Updated in November 2009
Sydney Harbour YHA rocks The Rocks
By Emma Gregg, author of The Rough Guide to East Coast Australia
A brand new backpackers’ hostel in the heart of Australia’s most exciting city is offering Sydney Opera House views for a song.
Is it close to the action?
You can’t get much closer: it’s just a five minute walk from Circular Quay. Several of the rooms have Opera House views, but even if you don’t manage to bag one of those, you’ll be blown away by the communal rooftop terrace with its sparkling harbour panorama.
Will I like the atmosphere?
Sydney’s YHA team have pulled out the stops to make their newest hostel a great place to hang out. According to manager Ross Lardner, its communal areas have been carefully designed “to encourage guests to mingle and share stories from their travels.”
So far, guests have been full of praise. One commented: “Facilities like no other backpackers I’ve stayed at. Absolutely loved it!” Another added: “This is surely the best YHA in the world.”
What’s on offer?
Budget accommodation in twin, double and family rooms, plus four-to-six-bed shared rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and individual lockable cupboards with power points, so you can safely stash your gear and recharge your gadgets. Shared guest facilities include a self-catering kitchen, dining area and lounge, laundry rooms, internet cafe, coffee bar, cycle storage, tour booking desk and convenience store.
And the price tag?
With rates starting at A$42 per person for a bed in a six-person room and A$159 per room for a double or twin, YHA Sydney Harbour is among the best accommodation bargains in The Rocks, one of Sydney’s most popular districts.
Do I have to be a YHA member?
No, but members benefit from discounted rates (from A$37.50 per night for a bed in a six-person shared room).
Online bookings for Sydney Harbour YHA and other YHA Australia hostels: www.yha.com.au
Further information about Sydney Harbour YHA: www.sydneyharbouryha.com.au
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© Emma Gregg. All rights reserved.