How to Find Cheap Hotels in Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, is among the fastest growing cities in Australia. This culturally diverse city is filled with Australian history. Its location is convenient to rainforests, diving and snorkeling.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access for making reservations

Understand Your Destination

1. Consider visiting in winter (which begins in June). The lovely, warm winters average 68 degrees F during the day. The average daytime summer temperatures, on the other hand, go as high as 104 degrees F, and high humidity is common.

2. Admire beautiful architecture that dates back to the 1800s, including Victorian terraces and Gothic-style structures.

3. Eat at an assortment of restaurants, enjoying everything from steaks to pasta to Greek and Japanese cuisine. Brisbane, Australia is a bustling metropolis with world-class cuisine.

Make Your Way to Brisbane, Australia

4. Arrive by plane at the Brisbane Airport, located 20 kilometers east of the city.

5. Take AirTrain for transportation between the airport and Central, Brunswick Street, Roma Street and South Bank locations until 7:30 p.m.

6. Travel by rail service for cheap transportation to and from Sydney and Queensland.

7. Rent a bicycle to easily get around the city.

8. Rent a car for cheap travel around the city and to surrounding areas. Just remember, Australians drive on the left side of the road.

9. Consider public transportation by bus, trains and ferries.

Stay in Affordable Accommodations

10. Live like a bohemian. Consider cheap accommodations in the West End to explore Brisbane's funky cultural district. Excellent restaurants, bars and dancing are near.

11. Shop for great deals. Cheap apartment and motel accommodations are available beginning as low as $40 AUS.

12. Stay in the arts and entertainment area to be within walking distance of major convention and performing arts activities.

13. Kick up your feet in one of nearly a half dozen youth hostels, where you'll find cheap digs and plenty of camaraderie.

14. To book accommodations, contact Brisbane Visitors Bureau at 011 ([phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources, below). If calling internationally but not from the United States or Canada, call 00 ([phone].

Tips & Warnings

• Know a toll of $2.50 is required to cross the Gateway Bridge between the airport and the town of Brisbane.
• Use taxis after the Airtrain stops at 7:30 p.m. for a shuttle to and from the airport.
• Telephone country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.
• Snap into your helmet: they're required for all bicyclists. The police will issue a fine for $75 AUS payable immediately for noncompliance.
• Refrain from long showers that waste water. Maintaining a fresh water supply is an ongoing challenge in this part of Australia.
• Be advised that physical activity may need to be adjusted because of the heat and high humidity.