BUG Review
Set in a unique old building not far from the beach and the city centre, this YHA hostel has great presentation. It has large spacious common areas with rows of aged leather couches and fireplaces, chandeliers, and a grand staircase. Kitchen facilities are good, dorms are excellently maintained, and bathrooms are flawless. Reception can organise almost any kind of excursion you can think of in the surrounding area. The TV lounge is a great place to meet backpackers. They offer free meals three times a week, use of body boards, and internet access ($4 per hour).
Price Dorm bed $30 ($27 HI/YHA) Single room $50 ($45 HI/YHA) Double room $72.50 ($65 HI/YHA) Prices are in Australian dollars and are inclusive of all taxes.
Pros:
3 freemeals a week in local pubs !!
Cons:
Hostle in need of upgrading eg lockers and bedside lights
annathereluctantback
saw things this way
Maintenance
(2)
Cleanliness
(4)
Facilities
(2)
Atmosphere
(4)
The hostle is at end of train line in Newcastle east and so right on the beach close to shops and pubs. Day tours are on offer and Port Stephens is a must do. the hostle needs some improvements didn't like the comunal showerrooms and the larger bedrooms need an overhaul. Great big lounge to relax but kitchen is in basement and the laundry is too expansive.
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(Review ID: 1202)
Great location. Great atmosphere. Good facilities., February 14, 2007
Pros:
Right by the beach! Big comfy common area and patio.
Cons:
It's in Newcastle? Joke!
twojawas
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(5)
Facilities
(4)
Atmosphere
(4)
Great place. Cheap tours to the Hunter and to see dolphins are available. Staff is very friendly and helpful.Very spacious common area. Ensuites in some (all?) of the dorms.A very good hostel overall.Will definitely stay again.
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(Review ID: 1088)
lovely building with character & atmosphere, December 30, 2006
Pros:
Great building & evening outings organised
Cons:
Newcastle itself is a disappointment
zulu17
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(5)
Facilities
(4)
Atmosphere
(4)
A well furnished character building with sofas everywhere - even in the laundry room. Outings with free meals organised several days a week encourage socialising. The nearby Ocean baths and several other points of interest were undergoing what appear to be lengthy renovations and are a bit of an eyesore. Plenty of surfing beaches around.
