Accommodation around Great Ocean Road
by AnitaGANSUKH
We had a great time driving around Great Ocean Road. The scenery is spectacular and what a great way to escape the big city.
I found the quality of the accommodation including services really vary around Great Ocean Road.
I initially made a booking at Arrabella B&B and advised them about late check in as were driving a distance. Unfortunately, it turned out to be a big disappointment as we arrived they turned us down regardless of the earlier booking and credit card details and we ended up having nowhere to stay which was really scary as it was late and dark pretty much in the middle of no where. The people whom were running this accommodation was very unfriendly and was a disappointment to us because the last thing you want to experience after driving a long distance is grumpy people...and to be told that we had no accommodation.
Out of desperation we ended up basically driving into the next "accommodation" sign and very fortunately ended up in a backpackers at Princetown ran by lovely lady whom was very hospitable and friendly. The accommodation was three times cheaper then Arrabella + plus great smile + great hospitality and very helpful.
Next time I will definitely make sure I do research before I book the accommodation.
Overall the Great Ocean Road experience was excellent!
Smoking is a general tip?
by l_joo
I am not sure whether this can be considered a general tip? But believe me, I saw quite many cigarettes and smokers, and the way they set up their cigarette-dustbin is like this, at roadside. As a tourist, this is something new, so let me share with you.
Barcelona FC
by l_joo
Absently walking towards Queen Victoria Market, I saw a magenta-blue (Barcelona FC?) building. Someone told me it is a brothel. As a tourist, this is something I want to highlight especially the way its colorful look. I did not actually walk close to look at it therefore unable to provide further detail info. I however find it quite unbelievable that brothels in my country must definitely be hidden underground (you need to visit my country to understand what I said), but sorry this tip is not about promoting masculinity nor femininity. Anyway, whoever has been to nearby brothels, feel free to elaborate.
should you travel via public...
by steph_78
should you travel via public transport at all during your trip, you may come across some brightly dressed crowds of people, some in family groups, but more likely large groups of males. These are 'footy fans' and should be treated with the utmost respect. Particularly if it is post match, and their team lost. They will be drunk, possibly over friendly or even a little bit agro. Just smile, nod and agree that the umpire is indeed a blind white maggot.
Windsurfing on Port Phillip Bay
by Orchid
It's always fun watching the windsurfers scudding across the waves on the bay as I walk along the pedestrial/bike path near Point Ormond to Elwood Beach. But why not try it out yourself?
Amongst many others, RPS The Board Store at Elwood runs lessons and hires out equipment.
See also Elwood Sailboarders (www.elwoodsc.com/Windsurf.html) You can check out many supply stores for equipment. Most of them even run lessons for beginnners up to advanced.
Approx Costs - $75 for 1.5hrs or 3hrs for $129 beginner courses.