we are planning on spending 5-7 days at the end of a 2 month trip to NZ and Aus. in April/May. Which neighborhood has the best combination of quiet and action? Which apartment/hotel apartment would you suggest for a couple. We like to food shop, cook, and take in the sites. We don't want to be where everyone is a tourist. Suggestions? Anyone know of the Medusa Hotel? What is that neighborhood like?

http://www.kirribilli.com/

look at Oaks Goldsbrough Apartments behind Darling Harbour. www.theoaksgroup.com.au

Actually, Darling Harbour is full of tourists and it won't really give you a sense of every day life, which is what you may be after.

I've just had a look on-line at the Medusa Hotel. It looks great. It's in a very interesting suburb and a very interesting street. There is always plenty of action, as in cafe, restaurant, action in Darlinghurst. It's within walking distance to the city, the Opera House, to Paddington and Paddington market.

Darlinghurst used to be a rough suburb but is now gentrified, largely, with creative types as opposed to yuppie types.

The Kirketon Hotel is also in Darlinghurst and is meant to be good.

Surry Hills is another great area in Sydney to stay in a hotel and hang around in. The shops and cafes here are really good. Lots of interesting one-off little shops, good bakeries, cafes etc.

I've recommended this site before - www.cityhobo.com

It has information on both Surry Hills and Darlinghurst - with accommodation and cafe suggestions.

You could also try www.wotif.com for cheap hotel deals. The Medusa might be on it.

Thank you so much for your responses. I think we've found a house in Surry Hills. Has anyone done the Ghan from Alice Springs to Adelaide. It's expensive ...but is it worth it?