Chris

We're trying to decide where to stay in Port Douglas. The rates seems to differ quite a lot and we don't want to spend too much on accomodation as we're not going to be there other than to sleep. But we are not interested in the really basic backpackers hostels with bunk beds. And it would be nice if the lodge/hotel/apartments had a pool and landscaped gardens.Port O'Call Lodge seems like good value,but I've read on this site that its a bit to far away from the centre of town. I'd like to hear from anyone who's stayed there to find out a bit more what it was like and if it felt isolated and inconvenient.Are there nice alternatives to Port O'Call that are in a better location?

Maggie

Hi Chris <BR>Each time we go to PD we have stayed at Marina terraces, and have not been disappointed. It is in a handy location and the managers couldn't be more helpful. Here is some info I found on the web that will give you more details. <BR>http://www.great-barrier-reef.com/marinaterraces/ <BR>safe and happy travelling <BR>Maggie.

Kay

Chris, <BR>We recently stayed in Port Douglas at the Port Douglas Queenslander which was about mid-range in price and amenities - 5 mins walk to town and the beach so very central. Nice pool and the apartment also had laundry and kitchen facilities. <BR>Port O'Call Lodge would be about 10-15 min walk into town. Another place we saw on the main road was Dougie's Backpackers which had a pool, green lawns and the bus stopped right outside. For a backpackers it looked pretty good! That would have been about 20 min walk to town. <BR>Kay

Lori

There are 2 local bus services in Port Douglas that run between Rainforest Habitat and the marina. They stop at most of the big hotels, and will also stop at the many bus stops on the main drag into town. People got on and off wherever they needed. There are many hostels/budget accommodations close in. I stayed at Treetops and found the busses extremely convenient. Look into the weekly rates if you will be there for awhile and use the bus.

Kate

Hi Chris.<BR><BR>I don't know if you have taken your trip yet or not, but I am going to Port Douglas in Dec. and was researching the same thing. I found Port O Call, but also found a new hostel that just opened called Parrot Fish Lodge. It seems to be a bit closer to town and offers airport pickup and dropoff. Has anyone stayed at ParrotFish Lodge and have reviews?<BR><BR>Kate

Kay

For Kate:<BR>You could try a search on the Thorn Tree section of www.lonelyplanet.com.au for Parrot Fish. There are a zillion backpackers hanging out on the Thorn Tree - someone is sure to know.<BR>Kay

caro

hi there,<BR>Parrotfish is lovely, it is a new backpacker place and very groovy. Port of call is a backpacker place and it is not in the center of town, it is about a 10 minute walk from the main drag.<BR>i would recommend marina terraces for budget but nice accomodation. They vary thier rates according to the season and availability.<BR>Of the backpacker places, Parrot fish is closest to town and brand new.<BR>Good Luck!<BR>

kate

Thanks Caro! I have booked Parrot Fish and am looking forward to my stay.