liked that there was a bit of variety, plus the views of the harbour.

 Scubar

Close to YHA, a backpacker haunt through and through. It has cheap drinks with a bit of variance. For example I had a cheeky vimto rather than the no standard vodka mixer. This bar is free to get in to and has free wifi- in Australia this is gold dust!! 

 Sidebar

Well known amongst backpackers, Side Bar provides cheap drinks and a good time. The biggest night here is often a Monday. It's is free to get in and again if you download the base app you have $4 drinks until midnight-job done! 

 Scary Canary

Again, not 100% sure where to put this bar as it is open throughout the day but here we are. There are two happy hours at this place if you are staying at Base. The first is for everyone and is 4-6 whereas the second one is 8-10 and only for Base hostel residents. It is normally buzzing most nights however not on a Tuesday as we found out! 

 The Ivy 

I have heard this club be described as the best club in Australia! On a Thursday they have free entry and discounted drinks to appeal to the backpackers on a budget among us. The location is really amazing they even have a bar with a pool. Known to be a local celeb hangout aswell if you are in to this sort of thing. I had such a good night at The Ivy, the music was so good although get there early to avoid queues because this place will get packed! So pull on your gladrags and do your thing! 

 Establishment 

 This is owned by the same people that own the Ivy. It's got a really chilled out vibe and is quite similar to the Ivy. The music in here is good although a little repetitive. If you can get on guest list I would recommend it because like anywhere in Sydney on a Saturday nighty it can be a bit pricey!

 Darling Harbour Fireworks 

Every Saturday night, Darling Harbour puts on a firework display at 9 o'clock. It's worth getting there early so you can get a seat. It is synchronised to music and we were lucky enough to see the 'Month of Love' display. I would definitely recommend going along to see it, even if it's a pre event to your Saturday night festivities! Check out my Facebook page for video of the event: https://www.facebook.com/imogentravels

 The Argyle

Be sure to get to the Argyle before 10 especially on a weekend because they start to charge entry. This is quite a classy place so dress nicely! I must admit coming here made me regret not bringing heels with me- I know backpackers don't have space for heels but it is not the point! I managed to find a $10 discount card so drinks were a little bit cheaper. I would advise predrinks beforehand because like most of the establishments not aimed at backpackers, it can be quite pricey! Regardless of this we had such a good night and even managed to walk around the harbour before we came home. 

Visions of Vienna 

This was quite possibly the best thing we did in Sydney. I have always liked the idea of going to see an Opera at Sydney Opera House however travellers budgets don't always allow for that and also you need to coincide your trips with dates. We were lucky enough to see w poster in our hostel advertising the Visions of Vienna event. 

The event itself consisted of a light show that was projected on to the Opera House that you could watch from Campbell's Cove. Not only did the light show consist of artwork and photographs but also projections of the opera being performed. As well as this, they played the opera on speakers at the event. This event was FREE! In my opinion, the perfect opportunity to backpackers- check these events out or even if you miss out on tickets, check to see if anything like this is going on so you don't miss out completely! 

 Scary Canary 

 By staying at Base, Scary Canary was so convenient as it's just next door. They have several deals on throughout the week including free pasta on a Tuesday with the purchase of a drink, steak and mash for $7 on a Monday. Furthermore, if you download the Base app then you can get 20% of all main meals- I would recommend the steak! 

 Lentils

I was introduced to this adorable restaurant by a fellow traveller. Situated in Newtown it is slightly further out but it's definitely worth the train journey! The premise behind the restaurant is that you pay what you think the meal us worth. All meals are vegetarian; the selection is good with spaghetti marinara, a selection of curry dishes including a sublime coconut curry dish and a red bean soup. The restaurant is run by volunteers and the service is great. You can spot it easily because there is always a queue but you are seated quickly. This is a must to check out whilst in Sydney! 

 Sydney Fish Market 

This is a must! It is a 20 minute walk from the city centre but you can get the light rail if you don't fancy the walk. When you approach the fish market, don't judge by appearances because it does look like a random car park before you get closer. However, the quality of the food is amazing! We had a seafood platter from one of the sellers and it was amazing. The quality of the fresh fish to be taken away and cooked was unreal also and there was such a wide selection. Furthermore, the place itself is not that expensive- we shared a $15 seafood share platter and there was more than enough between us.

I absolutely love my time in Sydney. It is an amazing city with so much to offer and I can't wait to go back again! 

Love Imogen xoxo

BASE HOSTEL

It's all about that Base...

I was recommended this hostel by a friend but to be honest if you are staying in Sydney you are staying at Wake Up, YHA or Base. 

Facilities 

So a massive plus point of Base is that it has a nighclub/restaurant/bar attached which its residents gets deals for. Read my post all about getting Sassy in Sydney and you will find out more! 

Wifi is not included in the price here so if you want it you have to pay for it-apparently something that is common across hostels in Australia. Word of warning, wifi here isn't great, if you can survive without it, don't bother. There are slot of free Telstra hotspots around. I got the standard wifi and was fine although skyping is not great and I would often have to move around the hostel for the best wifi. 

They do have a 24 hour reception. After a certain time you also need your card to be able to get in and you need your card again to use the lift on the first floor and for the stairs also. So all in all not bad for security. 

They do have a large kitchen and food storage area. The cookers themselves aren't great but there are a lot of them. They also have a hot water tap which is perfect for pasta etc. Keep your food labelled though as they do carry out checks every so often. Good luck trying to find forks in this place, there's about 3! Try to avoid the kitchen at busy times of the evening (between half 6 and half 7) because you could find yourself waiting a while. Furthermore, don't bother just after the breakfast rush either because it can get in such a mess because some guests disregard signs about washing up after themselves...

Near reception, there is a travel and job search area. I didn't use the job search people as such but they have given me advice along the way. The travel people were really helpful and managed to do us a really good deal on all the activities up the east coast. Word of warning, you have to book this in advance, all the good activities get booked up really quick! 

Breakfast 

You can pay $6 for an all you can eat breakfast here but if I am honest it's not worth it. You are better cooking for yourself! 

Showers/Toilets 

As we stayed on several floors during our stay I would say the fourth floor has the best showers, followed by the third but the first floor showers were not great. All floors were clean though, so I can't complain too much. 

Staff 

There is no continuity here between the staff at times. We had a discount that we have used from their own app here and some people would allow us to process it over the desk whereas others would not. Overall staff are friendly and can help with directions etc although I would not say they go the extra mile. 

Value for Money 

It's Australia so everywhere is a bit pricey to stay. This is the cheapest out of the popular hostels though. Furthermore, if you download the base app then you an get a 15% discount on travel not only for this base but also the accommodation across Australia and New Zealand. If you are considering travelling up the east coast they do offer a base card which gives you reduced accommodation prices- check it out to see if it's worth it! Plus they include a discount with the greyhound pass which is the easiest way to travel down the East Coast unless you are road tripping it.

Dorms 

The best dorm I stayed in was definitely the fourth floor. It was quite big, had good wifi reception and wooden floors. The washing facilities were also the best on this floor. The worst room was the first floor room we were in. There was no natural light. The third floor room was okay, although not exactly big for the ten people staying in there. There weren't loads of plugs in any of the rooms and if there were they would normally only be on one side which was very annoying. The rooms need to be cleaned and hoovered more!!

Location 

Perfect city location, right around the corner from Town Hall Station. Everything is in reasonable walking distance with the furthest being the fish market. Transport to both Bondi and Coogee beach is good from this spot aswell. 

As a hostel they also offer to pay $15 for your airport shuttle which is one of the reasons we booked with them in the first place! 

OVERALL

I enjoyed my time here at base, it's the cheapest of the bunch and for Sydney is not bad value for money at all. 

Imogen xoxo