Expert: Frank Denison - 5/4/2004

Question
My partner and I will be visiting Australia early next year.  On our list of places to stay are Brisbane,Surfers Paradise and Byron Bay.  We will be renting a car and my question is, do you recommend us being based in one place, i.e. Byron Bay and visiting the other attractions each day or, spending a couple of days staying at each location.  Don't know the exact distances between Brisbane-Surfers-Byron and this would also help our decision.  We would rather be based in one place if you think it is feasible.  Your helpful advice would be much appreciated.  

Also, we are thinking of staying at Airlie Beach for 4 days and visiting the Whitsundays.  Its a bit pricey so any comments would be most welcome.

Thank you

Answer
G'day Sally,
            Brisbane,Surfers Paradise and Byron Bay are all fairly close. Driving times are below.

Brisbane to the Surfers Paradise is about 60 to 75 minutes, depending which part of Brisbane you are staying at.

Brisbane to Byron Bay is about 2 hours / 2 hours 10 minutes depending once again, which part of Brisbane you are staying at.

Surfers Paradise to Byron Bay is just over an hour. All of these times would be slightly less if you stayed in the actual city part of Brisbane.

You could base your self in Surfers and have around an hours drive to each location. It would be feasible to stay in one place, and simply for ease of travelling, I would suggest Surfers Paradise. It is very "touristy" but it has lots to offer. If you require maps, let me know, I can get them for you for free with my Car Club.

A link to info about Surfers Paradise is :-
http://www.surfersisparadise.com

A link for cheap accomodation is http://www.wotif.com/
This link offers all types of accomodation from 5 star to backpackers. You can only book 14 days in advance, but I use it all the time and it is a great site. There are penalties if you cancel though.

The Whitsundays are simply spectacular. Some of the beaches and scenery are breathtaking. It is expensive to actually stay on one of the islands, but you can stay at good quality accomodation at Airlie Beach and do day trips to the islands, which cuts the cost a bit. If you can afford it, it is a beautiful spot.

If you require any more info, please email me direct at
franksue@bigpond.net.au.

I also love showing the city of Brisbane to visitors, so contact me if you want to do that. I can also advise you of places of interest to see in Brisbane.
Enjoy your stay, and contact me anytime for assistance.

Regards,
Frank & Sue