Does anyone know which discount hotel website would likely offer the best rate for the Outback Pioneer and Lodge in Ayers Rock? It's not listed on wotif.com.au.

Also, I read somewhere a reference to a game (I think) called Didjeridoos? What exactly is that, and if it's a game, is it popular? There was a reference also to a place in the Rocks called Didj beat. ???

And lastly, where's a good inexpensive place to stay in Melbourne? Maybe close to Telstra Dome so it won't be a long walk to a game. Is that a safe/nice neighborhood? Thanks again for all the help.

Donna

G'day Donna,
Accommodation at Ayers Rock ( Yalara ) can only be booked through the Ayers Rock Resort.
All is expensive.

The Didjeridoo is an Aboriginal Music Instrument, the oldest wind instrument in the world.

For Melbourne accommodation, what standard are you looking for ?

When are you planning to visit?

Cheers,
Mike

Thanks Mike. We'll only be in Melbourne one night (28th), so someplace very inexpensive.. just a place to lay our head.. would be perfect. Thanks.

Donna

The Outback Pioneer is the least expensive accommodation, what I would consider a 3* hotel.

Why are you only going to be in MEL one-night? Why bother? Did something go wrong with your air reservations?

Donna, For accommodation near Telstra Dome, I'd try the Holiday Inn at the Melbourne Convention Centre. It's walking distance to Telstra Dome and also walking distance to Southbank. It used to be the Melbourne Centra and is of a better standard than most Holiday Inns. For a weekend night you'd be looking at something around the $AUS150 mark for a room. The Atlantis Hotel on Spencer Street is also a reasonable place and would be a bit cheaper than the Holiday Inn. It's also closer to the footy ground.

The neighbourhood around there isn't quite top shelf but it's safe, especially when there's a football crowd around.

Have fun and make sure you barrack for the Doggies at the game.

The Holiday Inn/Centra is close as is the Radisson on Flagstaff. I did a check for that night on www.au.lastminute.com and the Flagstaff had a room for $109 AUD, and it is a 4 1/2 star.