Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Pubs
For the budget traveller, pubs ('hotels' that serve beer) are cheap, central options. Many
pubs were built during boom times, so they're often the largest, most extravagant build-
ings in town.
Costs
Pub singles/doubles with shared facilities start around $40/60, more if you want a
private bathroom. Few have a separate reception area - just ask at the bar.
Facilities
Some pubs have been restored as heritage buildings, but generally rooms re-
main small and old fashioned, with an amble down the hall to the bathroom. If you're a
light sleeper, avoid booking a room above the bar, and be aware that pub rooms don't al-
ways have air-con.
Rental Accommodation
Serviced apartments and holiday flats resemble motels but usually contain cooking facilit-
ies - good value for longer stays. This kind of accommodation is usually found in beachy
holiday areas, while you'll find serviced apartments in Darwin and Adelaide. In some holi-
day accommodation you provide your own sheets and bedding; others are fully equipped.
Customs Regulations
When entering Australia you can bring most articles in free of duty, provided customs is
satisfied they're for personal use and that you'll be taking them with you when you leave.
Duty-free per-adult quotas:
»
Alcohol
2.25L
»
Cigarettes
50
»
Dutiable goods
Up to the value of A$900
Narcotics, of course, are illegal, and customs inspectors and their highly trained hounds
are diligent in sniffing them out. Quarantine regulations are strict, so you must declare all
goods of animal or vegetable origin - wooden spoons, straw hats, the lot. Fresh food, par-
ticularly meat, cheese, fruit, vegetables and flowers, is also prohibited. There are disposal
bins located in the airport where you can dump any questionable items if you don't want
to bother with an inspection.
For more information:
»
Australian Quarantine & Inspection Service
(
02-6272 3933, 1800 020 504;
»
Australian Customs Service
(
02-9313 3010, 1300 363 263;
www.customs.gov.au
)
